On the north bank of the IJ, across from Amsterdam Central Station, Eye Filmmuseum brings film exhibitions, screenings and a striking modern building together. Inside, explore interactive displays about cinema, vintage cameras and images of the Netherlands in the 1920s; changing exhibitions focus on filmmakers and moving-image art. Four cinemas screen classic and contemporary films. The café and restaurant look across the water, so you can make time for a meal or a drink after exploring. For a quick visit, the building and riverfront are worth seeing even if you skip the exhibitions.
The building on the IJ
Eye Filmmuseum opened in 2012 on Amsterdam’s north bank, directly across the water from Central Station. Designed by Viennese architects Delugan Meissl, its white, sharply angled form stands apart from the historic buildings in the city centre. The shape shifts as you move around it, and the large windows bring light into the interior.
The building was the first major public building constructed on the north bank of the IJ. Even without entering the museum, you can walk around the exterior and take in the views across the water. The free ferry from behind Central Station makes the crossing part of the visit.
Explore the cinema displays
The permanent exhibition traces the development of film through historical objects and interactive installations. Displays include old cameras, movie posters and photographs, alongside film clips and activities that help explain the medium. Visitors can try a film quiz or make a flipbook; some installations are designed for children as well as adults.
The Panorama exhibition area includes interactive ways to explore moving images, such as green-screen technology and a 360-degree space showing film clips. Other displays include 3D images of the Netherlands in the 1920s. The contents of the temporary exhibition spaces change, with past shows devoted to filmmakers and film-related subjects, so check the current programme if you have a particular interest.
Screenings, archives and a café by the water
Four cinemas show a mix of classic and contemporary films, including arthouse titles. The programme also includes talks and events. If you want to see a film, check the schedule and ticket details before you visit; a museum admission ticket does not necessarily include a screening.
Eye preserves and restores films from the Netherlands and abroad. Its collection includes films and other cinema-related material, and the institute has a library open to the public. The café and restaurant provide another reason to stay after the exhibitions: their windows face the IJ and Amsterdam Central Station. There is also a gift shop. For a quieter pause, the café has free internet and electrical outlets.
FAQ
How do you get to Eye Filmmuseum from Central Station?
Take the free ferry from behind Amsterdam Central Station across the IJ to the museum.
How many cinemas does Eye Filmmuseum have?
The museum has four cinemas, with a programme that includes classic and contemporary films.
What can you see inside Eye Filmmuseum?
The permanent displays cover film history through cameras, posters, photographs, clips and interactive installations. Temporary exhibitions change over time.
Can you visit the building without going into the exhibitions?
Yes. You can see the exterior and riverfront setting without entering the exhibition spaces.
