Travel with Rick Steves 427c Christmas in London, Umbria, France, Norway, Greece, Basque Country
Dec 20, 2025
Join winemaker Cecilia Bottai as she shares heartwarming Italian Christmas traditions, including nativity scenes and festive family meals in Umbria. Oslo commentator Paul Johansson brings to life the magic of Norwegian celebrations, featuring julekake, Santa Lucia, and the mischievous Nisse gnome. San Sebastián native Augustin Sirisa introduces the unique Olentzero character from the Basque Country, alongside rich holiday feasts and traditions revived post-Franco. Discover the diverse ways Europe embraces the holiday spirit!
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See London’s Festive Lights And Windows
- See London’s holiday lights and famous store windows like Regent Street, Harrods, and Selfridges.
- Visit Trafalgar Square’s Norwegian Christmas tree and nearby carol concerts for a festive experience.
Family-Focused Christmas In Umbria
- Cecilia Bottai describes family-centered Italian Christmases with long dinners, card games, and live nativity scenes.
- Gifts may be opened at midnight after Mass or the next morning, and festivities run through Epiphany on Jan 6.
Regional Flavors Shape French Christmas
- French Christmas varies strongly by region but commonly centers on a lavish Christmas Eve meal and the Bûche de Noël dessert.
- Families eat late, share oysters and foie gras, and often reserve New Year’s for public celebrations.