Surprising Gift-Giving Customs in Europe You Didn't Know About

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If you have ever found yourself puzzled about what to give your European friends or hosts on special occasions, you are certainly not alone. Europe, a continent rich in history and diversity with 50 countries, includes a wonderful mosaic of traditions, each with its own unique practices. From birthdays and weddings to religious festivals and holidays, gift-giving etiquette in Europe is a symbol of love, respect, and appreciation for one another.

The gift-giving etiquette in Europe is as diverse as the cultures themselves. Each country has its own unwritten rules and meaningful gestures through which they can express their feelings by giving gifts. So, if you are looking for something pretty amazing for a friend, family member, or colleague in Europe, you are in the right place. This post will give you practical tips and thoughtful insights to help you understand gift-giving etiquette in Europe.

Viennese Waltz of Presents In Austria

Famous for its Alpine landscapes, classical music heritage and charming villages, Austria has many reasons for celebrations and gift-giving occasions like name days, birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, Easter, and weddings.

Each region in Austria boasts its own unique culture and traditions. For instance, in Tyrol, traditional crafts like hand-carved wooden figurines or Tyrolean hats can be excellent gift choices. In the wine-rich regions of Styria or Lower Austria, a bottle of exquisite local wine will undoubtedly be well-received.

Tickets to a classical music concert or a visit to a historic opera house are fitting choices in the music capital.

Gift-Giving Etiquette in Austria

Wrap your gifts elegently, and open them right away in front of the giver.
If you receive a gift, you should reciprocate it. So, it's always good to be ready for situations where you might receive a gift.
It’s not common for Austrians to invite people to their home – other than their closest friends and family, but if you get the invitation, you should definitely bring a small gift of appreciation, such as a box of chocolates or flowers. Remember to bring a small gift for your host's kids.
Large or expensive presents might be seen as ostentatious and could make the recipient uncomfortable.
Business gifts are not part of the Austrian business culture. However, if you receive a present from your Austrian colleague, be ready to reciprocate it later. The best business gift choices are from your country, such as good wine, a local souvenir, or liquor that is not common in Austria.

Acceptable Gifts

Acceptable Gifts

Souvenirs from your country, like for example books
Local food specialties from your country
Chocolates
A bouquet of flowers in odd numbers
A bottle of vintage wine, preferable French
Champagne, but not German Sekt
Brandy
Small electronic gadgets for children
Items in odd numbers

Unacceptable Gifts

Unacceptable Gifts

Number 13 is considered to be unlucky
Lilies, chrysanthemums, and carnations are reserved for funerals
Clocks and watches symbolize running out of time
Black and white wrapping paper
Red roses are associated with romantic gestures
Even numbers of flowers (brings bad luck)
Sharp objects, such as knives or scissors (brings bad luck)
Sets of 4 as it brings bad luck

French Haute Couture In Gift-Giving

France, the country of love, baguettes, cheese and exquisite cuisine, is also known for its rich traditions when it comes to gift-giving. The French love showing appreciation and affection through carefully selected presents.

France’s regions have diverse cultural nuances, and while gift-giving customs are generally similar across the country, there are a few regional variations worth noting:

Paris: As the fashion capital, Parisians appreciate stylish and trendy gifts. Consider luxury accessories, designer items, or unique fashion pieces.
Provence: This region is famous for its lavender fields and artisanal products. Souvenirs like lavender-scented items, handmade soaps, or local wines and cheese are great options.
Alsace: Known for its charming Christmas markets, Alsatians adore hand-painted ceramics, festive decorations, and traditional crafts.

Gift-Giving Etiquette in France

You should take gift-wrapping seriously. Elegant and sophisticated gift-wrapping is an essential part of gift-giving etiquette in France. Experiment with quality paper, ribbons, and bows to present your gift with attention to detail.
You can open gifts when you receive them in front of the giver.
When visiting someone’s home for dinner, avoid bringing wine unless it is agreed upon or it’s a high-quality wine. The host usually makes the wine choice for their dinner.
You don't have to worry if a gift is too expensive or too cheap. It will definitely be appreciated, no matter its value.
Gifts are a part of French business culture. You can present them during social events, but with discretion and not at the first meeting. Remember to include your business card with a gift.
Avoid giving items with your company logo because the French consider this tacky and and in poor taste.

