Hungarian Culture and Etiquette: A Traveller's Guide

First impressions and greetings

Hungarians value courtesy and a little formality, especially with people they have just met. A firm handshake with eye contact is the standard greeting for both men and women. Among friends, two kisses on the cheek (starting on the left) are common, usually between women or between a man and a woman.

Note the name order: Hungarians write the surname first, so Nagy Janos means Mr. Nagy. When in doubt, address people with their title plus surname, and wait to be invited to use first names.

Social etiquette and dos

• Be punctual. Arriving on time for dinners and meetings is expected.
• Bring a small gift if invited to a home: flowers (an odd number, never an even one, which is for funerals), good wine, or chocolates.
• Remove your shoes at the door of a private home unless told otherwise.
• **Say *egeszsegedre*** (to your health) when toasting.

The famous don'ts

• Do not clink beer glasses. This stems from 1849, when Austrian generals reportedly toasted with beer after executing Hungarian revolutionary leaders. Wine and palinka are fine to clink, but with beer Hungarians simply raise the glass.
• Pace yourself with palinka. This strong fruit brandy (often homemade) is offered generously; refusing the first glass outright can seem rude, but no one expects you to match a host shot for shot.
• Avoid loud, boastful behaviour. Modesty is appreciated.

Food, coffee and bath culture

Mealtimes are social. Try a proper *gulyas* (a soup, not a stew) and *langos* from a market stall. Coffee houses in Budapest, such as the grand Cafe Gerbeaud on Vorosmarty Square, are institutions for lingering, not rushing.

Thermal baths are central to Hungarian life. At Szechenyi or Gellert, shower before entering, wear swimwear, and keep your voice down in the quieter pools.

Tipping norms

Tipping (*borravalo*) is customary. In restaurants, leave around 10 to 15 percent, but check your bill first, as some places add a service charge. Traditionally you tell the waiter the total you want to pay rather than leaving coins on the table. Round up for taxis, and leave a small tip for spa attendants and hairdressers.

Stay connected in Hungary

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