Hungarian culture, customs, and heritage: from folk roots to modern expression

Hungary geopolitics

Since joining the European Union in 2004, Hungary has benefited from economic development, trade, and mobility. Access to the EU single market allows Hungary to trade freely with other member states without tariffs or customs barriers. This has driven economic growth by boosting exports and making Hungary an attractive destination for foreign direct investment.

Hungary has a moderately welcoming immigration policy, inviting foreign investors to contribute to its economy and benefit from diverse opportunities. In July, 2024, Hungary started accepting applications for Golden Visas from non-EU and non-EEA citizens. By investing at least €250,000, foreign investors and their families can obtain Hungarian residence permits for 10 years.

Hungarian history

Hungary’s history begins with the Magyar tribes, who settled in the Carpathian Basin in 896. The Kingdom of Hungary was officially established in 1000, when Saint Stephen I was crowned the first Christian king, converting the nation to Christianity and laying the foundation for a powerful European kingdom. During the mediaeval period, Hungary thrived, particularly under King Matthias Corvinus, who led the nation to military success and cultural prosperity.

The Battle of Mohács in 1526 marked a turning point, as Hungary was divided between Ottoman and Habsburg rule. Following the Ottoman expulsion, Hungary became part of the Austrian Empire, later forming the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy in 1867. However, Hungary suffered significant territorial losses after World War I.

In the 20th century, Hungary faced further challenges, falling under Soviet influence after World War II. The Hungarian Revolution of 1956 briefly resisted Soviet control, but communist rule persisted until the Eastern Bloc collapsed in 1989, allowing Hungary to transition to democracy. Since then, the country has joined the European Union.

Hungarian customs

Harvest festivals. In rural Hungary, the harvest season is celebrated with joy and tradition. After the hard work of gathering crops, villages hold szüreti bál, or harvest balls, where people wear traditional folk costumes, dance, and share communal meals. Wine is central to these celebrations, particularly in Hungary’s renowned wine regions. These harvest festivals mark the end of the agricultural season with vibrant gatherings and local customs.

Wine and pálinka traditions. Wine-making is a deeply rooted tradition in Hungary, with renowned wine regions like Tokaj, Eger, and Villány. Tokaji wine, particularly the sweet Tokaji Aszú, has been praised for centuries as “the king of wines and the wine of kings.” Wine festivals celebrate the harvest and showcase local varieties, drawing visitors from across Hungary and beyond. 

Pálinka, a strong fruit brandy made from plums, apricots, pears, and other fruits, is another Hungarian favourite. Often served as an aperitif or digestif, pálinka plays a central role in social gatherings, celebrations, and family events. Offering a guest a shot of pálinka is a warm gesture of Hungarian hospitality.

Hungarian proverbs and folk wisdom. Hungarians have a rich tradition of proverbs and sayings, offering folk wisdom passed down through generations. These proverbs cover life’s many facets, providing advice, moral lessons, or humour:

“Aki mer, az nyer.” — “He who dares, wins.”

“Amilyen az adjonisten, olyan a fogadjisten.” — “As you greet, so you will be greeted.”

“Lassú víz partot mos.” — “Slow water washes away the shore,” meaning perseverance pays off.

Hungarian baths and spas. Hungary’s tradition of thermal baths and spas dates back to Roman times and was further influenced by the Ottoman occupation. Bathing culture is deeply embedded in the Hungarian way of life. Budapest is famous for its historic baths like the Széchenyi and Gellért. These baths are social hubs where people gather to relax, enjoy medicinal waters, and participate in healing rituals.

Hungary sits on one of the richest geothermal regions in the world, with over 1,300 thermal springs scattered throughout the country, many of which have been harnessed for public baths. Lake Hévíz is the largest natural thermal lake in the world, located in Hévíz. It is one of the most unique and popular destinations for health tourism in Europe, renowned for its healing waters and beautiful surroundings.

The Hungarian horse show. Often referred to as the Hungarian equestrian show, it is a traditional event showcasing Hungary’s deep-rooted equestrian culture, which dates back to the days of the nomadic Magyars.