Acceptable Gifts

Acceptable Gifts

Unacceptable Gifts

Unacceptable Gifts

Products with the number 13 (it brings bad luck)
White chrysanthemums or lilies, as they are for funerals
White flowers, as they are used for weddings
Red carnations (symbolize bad will)
Yellow flowers (symbolize infidelity)
Red roses (only for romantic gestures)
Gifts with your company logo

German Precision in Gift-giving

Gift-giving etiquette in Germany varies from region to region. Bavaria is famous for its traditional charm and locals appreciate gifts that showcase their local heritage. Popular gifts in this region include beer steins, cuckoo clocks, or authentic Bavarian delicacies. In the northern regions, maritime-themed presents and locally crafted pottery are trendy.
Christmas is a major gift-giving holiday in Germany, where families exchange of presents on December 24th. Other popular occasions are birthdays, weddings, baptisme, communion or baby showers.

Gifts-Giving Etiquette in Germany

You should take gift-wrapping seriously. Elegant and sophisticated gift-wrapping is an essential part of gift-giving etiquette in Germany. Experiment with quality paper, ribbons, and bows to present your gift with attention to detail.
when you are in Germany prepare thoughtful, and well-crafted gifts. German will appreciate your effort and time spent on selecting the perfect gift.
If you visit someone’s home for dinner, bring a small gift such as a bouquet of flowers, or chocolates.
Avoid offering intimate or overly personal gifts, especially if you are not very close to the recipient.
You can offer small business gifts already on the first meeting.

Acceptable Gifts

Acceptable Gifts

Souvenirs and local specialties from your country
Sweets and chocolates
High-quality wine from France or Italy
Bouquet of flowers in odd numbers (except 13)
Alcohol from your country, but not beer
Silk scarf
Yellow roses or tea roses

Unacceptable Gifts

Unacceptable Gifts

Products with the number 13 (it brings bad luck)
Lilies, chrysanthemums, and heathers (associated with mourning)
Beer and German wine
Clothing, perfumes, and other toiletries
Black wrapping paper
Red roses (only for romantic gestures)
Knives or scissors (bring bad luck)

Presents reflecting ancient spirits in Greece

In this country, ancient traditions intertwine with modern ones, which is why few cultures can match the hospitality and gift-giving etiquette in Greece.

A great example of gifts that reflect the rich Greek culture are traditional handicrafts, such as beautifully painted ceramics or hand-woven fabrics. Moreover, olive oil products, local wines, or sweet delicacies like baklava are also highly appreciated gifts. For extra charm, accompany your gift with a personalized greeting card, as the Greeks treasure written sentiments.

Gift-Giving Etiquette in Greece

Wrap your gifts elegantly, and open them in front of the giver.
For the vast majority of Greeks, celebrating a name day is much more important than celebrating a birthday. Name Day is the birth date of the saint after whom they are named. Remember to buy a gift for this occasion instead of for a birthday.
When you are visiting someone's home for dinner, bring a small gift, such as good wine, flowers, or chocolates.
Avoid expensive gifts because your gifts will be reciprocated. Choose modest gifts so your recipient doesn't feel uncomfortable.
Business gifts are not a part of the Greek business culture.

Acceptable Gifts

Acceptable Gifts

Unacceptable Gifts

Unacceptable Gifts

La Dolce Vita wrapped in Gifts

Italian celebrations are a perfect blend of old-world charm and contemporary festivities. From the iconic Carnival in Venice to the traditional Feast of San Gennaro in Naples, each region has a unique gift-giving etiquette.

Italians put their hearts into the selection of gifts for their loved ones. This is why unique products from local boutiques, not chain stores, are often a popular choice. And if you are lucky enough to be invited to the Italian wedding, then remember that a typical wedding gift tradition is to offer cash in an envelope. It is known as la busta. The amount is usually based on how close you are to the couple and how extravagant the wedding is.

