Experience only the best of National Gallery of VictoriaCrafted by Headout, a global experiences brand offering curated tours, tickets & experiences. Discover with ease, book with peace.
4.7/5
100+ travellers from around the world love this
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of this venue.
Tourists outside National Gallery of Victoria, enjoying garden view before 3-course lunch.
Collage of fashion elements with text 'Westwood Kawakubo' at NGV exhibition.
Mannequin in avant-garde red and pink dress by Kawakubo at NGV Westwood exhibition.
Kawakubo design with child portrait at NGV Westwood exhibition.
Mannequin in orange Vivienne Westwood outfit with hat at NGV exhibition.
Model in tartan dress holding flowers at Westwood | Kawakubo Exhibition, NGV.
Tourists outside National Gallery of Victoria, enjoying garden view before 3-course lunch.
Tickets

National Gallery of Victoria Tickets: 2025-26 Westwood | Kawakubo Exhibition

140+ rare works from Vivienne Westwood & Rei Kawakubo, including Rihanna’s 2017 Met Gala dress.

  • Everything you get: Entry to NGV International's Westwood | Kawakubo, showcasing garments, film, photography, and archival material. Explore five themed galleries: Punk and Provocation, The Body, and The Power of Clothes.
  • Why choose this: Westwood’s tartans, corsets, and punk originals sit with Kawakubo’s radical silhouettes; spot Naomi Campbell’s platforms, Kate Moss’s tartan gown, and Sarah Jessica Parker’s Sex and the City wedding dress. A rare chance to see both legacies outside Paris, London, or Tokyo.


Check availability
Extended validity
Flexible duration

140+ rare works from Vivienne Westwood & Rei Kawakubo, including Rihanna’s 2017 Met Gala dress.

  • Everything you get: Entry to NGV International's Westwood | Kawakubo, showcasing garments, film, photography, and archival material. Explore five themed galleries: Punk and Provocation, The Body, and The Power of Clothes.
  • Why choose this: Westwood’s tartans, corsets, and punk originals sit with Kawakubo’s radical silhouettes; spot Naomi Campbell’s platforms, Kate Moss’s tartan gown, and Sarah Jessica Parker’s Sex and the City wedding dress. A rare chance to see both legacies outside Paris, London, or Tokyo.

Inclusions #

  • Entry ticket to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV International)

  • Access to Westwood | Kawakubo exhibition (7 Dec 25 to 19 Apr 26) featuring works of British designer Vivienne Westwood and Japanese designer Rei Kawakubo

  • Access to permanent collection with over 75,000 works

  • Access to free exhibitions and tours (e.g., Escher X nendo A House for Escher, Lee Bul Untitled, Another other: The Photo-Politics of Gary Lee Artist Room

Exclusions #

  • Entry to other paid exhibitions

  • Meals and refreshments

What to bring

  • Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.
  • Consider bringing a water bottle; refill stations are available on site.
  • Dress comfortably for walking and standing, as you may spend several hours exploring the galleries.

What’s not allowed

  • Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed inside the gallery for security reasons.
  • Food and beverages are not permitted in the exhibition spaces.
  • Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
  • Flash photography, tripods, and filming equipment are not allowed inside the exhibition spaces.
  • Smoking and the use of e-cigarettes are strictly prohibited within the gallery premises.

Accessibility

  • The National Gallery of Victoria is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available throughout the building.
  • Accessible restrooms are available on site.
  • Assistance is available for visitors with mobility needs; please approach staff for support.

