Etiquette & taboos

Etiquette & taboos

Understanding local customs is where a journey begins. Find the topics that matter to you and feel at ease wherever you go.

Hungary

1 rules found

Essential restrictionsTemples & religious sitesCountry-wide guidance · Hungary

Hungary: cover shoulders and knees in churches; worship comes first

Do

  • Women: skirts or trousers at least to the knee, covered shoulders and no low necklines; carry a shawl
  • Men: sleeved tops and trousers at least to the knee; remove hats inside
  • During Mass or weddings, follow on-site directions and give way
  • Speak softly, silence your phone and stop taking photos during ceremonies

Don’t

  • Don't wear strappy tops, miniskirts or shorts
  • Don't eat or drink alcohol inside
  • Don't smoke inside Matthias Church or within 5 m of its gates
  • Don't do professional photo or video shoots without permission

Matthias Church's rules state that unsuitable clothing can lead to refused entry, and visitors whose conduct conflicts with the church can be escorted out; liturgy takes priority over sightseeing and opening times may change at short notice.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: Official site: Matthias Church – Visitor regulations

Site-specific notes 4

Taken from the "don'ts" on each site page here. Open a site for its full etiquette and background.

St Stephen's Day in Budapest

  • Entering road-closure zones during the fireworks
  • stopping on bridges and blocking the way
  • throwing things into the river

Lake Balaton

  • Playing loud music on the beach that disturbs others
  • entering private piers or wineries uninvited
  • walking on ice that has not been opened for use

Széchenyi Thermal Bath

  • Shouting in the water
  • disturbing chess players by talking
  • photographing other people directly
  • ignoring the venue rules during Sparty

Buda Castle

  • Touching exhibits
  • using flash or a tripod in St Stephen's Hall
  • making noise in the Castle Quarter at night (it is also a residential and office area)