Melbourne: National Gallery of Victoria. Highlights & Tips
Open daily, 10am–5pm | Free entry
Each time I’m in Melbourne, I go to National Gallery of Victoria. Melbourne and NGV are two things undividable. One day there is barely enough — you need to come here again and again. Honestly, NGV is so massive that one visit never feels like enough. My tip? If you can, visit twice — once to explore the free permanent collection and another time for any big exhibitions that are on.
Their collection is so carefully and gently curated, I appreciate their professionalism and dedication to art a lot. Established in 1861, it is now one of the most significant collections in the Southern Hemisphere.
Highlights
NGV’s permanent collection features over 75,000 works, covering European, Indigenous Australian, and international art, and also design and architecture. I like how local Australian artists are represented, and the Indigenous art section is definitely a highlight. I really recommend to pay attention on Indiginous art there. It’s a must-see if you are interested in Australian heritage. Carefully selected artwork will give you insight into the stories, traditions, and symbolism of Australia’s First Nations people. Although if Indigenous art is not there main interest. I would rather recommend to go Queensland to see more of Australian Indiginous art. There are multiple and multiple truly amazing galleries and museums dedicated to Indigenous Art in Brisbane and around.
Be ready for crowds, especially if there’s a big-name exhibition happening. If you prefer a quieter experience, go early in the day or on a weekday. One of the best things about NGV is how often they bring in major international exhibitions. From Van Gogh to contemporary stars like Kusama.
The NGV has four levels:
Ground Level features the Great Hall, renowned for its stunning stained-glass ceiling, and houses collections from regions such as China, India, Korea, and Southeast Asia. Its also has Tea Room, a hidden gem! It offers a classic afternoon tea experience with beautiful pastries, finger sandwiches, and premium teas.
Level 1 hosts major temporary exhibitions, contemporary art and design displays, and interactive spaces like the Julian Opie: Studio for Kids.
Level 2 showcases the International Collection of 19th to 20th-century, and includes spaces dedicated to jewelry and body adornment.
Level 3 focuses on contemporary art, featuring exhibitions such as The Global Life of Design and the Contemporary Collection.
International Collection 19th – 20th Century, level 2. My adored level.
Triennal
The NGV Triennial is one of those events you just can’t miss. It takes over the gallery with mind-blowing art, design, and installations from all over the world. Expect huge, immersive pieces, interactive exhibits, and artworks that really make you stop and think. It’s the kind of place where you can wander for hours, get completely lost in creativity, and leave feeling inspired. I was lucky enough to have visited 2 Triennals of NGV.
This is a fragment of artwork by Lehuauakea, a Native Hawaiian artist. It is part of the their permanent collection of NGV, and also was presented within 2024 NGV Triennial.
Kids, activities, coffees
I, as a mom, always pay attention to creative experiences the museums offer to kids. The NGV warmly welcomes children and families, too. The gallery is very kid-friendly, and it offers:
participatory exhibitions & events
self-guided activity sheets
online activities & games to continue learning at home
Entry to the permanent collection is free, but special exhibitions often require tickets. Check the website in advance for any major shows. The museum offers activity sheets and guides to help you navigate the collection.
After exploring, chill out in the NGV Garden and their Cafe and grab a cup of that famous Melbourne coffee. Make a day of it! After NGV, take a walk along the Yarra River or check out ACMI at Federation Square. This whole area is Melbourne’s cultural heart, and it’s buzzing with creativity.
I miss it already so much. Hoping to visit there next time soon!
