NGV International Melbourne
Melbourne's premier art gallery, boasting a vast collection of Australian and international art, with much of it free to explore.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing
NGV International Melbourne
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Melbourne's premier art gallery, boasting a vast collection of Australian and international art, with much of it free to explore.
"Most of it is free. Always have something new on display which is exciting and makes it always worth a visit."
🎯 Free Entry for Permanent Collection
Most of the NGV International is free! Only special exhibitions require a ticket.
🎟️ Book Ticketed Exhibitions Early
Popular exhibitions sell out. Book online in advance to secure your spot and preferred time.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Hall
Ground Floor
Marvel at the stunning stained-glass ceiling and the impressive architecture. A true Melbourne icon.
Pierre Bonnard: Designed by Intuition
Level 2
Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and intimate scenes of this 20th-century master.
NGV Triennial
Various Levels
A free, large-scale exhibition showcasing contemporary art and design from around the globe.
Kimono: Kyoto to Catwalk
Level 1
Explore the artistry and cultural significance of the iconic Japanese garment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry & Special Exhibitions
Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry for Permanent Collection
Most of the NGV International is free! Only special exhibitions require a ticket. +1
🎟️ Book Ticketed Exhibitions Early
Popular exhibitions sell out. Book online in advance to secure your spot and preferred time.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast collections.
📱 Check NGV App for Maps
Navigate the gallery easily and find out what's on.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry for Permanent Collection
Most of the NGV International is free! Only special exhibitions require a ticket. +1
🎟️ Book Ticketed Exhibitions Early
Popular exhibitions sell out. Book online in advance to secure your spot and preferred time.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast collections.
📱 Check NGV App for Maps
Navigate the gallery easily and find out what's on.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You can easily spend 2-3 hours, or even half a day, exploring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the NGV International for its vast and diverse collection, with many highlighting the free entry to the permanent collection as a major draw. The architecture and specific exhibitions like the French Impressionists and Yayoi Kusama receive high marks. However, some visitors find ticketed exhibitions to be overcrowded and expensive, particularly during peak times.
"I absolutely loved this art gallery from top to bottom. The exhibitions are well organised, the architecture was amazing, the staff was very helpful and there’s an infinite amount of art work. My favourite was Dali’s “Mae West Lips Sofa”. I’d recommend around 2-3 hours to check most of the museum, but honestly, you can get lost there for half day if you wanted to. I couldn’t recommend it more."
Joel David Cabrera Mancuello
"Attended the French Impressionism exhibition. Really, considering you spend half the time fighting the crowds, what you pay is a little steep, but it was great to see some of the works from the masters. Consider buying entry tickets for a bit later in the day when crowds seemed to settle a bit. The rest of the gallery ... for free .. was fabulous and well worth the visit. Overall, 3 hrs well spent."
Denise Brown
"Amazing artwork and most of it is free. Unless there’s an exhibit on you’re really wanting to see, there isn’t much need to purchase any tickets. Always have something new on display as well which is exciting and makes it always worth a visit. Definitely a must see in Melbourne."
Abbey C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
NGV International is located at 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. You can easily reach it by tram from the city center; many routes stop nearby. If driving, there is paid parking available, but it can be expensive.
Yes, NGV International is very accessible by public transport. Numerous tram routes run along St Kilda Road, with stops right outside the gallery. It's also a pleasant walk from Flinders Street Station.
There is paid underground parking available at NGV International. However, spaces can be limited and it's advisable to check current rates and availability beforehand.
Melbourne's public transport system primarily uses the Myki card. While some services are exploring contactless payment options, it's best to have a Myki card or purchase one to ensure smooth travel.
Yes, NGV International is centrally located and within walking distance of other key Melbourne attractions like the Arts Centre Melbourne, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and Federation Square.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The permanent collection at NGV International is free to enter. However, special temporary exhibitions, such as 'Pharaoh' or 'Yayoi Kusama', require a paid ticket. +2
Ticket prices for special exhibitions vary. For example, the 'Pharaoh' exhibition was around AU$45 per person. It's always best to check the official NGV website for current pricing and booking details.
For the free permanent collection, you generally do not need to book tickets in advance. However, for popular ticketed exhibitions, booking online is highly recommended to guarantee entry and avoid long queues.
NGV offers concessions for students, seniors, and children for ticketed exhibitions. Membership also provides benefits like free entry to special exhibitions and preview events.
