Where to stay
Jordaan and the Nine Streets (Negen Straatjes) are the postcard Amsterdam — canal houses, cafes, walkable everywhere. Expect $220-$400 for anything decent. De Pijp is my honest recommendation: cheaper ($150-$240), better food (Albert Cuyp market, dozens of restaurants), and 10 minutes by tram to center. Oud-West is similar. Avoid Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein — loud clubs, chain hotels, tourist-trap prices.
Getting around
The tram network is faster than walking for anything over 800 meters. Buy the GVB day ticket ($10) or the multi-day version. Metro is useful only for reaching Zuid, Bijlmer and Noord. Bike rental ($15-$20 a day) sounds romantic and works well if you’ve cycled in a city before — otherwise you’ll be a hazard on the tram tracks for a week.
What's overrated
Anne Frank House timed tickets sell out weeks ahead — worth it, but the surrounding streets are packed. The Red Light District at night is a stag-party carnival, not a cultural experience. Coffeeshops off Damrak are all mediocre and rip-off priced. Go to Boerejongens in De Pijp or the Melkweg area instead.
Questions answered
Can I do Amsterdam in 2 days?
Yes if you plan tightly — Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, one canal cruise, one neighborhood walk, and two good dinners. Three days is much better.
Is Amsterdam expensive right now?
Hotels are up around 20% since 2023. Budget $220 a night for a decent 3-star and $70 per person per day for food and museums.
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