Every country has its quirks, but Hungary seems to have more than its fair share of traditions, habits and everyday customs that leave visitors scratching their heads. Whether it’s your first weekend in Budapest or you’ve just moved to Hungary as an expat, there are certain things that almost every foreigner notices and remembers. From unusual language quirks to surprising eating habits, here are 15 things that frequently shock foreigners in Hungary.
1. Hungarians put their family name first
One of the first things visitors notice is that Hungarians traditionally write their surname before their given name. For example, Prime Minister Péter Magyar is formally referred to in Hungarian as “Magyar Péter”. Many foreigners find this confusing at first, especially when filling out official paperwork. (Fun fact: This is called the Eastern name order, as most of the other countries whose people write their names like this are Eastern: Japan, China, Korea, Vietnam.)
2. The language sounds unlike anything else in Europe
Visitors often arrive expecting Hungarian to resemble German, Slavic or Romance languages. Instead, they hear a language that sounds completely unfamiliar. Hungarian belongs to the Finno-Ugric language family and is more closely related to Finnish and Estonian than to the languages spoken by most of its neighbours. For many newcomers, even recognising individual words can be a challenge.
3. People still carry cash more often than expected
Although card payments have become widespread, many foreigners are surprised by how often cash is still used in certain situations. Small shops, markets and local businesses may still prefer or encourage cash payments. Many expats quickly learn to keep a few forints in their wallet just in case.
4. The thermal bath culture is a way of life
Foreigners may visit a thermal bath as a tourist attraction. Hungarians often treat it as a regular part of life. Whether it’s relaxing after work, meeting friends or seeking health benefits, thermal baths are deeply woven into Hungarian culture.
5. Soup is taken very seriously
In many countries, soup is considered a starter. In Hungary, it can feel almost sacred. Traditional family lunches often begin with soup, and many Hungarians struggle to imagine a proper Sunday meal without it.
6. The amount of paprika used in cooking
Visitors quickly discover that paprika is everywhere. From goulash and chicken paprikash to sausages and stews, the spice is one of the defining ingredients of Hungarian cuisine. Many foreigners arrive expecting fiery heat and leave surprised by its rich, sweet flavour.
7. Hungarians don’t always smile at strangers
One of the most common observations made by foreigners is that Hungarians can initially seem reserved. In some cultures, smiling at strangers is considered normal politeness. In Hungary, people often save smiles and friendliness for genuine interactions rather than casual encounters. Once relationships develop, however, many expats discover that Hungarians can be exceptionally warm and loyal friends.
8. Public transport is incredibly good
Many visitors expect to rely on taxis or cars. Instead, they discover one of Europe’s most efficient public transport systems. Budapest’s metro, trams, buses and suburban railways make it possible to cross the city quickly and affordably. The sight of giant yellow trams often becomes one of visitors’ lasting memories.
9. Everything seems to contain sour cream
Known locally as “tejföl”, sour cream appears in an astonishing number of Hungarian dishes. Soups, stews, stuffed cabbage, potato dishes and even some desserts (like túrógombóc, or cottage cheese dumplings; check out our recipe here!) may feature it. Many foreigners initially find this unusual, before becoming devoted fans.
10. The history is everywhere
Hungary’s past is visible on almost every street corner. Foreigners are often surprised by how frequently historical events, occupations, revolutions and lost territories appear in everyday conversation. Understanding Hungary often means understanding its history.
11. Hungarians love mineral water
In some countries, tap water is the default choice. In Hungary, many people regularly buy bottled mineral water, often choosing between numerous brands and varying levels of carbonation. Visitors are frequently surprised by the sheer variety available in supermarkets.
12. There are statues, monuments and memorials everywhere
Budapest feels almost like an open-air museum: from kings and poets to revolutionaries and scientists, public monuments are a constant feature of the urban landscape. Foreigners often notice details they would normally overlook in other cities.
13. Sunday lunch is still a major family event
While family traditions have changed across Europe, the Sunday lunch remains remarkably important in many Hungarian households. Multiple generations often gather around the table for a lengthy meal that can last several hours. For newcomers, this tradition is often both surprising and charming.
14. The countryside looks very different from Budapest
Many visitors spend all their time in the capital. Those who venture beyond Budapest often discover a completely different side of Hungary. Small villages, wine regions, vast plains and historic market towns reveal a quieter and often more traditional way of life.
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15. Hungarians are incredibly proud of being Hungarian
Whether discussing food, inventions, sports achievements, Nobel Prize winners or cultural traditions, Hungarians are often deeply proud of their national identity. This pride occasionally surprises foreigners but also helps explain why Hungarian culture has remained so distinctive despite centuries of outside influence.
Why foreigners keep coming back
Many of the things that initially surprise visitors eventually become the reasons they fall in love with Hungary. The unique language, rich traditions, thermal baths, hearty food and strong sense of identity create an experience unlike almost anywhere else in Europe. For travellers and expats alike, Hungary may be full of surprises, but that’s precisely part of its charm.
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