While gift-giving customs are relatively similar across Italy, it’s worth mentioning that each region may have its own unique traditions and preferences. In northern Italy, sophisticated gifts like high-quality fashion items, luxury accessories or gourmet food baskets are well received. However, southern Italy values more personal and sentimental gifts, such as handcrafted items or photo albums capturing cherished memories.

Gift-Giving Etiquette in Italy

Wrap your gifts nicely and open them immediately in front of the giver.
Always choose quality over quantity. So, thoughtful, well-chosen gifts hold greater value.
While local alcohol from your country is well received, the food is not so much. Avoid giving food from your country because the Italian recepient may not appreciate it.
Intimate or overly personal gifts may be seen as inapproapriate, especially if you are not very close to the recipient.
When you visit someone’s home for dinner, bring a small gift, such as Italian wine, flowers, or chocolates.
Avoid giving gifts with your company logo because Italians consider them to be in poor taste.
Business gifts are expected and usually exchanged during social events and when the relationship between associates is developing. Gifts are usually given at the senior managerial level.

Acceptable Gifts

Acceptable Gifts

Souvenirs from your country
Sweets and chocolates
High-quality, preferably vintage, Italian wine
Bouquet of flowers in odd numbers (except 13). Number 17 is the lucky number in Italy.
Alcohol from your country

Unacceptable Gifts

Unacceptable Gifts

Products with the number 13 (it brings bad luck)
White chrysanthemums or lilies (associated with funerals)
Black or purple wrapping paper
Knives or scissors
Yellow flowers (symbolizes jealousy)
Red roses (only for romantic gestures)
Brooches and handkerchiefs (symbolize sadness)
Gifts with your company logo

Symbols of Polish Hospitality

Polish celebrations are rich in old customs creating an interesting mix of habits in the gift-giving etiquette. Some of the most celebrated occasions are “Andrzejki” (St. Andrew’s Eve), “Wigilia” (Christmas Eve), and “Name Day”. The Polish Name Day tradition dates back to the Middle Ages, and its beginnings are linked to the Catholic calendar of saints. Even nowadays, this day is more celebrated than birthdays, especially among adults. There’s also a tradition of bringing a cake and sweets to their workplace to celebrate the name day with colleagues.

In different regions of Poland, you may find unique gift preferences. In the northern coastal areas, jewelry with amber (a local gemstone) is a popular gift and souvenir that is usually offered. However, in the south, traditional handmade crafts or woolen items make fantastic gifts.

Gift-Giving Etiquette in Poland

Wrap your gifts nicely and open them immediately in front of the giver. You should also present them with both hands.
Along with the gift, you should add a handwritten card with your wishes or a personalized message.
Name days are widely celebrated in Poland, and Poles give small gifts or flowers to the person whose name they celebrate on that particular day.
When you visit someone’s home for dinner, bring a small gift, such as a bouquet of flowers, chocolates, or alcohol (but not vodka).
Avoid gifts with your company's logo or overly expensive items, as it might be seen as showing off.
Avoid giving gifts in sets of four, as this number is associated with funerals and bad luck in Polish culture. Stick to numbers like three or five, which are seen as lucky.
If you have a chance to participate in a Polish wedding, you can offer flowers and cash in a beautifully decorated envelope. The amount should cover the cost of the guest's attendance and contribute to the couple's future.

Acceptable Gifts

Acceptable Gifts

Unacceptable Gifts

Unacceptable Gifts

Products with the number 13 (it brings bad luck)
Lilies, yellow chrysanthemums, and carnations (associated with funerals)
Black wrapping paper
Red roses (suitable only for romantic gestures)
Knives or scissors (associated with bad luck)
Vodka is too stereotypical, and it’s not appreciated by everyone

Gift-giving with Portuguese Passion

Traditions in Portugal have been shaped over the centuries creating a mixture of cultures including Roman, Moorish, and Christian. The combination of these customs has created a unique mix of art, cuisine, and celebrations that influence the gift-giving etiquette in Portugal. This is a country that celebrates more than 1,000 festivals each year! Even sardines have their own summer festival which is called “Festival de Santo António”.

