Hotels in Amsterdam run the gamut. To be near the action, book in the Red Light District or near the party districts of Leidseplein or Rembrandtplein. Accommodations -- both high-end and hostels -- in the city-center offer proximity to top tourist attractions. In the Canal Ring district, bed and breakfasts, also known as converted canal homes, afford delightful views of the tree-lined canals; however, these kinds of rooms are usually criticized for their lack of space and modern amenities.

During high season (spring and summer), rooms book up quickly; you should reserve your hotel at least a month in advance of your trip.

• The quintessential Amsterdam hotel experience, however, is still found in the 17th- and 18th-century canal houses that cluster in the Western Canal Ring. Traditional examples, such as the Ambassade, are often subdued in style (stately canal views compensate), while newer -- usually pricier -- canal house hotels (such as the Dylan) update the historical ambiance." -- Concierge.com
• Although many of Amsterdam's canal-side hotels and hostels are criticized for their tight quarters, they offer affordable accommodations highlighted by beautiful views. What they sacrifice in space, canal-side locales compensate for with unparalleled access to the beautiful side of the city." -- Let's Go Amsterdam
• Many hotels offer significant rate reductions between November 1 and March 31, with the exception of the Christmas-to-New Year period. The city is as much a delight during this season as it is during the tourist-packed summer months." -- Frommer's

Centrum

Amsterdam's centrum or center offers visitors a wide range of accommodation options, everything from a clean hostel room (Stayokay Amsterdam-Stadsdoelen) to a lavish suite (Sofitel Amsterdam The Grand). If you do decide to book here, pick your location carefully: Families, for instance, might not want to book a place in the centrum's Red Light District (on Warmoesstraat, between St. Nicolaaskerk to Dam Square).

• If you're only staying for a few days, the convenient downtown location may pay off, but if time is on your side and you want a more authentic experience, head to the Western Canal Ring or Museum Quarter." -- Sherman's Travel

Canal Belt

If you're after a classic Amsterdam hotel experience, you might look to book a place on the western Canal Belt. These converted 17th and 18th-century canal homes come in two versions -- a refurbishment of the old or a sleek modern redesign. And many of the rooms afford lovely views of the city's requisite canals.

• Many buildings are historic, so hotels can't install elevators even if they want to; be ready to climb tight, winding staircases! Only the top hotels have air conditioning, but unless you hit one of the rare summer heat waves, this won't pose a problem."  -- Sherman's Travel

De Pijp

Amsterdam's De Pijp neighborhood also offers everything from high-end to low-price accommodations -- but the reason to stay here is to enjoy its Quartier Latin feel. De Pijp really showcases a collision of cultures, one that's especially on view at its Monday-through-Saturday Albert Cuyp Market.

• For the deepest discounts, head to the less central (yet tram-accessible) bargain hotels in De Pijp. … They offer another kind of singular Amsterdam vibe: a flashback to the days when the city was backpacker central and one big hippie squat (even neo-hippies have to plan ahead now)." -- Concierge.com