The csikós are traditional Hungarian horsemen who manage herds on the vast Hungarian plains, known as the Puszta. Dressed in characteristic wide-brimmed hats and flowing blue robes, they are known for their exceptional horsemanship and unique riding techniques, many of which have been passed down through generations. Csikós riders perform stunts that demonstrate their mastery of horses, including riding bareback, controlling horses with no reins, and other remarkable feats.

One of the most famous acts in the Hungarian horse show is the Puszta Five, where a csikós rides five horses at once — standing on the backs of two, while steering three more horses in front. This display of balance, strength, and coordination is one of the signature spectacles of Hungarian horse shows and highlights the incredible bond between rider and horse.

Hungarian folk arts

Folk music and dance. The csárdás is one of Hungary’s most famous traditional dances, marked by alternating slow and fast sections, accompanied by lively folk music. Another notable dance, the verbunkos, is a recruiting dance once performed by soldiers.

Hungarian folk music features distinctive instruments like the cimbalom, a type of dulcimer, and the tárogató, a woodwind instrument. This rich musical tradition has influenced renowned composers such as Béla Bartók and Zoltán Kodály. These music and dance customs are celebrated at festivals and folk events throughout Hungary.

Crafts and pottery. The town of Mezőtúr and the Kalocsa region are famous for their unique pottery styles, often featuring colourful, intricate patterns. Hungarian pottery is both functional and artistic, with designs that reflect local folklore and rural life.

The Kalocsa region is also renowned for its floral motifs, used in embroidery, wall painting, and ceramics. These crafts, preserved by artisans, are still available in markets and festivals today.

Embroidery. Hungary has a long tradition of decorative arts, with embroidery as one of the most prominent forms. The Matyó style, originating from the Matyó people in northeastern Hungary, is known for its bright colours—particularly red, green, blue, yellow, and black—and large floral motifs inspired by peonies, roses, and tulips.

This embroidery style is often used on traditional clothing and household items, like tablecloths and pillowcases, and has been recognised as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The designs feature large, colourful roses and other floral motifs, symbolising the region’s cultural identity.

Kalocsa embroidery, from the Kalocsa region, is characterised by delicate floral patterns. Originally created in white-on-white stitching, it later evolved into vibrant multicoloured designs, often using pastel shades like pink, lilac, and yellow.

Hungarian holidays

National Day, March 15th, commemorates the Hungarian Revolution of 1848, which was an uprising against Habsburg rule. March 15 is one of Hungary’s most important national holidays, marked by patriotic ceremonies, speeches, and parades. People often wear a cockade, a small rosette with the national colours to show national pride.

Labour Day, May 1, is a public holiday that celebrates workers’ rights and the achievements of the labour movement. It is marked by fairs, concerts, and outdoor activities, as well as political events. Many people use the day as an opportunity to enjoy picnics or visit parks.

Hungarian Revolution of 1956, October 23rd, commemorates the 1956 Hungarian Uprising against Soviet rule, one of the defining moments of Hungary’s 20th century history. Ceremonies are held across the country, with official speeches and wreath-laying at monuments honouring the revolutionaries who fought for Hungary’s independence from Soviet control.

St. Stephen’s Day, August 20, is the most significant national holiday in Hungary, celebrating the country’s founding and its first king, Saint Stephen, who is also regarded as the patron saint of Hungary. One of the unique elements of this day is the “blessing of the bread,” which symbolises the new harvest.

Hungarian values

Strong sense of national identity. Hungarians have a deep respect for their history, language, and cultural traditions. This pride can be seen in how they celebrate national holidays like St. Stephen’s Day and March 15th, the commemoration of the 1848 Revolution.

Politeness and formality. Hungarians are polite and formal in social settings, especially when meeting someone for the first time. Greetings are respectful, often using titles such as “Mr.” or “Mrs.” with the last name. Handshakes are common in both formal and business contexts, and it is important to make eye contact when greeting someone. Among friends and family, hugs and cheek kisses are more common.

Reservedness and warmth. At first, Hungarians may seem reserved or a bit distant in social interactions, especially with strangers. They do not engage in casual small talk with people they don’t know well. However, once a relationship is established, Hungarians are known to be warm, hospitable, and open-hearted. Friendships are deeply valued, and personal relationships tend to be long-lasting and built on trust.