Additional information

  • Doors open from 7 December 2025 to 19 April 2026. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in and avoid queues.
  • Your ticket includes access to the NGV’s permanent collection and free exhibitions; some special exhibitions may require an additional admission fee.
  • Children can enter for free, but adults and concession holders may need to pay for certain exhibitions.
  • The gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am – 5pm, and closed on Mondays.
  • The NGV is located in Federation Square and is easily accessible by public transport.
  • Meals and refreshments are not included in your ticket; on-site cafes are available for purchase.
  • The gallery can be busy during weekends and public holidays; consider visiting on weekdays for a quieter experience.
  • The exhibition uses borrowed and donated works. Please respect display barriers and don’t touch the art for preservation.
  • These tickets are valid until 19 April, 2026.
High tea with pastries and sandwiches at National Gallery of Victoria.
Guests enjoying high tea at National Gallery of Victoria with red floral arrangements.
High tea desserts at National Gallery of Victoria with scone, cupcake, and jam.
Guests enjoying high tea with pastries at National Gallery of Victoria.
Guests enjoying high tea at National Gallery of Victoria with tiered trays of pastries.
Guests enjoying high tea with pastries at National Gallery of Victoria.
Tickets

National Gallery of Victoria Tickets: High Tea at The Tea Room

Elegant high tea with artisan sweets and sandwiches inside NGV’s stylish Tea Room.

  • Everything you get: Enjoy a three-tiered high tea stand filled with house-made sweets and savouries, an extensive T2 tea selection, and a special children’s high tea menu (for guests up to 12 years). Includes entry to the Tea Room at NGV International.
  • Why choose this: Relish a modern twist on a classic tradition, surrounded by world-class art in Australia’s oldest and most visited gallery. Perfect for art lovers, families, and anyone seeking a refined afternoon treat.


Check availability
1 hr. 30 min.

Elegant high tea with artisan sweets and sandwiches inside NGV’s stylish Tea Room.

  • Everything you get: Enjoy a three-tiered high tea stand filled with house-made sweets and savouries, an extensive T2 tea selection, and a special children’s high tea menu (for guests up to 12 years). Includes entry to the Tea Room at NGV International.
  • Why choose this: Relish a modern twist on a classic tradition, surrounded by world-class art in Australia’s oldest and most visited gallery. Perfect for art lovers, families, and anyone seeking a refined afternoon treat.

Inclusions #

Exclusions #

  • Entry to paid exhibitions

What to bring

  • Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.
  • Bring your booking confirmation (digital or printed) for entry to the Tea Room.
  • If visiting with children, bring any necessary items for their comfort, such as prams or strollers.

What’s not allowed

  • Outside food and beverages are not permitted in the Tea Room.
  • Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.
  • Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is strictly prohibited within the NGV premises.
  • Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed inside the Tea Room or museum for security reasons.
  • Alcoholic beverages not purchased on site are not permitted.

Accessibility

  • The Tea Room is accessible for prams and wheelchairs.
  • High chairs are available for young children.
  • Accessible restrooms are available within NGV International.
  • Staff are available to assist visitors with mobility needs.

Additional information

  • Menu items are subject to change and availability.
  • Children’s high tea is available for kids up to 12 years old.
  • Alcoholic options, such as sparkling wine or Moet and Chandon, are available at an additional cost.
  • Entry to the Tea Room does not include access to NGV exhibitions unless specified as free exhibitions.
  • Transfers or transportation to the NGV are not included.
  • Optional upgrades and additional beverages not specified in the high tea package are available at extra cost.
  • Tips or gratuities are not included in your booking.
  • The Tea Room can accommodate families and offers both table and bar seating, with some tables overlooking the entry foyer and water wall.
  • The NGV can be busy during peak hours; consider booking an early or late time slot for a quieter experience.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Tourists outside National Gallery of Victoria, enjoying garden view before 3-course lunch.
Visitors dining at Garden Restaurant, NGV International, Melbourne, with garden view.
NGV garden restaurant interior with tables set and floral centerpieces.
Tourists enjoying a three-course lunch at the National Gallery of Victoria with cityscape views.
Roast beef with Yorkshire pudding and vegetables at National Gallery of Victoria restaurant.
Dining at Garden Restaurant, NGV International, Melbourne with wine and gourmet dishes.
NGV garden restaurant interior with tables set for dinner, featuring floral centerpieces.
Dining

National Gallery of Victoria Tickets: Lunch at Garden Restaurant

Relax with a seasonal lunch in NGV’s sunlit garden-view restaurant.

