Do Germans Kiss as a Greeting? Understanding German Greeting Customs

Learn about German greeting customs: handshakes vs cheek kisses and when kissing is appropriate in Germany.

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Germans usually greet with a handshake rather than a kiss. Kissing on the cheek is more common among close friends or family and often involves either one or two kisses. It's always best to follow the lead of your host or the person you are meeting to gauge their comfort level.

FAQs & Answers

  1. Do Germans commonly kiss as a greeting? In Germany, people usually greet with a handshake. Kissing on the cheek is typically reserved for close friends or family members.
  2. How many kisses do Germans usually give when cheek kissing? When cheek kissing occurs in Germany, it usually involves one or two kisses, depending on the region and familiarity.
  3. Is it appropriate to kiss when greeting someone in Germany? It's best to follow the lead of your host or the other person, as kissing is generally less common and reserved for close relationships.

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For more insights into cultural greetings and etiquette around the world, explore our related videos on greeting customs in different countries and tips for international travel etiquette.

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