Hungary: greet with a handshake and don't use first names until invited
Do
- Give a firm handshake with direct eye contact when you first meet
- Men usually wait for a woman to offer her hand
- Say 'Jó napot kívánok!' (good day) when entering shops and restaurants
- Hungarian names put the family name first; keep this in mind when addressing people or filling in forms
- Use the formal 'you' (Ön) with strangers and older people
Don’t
- Don't use someone's first name until they invite you to
- Don't initiate cheek kisses with people you don't know well; they are for family and friends
There is no penalty, but using a first name uninvited is considered rude. Close female friends kiss once on each cheek, and close male friends or relatives may hug and kiss on the cheek.
Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: Cultural Atlas: Hungarian Culture – Greetings