IJssalon Bella Italia
About
IJssalon Bella Italia is a charming neighborhood gelateria serving up homemade Italian-style ice cream that draws local families for good reason. Kids will delight in choosing from colorful artisanal flavors while parents appreciate the authentic recipes, reasonable prices, and pleasant outdoor seating perfect for enjoying treats on a sunny Dutch afternoon.
Highlights
- ✓Authentic Italian gelato made fresh in-house with traditional recipes
- ✓Wide variety of creative and classic flavors to suit all tastes
- ✓Friendly, welcoming staff who are patient with children
- ✓Pleasant outdoor seating area perfect for people-watching
- ✓Affordable prices that make treating the whole family easy
Pro Tips
- 1.Ask for a small taste (proefje) before ordering. Dutch ice cream shops are happy to let kids sample flavors.
- 2.Bring cash in euros, as smaller artisanal shops may not accept all international credit cards.
- 3.Visit during off-peak hours (early afternoon on weekdays) to avoid weekend crowds and get more personalized attention from staff.
- 4.The outdoor seating area is ideal for messy eaters. Bring wipes as gelato melts quickly on warm days.
- 5.Combine your visit with a walk or bike ride around scenic Gooise Meren lakes, located just minutes away.
Best Time to Visit
Late afternoon (3-5pm) on weekdays offers shorter lines and a relaxed atmosphere. Summer months provide the best weather for outdoor seating, though the shop typically operates year-round. Avoid Saturday afternoons when local families flock here.
What to Know
Prices are budget-friendly (single scoops typically 2-4 euros). The shop has outdoor seating but limited indoor space. English is widely spoken in the Netherlands, so ordering is easy for international visitors.
Seasonal Notes
Best enjoyed during spring through early fall (April to September) when outdoor seating is most comfortable. The shop typically remains open year-round, though winter hours may be reduced. Check ahead during major Dutch holidays.
Nearby Eats
This is the treat, but for a meal beforehand, explore the local Gooise Meren area for traditional Dutch pancake houses (pannenkoekenhuis) or family-friendly cafes serving kid-favorites like bitterballen and frites.
More Activities Near Gooise Meren
De Watertuin
De Watertuin is a serene water garden oasis in Gooise Meren that offers families a wonderful blend of natural beauty and outdoor exploration. Kids can wander along scenic walking paths, discover local wildlife, and enjoy supervised play in designated picnic areas while parents soak in the peaceful Dutch countryside. It's an ideal spot for families wanting to escape the busier tourist attractions and experience authentic nature in the Netherlands.
Fiber2Fashion Creative Studio
Fiber2Fashion Creative Studio is a hands-on art workshop haven where families can dive into painting, crafting, and creative projects together. The studio offers structured classes designed for various age groups, making it an ideal rainy-day activity or a special creative outing in the picturesque Gooise Meren area.
Library Naarden-Bussum
Library Naarden-Bussum offers a welcoming escape for traveling families, featuring an extensive children's section with Dutch and international books, plus dedicated family spaces perfect for quieter activities. This modern library provides story times and reading programs where kids can experience Dutch library culture while parents enjoy free WiFi and comfortable seating areas.
Muiderslot
Muiderslot is a stunning 13th-century castle that transforms history into an adventure for young explorers. Interactive tours designed specifically for families allow kids to dress up in period costumes, handle replica weapons, and participate in activities that make medieval life tangible and exciting. The castle's picturesque gardens and moat create a fairytale setting that sparks children's imaginations.