Manners in Hungary
Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country
Greetings
- Handshake
- Light cheek kiss (close acquaintances)
- Szia! (Hi)
- Jó napot! (Good day)
Etiquette
- Polite to give up seat for elderly or pregnant on public transport
- Don't remove shoes indoors; lightly clean dirt on entrance mat
- Punctuality desirable but 5-minute lateness considered acceptable
- Respectful to address with titles or academic degrees before surname
- Bring flowers or wine as gift when invited to homes for good impression
- Toast saying "Egészségedre!" while making eye contact
- Use knife and fork European-style; cross on plate after meal
- Loud talking in public considered rude
- Water wearing required at saunas and hot springs but some facilities alternate men/women days
- Folk belief that touching head of "Little Princess" statue on Danube bank brings luck