We're 4 middle aged American women. We want to stay in the Canal section. Done extensive research. We know it's optimistic, but would love to spend no more than $ 150-170/night, including breakfast. We've heard good things about Hotels Weichmann, Nes, Singel and Prisengracht. Any input/information/rants/raves? Many many thanks.

You might try looking in the hotel reviews at www.channels.nl One of the hotels may be listed and reviewed by previous clients..the site seems to be rather brutally honest unlike some travel guides and boards.

You likely could get two 4* rooms on Priceline for about the total amount you want to spend. However, you might not be right in the Canal section, depending how the Amsterdam zones have been configured lately.

I just remembered that when we were in Amsterdam a couple of weeks ago, I talked to the people who run the B & B Sunhead of 1617...We stayed there a couple of years ago. We did not stay there this time because they were booked, but they did tell us about an apartment they have on the Herengracht Canal and it is really nice and I think it was 129 Euro per night and I believe it slept 4...We did not take a look inside, because someone was staying there. There is a picture of it on their website...sunhead.com
It might be an alternative...I only walked by the Hotel Weichman, it was close to the Hotel we were staying at (Hoksbergan, but I don't recommend it)and the location was not too bad, but have not stayed anywhere you mentioned...I do know over the years, prices of accomodations have increased dramatically and there are not alot of choices for a modest price range..

I really like the Hotel Citadel. Not far from Dam Square or Central Station, small/quaint and the staff is great.

We really loved The Canal House. I found it recommended highly on this board. It is a beautiful 1600ish home that has been restored. The rooms are very comfortable with lots of space and big baths. The breakfast room overlooking the garden is stunning and the food is delicious. It is right on a canal very near the Anne Frank house. There are many good restaurants in the area and its a great location for touring (walking) the rest of the city. The rooms are listed on the web site at $140-170 Euros per night, (www.canalhouse.nl) but it is also listed on many European hotel discount sites, so you might be able to get an even better price. We had the front bedroom that overlooks the canal and it was just great. The staff is very helpful and the little bar is a great place to meet other travelers. It really feels like staying in a private home. You will love it.

What are the European hotel discount sites you reference? Many thanks!

There are many. If you do a google search with the name Canal House Amsterdam, they will pop up.

www.google.com

I would definately try the kaphotel
Very nice and clean and cozy. prices within your range and located in a safe and quiet street in the centre
http://www.kaphotel.nl
Enjoy!
Bob