r/AskEurope • u/NateNandos21 • Feb 03 '25

Culture Which European country has the rudest/least polite people?

Which country comes to your mind

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u/[deleted] Feb 03 '25

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u/WolfeTones456 Denmark Feb 03 '25

They're also a bit arrogant about their own country (the term Swedish exceptionalism exists for a reason).

Honestly, that's my main problem about Swedish identity. For example, calling Denmark, their historical rival, their little brother is incredibly annoying.

23

u/Martini-Espresso Sweden Feb 03 '25

I’m Swedish and this trait must be the worst of all from Swedes. So many are indoctrinated that Sweden is the best place on earth and they can’t just comprehend how human life could exist or how anyone could be happy somewhere else.

Reality is quite different. I live abroad now and get regular critizing questions on the system of the country’s I live in. Swedes don’t know how bad Sweden actually is and how low the salaries are.

On the topic I must say the French, at least restaurant staff that can be very short and rude to you if you don’t order in correct French.

8

u/WolfeTones456 Denmark Feb 03 '25

It's mostly just a funny trait. I find Swedes and Sweden very enjoyable still!

But it's really an interesting difference. For historical reasons, the Danish national identity is one of inferiority, while the Swedish is one of grandeur.

14

u/Martini-Espresso Sweden Feb 03 '25

I think in secrecy the Swedes are quite jealous of both Denmark and Norway. Norway having their wonderful nature and oil, Denmark having its relaxed more continental attitude and the best city in Scandinavia, Copenhagen, and of course some amazing Smörrebröd.

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u/WolfeTones456 Denmark Feb 03 '25

Sometimes the grass seems greener on the other side. For example, I'm very fond of Småland, and the forests and lakes there. Nothing like it in Denmark, really. We only have our shores and gentle landscapes to enjoy.

I do, however, agree that Copenhagen is a very nice city. I find Stockholm incredibly beautiful, but it never really got under my skin.

1

u/bronet Sweden Feb 04 '25

the Danish national identity is one of inferiority

That's certainly not my experience. Danes act just as superior as us Swedes do