The taste varies by region. Lisbon's water comes from reservoirs and is heavily treated, giving it a slightly chlorinated taste that some find off-putting. Porto's water often tastes better. Many visitors prefer bottled water simply for taste preference rather than safety concerns.
Restaurants typically charge for bottled water and may not offer tap water readily, though you can request it. Carrying a refillable bottle makes sense both economically and environmentally.
In Madeira and the Azores, tap water is also safe, often coming from natural springs with excellent taste. Some very rural areas may have older plumbing, where bottled water provides extra peace of mind.
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