Within the grachtengordel (canal ring)! If you look at an aerial map of Amsterdam, you’ll see the ring to help with orientation. Oude West, Oude Zuid, De Pijp, and De Jordaan are also lovely areas.

I was spoiled when we lived in Amsterdam because we lived in an old brick cloister on the Singel (dating to the 1500s) overlooking the canal, then we eventually moved to the heart of Leidseplein. I’d choose a water view any day. 💦