  • Everything you get: Enjoy a chef-curated lunch at the Garden Restaurant, featuring seasonal local produce and your choice of house wine or soft drink. Dine in a light-filled setting overlooking the NGV’s sculpture garden, with seamless access to the gallery’s permanent collection and free exhibitions.
  • Why choose this: Savor exhibition-inspired cuisine crafted from local Melbourne ingredients in a tranquil garden setting, the perfect complement to your artistic journey through the museum.
  • Upgrades: Enjoy a 2-course lunch with your choice of entrée and main, or indulge in the 3-course option for the full tasting. Both include a glass of house wine.


Check availability
1 hr. 30 min.
Meals included

Relax with a seasonal lunch in NGV’s sunlit garden-view restaurant.

  • Everything you get: Enjoy a chef-curated lunch at the Garden Restaurant, featuring seasonal local produce and your choice of house wine or soft drink. Dine in a light-filled setting overlooking the NGV’s sculpture garden, with seamless access to the gallery’s permanent collection and free exhibitions.
  • Why choose this: Savor exhibition-inspired cuisine crafted from local Melbourne ingredients in a tranquil garden setting, the perfect complement to your artistic journey through the museum.
  • Upgrades: Enjoy a 2-course lunch with your choice of entrée and main, or indulge in the 3-course option for the full tasting. Both include a glass of house wine.

Inclusions #

  • Entry to National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) permanent collection

  • 2 or 3-course lunch at Garden Restaurant (menu here) (based on option selected)

  • Access to permanent collection with over 75,000 works

  • Access to free exhibitions (e.g., Escher X nendo A House for Escher, Lee Bul Untitled, Another other: The Photo-Politics of Gary Lee Artist Room)

Exclusions #

  • Entry to paid exhibitions

What to bring

  • Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.
  • Consider bringing a credit or debit card for any additional purchases at the Garden Restaurant or museum gift shop.
  • Dress smart-casual for your dining experience; comfortable footwear is recommended for exploring the gallery.

What’s not allowed

  • Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed inside the museum for security reasons.
  • Outside food and beverages are not permitted within the gallery or restaurant.
  • Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
  • Flash photography, tripods, and filming equipment are not allowed inside the exhibition spaces.
  • Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited anywhere on the premises.

Accessibility

  • The National Gallery of Victoria is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available throughout the building.
  • Accessible restrooms are available on site.
  • Assistance animals are welcome.

Additional information

  • Entry to the NGV permanent collection and select free exhibitions is included; some temporary or major exhibitions may require a separate paid ticket.
  • The Garden Restaurant is open for lunch year-round and for dinner on Fridays during major exhibitions; advance reservations are recommended.
  • Check current exhibition dates and ticketing details before your visit, as some events may require separate admission.
  • The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, and closed on Mondays.
  • The venue is easily accessible by public transport; parking is not included.
  • Please inform staff of any dietary requirements or allergies when making your reservation.
  • Children must be supervised at all times within the gallery and restaurant.
  • The museum can be busy during peak hours (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM); consider visiting earlier or later for a quieter experience.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Dining at NGV garden restaurant and Kawakubo fashion exhibit, Westwood | Kawakubo Exhibition Tickets.
Tourists outside National Gallery of Victoria, enjoying garden view before 3-course lunch.
Tourists enjoying a three-course lunch at the National Gallery of Victoria with cityscape views.
Collage of fashion elements with text 'Westwood Kawakubo' at NGV exhibition.
Mannequin in orange Vivienne Westwood outfit with hat at NGV exhibition.
Dining at Garden Restaurant, NGV International, Melbourne with wine and gourmet dishes.
NGV garden restaurant interior with tables set for dinner, featuring floral centerpieces.
Roast beef with Yorkshire pudding and vegetables at National Gallery of Victoria restaurant.
NGV garden restaurant interior with tables set and floral centerpieces.
Mannequin in avant-garde red and pink dress by Kawakubo at NGV Westwood exhibition.
Combos

Combo (Save 5%): National Gallery of Victoria: Lunch at Garden Restaurant + National Gallery of Victoria: 2025-26 Westwood | Kawakubo Exhibition Tickets

Two National Gallery of Victoria highlights: enjoy a gourmet lunch & a major fashion exhibition in one visit.

