Amsterdam · Museum
Eye Filmmuseum Amsterdam: Film, Architecture & the IJ Waterfront
The Eye Filmmuseum is the Netherlands' national museum of film — a striking white building on the north bank of the IJ, a free ferry ride from Centraal Station, with exhibitions, cinemas and one of the city's best waterside terraces. Here is its story, the highlights, and how to visit.
By the AllTrips Editorial Team ·
Eye Filmmuseum at a glance
Location: IJpromenade 1, Amsterdam-Noord, across the IJ from Centraal Station. Allow: 1–1.5 hours. Entry: building free; exhibitions and films ticketed. Nearby: A'DAM Lookout and Centraal Station.
The story of the Eye
The museum grew out of the Dutch Historical Film Archive, founded in 1946, which for decades showed films in the Vondelpark pavilion. In 2012 it moved into this new home on the north bank of the IJ, designed by the Vienna architects Delugan Meissl. Its sharp white shape — said to suggest movement and light — became a symbol of the revival of Amsterdam-Noord.
Behind the exhibitions sits a huge national collection of films, posters, photographs and film equipment, from the earliest silent films to today. The museum uses it for changing exhibitions and a busy cinema programme.
What you will see
- Changing exhibitions — major shows on filmmakers, artists and film history in the main exhibition hall.
- The basement film displays — free interactive spaces where you can browse clips from the collection.
- Four cinemas — classics, new releases and restored films, many with English subtitles.
- The architecture — the tiled white exterior and the big terraced lobby looking out over the water.
- The bar-restaurant and terrace — one of Amsterdam's best spots to watch ferries cross the IJ.
Tickets
You can walk into the building, the shop and the bar-restaurant for free. Exhibitions and film screenings need a ticket, which you can buy at the desk or online. Popular exhibitions and evening films can sell out, so booking ahead is safer at weekends.
Official information
Eye Filmmuseum — official website
For current opening hours, exhibition and film tickets, and the cinema programme, always check the official website before your visit.
Visit eyefilm.nl
Getting there
Walk through Centraal Station to the ferry piers on the IJ side and take the free Buiksloterweg ferry. It runs day and night, takes a few minutes, and lands right beside the Eye. Foot passengers and cyclists are welcome.
Practical tips
- Combine the Eye with A'DAM Lookout next door — exhibition first, then the view at sunset.
- Even without a ticket, have a drink on the terrace — the view of the IJ is free.
- Check the film listings for English-subtitled screenings before you go.
- See every stop on our Amsterdam attractions map.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Eye Filmmuseum free to visit?
The building, the lobby, the shop and the waterside bar-restaurant are free to walk into. Exhibitions and film screenings are ticketed — check the official website for current prices.
How do I get to the Eye Filmmuseum?
Take the free Buiksloterweg ferry from the piers directly behind Amsterdam Centraal Station. It crosses the IJ in a few minutes and lands right beside the Eye.
How long should I spend at the Eye Filmmuseum?
Allow about 1 to 1.5 hours for an exhibition and the free basement film displays, plus extra time if you want to see a film or have a drink on the terrace.
Who designed the Eye Filmmuseum building?
The angular white building was designed by the Vienna-based architects Delugan Meissl and opened in 2012 on the north bank of the IJ.
What is near the Eye Filmmuseum?
A'DAM Lookout stands right next door, so the two make an easy afternoon together. Centraal Station is a short ferry ride back across the IJ.