Under $100: Amsterdam

Start your visit to the Netherlands by trying the famous sweet or savory Dutch pancakes at Pannenkoekenhuis Upstairs for breakfast (€6). The popular restaurant is located in a 1530s house right in the heart of the city, making it a perfect jumping off point for your day.

During the morning, you are going to want to simply wander around the city and take in the beautiful canals and architecture. Rent a bike during the warm months or ice skates during the winter months (€6.50). From the restaurant, head southwest to Amsterdam’s street market, Waterloopleinmarkt. Then turn north and head through Nieuwmarkt, past the Sex Museum, to Centraal Station. Eventually find your way back to Singel 404, near the Amsterdam Museum, for lunch.

Apple Crumb Pie at Singel 404 © Jessica Spengler | Flickr

Singel 404 is famous for having the best sandwiches in the city (€5).

Rijksmuseum © Jan Kranendonk | Dreamstime

In the afternoon, you’ll want to visit one of Amsterdam’s world-famous museums: the Rijksmuseum or the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art. Or, if you’re feeling like really taking in the culture, visit one of Amsterdam’s legal coffee shops. Or visit the Van Gogh museum. The museums all cost between €15–20.

Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art © Mirko T. Schafer | Flickr

Close to the museums, take the obligatory photo with the giant I Amsterdam sign.

Before you head back across the canals and downtown, have dinner at Hap-Hmm, which serves a traditional Dutch menu for about €20.

Have a drink at one of Amsterdam’s many friendly and relaxed bars. The brown café In ‘t Aepjen near Centraal Station is recommended. Just remember, Amsterdam is a whole different city at night.