  • Everything you get at Garden Restaurant: Enjoy a relaxed multi-course lunch at the Garden Restaurant inside NGV International, featuring seasonal dishes in an elegant setting overlooking the gardens.
  • Everything you get at Westwood | Kawakubo Exhibition: Explore the Westwood | Kawakubo exhibition showcasing iconic works by Vivienne Westwood and Rei Kawakubo. Includes access to National Gallery of Victoria’s permanent collection and free exhibitions.
  • Why choose this combo: Choose between a 2-course lunch for a light, relaxed meal, or a 3-course lunch for a more indulgent dining experience at the Garden Restaurant.


Flexible duration
Meals included

Two National Gallery of Victoria highlights: enjoy a gourmet lunch & a major fashion exhibition in one visit.

  • Everything you get at Garden Restaurant: Enjoy a relaxed multi-course lunch at the Garden Restaurant inside NGV International, featuring seasonal dishes in an elegant setting overlooking the gardens.
  • Everything you get at Westwood | Kawakubo Exhibition: Explore the Westwood | Kawakubo exhibition showcasing iconic works by Vivienne Westwood and Rei Kawakubo. Includes access to National Gallery of Victoria’s permanent collection and free exhibitions.
  • Why choose this combo: Choose between a 2-course lunch for a light, relaxed meal, or a 3-course lunch for a more indulgent dining experience at the Garden Restaurant.

Inclusions #

Garden Restaurant

  • Entry to National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) permanent collection

  • 2 or 3-course lunch at Garden Restaurant (menu here) (as per option selected)

  • Access to permanent collection with over 75,000 works

  • Access to free exhibitions (e.g., Escher X nendo A House for Escher, Lee Bul Untitled, Another other: The Photo-Politics of Gary Lee Artist Room)

Westwood | Kawakubo Exhibition

  • Entry ticket to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV International)

  • Access to Westwood | Kawakubo exhibition (7 Dec 25 to 19 Apr 26) featuring works of British designer Vivienne Westwood and Japanese designer Rei Kawakubo

  • Access to permanent collection with over 75,000 works

  • Access to free exhibitions and tours (e.g., Escher X nendo A House for Escher, Lee Bul Untitled, Another other: The Photo-Politics of Gary Lee Artist Room

What to bring

Garden Restaurant

  • Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.
  • Consider bringing a credit or debit card for any additional purchases at the Garden Restaurant or museum gift shop.
  • Dress smart-casual for your dining experience; comfortable footwear is recommended for exploring the gallery.

Westwood | Kawakubo Exhibition

  • Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.
  • Consider bringing a water bottle; refill stations are available on site.
  • Dress comfortably for walking and standing, as you may spend several hours exploring the galleries.

What’s not allowed

Garden Restaurant

  • Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed inside the museum for security reasons.
  • Outside food and beverages are not permitted within the gallery or restaurant.
  • Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
  • Flash photography, tripods, and filming equipment are not allowed inside the exhibition spaces.
  • Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited anywhere on the premises.

Westwood | Kawakubo Exhibition

  • Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed inside the gallery for security reasons.
  • Food and beverages are not permitted in the exhibition spaces.
  • Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
  • Flash photography, tripods, and filming equipment are not allowed inside the exhibition spaces.
  • Smoking and the use of e-cigarettes are strictly prohibited within the gallery premises.

Accessibility

Garden Restaurant

  • The National Gallery of Victoria is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available throughout the building.
  • Accessible restrooms are available on site.
  • Assistance animals are welcome.

