Rialto is your art house cinema in Amsterdam for exceptional films: from award-winning arthouse titles to non-Western gems, from documentaries to timeless classics on the big screen. At our venues in De Pijp and on the VU campus, our programming team curates an independent selection for curious film lovers. We introduce you to filmmakers past and present, open doors to new perspectives, and create space for reflection through specials, introductions, and Q&As.
What to expect from our art cinema
At our art cinema, film is at the heart of everything we do — but the experience goes beyond the screening. We offer a carefully curated film programme with premieres, festival favourites and previously unreleased titles rarely shown elsewhere. Expect a mix of arthouse films, Dutch cinema, international classics, contemporary documentaries and themed programmes. Our focus lies on quality, context, and discovery: a place to find new voices and rediscover familiar ones.
Programming: from premieres to specials
Each week we present a diverse selection of films and specials. You’ll find pre-premieres, audience favourites, thematic series and a steady stream of events with guests, Q&As, and talks. We regularly collaborate with festivals and cultural partners, allowing you to not only watch films but also meet the makers and explore current topics. Our theatres are designed for optimal experience: high-quality image and sound, comfortable seating and an intimate atmosphere that fits an art house cinema.
Curious what’s playing today and in the coming weeks? Check the Amsterdam cinema listings or browse all current titles via Films Amsterdam.
Locations in Amsterdam
Rialto screens films at two locations in the city: the historic art house cinema Rialto De Pijp and our venue Rialto VU on De Boelelaan. Both locations embody the atmosphere of an art cinema and host specials, events, and educational programmes. More information about directions, theatres, and facilities can be found via Rialto De Pijp and Rialto VU locations.
For every film lover
Whether you love discovering new indie films, have a passion for the nouvelle vague, or like to be surprised by unconventional titles — our art house cinema is for you. We programme broadly and inclusively, highlighting filmmakers from diverse regions and film cultures, and we regularly screen films with English subtitles. For our youngest visitors, we also offer a dedicated selection of accessible films and family-friendly events.
Planning a visit with kids? Discover Children’s films in Amsterdam. Want to know more about what we offer? Start with Cinema Amsterdam for an overview of our atmosphere, features and facilities.
Context, conversation and community
An art cinema is more than just a movie theatre. We organise specials, post-screening talks with filmmakers, thematic programmes around icons such as Akira Kurosawa or today’s trailblazers, and events that highlight emerging voices. Through introductions, side programmes, and encounters with makers, we deepen the viewing experience and connect film lovers with each other. Before and after the film, our foyer and café offer space for conversation.
Practical information: tickets and visit
Tickets are available online via our agenda and at the box office on site (subject to availability). You’ll find all current times in the Amsterdam cinema listings. Each film description indicates whether the film is English spoken or has Dutch/English subtitles. Have a question about accessibility, language or side programmes? Get in touch — we’re happy to help.
Frequently asked questions
What makes this art house cinema different from a regular movie theatre?
In an art cinema, it’s all about curation and context. We select films for their artistic value and social relevance, offer depth through specials and talks, and create a space where you can see films rarely found in mainstream theatres. The experience is intimate, personal, and meaningful.
What kind of films does Rialto, the art house cinema of Amsterdam, screen?
We show arthouse films, non-Western cinema, Dutch productions, documentaries, classics, and themed programmes. You’ll find both new releases and reissues, as well as festival highlights — often accompanied by introductions or Q&As.
Are there film premieres at this art cinema in Amsterdam?
Yes. Every week we programme premieres and pre-premieres, often with added context or special guests. The current overview and ticket sales can be found in the Amsterdam cinema listings.
Discover our full programme
Ready to choose your next film? Start with Films Amsterdam for the complete overview, check what’s playing today and tomorrow via the Amsterdam cinema listings, and plan your visit to Rialto De Pijp and Rialto VU.