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