Westwood | Kawakubo Exhibition

  • The National Gallery of Victoria is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available throughout the building.
  • Accessible restrooms are available on site.
  • Assistance animals are welcome.

Additional information

Garden Restaurant

  • Entry to the NGV permanent collection and select free exhibitions is included; some temporary or major exhibitions may require a separate paid ticket.
  • The Garden Restaurant is open for lunch year-round and for dinner on Fridays during major exhibitions; advance reservations are recommended.
  • Check current exhibition dates and ticketing details before your visit, as some events may require separate admission.
  • The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, and closed on Mondays.
  • The venue is easily accessible by public transport; parking is not included.
  • Please inform staff of any dietary requirements or allergies when making your reservation.
  • Children must be supervised at all times within the gallery and restaurant.
  • The museum can be busy during peak hours (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM); consider visiting earlier or later for a quieter experience.

Westwood | Kawakubo Exhibition

  • Doors open from 7 December 2025 to 19 April 2026. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in and avoid queues.
  • Your ticket includes access to the NGV’s permanent collection and free exhibitions; some special exhibitions may require an additional admission fee.
  • Children can enter for free, but adults and concession holders may need to pay for certain exhibitions.
  • The gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am – 5pm, and closed on Mondays.
  • The NGV is located in Federation Square and is easily accessible by public transport.
  • Meals and refreshments are not included in your ticket; on-site cafes are available for purchase.
  • The gallery can be busy during weekends and public holidays; consider visiting on weekdays for a quieter experience.
  • The exhibition uses borrowed and donated works. Please respect display barriers and don’t touch the art for preservation.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

From happy customers

Loved by 48 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5
Renee Goss
AU

Renee

Australia
Feb 2026

review-image

review-image

review-image

+1 more

Quick convenient process to purchase tickets. Absolutely wonderful exhibition, although I love fashion I learnt a lot from the details covered. It was visually stimulating with the content in various mediums to make it interesting
Yvonne Coburn
AU

Yvonne

Australia
Feb 2026

review-image

review-image

review-image

+2 more

Outstanding exhibition filled with colour and joy lifted our spirits enormously after attending a funeral the day before. Great reminder of the preciousness of life and to enjoy every moment by spending more time at the National Gallery of Victoria . Thank you
Mollie Martin

Mollie

Dec 2025

review-image

review-image
the gallery was so so lovely and the staff were very friendly and knowledgable. It was very easy to find and a very quiet time to come which was nice:)
Nikki Falkland-brown
AU

Nikki

Australia
Feb 2026
The exhibition was great, however just a bit crowded it was hard to read info social come backnon a quiet day. The ambience and vibe was great.
Michele Sadlowski
AU

Michele

Australia
Feb 2026
The amazing presentation of the fabulous garments. All very well organised and enjoyed . A once in a lifetime experience.
Barbara Nell
AU

Barbara

Australia
Oct 2025
This exhibition was truly amazing. Each room was designed to recreate the 19th century and enhance the experience of viewing the works.
Annie STEWART
AU

Annie

Australia
Sep 2025
The exhibition is beautifully presented. Great seating areas. We have travelled especially from Tasmania to see it. Loved it🥰

Trusted by over 48M guests worldwide

100% booking protection

You are fully protected end-to-end. If anything is off, we'll fix it or refund you.

Know more

Enjoy flexible bookings

Book stress-free with free cancellation and pay-later options.

24/7 trip support

We're always a tap away - before, during and after your trip, in all languages.

Verified reviews from real travellers. Trusted by guests worldwide.

The National Gallery of Victoria is spread across two iconic Melbourne sites:

  • NGV International (St Kilda Road): Home to global art treasures, from Renaissance masterpieces to cutting-edge contemporary works, plus rotating blockbuster exhibitions.
  • NGV Australia (The Ian Potter Centre, Federation Square): The first major gallery dedicated entirely to Australian art, showcasing Indigenous, colonial, and modern stories.

