If you're a film fan, a visit to the Eye Filmmuseum is a must. If you're not yet a cinemaphile, Eye may turn you into one. It's perched on the north bank of the River IJ, so its name is a clever see-what-I-did-there pun. Some of the best hotels near the Eye Filmmuseum are within walking distance, in Amsterdam Noord.
Eye's stunning design is straight out of a science fiction movie – from some angles it looks very like a starship ready for liftoff. Inside, it's equally stellar. EYE is a temple to cinema, with a collection that celebrates everything from the very first silent movies to the golden age of black-and-white talkies and the latest in 3D and digital special effects. Visitors can watch screenings of remastered classics and the latest cutting-edge indie releases in its four cinemas, or you can enjoy silent movies from the museum's archives in your own personalised viewing pod. There's a huge collection of cinema memorabilia, ranging from posters and photos of bygone stars to original soundtrack recordings and vintage cameras that will fascinate a generation of younger visitors who take mobile devices with built in video capability for granted.
Image by studioklick from Pixa
It's an experience well worth making the journey across the IJ for, and the ferry crossing is a fun (and free) sightseeing trip in its own right, with great views of the waterfront. You'll find more of the best hotels near the IJ in Amsterdam Centrum, and the Waterfront neighbourhood.
Still not sure which to book? Take a look at all our Amsterdam recommendations, or contact a friendly guru for advice.
Amsterdam (Old City)
A sophisticated contemporary hotel with its own art gallery. Young, hip and designed for movers and shakers. Shiny rooms and suites offer lots of space and subtle lighting. There's an excellent restaurant and cocktail bar that merges Portuguese and Asian flavours. A trendy spot.
Amsterdam (Noord)
The trendy Sir Adam Hotel is located in Amsterdam's historic centre overlooking the IJ-river. Plush rooms with funky features such as exposed stone walls and contemporary artworks. The Butcher Social Club serves up wonderful burgers with a great selection of beers. A one of a kind spot!
Amsterdam (Old City)
A sleek hotel occupying two 17th-century hotels just minutes from the Centraal Station. Rooms vary slightly in design but all follow a blue and white scheme, and have wooden floors and luxurious bathrooms. American comfort food is served in Wyers restaurant and there's a lively cocktail bar too.
Amsterdam (Noord)
This friendly hostel is located in the Noord district of Amsterdam, on the banks of the River IJ. Guests can choose between modern private rooms, mixed or single-sex dorms. Lockers are available in every dorm, plush fresh linens and towels at reception. Meet other travellers in the bar; a fun hotel.
Amsterdam (Westerpark)
This boutique hotel offers self-contained apartments on the canalside in Bickerseiland. The apartments are great for families or groups, with multiple, cosy bedrooms and separate living space, plus self-catering facilities. Book a comfort suite for a shared terrace; a stylish city break.
No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.