Strong family ties. Family is highly important in Hungarian society, and family bonds are strong. Many Hungarians maintain close relationships with extended family members, and it’s common to gather for large family meals or celebrations. Respect for elders is a significant cultural value, and older family members often play a key role in family decisions.

Hospitality and generosity. If invited to a Hungarian home, one can expect a warm welcome and often a generous meal. It’s customary to bring a small gift, such as flowers, wine, or chocolates, when visiting someone’s home. Hungarians enjoy hosting guests and are known for their ability to make visitors feel at home.

Love for nature and the outdoors. Hungarians enjoy spending time outdoors, especially in the countryside. Hungary has many beautiful natural landscapes, including lakes, thermal springs, and national parks. Most popular destinations are Danube Bend, Bükk Mountains, Aggtelek National Park, Puszta, Zemplén Mountains, Tihany Peninsula, and Kiskunság National Park. 

Hungarians also enjoy visiting thermal baths, which are both a social activity and a health tradition dating back to the Romans and Ottomans.

Punctuality and time. Punctuality is valued especially in business and formal situations. Being late without a good reason is considered impolite. When meeting friends, there may be more flexibility, but generally, it’s important to respect agreed-upon times.

Direct communication. Hungarians tend to appreciate straightforwardness. In conversations, they often express their opinions openly and are not afraid to discuss serious or controversial topics, such as politics or social issues. At the same time, they are careful to remain respectful and polite, even when disagreeing. Honesty is valued, and many Hungarians believe in saying what they mean rather than embellishing things.

Humour and wit. Hungarians appreciate humour and have a unique sense of wit, which often includes a dry or sarcastic tone. They enjoy making light of difficult situations through humour, and while they might seem serious at first, many Hungarians have a playful side once they become more comfortable. Folk sayings and proverbs are often used humorously in conversation.

Work-life balance. While work is important, Hungarians also prioritise personal time, especially with family and friends. In larger cities, the pace of life may be faster, but in rural areas, life tends to be more relaxed, with more emphasis on community and leisure.

Hungarian food culture

Hungarian cuisine and food culture are defined by rich flavours, hearty dishes, and a strong connection to traditions. Meals are a central part of family and social life, and food is often prepared with a deep respect for local ingredients and historical recipes.

Popular traditional Hungarian dishes include:

1. Goulash — a stew made with beef, vegetables, paprika, and spices. 
2. Halászlé — a spicy, paprika-based fish soup made from freshwater fish like carp.
3. Pörkölt — a slow-cooked meat stew.
4. Töltött káposzta — stuffed cabbage with meat and rice.
5. Dobos torte — a layered sponge cake with chocolate buttercream and caramel glaze.
6. Kifli — crescent-shaped roll similar to a croissant but crispier.
7. Kürtőskalács — a sweet, spiral-shaped pastry cooked over an open fire and coated with sugar and cinnamon.
8. Rétes — strudel filled with fruits like apple, cherry, or poppy seeds.
9. Somlói galuska — a trifle made of sponge cake, walnuts, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream.

Paprika is the hallmark of Hungarian cuisine, used in many traditional dishes to add flavour and colour. Sausages, such as kolbász and hurka, are also commonly eaten, often served with mustard, pickles, or fresh bread. 

Pickled vegetables, like savanyúság, are an important part of the cuisine and are often served alongside heavy meat dishes to balance out the richness.

Special occasions and holidays feature distinct dishes. For example, stuffed cabbage and beigli, a rolled pastry filled with walnuts or poppy seeds, are commonly eaten during Christmas. At Easter, lamb or ham is often served, and traditional kalács, braided bread, accompanies many holiday meals. Festivals like harvest celebrations or village fairs are also marked by food-related traditions, such as preparing goulash in large cauldrons.

Family gatherings around the dining table are central to Hungarian food and family culture. Meals, especially Sunday lunches, are multi-course affairs that start with a soup, followed by a main course, and dessert. Meal times are an opportunity for families to come together and enjoy homemade food, which is often prepared using time-honoured recipes passed down through generations.

