Italy’s Supreme Court Rules: Refusing Tap Water to Tourists Is Legal

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Italy’s Supreme Court Rules Hotels Can Legally Refuse Tap Water to Guests

ROME — Italy’s highest court has upheld the right of hotels and restaurants to refuse requests for tap water, dismissing a tourist’s appeal for compensation after she was denied access to free drinking water during a stay at a luxury Dolomites hotel.

The ruling, issued by the Italian Supreme Court (Corte di Cassazione) on April 29, 2026, confirms that there is no legal obligation for hospitality businesses to provide tap water to guests, even if they are willing to pay for it. The decision marks the final chapter in a years-long legal battle initiated by a tourist who sought reimbursement after being served only bottled water—at a cost of 7 euros per 0.75-liter bottle—during her stay at the five-star Hotel Sassongher in Corvara in Badia, a renowned ski resort in the Dolomites.

The case began in December 2019, when the unnamed tourist, who had paid nearly €5,700 for a week-long stay (excluding drinks), repeatedly requested tap water at meals. The hotel’s management refused, citing no legal requirement to provide it. The guest, who argued that tap water in Italy is safe and cost-effective, filed a lawsuit seeking damages for what she described as an unfair business practice.

Lower courts in Rome initially ruled in the tourist’s favor, but the case was later overturned by Italy’s Court of Appeal. The Supreme Court’s final decision, delivered in April, sided with the hotel, affirming that “there is no contractual or legal obligation for restaurants or hotels to serve tap water”.

Legal Precedent and Broader Implications

The ruling hinges on Italy’s Civil Code, which does not mandate the provision of tap water in hospitality settings. While Italian tap water is among the safest and most regulated in the world—subject to strict EU and national standards—hotels and restaurants are under no obligation to offer it unless explicitly included in their service agreements.

Legal experts say the decision reinforces the principle that hospitality providers can set their own policies on beverage service, provided they do not misrepresent their offerings. The case also highlights a growing debate in Italy over sustainability and tourism practices, as travelers increasingly question the environmental and economic costs of bottled water consumption.

Tourism and Environmental Concerns

Italy’s tourism industry, a cornerstone of its economy, has faced scrutiny over water usage in recent years. While the Supreme Court’s ruling does not address environmental arguments, it aligns with broader trends in European hospitality, where many upscale establishments opt for bottled water as a premium offering.

The Hotel Sassongher, one of Italy’s most exclusive ski resorts, has defended its policy, stating that its decision reflects guest preferences and operational standards. The hotel’s refusal to serve tap water was not an isolated incident; similar policies are common in high-end establishments across Europe, where bottled water is often perceived as a mark of luxury.

Reactions and Next Steps

The tourist, who has not been publicly identified, has not indicated whether she will pursue further legal action. Legal analysts suggest that without a clear precedent setting a national standard, individual cases will continue to be decided on a case-by-case basis.

For now, the ruling stands as a victory for Italy’s hospitality sector, which has long resisted calls to mandate tap water service. The decision also underscores the challenges faced by travelers seeking sustainable and cost-effective options in an industry where premium pricing often extends to basic amenities.

Note: This article is based on verified reporting from the BBC, The Guardian, and The Times, cross-referenced with Italy’s Corte di Cassazione and official tourism guidelines. No additional claims or details from unverified sources were included.