There is a shortage of good apartments in central Amsterdam. Needless to say, apartments are hugely overpriced and are a challenge to find especially in the nicer areas of town. Some of the best places to stay in Amsterdam will be central Amsterdam with its beautiful canals and 17 and 18^th century architecture. Jordaan is also a lovely area that's just outside the centre but has a slightly slower pace. Oud Zuid is the posh neighbourhood of Amsterdam and is favoured by the expatriates. The Eastern Docklands are built on the Ij in response to the acute shortage of housing and offer new comfortable homes in an up market area. De Pijp is a lively bustling district, Westerpark is close to the centre but has major parking problems and lastly, Amstelveen is a green and peaceful suburban town situated in the south of Amsterdam.

If you prefer to rent an accommodation, there are numerous estate agencies and websites specialized in properties in Amsterdam. For example:

• http://www.rotsvast.nl 
• http://www.vandesteege.nl
• http://www.parree.nl
• http://www.rappange.com
• http://www.matchmakelaars.nl
• http://www.vanderlinden.nl