TAP Corporate Homepage

Culture and Business

On a business trip, knowing the culture and customs of the country you are visiting can have a big impact on the success of your business.

Before leaving

Make sure you have your identity card or passport and boarding pass with you. Depending on your country of origin, take care of your visa or other necessary documentation ahead of time.

Climate

In Hungary, the summers are hot and dry, and winters are cold. In the summer, the temperatures usually go from 20ºC to 25ºC and in the winter they stay around 0ºC, which can lower considerably.

Time zone

GMT + 1

Geography & politics

Hungary is a central European country, situated between Slovakia, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Austria and Ukraine. Hungary is a member country of the European Union. It functions as a democratic parliamentary representative republic. The prime minister is the head of a multi-party multi-party system, while the president is the head of state and holds a largely ceremonial position.

Tipping & paying

The Hungarian Forint (HUF) is the currency of Hungary. It is good practice to leave a tip of about 10%.

Languages & useful phrases

98% of the population speaks Hungarian. Here are some useful words: "Kérem" = please; "Köszönöm szépen" = thank you very much; "Bocsánat!" = Sorry.

What you should do

Be punctual. Punctuality is seen as extremely important. The social part of life is very important, so be prepared to be invited to dinners and cultural events.

What you shouldn’t do

Do not be vague, Hungarians like straight people who say what they think and who look into their eyes. If offering flowers, always choose odd numbers, but not 13, which is considered an unlucky number. Do not offer lilies, chrysanthemums or red roses.

What to wear

For business meetings, opt for a conservative and formal look. Suit and tie or the female equivalent will always be the most appropriate option.

First impressions

When meeting someone for the first time, greet him or her with a handshake. Among friends, it is normal to exchange two kisses on the face. If you are invited to someone's house, bring a box of chocolates or a bouquet of flowers as a way of saying thank you. A bottle of wine may not be the best option as Hungarians are extremely proud of the wines they produce.