Should you take off your shoes or leave them on? Every country has its customs, but in Sweden, they agree.

Research across 27 European countries reveals that 85% of respondents prefer to wait for the other person to initiate a greeting, with handshakes being more common than cheek kisses. In countries like Denmark and Estonia, cheek kissing is largely unacceptable. The custom of removing shoes upon entering homes varies, being mandatory in Northern Europe but less common in warmer regions like Spain. Gift-giving during visits is appreciated in many countries, though Finland shows indifference towards this practice. Dining etiquette emphasizes finishing all food on the plate, with some women occasionally leaving a bit as a polite gesture. Punctuality norms differ widely, with men often arriving early and single individuals more likely to be late.