5+1 Hilarious Hungarian stereotypes – true or nah?

As with any other country, we Hungarians are also subject to a fair share of cultural stereotypes. While some of these are painfully correct, others are comically far from reality. We asked foreigners to name a couple of Hungarian stereotypes to catch a glimpse of how the rest of the world views us.

1. We wear our hearts on our sleeves

Forget Nordic or British politeness, we are pretty direct when asked for advice or opinion. Unsolicited or not, we’re all about cutting to the chase, no matter if we’ve known you since high school or just shared our very first pálinka shot in the local pub. Some might call it blunt, but that’s just how we roll. Why beat around the bush? Just spit it out (not the pálinka though, that’s too precious) and move on with your life.

2. We commute on horseback to work

Horses, our historical comrades, and brothers-in-arms, have long played an important role in our cultural heritage. While the Hungarian countryside boasts more horses than a Shakespearean play, the scent of horse dung is lost on many urban kids living in Budapest or larger rural cities. 

3. Every Hungarian man sports a moustache 

Once upon a time, Hungarian men flaunted imperial moustaches, sculpted with pork lard. Alas, those days are gone, with the older generation now clean-shaven and younger chaps opting for beards (sans the hipster flair). So, those visiting Hungary looking for the moustached men of their dreams need to adjust their expectations. 

4. We can’t live without goulash 

That’s actually pretty spot-on. Who can turn down a steamy plate of this hearty traditional delicacy? Goulash is definitely a key part of Hungarian culture. However, that’s not the only national dish we’re proud of, nor do we eat it day and night. Hungary has a rich foodie scene, especially for meat lovers and folks big on spicy, garlicky dishes.

5. Our public fountains pump pálinka instead of water

Well, we wish it was true, especially with the recent crazy price hikes and our poorly performing national currency. Sadly, it remains just one of those far-fetched Hungarian stereotypes that spread about us abroad. However, even when things are tight, you can be sure that there is a bottle of homemade pálinka stashed in the pantry for rainy days in every Hungarian home.

5+1 A country of champion complainers 

When we have a crappy day, we don’t just stew – we vent, loudly and proudly. Hungarians are known to be quite pessimistic and negative, they don’t shy away from airing their grievances to the world. Having said that, this bad habit also fuels our wicked sense of humour, which can take the darkest shades you can imagine. We can all agree that the popular saying “Hungarians make merry while in tears” actually holds true.