The Portuguese are known for their kindness and strong sense of community, which is reflected in their gift-giving habits. Despite their relaxed approach to life, there are a few things to do and a few to avoid when it comes to gift giving etiquette.

Gift-Giving Etiquette in Portugal

When presenting a gift, use both hands as a sign of respect.
Wrap your gifts nicely, and remember to open them right away in in front of the giver.
If you visit someone's home you should bring a small gift. Avoid bringing wine unless agreed upon or unless it’s a high-quality Portuguese wine.
Avoid giving expensive gifts, as your Portuguese recipient may feel embarrassed.
Avoid intimate or gifts that are personal, especially if you are not very close with the recipient.
For Christmas, you can offer traditional sweets like "Bolo Rei" (King's Cake) or a bottle of fine Portuguese wine.

Acceptable Gifts

Acceptable Gifts

Souvenirs and local specialties from your country
Fine Portuguese wine
Sweets and chocolates
Bouquet of flowers in odd numbers (except 13)
Bottle of fine brandy or whisky
Scarfs and perfumes

Unacceptable Gifts

Unacceptable Gifts

Products with the number 13 (it brings bad luck)
Lilies or chrysanthemums (associated with funerals)
Black and purple wrapping paper
Red roses (suitable only for romantic gestures)
Foreign wine: the Portuguese consider their wine to be the best

Souvenirs from the east in Russia

The geographical vastness of Russia is reflected in the diversity of its cultures and traditions. The country, which spans 11 time zones and stretches from Europe to Asia, has many nuances and rules when it comes to gift-giving etiquette.

At the heart of Russian culture is a deep appreciation of relationships between family and friends, and gift-giving is a perfect reflection of that. Occasions such as birthdays, holidays, weddings, and even spontaneous visits are opportunities to give a loved one a souvenir. Simply put, Russians are one of the nations that adore gifts, and they spend quite a lot of money on them.

Appropriate Gifts for Specific Regions

Moscow and St. Petersburg: In large cities, it is customary to give sophisticated gifts, often choosing elegant items such as fine wines, gourmet chocolates, or handicrafts.
Central rural areas: In more traditional places, gifts that pay homage to Russia’s rich heritage, such as handmade textiles, samovars (traditional tea pots) or Matryoshka dolls, are more popular.
Ethnic regions: Russia’s multicultural landscape carries a variety of traditions. Gifts such as traditional clothes, musical instruments, or books featuring unique cultures are a perfect fit for these regions.

Gift-Giving Etiquette in Russia

Wrap your gifts nicely, and remember to open them right away in in front of the giver.
When presenting a gift, use both hands as a sign of respect.
Russians usually reciprocate gifts, so you should too. So it's always good to be prepared for mutual gift-giving situations.
If you get an invitation for a home dinner, you should bring a gift, such as a box of chocolates, wine, or good-quality liquor. Try to avoid offering vodka, which is commonly available. You should offer flowers only to female relatives of the host who are present during your visit.
Flowers are offered only to women. The exception applies to male teachers, doctors, or celebrities. In general, men are expected to bring flowers for women.
If the host you’re visiting at home has children, make sure to bring a small souvenir for them.
Business gifts are a common part of the business culture in Russia.
Avoid giving gifts to pregnant women before a baby is born. Russians believe this gesture brings bad luck.
Russians tend to initially decline accepting the gift, but you should politely insist until they gladly accept it.

Acceptable Gifts

Acceptable Gifts

Souvenirs and local food specialties from your country
Good-quality alcohol
Fine chocolates
A bouquet of flowers in odd numbers for women
Pink, cream-coloured, orange, and blue flowers
Towels, cameras, and watches
Perfume, or cologne

Unacceptable Gifts

Unacceptable Gifts

Products with the number 13 (it brings bad luck)
Lilies, chrysanthemums, and carnations (associated with funerals)
Black and white wrapping paper
Red roses (suitable only for romantic gestures)
Even numbers of flowers are given for funerals
White flowers
Cheap wine and vodka, as they are easily accessible
Small office accessories (pens, pencils etc.)