Hungary has a strong café culture, particularly in cities like Budapest, where traditional coffee houses have been meeting points for artists, intellectuals, and writers for centuries. Many people enjoy spending evenings in cafés, sipping coffee or indulging in cakes while engaging in conversation or reading. Traditional Hungarian coffeehouses, like Gerbeaud in Budapest, are still popular today.

Ruin bars are a unique and trendy feature of Budapest’s nightlife. These bars are located in old, abandoned buildings in the city’s Jewish Quarter, primarily in the 7th District. What makes ruin bars special is their eclectic, bohemian atmosphere: the interiors are filled with mismatched furniture, quirky decorations, and art installations, all in a raw, urban setting.

Hungarian religion

The majority of Hungarians identify as Roman Catholic. Hungary officially became a Christian nation in the year 1000, when Saint Stephen I, the first king of Hungary, was crowned and adopted Christianity as the state religion. Saint Stephen is considered a founding figure of Hungary, and his conversion to Christianity laid the foundation for the nation’s cultural and religious identity.

Protestantism, mostly Calvinism and Lutheranism, has a strong presence in Hungary, especially in the eastern and northern regions. These faiths gained followers during the 16th-century Reformation and have been influential ever since.

A small minority of Hungarians practise Eastern Orthodox Christianity, largely due to historical ties with neighbouring Orthodox countries such as Serbia and Romania.

Hungarian art

Mediaeval and renaissance art. Hungarian art during the mediaeval period was largely dominated by religious themes. Illuminated manuscripts, frescoes, and altarpieces were common, often found in churches and monasteries. The Esztergom Cathedral is one of the key examples of mediaeval religious architecture adorned with significant art pieces.

The Renaissance reached Hungary during the reign of King Matthias Corvinus (1458—1490), who was a great patron of the arts. His court in Buda became a hub of Renaissance art and culture, attracting artists from Italy and beyond. The Corvina Codices, beautifully illuminated manuscripts from this period, are some of the finest examples of Renaissance art in Hungary.

Baroque and rococo art. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Hungary saw a rise in Baroque and Rococo styles, especially in architecture and religious art. Baroque churches, with the ornate decorations and grandiose designs, were built across the country. The Pannonhalma Archabbey and Esztergom Basilica are key examples of Baroque architecture.

Baroque painting and sculpture often depicted religious themes, with an emphasis on dramatic expressions and elaborate detail. Artists like György Vastagh contributed significantly to the religious art of this period.

19th Century and Romanticism. The 19th century was a time of national awakening in Hungary, and the Romantic movement played a vital role in expressing Hungarian national identity. Artists sought to capture the spirit of the nation, often focusing on historical subjects, landscapes, and scenes of everyday life.

Miklós Barabás is one of the key figures of Hungarian Romanticism, known for his portraits of prominent Hungarians and historical scenes. Bertalan Székely and Viktor Madarász were also prominent painters of this era, whose works reflected patriotism and historical pride, especially related to the 1848 Hungarian Revolution.

Realism and naturalism. In the late 19th century, Hungarian artists began to embrace Realism and Naturalism, focusing on depicting everyday life with authenticity and attention to detail. Mihály Munkácsy is perhaps the most famous Hungarian painter of this period, known for his large-scale historical and biblical scenes, as well as his realistic portrayal of peasant life.

Another important figure is László Paál, a landscape painter who depicted the natural beauty of Hungary’s countryside. Realism in Hungarian art often reflected social issues and the lives of ordinary people, as seen in the works of painters like János Thorma.

Hungarian secession. At the turn of the 20th century, the Hungarian Secession movement, part of the broader Art Nouveau trend in Europe, sought to break away from traditional academic art and embrace modernism. This period saw a flourish of artistic innovation in architecture, painting, and design.

Ödön Lechner is considered the father of Hungarian Art Nouveau architecture. His buildings, like the Museum of Applied Arts and the Postal Savings Bank in Budapest, are noted for their colourful, decorative styles that draw from Hungarian folk motifs and Eastern influences.

Károly Kós, an architect and designer, also contributed to the Art Nouveau movement, blending Hungarian folk art with modernist principles.

Modernism and avant-garde movements. The early 20th century brought modernist and avant-garde movements to Hungary, influenced by international trends such as Cubism, Expressionism, and Surrealism. Hungarian artists like Lajos Kassák were at the forefront of these movements, experimenting with abstract forms and revolutionary ideas.

