Arriving into Amsterdam, it is quite easy to maneuver around the city once you master the tram system. On top of that, almost everywhere in Amsterdam within the city is easy to walk to if you don't mind up to a twenty minute walk.
A recommended hostel is the StayOkay hostel, located about ten minutes from the city and train station, but the prices and amenities are well worth it.
Breakfast is included everyday with a wide spread of choices that you can pack up for a later lunch. A bar is open all day with specials that vary next to the cafeteria. Laundry, Internet, vending machines, complimentary maps and a concierge to help you schedule everything from show tickets to taxi cabs are available.
A good place to start your budgeted vacation is in Dam Square, Amsterdam's main square with the Dutchs' national monument right in the middle.
Walk to Rembrandtplein Square, not too far away, which is named for the artist Rembrandt and had more nice restaurants and stores then Dam Square.
Look for the Europeans with signs that read "Free Hugs." It is probably the only thing free being offered in the square!
Another main square you should be sure to visit is Leideseplein Square, where there are musicians and street vendors!
In this square is a comedy show named Boom! Chicago, that every visitor to Amsterdam should see. You can get discount prices if you buy the tickets ahead of time and choose to go on a weekday evening.
After the show, there is a local Dutch bar with live music every night across from the theatre, with amazing drink prices, full of local live bands and numerous foreigners and local Dutch.
Choosing to visit the local bars you stumble upon is much cheaper than going to popular bars that guidebooks suggest, as the owners know their bars are listed and will jack up the prices.
On your second day, a visit to Anne Frank's house and and museum is a must.
Look for the beautiful blue and red clock tower outside of the house that you can go in and explore for free.
A short walk to visit Oude Kerk, the oldest church in the city, is great for a rainy day. The inside is filled with controversial local art and is still used to pray and worship. It is the only church in the world surrounded by old brothels.
When you are hungry, try a local Dutch snack, a cone of fresh french fried potatoes with mustard and mayonnaise. Street vendors sell them for only a couple of dollars, and the cup is so large two people can share it and be full.
Finish the day at the Van Gogh Museum, which is within walking distance of much of the city.
On your third day in Amsterdam, experiencing the largest and most popular park, Vondelpark, is an interesting way to spend almost an entire day.
Fountains, ponds, streams, fields for playing sports, outdoor theatres, free outside yoga classes, snack stands, restaurants, stages with live music and entertainment, horseback riding, etc. are just a short list of the activities available at Vondelpark.
Here, you can experience more local Dutch food, see local music and art, and even participate in free activities offered by certified Dutch teachers.
