A recent ruling by Italy's highest court has clarified the position of hotels regarding the provision of tap water, concluding that there is no legal obligation for establishments to serve it to guests. The decision stems from a protracted legal battle initiated by a tourist who was refused tap water at a five-star hotel restaurant in the Dolomites, arguing it was a 'universal human right'.
The case began in 2019 when the woman, staying at a luxury hotel in the renowned ski resort of Cortina d'Ampezzo, requested a glass of tap water. Her request was denied, prompting a legal challenge that escalated through various Italian courts before reaching the Supreme Court. The tourist maintained that access to water, even in a commercial setting, should be a fundamental right, and that hoteliers should be compelled to provide it free of charge.
However, the Supreme Court's judgement sided with the hotel, asserting that while water is essential for life, there is no specific law in Italy that obliges hospitality providers to serve tap water. The ruling highlighted that consumers have the right to purchase bottled water, which is widely available, but not a guaranteed right to complimentary tap water within a private commercial establishment like a hotel restaurant.
This landmark decision provides legal clarity for the Italian hospitality sector, particularly for hotels and restaurants. It distinguishes between the general human right to access water and the specific consumer rights within a commercial transaction. The court's ruling suggests that the provision of tap water remains at the discretion of individual establishments unless specific local regulations dictate otherwise.
For British travellers planning holidays to Italy, this ruling underscores the importance of understanding local customs and regulations. While many establishments may offer tap water, particularly if a meal is ordered, it is not a guaranteed right, and guests should be prepared to purchase bottled water if preferred or required. This could add a small, often nominal, cost to dining experiences.