Béla Czóbel was a key figure in Hungarian Fauvism and Post-Impressionism, while Victor Vasarely, a Hungarian-French artist, became one of the most famous figures in the Op Art movement. His works, characterised by geometric patterns and optical illusions, have had a lasting impact on contemporary art.

The European School, an avant-garde group of Hungarian artists founded after World War II, played a crucial role in developing modernist and experimental art in post-war Hungary.

Hungarian language

Hungarian, known as Magyar in the native tongue, is the official language of Hungary and is spoken by around 13 million people worldwide, including Hungarian communities in neighbouring countries like Romania, Slovakia, and Serbia. It is one of the most distinctive and unique languages in Europe, belonging to the Uralic language family, which sets it apart from most other European languages that are part of the Indo-European family.

Hungarian is related to languages like Finnish and Estonian. Despite this relationship, Hungarian is quite different from these languages, and it has little in common with most European languages in terms of vocabulary, grammar, and structure. This unique linguistic background makes Hungarian difficult for speakers of Indo-European languages to learn.

Hungarian vocabulary is mostly distinct from other European languages due to its Uralic origins. However, over centuries, Hungarian has borrowed words from various languages, including:

• Turkic during early Hungarian history;
• German due to the Habsburg influence;
• Slavic languages, influenced by Hungary’s neighbours;
• Latin, as it was the language of scholarship and religion in Hungary for many centuries.

For non-native speakers, learning Hungarian can be challenging due to its unfamiliar grammar and vocabulary. However, Hungarian is highly logical and consistent in its rules, and once learners grasp the structure and suffix system, it becomes more accessible.

How to move to Hungary

To live in Hungary for extended periods of more than 90 days, foreigners need to obtain a residence permit. Hungary grants residency on various grounds, and there are more than 20 types of permits available.

The Hungary Golden Visa is one of the ways to relocate to Hungary as an investor. The visa allows non-EU and non-EEA nationals to obtain residence permits for 10 years. They can renew the status once for the same period.

To obtain residency, investors choose between three options:

1. Purchase of real estate fund units from €250,000.
2. Property purchase from €500,000.
3. Donation to an institution of higher learning of at least €1,000,000.

Investors can include in the application their family members, such as a spouse or a registered partner, children under 18, and parents.

After 3 years of living in Hungary, residents can apply for permanent residency. After 8 years of holding a permanent residence permit, they can apply for Hungarian citizenship.

The White Card allows moving to Hungary as a digital nomad. It is available for employees and managers of foreign companies. To obtain residency, applicants must provide an employment contract with a company outside the EU and purchase or rent housing in Hungary.

Residence permit is granted for 1 year with a possibility of extension for the same period. After two years, the foreigner must leave the country but is allowed to submit an application for a new residence permit. Adding family members to the application is not allowed.

Hungary residency by opening a company is the option to live in Hungary for 3 years. To get residency, applicants must register a legal entity in Hungary, an analogue of an LLC or JSC. The company’s minimum authorised capital is €7,700. The status of an individual entrepreneur does not suffice.

The initial residence permit is granted for one year and is extended for two more years provided that their business remains operational and generates profit. The applicant’s relatives can obtain residence permits during the main applicant’s permit extension.

Summary

1. Hungary is located in Central Europe and is part of the European Union and NATO.
2. Hungarian culture is known for harvest festivals, folk music, pálinka, matyó embroidery, pottery, baths, spas, and national events.
3. Important Hungarian holidays include National Day, Hungarian Revolution of 1956, and St. Stephen’s Day.
4. As for religion, the majority of Hungarians identify as Roman Catholic.
5. Hungarians are polite, reserved but warm, and place great importance on family, tradition, and hospitality.
6. Goulash is the most popular dish in the Hungarian traditional food culture.
7. Hungarian art is a rich and diverse reflection of the country’s complex history, from mediaeval religious art and Renaissance manuscripts to modernist innovation and avant-garde experimentation.
8. Hungary offers foreign investors and their families an opportunity to obtain Hungarian residence permits for 10 years. Minimum investment sum is €250,000.