€200/month for a 60m² self-contained 2-bedroom apartment with utilities included and energy label A in Zaandam is an extraordinary value, and the 3-year availability ensures long-term stability.
Location: Zaandam is super close to Amsterdam, and more convenient from public transportation perspective than for example some part of the city of Ams. You can easily spend more minutes commuting in Ams then hop on a train here and be in Centraal within 10mins. Trains are super frequent like every 10mins. Airport has direct train line too, that takes 18mins, non direct is 30mins. Apartment: 60sqm - 2 separate bedrooms and a super bright living room. Fully furnished, comes with new fridge and washing machine, microwave. There’s a small 1 person sized “balcony” opening from the kitchen. Not much, but better than nothing! I found it perfect for a couple and the extra room can be used for working / guests of yours etc. However thanks to its layout it can be cozy for two individuals too. Surroundings: The apartment is literally 10 mins walk or 1 bus stop or 5 mins bike from the train station; and 5 mins from the buses that go directly to Amsterdam Centraal or Noord. Zaanse Scans (where the windmills are) is 15 mins away by bus. Plenty of bars and restaurants in this area, this is the heart of the down town that means cute little houses, nice walks in the area. You can easily be in the quiet parts in seconds. Grocery shopping: Dirk, Dekamarkt, AlbertHein within 10 mins walking distance in all directions. It's a non-smoking apartment. A cat or small dog is welcome.