According to forum posts, for those looking for a central location with a reasonable budget, the Movenpick offers rooms starting at $144 per night. It is located near the central train station and includes a shuttle service and nearby tram access, although it is a 10-minute walk from the station. Another option is the Hotel Library, which is decently reviewed and offers rooms at $175 per night.

For those preferring apartments, some travelers have recommended the Eric Vokel Apartments, which have received positive feedback for quality. Alternatively, the Adagio Aparthotel in Amstelveen offers a 2-bedroom apartment for under €900 for a three-night stay, which might suit travelers looking for residential-style accommodations.

For travelers with accessibility needs or those traveling in large groups, finding suitable accommodations can be challenging. One post mentioned difficulty in securing accommodations for a group of 10 with budget constraints around $1000 for one night, suggesting that larger groups may need to increase their budget or consider locations outside the central area.

According to forum posts, travelers can rent cars at various locations in Amsterdam, including Amsterdam Zuid, RAI, Overtoom, and Marnixstraat. Schiphol Airport is also a popular rental hub, offering a straightforward exit onto highways.

Some users have mentioned that most cars in the Netherlands are manual transmission, and renting an automatic may cost more. Travelers also highlighted the importance of being aware of higher gas prices, parking fees, and potential fines for traffic violations in the Netherlands.

Travelers have called out that renting a car in Amsterdam might not be necessary or advisable if planning to stay within the city or visit nearby major cities, as public transport is efficient. However, for visiting more remote areas like the Veluwe or the Biesbosch, a car could be beneficial.

For many users, picking up a rental car at Schiphol and returning it in the city or vice versa does not incur additional costs. Travelers recommend checking multiple locations for the best rates when booking, as prices can vary.

Many travelers recommend day trips from Amsterdam to smaller towns and cities to experience a different side of the Netherlands. Destinations like Delft, Utrecht, Leiden, Haarlem, and The Hague are popular due to their proximity and unique attractions. These cities offer a mix of beautiful architecture, museums, and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Amsterdam.

For those looking to explore historic sites and museums, The Hague and Delft are highly suggested. Additionally, Haarlem is praised for its relaxed vibe and historic feel, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to escape the hustle of Amsterdam without straying too far. Some travelers also suggest combining a visit to Rotterdam and Delft in a single day, as Delft has a small center, making it manageable alongside the modern architecture of Rotterdam.

For a unique day trip, some forum users have mentioned the possibility of visiting smaller towns like Enkhuizen, known for its Zuiderzeemuseum, although it is noted that this particular museum has limited opening days outside the weekend. Other less common but intriguing suggestions include visiting Groningen for its vibrant city life or exploring the countryside and smaller towns like Broek in Waterland for scenic views and tranquility.

Some travelers recommended Those Dam Boat Guys for a more tailored and adult-oriented experience, with open boats that include plastic covers for colder weather. However, they mentioned that this tour might include swearing, drinking, and smoking. Other suggestions included Lovers, which offers headphones for a single-language narrative, and Blue Boat for its good reputation.

According to forum posts, there are various types of canal tours available, such as small open boat tours, dinner cruises, and regular canal cruises. Travelers have called out the small open boat tours for being more casual, often allowing grass and booze, while dinner and themed cruises like pizza, wine, and beer are available for those looking for a unique experience.

For many users, booking a canal tour is straightforward, with tickets available for purchase directly at the booth on the day of the tour. It was noted that prices across regular canal cruises are fairly similar, making them accessible without the need for advance booking. Additionally, some travelers suggest experiencing both daytime and evening cruises to fully appreciate Amsterdam's scenic canals.

According to forum posts, the rooftop of NEMO Science Museum is recommended for lunch and is child-friendly. Cafe Restaurant Amsterdam, though not a rooftop venue, is housed in a beautiful old industrial building and features a kids area and a simple Dutch menu that includes items like bread with chocolate sprinkles or peanut butter, making it suitable for families.

Some travelers have mentioned unique dining spots that are also family-friendly. Pasta e Basta offers an engaging dining experience with opera-singing waitstaff, and Ctaste provides a unique sensory experience with dining in the dark, served by blind staff. The Pancake Boat and Indonesian rice table restaurants offer interactive dining that can be fun for families.

For those interested in Dutch cuisine, forum users suggest visiting places like FEBO for a quick snack, or enjoying Dutch pancakes at establishments like Pancake Bakery and Pancakes Amsterdam. Dutch croquettes from Van Dobben and raw herring from street stalls are also highlighted as must-tries for visiting families.

Some travelers mentioned that in Amsterdam, it is possible to pay for public transportation by tapping a debit or credit card at the reader upon entering and exiting the bus. This method applies to trams and buses across the city.

According to forum posts, tickets can also be purchased at larger tram stops which have vending machines, or at news kiosks in areas like Schiphol Plaza. These machines and kiosks only accept card payments as cash is no longer accepted.

For specific attractions like Keukenhof, travelers have called out the convenience of buying combi tickets which include both the entrance and the bus travel. Additionally, multi-day transport passes are available and can be a cost-effective option if planning extensive travel within the city and nearby regions.

According to forum posts, taking a train from Schiphol to Amsterdam Central is a popular and convenient option. Trains are available directly under the airport, making it an accessible choice for travelers. The train fare is approximately €4.50 to €5 per person.

Some travelers mentioned using bus 397 from Schiphol to Amsterdam, which connects directly to various parts of the city, including the Museumplein area. Additionally, for navigating within the city from Amsterdam Central, trams can be used to reach specific destinations.

For many users, the convenience of tapping a contactless credit or debit card for train and bus payments was highlighted. This method allows automatic fare calculation based on the journeys' start and end points.

Travelers have called out the use of Google Maps and public transportation apps like 9292.nl for planning and navigating routes, ensuring a smooth transition from Schiphol to Amsterdam Central or other city areas.

According to forum posts, for a special occasion, restaurants like Ciel Bleu, Spectrum, and &Moshik offer upscale dining experiences. De Belhamel is recommended for its stunning canal views, particularly if you can secure a window seat.

Some travelers suggested the Moon restaurant in the ADAM Tower for its revolving view of the city, providing a dynamic dining experience. Bussia is also favored for its modern Italian cuisine and excellent service, creating a memorable atmosphere for special events.

Travelers have called out The Duchess and Kees, drinken eten en drinken for lively yet delicious dining options. The Duchess offers a blend of elegance and good food, while Kees provides a personalized dining experience with a surprise menu tailored to dietary preferences and dislikes.