NGV International is typically open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with extended hours on Fridays until 9 pm for 'NGV Friday Nights'. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially for specific exhibitions.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
To see most of the permanent collection, plan for 2-3 hours. If you're visiting a major ticketed exhibition or want to explore in depth, you could easily spend half a day.
Yes, NGV often offers guided tours for its permanent collection and special exhibitions. Check the NGV website or inquire at the information desk upon arrival for schedules and availability.
Absolutely! NGV often has dedicated children's art spaces and interactive exhibits. The permanent collection also offers a wide range of visually engaging pieces for younger visitors.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in the permanent collection, but without flash. For special exhibitions, photography rules may vary, so always check signage or ask staff.
Popular highlights include the Great Hall's stained-glass ceiling, the 'Mae West Lips Sofa' by Dali, and any major temporary exhibitions like those by Yayoi Kusama or French Impressionists. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, NGV International has several dining options, including cafes and a restaurant. These offer a range of choices from light snacks to more substantial meals.
Generally, eating and drinking are not permitted in the galleries to protect the artworks. There are designated cafes and dining areas where you can enjoy your refreshments.
The cafes typically offer a selection of sandwiches, salads, pastries, coffee, and other beverages. The menu can vary, but it's usually designed to cater to gallery visitors.
While there are dining facilities, they can be on the pricier side. For more budget-friendly options, consider bringing your own snacks or exploring the many eateries in the surrounding Southbank or Melbourne CBD area.
Yes, NGV often has bars available, particularly during 'NGV Friday Nights' events, offering drinks for visitors to enjoy.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in the permanent collection areas, but without flash. Always check for specific signage in galleries or ask staff, as rules can differ for temporary exhibitions.
Photography policies for special exhibitions vary. Some may allow it without flash, while others may prohibit it entirely to protect the artworks or due to licensing agreements. Look for signs or ask staff.
The Great Hall with its stained-glass ceiling is a must-capture. The facade of the building, the 'Mae West Lips Sofa', and any visually striking temporary installations also make for great photos.
Tripods and selfie sticks are generally not permitted inside the galleries to avoid obstructing other visitors and to prevent accidental damage to artworks.
Yes, using your phone camera for personal photos is usually fine, provided you adhere to the no-flash policy and any specific exhibition restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your visit, consider booking ticketed children's exhibitions if available, as these are often tailored specifically for younger audiences. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as little legs can get tired! Bringing snacks and drinks for in-between gallery explorations is also a good idea, though be mindful of the no-eating rules within the galleries themselves.
💰 Budget Travelers
While special exhibitions have a fee, you can still enjoy the free areas thoroughly. Pack your own snacks and water bottle to save on food costs, or explore nearby Southbank for more affordable dining options. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid potential crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
🎨 Art Aficionados
Explore the permanent collection thoroughly, focusing on specific periods or artists that interest you. The NGV website provides detailed information about the collection, which can help you plan your visit and identify key pieces you don't want to miss. Consider attending curator talks or guided tours for deeper insights.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating NGV's Vast Collections
When visiting, it's helpful to have a plan. The gallery is large, and you can easily spend hours wandering. Consider focusing on specific wings or periods that pique your interest. The NGV website and app can provide maps and information about current displays, helping you make the most of your visit.
For those seeking a more curated experience, ticketed exhibitions offer deep dives into specific artists or themes. These are often highly popular, so booking in advance is crucial. Redditors often share tips on the best times to visit these to avoid overwhelming crowds, suggesting weekdays or later in the day.
Experiencing NGV Friday Nights
While the atmosphere is energetic, it's important to note that these events can get very crowded. Visitors often report long queues for exhibitions and difficulty navigating the galleries due to the sheer number of people. If your primary goal is a quiet, contemplative art viewing experience, Friday Nights might not be the ideal time.
However, if you enjoy a buzzing environment and want to mingle while appreciating art, Friday Nights can be a fantastic option. It's a chance to see major exhibitions with a different vibe, often accompanied by themed performances or installations. Remember that access might be limited to specific areas of the gallery during these events.
The Value of NGV Membership
Beyond exhibition access, membership often includes perks like access to members-only lounges, discounts on NGV shops and dining, and invitations to exclusive preview events. These previews are particularly beneficial as they allow you to experience new exhibitions before the general public, often with fewer crowds.
While the cost might seem high initially, consider how often you plan to visit. If you're a local or a regular tourist in Melbourne, the benefits of membership, including the ability to see exhibitions multiple times or at quieter preview events, can make it a worthwhile investment.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit