Manners in Finland
Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country
Greetings
- Handshake
- Verbal greetings like Moi or Hei
- Hug (among close acquaintances)
Etiquette
- Punctuality is important. Contact even if late by a few minutes.
- Many households require removing shoes indoors.
- Nudity is more common than swimsuits in saunas. Maintain silence and cleanliness.
- Conversations are modest in self-assertion; silence does not imply awkwardness.
- Loud voices or queue jumping in public are strongly disliked.
- Tipping culture is virtually nonexistent, but leaving small change at restaurants when satisfied is acceptable.
- Respect personal space and avoid excessive proximity.
- First-name basis is acceptable upon initial meeting, but honorifics "Mr./Ms." are also used.
- Alcohol consumption is restricted in public places.
- Recycling awareness is high; utilize bottle and can return systems.