Question:
We will be in Milan, Venice, Florence, Rome & Athens. I really do not expect to have any difficulties with the water and/or fresh market fruit and vegetables in Italy. But then, I could be wrong and that is why I am asking for your experience. I am probably more concerned about Athens. Am I stereo-typing?

Answer: Before the flames start:), the water in Italy is fine. I lived north of Athens in the early 70's and the water comes from Lake Marathon. I would bet that the water from this pristine lake is far better than most bottled water in the US. Also very inexpensive, I believe my water bill was ~$10USD a year. Just out of curiosity if anyone knows, the dam is a mostly a Greek tourist attraction and in the 70's at the bottom of the dam certain areas were fenced off because of land mines from WWII. I've always wondered why the mines were never cleared, historical site?

The tap water in Athens is drinkable ... but, may be "heavy" with chlorine or fluoride. May I suggest you purchase bottled water. Eating fresh fruits & vegetables is ok -- you are not in North Africa or the Middle East where you might encounter a problem. If you are leary... peel that apple, peach or pear. I've lived for a total of 20yrs. (1978-1985 & 1990-1998) in Greece & have NEVER had a problem either on the mainland or the islands.