EYE Filmmuseum

The EYE Filmmuseum stands on the north bank of the IJ, opposite Amsterdam Central Station, and it is one of the most distinctive modern buildings in the city. It opened in April 2012, and it was designed by the Viennese architects Delugan Meissl as a white, angular shape that has been compared to a spaceship or a gull. The building has a large terrace facing the water, with a cafe and restaurant, and a visit begins with the easy trip across the river on the free ferry that leaves from behind the station and takes only a few minutes.

EYE is the Dutch national institution for film, and it looks after a very large collection of Dutch and international films, as well as posters, photographs, equipment and documents. It preserves and restores films, many of them very old and fragile, and it shows them to the public. The permanent exhibition traces the history of the moving image from early optical toys and the first films to modern digital forms, and it is arranged in a way that invites visitors to explore, with screens, projections and interactive displays. Temporary exhibitions look at particular themes, directors or aspects of film culture, and the programme changes regularly.

The cinemas are the centre of the museum's life. There are four screens, and the public programme includes new releases, retrospectives, silent films with live music and series such as Eye Classics, which presents significant works of cinema history. Screenings are generally in the original language with subtitles, and most start in the afternoon and evening, so it is worth looking at the schedule when planning. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday and is closed on Mondays, and times and prices should be checked before going.

The area around the museum has changed a great deal in recent years. Amsterdam North, once an industrial and shipbuilding district, has become a lively cultural zone, with the A'DAM Lookout tower next door offering views over the city and the harbour, and many cafes, studios and event spaces. Walking and cycling around the waterfront is pleasant, and ferries run to several points.

The museum suits film lovers, architecture fans and anyone looking for a different view of Amsterdam. Allow two hours for the exhibition, and consider staying for a film or a meal on the terrace, which has good views of the IJ and the skyline.