The European Environment Agency (EEA) reported that most of Europe’s bathing waters met the EU’s highest ‘excellent’ quality standards in 2025, with 85% achieving this rating. Additionally, 96% of all monitored sites met minimum quality standards, and only 1.5% were labeled ‘poor’. The water quality remained stable compared to the previous year. Austria, Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Greece had the highest percentage of excellent quality waters, at 95% or more. Coastal waters generally had better quality than rivers and lakes, with 88% of coastal sites being excellent. This assessment, conducted with the European Commission, ensures safe bathing by monitoring bacteria levels. The EEA’s interactive map shows the safest sites. Improvements are due to the EU’s Bathing Water Directive and other legislation, which enhanced monitoring, wastewater treatment, and assessment of harmful algal blooms. These efforts have made previously polluted urban waters swimmable. However, ongoing challenges like pollution and climate change still require attention. The EEA’s report included data from over 22,200 sites across Europe, including EU Member States, Albania, and Switzerland. The Bathing Water Directive and other EU laws continue to protect water quality, contributing to Europe’s water resilience strategy. For more information, visit the EEA website.
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