Etiquette: Key Customs for Visitors

Sweden values politeness, personal space, and punctuality. Understanding these basics will enhance your interactions and help you blend in respectfully.

• Greetings: A simple "Hej" (Hi) with a handshake (firm, brief) and eye contact is standard for first meetings. First names are used quickly.
• Conversation: Listen attentively, avoid interrupting, and maintain a moderate voice volume. Swedes appreciate directness but are always polite. Comfortable silences are normal.
• Language: Most Swedes speak excellent English. Learning basic phrases like "Tack" (Thank you) and "Hej då" (Goodbye) is always appreciated.

• Punctuality (Very Important!): Being on time for everything (appointments, social plans, transport) is highly respected. Inform if you'll be late.
• Queuing: Always queue patiently. Many places use a ticket (nummerlapp) system.
• Personal Space: Maintain a respectful distance in public and avoid unnecessary physical contact.
• Noise Levels: Keep conversations low, especially on public transport and in quiet zones.
• Environment: Dispose of litter properly; recycling is common.

• Shoes Off: Always remove your shoes upon entering a home.
• Host Gift: For a meal invitation, a small gift (flowers, chocolates, a bottle of wine if appropriate) is a nice gesture.
• Fika: Embrace this social coffee (or tea) and pastry break if invited. It's a cultural cornerstone.
• "Tack för maten": Say "Thanks for the food" to your host after a home-cooked meal.

Service charges are usually included. Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated for good service.

• Restaurants/Cafes: Rounding up the bill or 5-10% for good service is common but optional.
• Taxis: Rounding up is fine.
• Bars/Hotels: Generally not expected unless service is exceptional.

• Lagom: "Not too much, not too little – just right." This philosophy of balance and moderation permeates Swedish life. Avoid extremes and ostentation.
• Allemansrätten (Freedom to Roam): You can access most land for recreation, but always with responsibility: "Do not disturb, do not destroy." Respect nature and private property.