For budget travelers a bed in a central hostel or a small room in an apartment usually costs around 40 to 55 dollars a night. The places are basic but clean and you often stay close to the main canals or train station. Many hostels have a common area where people chat and share travel stories which makes the stay more interesting.

• In the luxury version you can stay on a beautifully converted houseboat right on the canal or in a nice 4 or 5 star hotel in the center. Prices range from 250 to 330 dollars per night. You wake up to water views, enjoy comfortable beds and sometimes even a small breakfast served on the boat or in an elegant dining room.

Eating on a budget in Amsterdam is tasty and easy. You start the day with fresh stroopwafels or herring from the market, grab affordable sandwiches or fries with mayo for lunch and enjoy simple but good Indonesian or Dutch food in small local spots for dinner. Daily food expenses can stay around 25 dollars and you still eat well.

• Luxury food means sitting in nice restaurants with canal views and trying refined Dutch and international dishes. Fresh seafood, creative cheese platters and good wine pairings turn meals into a real experience. One dinner can easily cost 110 to 160 dollars for two but the quality and atmosphere make it memorable.

The best way to explore Amsterdam on a budget is by bike. You rent a simple bike for the day and ride along the canals and through the parks. When you get tired you use the tram or buy a daily public transport ticket. Its cheap and lets you see the city like a local.

• With a higher budget you take taxis or private transfers whenever you feel like it. Many people also enjoy private boat tours on the canals which are much more comfortable and quiet than the regular tourist boats.

There are lots of free and cheap activities in Amsterdam. You can walk along the canals, visit free outdoor markets, spend time in beautiful parks and enter some museums on discount days. Free walking tours with tips are also popular and a great way to learn about the city history.

• In the luxury version you get skip the line tickets for popular museums and enjoy private guided tours with a personal guide. High end galleries and special exhibitions become more accessible. Evening private canal cruises with drinks and snacks create a romantic and unforgettable atmosphere.