Europe's beaches, lakes, and rivers are generally safe for swimming, with the vast majority of bathing sites meeting EU requirements, according to the 2025 Bathing Water Report. However, there are some countries that stand out for their exceptional water quality, while others struggle with pollution and contamination. Cyprus takes the top spot with 100% of its waters classified as excellent, followed by Greece, Bulgaria, and Austria. These countries have implemented effective water management strategies and have a strong focus on environmental protection. On the other hand, Estonia, the Netherlands, and France have some of the worst water quality in the EU, with over 3% of their bathing waters classified as poor. This is a cause for concern, as it can lead to health risks such as gastrointestinal illnesses and infections. One of the main factors affecting river bathing water quality is rapid urbanisation and pollution from the Industrial Revolution. However, with the support of European water policies, many urban rivers have recovered, and river bathing is now possible in several European cities. Overall, the report highlights the importance of water quality management and the need for countries to take proactive measures to protect their water resources. It also emphasises the need for continued monitoring and improvement to ensure the safety and health of swimmers and the environment.