Nordic harmony and simplicity in Scandinavia

Imagine the breathtaking landscapes of Norway, the charming cities of Sweden, and the coastal villages of Denmark. These three countries form a geographic region called Scandinavia, which has many similar customs related to gift-giving etiquette.

Are you thinking of a flashy and extravagant gift? Not exactly Scandinavian style. It’s better if you choose something simple and customized to show that you care about your recipient. Scandinavian gift-giving etiquette has three things in common: simplicity, modesty, and practicality.

common holidays in Denmark, Norway and Sweden

Midsummer (Midsommar/Juhannus): It’s celebrated in all three countries. Midsummer marks the summer solstice and is a time of joy and festivities. People gather around maypoles, dance, and enjoy traditional food.
Christmas: Christmas in each country has its own unique customs, such as the Norwegian “Julenisse” (Christmas gnome), the Danish “Julefrokost” (Christmas lunch), and the Swedish “Julbord” (Christmas buffet). Popular common traditions are advent calendars, gingerbread cookies, and festive decorations at home.
Easter: In Norway and Sweden, children dress up as “Easter witches” and go door-to-door, exchanging drawings and paintings for candy. In Denmark, people gather at home for the Eastern meal, and cities are decorated with colorful ornaments.

Gift-Giving Etiquette in Scandinavia

Wrap your gifts nicely, and remember to open them right away in in front of the giver.
Large or expensive presents might be seen as ostentatious and could make the recipient feels uncomfortable.
Scandinavians usually reciprocate gifts, so you should too. So it's always good to be prepared for mutual gift-giving situations.
If you get an invitation to someon's home dinner, you should bring a small gift of appreciation, such as a box of chocolates, flowers, wine, or good-quality liquor. Remember to bring a small gift for your host's kids.
Business gifts are not a part of the Norwegian and Swedish business cultures, but they are quite common in Denmark. You can exchange gifts only after successful negotiations. Appropriate Scandinavian corporate gifts are boxes of chocolates, items with your company logo, notepads, pens, and souvenirs from your home country.

Acceptable Gifts

Acceptable Gifts

Souvenirs and local food specialties from your country
Good-quality alcohol, since it’s very expensive in Scandinavian countries
Fine chocolates
A bouquet of flowers in odd numbers
Items with your company logo

Unacceptable Gifts

Unacceptable Gifts

Products with the number 13 (it brings bad luck)
Lilies, chrysanthemums, and carnations (associated with funerals)
Black and white wrapping paper
Red roses (suitable only for romantic gestures)
Even numbers of flowers are given for funerals
Clocks and watches (symbolize running out of time)

Gifts in the Rythms of Spanish Flamenco and Fiesta

Spain, the land of flamenco, paella, and sunny beaches, is a lively blend of various cultural influences from Moorish in the south to Celtic roots in the northwest. From the snow-capped peaks of the Pyrenees to the sunny beaches of Andalusia, Spain’s geographical diversity is mirrored in its gift-giving habits.

Choosing meaningful presents that reflect friends and family’s interests and personalities is a good approach to gift giving in Spain. Spaniards like to add handwritten cards with wishes to their gifts, making them more personal.

Appropriate gifts for special regions

In the Basque region, gifts are often exchanged during the celebration of “San Juan,” the midsummer festival. During this time, the Basques give friends and family small gifts such as chocolates, sweets, or candles.
In Catalonia, there is a funny tradition of giving kaganers which are bizarre figurines depicting people defecating. They are often added to nativity scenes and symbolize happiness and prosperity in the coming year.
In the heart of Spain, in Madrid, you can buy a traditional decorative scarf, known as “Mantón de Manila”, as well as famous churros and chocolates from local boutiques.
Galicia is famous for its Celtic influences. A popular gift is Galician jewelry such as intricate brooches or silver pieces or a Queimada set, a traditional Galician alcoholic beverage made with spirits and spices, with a clay pot and glasses.

