Ciao Amsterdam – Going Italian in the Dutch capital
Zipping around the city on a Vespa, sipping a cappuccino while people watching, shopping for handmade shoes and designer threads and savouring mouth-wateringly delicious food – could this really be Amsterdam? Here we reveal how to experience the best that Italy has to offer - in the Dutch capital. Pronto!
Canal carnivals
Even in the 17th Century, Amsterdam was known as the “Venice of the North”. But what many people don’t know is that Amsterdam has more canals – and bridges - than Venice does. Of course, Amsterdam also has many carnival-like festivities involving lively crowds in fancy-dress along the waterways. Come and join in on Queen’s Day or during the Gay Pride festival. And on quieter days, see if you can spot Amsterdam’s one and only gondolier guiding her beautiful black gondola down the canals. Mamma mia!
Shopping
Fashionistas will be very pleased to note that Amsterdam offers excellent shopping with Italian flair. Whether you need a fashionable scooter helmet, a handmade shirt or calf leather shoes, Dominio is Amsterdam's ultimate address for luxury hand-made Italian accessories for both men and women. And if you’re in need of a caffeine jolt, then how about a visit to Shirts and Cappuccino, which offers – you guessed it – shirts and cappuccino! After a shopping session in Amsterdam, you too could look like you’ve stepped off a Milan catwalk.
Eating and Drinking …and singing
Italians are famous for La Dolce Vita with lots of eating, drinking and singing. Pasta e Basta has turned this concept into their business –offering a memorable night out with singing waiters, traditional Italian pasta's and exclusive wine list. Cinema Paradiso in the Jordaan serves up a mean after-dinner Scoroppino (a delicious drink of lemon sorbet, vodka and prosecco). And for some Italian-inspired opera, why not take a look at what’s showing at the Muziektheater, home to De Nederlandse Opera (The Dutch Opera Company).
Scoot along
When in Amsterdam, do as the Amsterdammers do. If you don’t fancy pedal-pushing but still want to get about Amsterdam in a zippy fashion, why not hire a scooter? They might not be quite as environmentally-friendly as bicycles, but by choosing an electric scooter, you can minimize the impact and still experience the thrill of the wind in your hair. Riding a scooter is as easy as uno-due-tre but you will need to have a valid car or motorbike driving licence with you.
So come enjoy all the best that Italy has to offer – in Amsterdam! Ciao for now...
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