As summer sunshine returns across Europe, swimmers can take comfort in knowing that the continent’s waters are, by and large, safe for bathing. According to the 2024 European Bathing Water Assessment, published this week, the vast majority of monitored locations meet high water quality standards.

The report reveals that over 85% of bathing sites achieved the EU’s most rigorous ‘excellent’ water quality rating last year, while 96% met at least the minimum quality requirements.

Compiled by the European Environment Agency (EEA) in partnership with the European Commission, the assessment - alongside an interactive map - shows where well-managed bathing spots can be found across Europe. It evaluates water suitability for swimming, particularly focusing on the presence of bacteria that may pose health risks.

More than 22,000 bathing sites across all 27 EU Member States, as well as in Albania and Switzerland, were assessed. In five countries—Cyprus, Bulgaria, Greece, Austria and Croatia—95% or more of sites were rated ‘excellent’.

Bathing water quality in Europe has seen significant improvement over recent decades, thanks largely to EU legislation. Systematic monitoring under the Bathing Water Directive, combined with substantial investment in urban wastewater treatment, has led to a major reduction in harmful pathogens. As a result, many urban areas now also offer safe bathing opportunities. In fact, just 1.5% of the EU’s bathing waters were rated as poor in quality.