Gift-Giving Etiquette in Spain

The Feast of the Epiphany (on January 6) is the most important traditional holiday for gift-giving amongst families and friends.
Wrap your gifts nicely and remember to open them right away in in front of the giver.
Large or expensive presents might be seen as inappropriate or ostentatious.
If you get an invitation to someone's home for dinner, bring a fine bottle of wine, flowers, or something sweet for dessert.
If your host has children, remember to bring a gift for them. It’s a common practice to offer gifts to children when visiting Spanish families.
You can exchange business gifts at the end of the meeting and only when the negotiations have been successfully concluded.
Business gifts should be of good quality, and it’s better to avoid branded office accessories with your company logo.

Acceptable Gifts

Acceptable Gifts

Souvenirs from your country
Bottle of fine brandy or whisky
High-quality chocolates
High-quality wine
Sweets and churros
A bouquet of flowers in odd numbers (except 13)

Unacceptable Gifts

Unacceptable Gifts

Products with the number 13 (it brings bad luck)
Lilies and chrysanthemums (associated with funerals)
White flowers, as they are used for weddings
Red roses (suitable only for romantic gestures)
Dahlias
Red carnations (symbolize bad will)
Yellow flowers, as they symbolize infidelity

Gift-Giving with Swiss Efficiency

Switzerland, as a multicultural and multilingual country, is a great example of a harmonious combination of traditions and celebrations. Swiss regions often take inspiration from their neighboring countries, including elements of gift-giving etiquette from France, Germany, and Italy.

In the German-speaking regions, the most common are practical and well-thought-out gifts. However, in the French-speaking areas, elegant and refined presents are usually offered. Meanwhile, in the Italian-speaking parts, heartfelt and sophisticated gifts are accompanied by a warm smile.

In general, gift-giving etiquette in Switzerland stands out for its simplicity and thoughtfulness. When presenting a gift, remember to wrap it elegantly, but avoid excessive packaging, which can be seen as wasteful.

Gift-Giving Etiquette in Switzerland

Wrap your gifts nicely, and remember to open them later, not in front of the giver.
Along with the gift, you should add a handwritten card with your personalized message.
Swiss usually reciprocate gifts, so you should too. It's always good to be prepared for mutual gift-giving situations.
If you get an invitation to someone's home for dinner, arriving on time is a sign of respect and is more valued than the present itself. You can bring a bouquet of flowers, chocolates, or a bottle of wine. Remember to bring a small gift for your host's kids as well.
If you are attending a big party at someone’s home, send them a gift (like flowers) in advance of the event. It will show your good manners. Remember to send a handwritten thank-you note afterwards.
Large or expensive presents might be seen as vulgar and could make the recipient feel uncomfortable.
Business gifts are quite common in Swiss business culture. Great Swiss corporate gifts are boxes of chocolates, notepads, pens, and souvenirs from your home country.

Acceptable Gifts

Acceptable Gifts

Souvenirs and local food specialties from your country
Good-quality alcohol, since it’s very expensive in Scandinavian countries
Swiss chocolates
Good quality of candies and pralines
A bouquet of flowers in odd numbers (except 13)
Items with your company logo
A high-quality whisky, cognac, bourbon, or wine
Swiss knife, which is widely used for outdoor activities

Unacceptable Gifts

Unacceptable Gifts

Products with the number 13 (it brings bad luck)
Lilies, chrysanthemums, and carnations (associated with funerals)
Black wrapping paper
Red roses (suitable only for romantic gestures)
Even numbers of flowers
Knives or scissors (bring bad luck)

The delights of gift-giving in Türkiye

Türkiye has a rich tradition of gift-giving, adding a touch of warmth to their special occasions. Understanding the gift-giving customs and traditions can be a lovely journey into the heart of Turkish culture. From the lively markets of Istanbul to the peaceful villages of Cappadocia, gift-giving is not only a simple gesture of exchanging presents, but it is also a tribute to long-lasting traditions.

