Amsterdam is a delightful city! The city is wonderfully compact, that it's walkable (& of course cyclable) and the people are super welcoming. It was great fun exploring the canels and various sights in this wonderful city.
Visit
Zaanse Sanchs
A trip to the Netherlands cannot be complete without a vist to the windmills. Frankly, aren't they synonymous? There are several ways to get here from Amsterdam, but my preferred way is to take the Connexxsion bus 391from Amsterdam Central Station. The bus departs every 15 minutes to Zaanse Schans and the journey takes 40 minutes. Just get off the last stop. On the way, you pass by several small towns and canels.
Website: http://www.dezaanseschans.nl/en/
Albert Cuypmarkt
Another great place to visit is the famous Albert Cuypmarkt. While most of the things sold are nothing unique, there are several stalls selling delicious local snacks which would be the highlight of the place. There are also plenty of good cafes around the area.
Eat
Kantjil & de Tijger
Indonesian rice table (or rijsttafel) is a must try when in Netherlands. Rijsttafel is a by-product of Dutch colonialism in Indonesia so when the Dutch returned home, they brought with them an undying affection for the Indonesian cuisine. Kantjil & de Tijger is one of the famous restaurants in teh centre of Amsterdam. They even have a take away section.
Website: http://kantjil.nl/en/
BakHuys
We found this lovely bakery/cafe from Foursquare (borrowing the idea on Hey Kumo blog on their Tokyo trip for where to eat). To our suprise, BakHuys serves freshly baked pastries and sandwiches. (By freshly baked, I mean they have a see through bakery at the back of the shop.) Our favorites are their Raisin Croissant (which is crunchy at the sides but fluffly in the middle and not at all too sweet) and Hot Chocolate. Just writing this post makes me wish for their delicious croissants.
Address: Sarphatistraat 611018 EX Amsterdam
Website: http://www.bakhuys-amsterdam.nl/
Stay
Volkshotel
Volkshotel is located in front of ‘Wibautstraat’ subway station (7 mins from Amsterdam Central Station). The hotel's modern industrial design is funky yet the hotel rooms are comfortable & spacious (which is a rare thing in Europe). They even have a sauna in the hotel for guests' use.
Address: Wibautstraat 150, 1091 GR Amsterdam.
Website: http://www.volkshotel.nl/en/