Budapest’s Free Public Drinking Fountains: Quench Your Thirst Sustainably
When exploring the vibrant streets of Budapest, staying hydrated is essential, especially during the warm summer months. Fortunately, the city has a network of public drinking fountains that offer a refreshing and eco-friendly solution for refilling your water bottles. These fountains not only provide free access to clean drinking water but also promote sustainability by reducing the need for single-use plastic bottles.
A Tradition of Accessible Water
Budapest’s public drinking fountains have a long history dating back to the late 19th century. The first fountains were installed in the city’s parks and public squares, providing a convenient source of water for residents and visitors alike. Over time, the number of fountains has grown, and today, they can be found throughout the city, making it easy to stay hydrated while on the go.
Locations and Designs
The public drinking fountains in Budapest come in various designs, ranging from simple taps to ornate sculptures. Some of the most iconic fountains are located in popular tourist destinations, such as the Vajdahunyad Castle in the City Park and the Fisherman’s Bastion in the Buda Castle District. These fountains not only serve a practical purpose but also add to the city’s architectural charm and cultural heritage.
In addition to the well-known landmarks, there are numerous other drinking fountains scattered throughout the city’s neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces. If you need help in locating drinking fountains, you can also use the BudapestGO application (iOS and Android).
Promoting Sustainability
Budapest’s public drinking fountains are more than just a convenient source of water; they also play a crucial role in promoting sustainability. By encouraging the use of reusable water bottles, these fountains help reduce the consumption of single-use plastic bottles, which can have a significant impact on the environment.
The city’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the drinking fountains. Budapest has implemented various initiatives to reduce plastic waste, such as banning single-use plastics in certain areas and promoting the use of reusable bags and containers.
A Refreshing Experience
Using Budapest’s public drinking fountains is a refreshing and eco-friendly experience. Simply approach the fountain, fill up your reusable water bottle, and enjoy the cool, clean water. Many of the fountains are equipped with dog bowls, ensuring that even your furry companions can stay hydrated during your adventures.
Healing Waters
Hungary is well known for its rich thermal water resources and you can also enjoy them not only in baths and spas, but also in the form of drinking water. There are several waters that can be used as a drinking cure to help with several ailments: digestive issues, blood circulation problems, respiratory issues and so on. On the Buda side you can visit the water pavilion of Rudas next to the parking lot of Rudas Thermal Bath. Lukács Thermal Bath also has a separate drinking pavilion open to the public. On the Pest side Széchenyi Thermal Bath has several drinking fountains.
Image source: www.budapestinfo.hu