In Eastern Turkiye, you might find beautifully crafted carpets or kilims as cherished gifts. In the coastal areas, traditional ceramics or seashell-themed items are popular choices, reflecting the local culture.

Appropriate Gifts for Specific Occasions

Ramadan: During the holy month of Ramadan, offering dates, traditional sweets, or a box of Turkish delight is a thoughtful way to express well wishes.
Bayram: For Bayram celebrations, consider giving small gifts to children, such as toys or books. It’s the tradition to make the youngest ones feel special during this festival.
Weddings: If you’re attending a Turkish wedding, you can offer home appliances, traditional textiles, or gold coins (known as altın), that signify blessings for the couple’s future.

Gift-Giving Etiquette in Türkiye

Engage in polite refusal. When someone is offering a gift, you can initially decline it out of politeness. However, if the giver insists, you may accept it graciously.
Turkish people value modesty, and extravagant gifts may make the recipient feel uncomfortable.
Be aware that Türkiye is predominantly a Muslim country. You should avoid offering items made of pigskin, alcohol, and food with pork, unless you know that your receiver is of a different faith.
When you are visiting Turkish friends for dinner, remember to bring a gift. However, it will probably not be opened in front of you. The host will prioritize hosting duties. The ideal gifts are flowers (roses or carnations), chocolates, candy, and a bottle of wine (if the host drinks alcohol, of course).
Consider bringing a gift for the host’s children if you receive an invitation to a family gathering. Sweets, chocolates or small toys are the best choices.
You don’t have to carefully wrap your gifts and add a card with your wishes. This practice is not that common.
Business gifts are not required, but are appreciated and can create a stronger bond between associates. Appropriate business gifts may include quality pens, desk accessories, or items representing your home country.
Remember to give and receive gifts with your right hand.
Your recipient will open the gift in a private place. Avoid opening a gift in front of the giver because they may think you are impolite.

Acceptable Gifts

Acceptable Gifts

Unacceptable Gifts

Unacceptable Gifts

Traditions with the Royal Elegance in the United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, the key values in gift-giving etiquette are politeness, consideration, and thoughtfulness. The British have a unique way of expressing their affection through thoughtful presents. Birthdays, holidays, and weddings are the main celebrations to offer gifts.

Appropriate gifts for special regions

Each region in the United Kingdom has its own cultural habits that influence gift-giving.

Tea, anyone? A carefully selected tea set or artisanal teas are quintessentially English gifts. Alternatively, a bouquet of flowers, a box of chocolates, or a classic British novel are always appreciated.
In Scotland, a bottle of single-malt Scotch whisky is a classic gift choice. If you choose whisky with a unique backstory or a limited-edition release, you will surely gain some extra points from your Scottish friend. Other popular gifts are tartan accessories, a guided tour of a historic Scottish castle, or an invitation to a ceilidh (traditional dance party).
In Wales, the great way to honor the Welsh culture is by offering slate coasters, traditional Welsh cakes, or a beautifully bound piece of Welsh literature.
In Northern Ireland, the love for storytelling is visible in the gift-giving etiquette. For those who appreciate the folklore, a book on Irish myths, legends will be a great gift choice.

Gift-Giving Etiquette in United Kingdom

Wrap your gifts elegantly, and remember to open them later, not in front of the giver. Unless the giver asks you to do so. Overall, it is considered a bit rude to open the gift immediately.
Along with the gift, you should add a handwritten card with a personalized message.
If you get an invitation to someone's home for dinner, bring a small gift, a bouquet of flowers, chocolates, or a bottle of wine. Remember to send a handwritten thank-you note afterwards.
Avoid giving overly expensive gifts, as this could potentially embarrass the recipient and make them feel obliged to reciprocate.
Business gifts are not a part of British business culture. If you want to still offer a gift, you should do so only after successfully concluding negotiations.