11 Rudest Countries in the World, According to Tourists
Not every trip is a dream—and for some travelers, it’s the people, not the place, that make or break the experience. It could be clipped service, social coldness, or aggressive street behavior, but many countries have earned reputations for rudeness, fair or not.
Here’s what tourists have reported after visiting these destinations.
France
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People love to joke about how rude Parisians are, and unfortunately, a lot of travelers say that reputation holds up. You might get ignored in a shop, brushed off for not speaking French, or met with a look that says, “Why are you even here?” The thing is, it’s not personal. Locals just don’t do performative friendliness—and if you skip the basic “bonjour,” that’s on you.
Russia
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There’s not a lot of smiling at strangers or sugar-coating anything in Russia, which can catch you off guard if you’re used to more warm-and-fuzzy interactions. Visitors say it can be intense, like everyone’s a little mad at you, even if you’re just asking for directions. The volume and tone might sound aggressive, but it’s just how they talk.
United States
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There’s a lot to love about visiting the U.S., but the welcome mat can be a hit or miss. The airport experience alone can be rough—long lines, scowling officers, zero small talk. And in places such as New York, service is fast and impatient. It can sometimes feel as if nobody wants to deal with you unless you’re tipping.
India
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Anyone who visits India is impressed by its vibrant and wild energy. However, tourists mention constant pressure from touts, intrusive questions, and being grabbed or followed. It’s chaotic, and boundaries are different. It’s not all bad, but if you’re not used to that level of in-your-face interaction, it can wear you down fast.
China
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In big cities, for example, Beijing or Shanghai, personal space is more of a theory than a rule. Line-cutting, loud conversations, and what comes off as flat-out rudeness are par for the course. Some say it’s quite common in big and crowded cities, while others find it overwhelming.
Morocco
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A lot of people fall in love with Morocco’s architecture and food, but the street experience can be rough. In places like Marrakech, guests say they can’t walk a block without being hassled—vendors chasing you, trying to guide you somewhere for cash, or asking for tips just for existing near you.
Germany
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Germans are efficient, direct, and don’t really do small talk, which means some travelers think they’re cold or rude. Service can feel rushed, smiles are rare, and if you mess up the recycling, someone might actually correct you. Don’t worry, they don’t hold a personal grudge; they’re just not wired for chit-chat with strangers.
Egypt
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People have a lot to say about Egypt, and it’s not always glowing. Pushy guides, nonstop requests for tips, and outright harassment in tourist zones, such as Giza, come up often. Women, in particular, report feeling unsafe or objectified. The monuments are breathtaking, but the constant pressure can make it hard to enjoy the moment.
South Korea
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By watching Korean culture and dramas, you may have noticed how they put a lot of weight on hierarchy and politeness, but not always in the way vacationers expect. If you happen to take a trip to the country, you may notice that clerks and waiters don’t make eye contact or even respond to greetings.
United Kingdom
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British manners are famous, but they’re also reserved. Travelers who expect chatty friendliness often find the country, especially London, a bit frosty. Locals won’t usually strike up conversation, and if they do, it’s probably dry sarcasm. If you mistake politeness for warmth, you might think everyone’s quietly hoping you’ll go away.
Argentina
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There’s a certain coolness in the air in Argentina, especially in upscale neighborhoods where people can feel indifferent. The entire country is not as bad, though. Once you’re out of the city, others are usually warmer, but first impressions in the capital can leave travelers feeling out of place.
Denmark
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You have probably seen some research or two telling you that Danes are famously happy. But nobody told you that these people are not necessarily friendly. They tend to keep to themselves, and nobody even notices you’re there. Service is polite but distant, and there is no concept of chit chat with strangers.
Switzerland
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Switzerland is on a lot of individuals’ bucket lists, but not everyone is too pleased once they get there. Guests describe citizens as cold or judgmental, especially if you’re not dressed the part or obviously wealthy.
Spain
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Barcelona and Madrid are stunning, but they’re also tired of visitors. Travelers talk about being ignored at restaurants or snapped at for asking simple questions. There’s a bit of local resentment, especially in Barcelona, and it shows. If you’re not fluent in Spanish—or Catalan—expect a little extra attitude with your tapas.
Norway
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Norwegians are friendly once you know them, but good luck getting there. Tourists say that the locals are distant or cold, especially if you try to strike up a conversation without a reason. They’re polite, but not interested in small talk or strangers. And if you push too hard? That legendary Scandinavian calm can turn icy fast. Think of it as politeness with an escape plan.
Finland
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The citizens of Finland don’t just keep to themselves—they go out of their way to avoid interaction. You will find it odd when no one holds doors, makes eye contact, or speaks unless absolutely necessary. One vacationer even said locals stepped over her after she fell. It’s an extreme version of “minding your business.”