While entry to the permanent collections is free, major special exhibitions and events require paid, timed tickets. Whether you’re here for a quick highlights visit, a deep dive into exhibitions, or a family day out, NGV offers experiences that fit every kind of traveler.

Silhouette of a person behind a water feature at Melbourne's Federation Square.
Visitor viewing Picasso paintings at The Picasso Century exhibition, National Gallery of Victoria.
Sculptural assemblage by Klippel at National Gallery of Victoria, featuring mechanical and organic elements.
Guests enjoying high tea at National Gallery of Victoria with tiered trays of pastries.
School children observing art installation at National Gallery of Victoria.
1/5

Iconic architecture

Step through NGV International’s shimmering Waterwall and relax under Leonard French’s stained-glass ceiling in the Great Hall.

Explore the permanent collection

Wander through NGV’s free galleries, home to more than 70,000 works by European masters like Picasso and Tiepolo, Asian ceramics and prints, and contemporary Australian voices all under one roof.

Current and upcoming exhibitions

See the world's best

From fashion icons to French Impressionists, NGV’s blockbuster exhibitions bring international art to Melbourne. Current highlights include Klippel: Mechanical/Organic (free) and, from October 2025, The Stars We Do Not See, the largest-ever showcase of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.

Dine among art

Pause your gallery wanderings with indulgent high tea in the Tea Room or a seasonal menu at the Garden Restaurant, both designed to extend the creative experience.

Bring the whole family

With NGV Kids installations, hands-on workshops, and child-friendly trails, little explorers are kept just as engaged as adults.

Plan your visit
  • General entry is free. You don’t need a ticket to explore the permanent collections at NGV International or NGV Australia.
  • Special exhibitions are ticketed: Major shows like French Impressionism (June–Oct 2025) and Westwood | Kawakubo (Dec 2025–Apr 2026) require a paid ticket and often sell out, so advance booking is essential.
  • Dining experiences inside NGV: Book High Tea in the Tea Room or a 3-Course Lunch at the Garden Restaurant, both paired with gallery access.
  • Free guided tours: One-hour highlight tours of the permanent collection run daily and don’t require booking. Led by volunteer guides, they focus on key works and themes, making them a great way to get oriented. For special exhibitions, NGV also offers ticketed tours and occasional curator talks.
  • Concession tickets: Discounts apply for students, seniors, veterans, and carers. Companion Card holders get free admission for a registered companion.
  • NGV Membership: Members receive exhibition discounts, one free ticket per year, priority entry, and exclusive offers.

Which NGV ticket is best for you?

Exhibition tickets from AU$45

Best for: Art lovers eager to see rare, time-limited exhibitions alongside NGV’s international and Australian highlights

  • Duration: Timed entry, valid all day
  • Includes: Entry to one major exhibition (e.g., French Impressionism, Westwood | Kawakubo) and access to NGV’s permanent collection
  • Upgrades: None. Exhibition tickets are standalone, but you can add a free guided tour of the permanent collection to round out your visit.

Top picks

Melbourne Winter Masterpieces®: French Impressionism (Closes Oct 5)

Westwood | Kawakubo Exhibition (Opens 7 Dec 2025)

Explore NGV’s galleries and collections

Two models in Vivienne Westwood dresses at the National Gallery of Victoria exhibition.
Japanese block print of a moonlit bridge scene, National Gallery of Victoria.
European city square with people and horse-drawn carriage, National Gallery of Victoria painting.
Azuma Makoto's Block Flowers installation at National Gallery of Victoria.
Garden sculpture and wooden installation at National Gallery of Victoria.
Ian Potter Center at NGV Australia with Melbourne skyline at dusk.
1/6

Special exhibitions

Experience NGV’s rotating blockbusters, from French Impressionism to Westwood | Kawakubo. These world-class shows run for a limited time, so don’t miss your chance.

Check current & upcoming exhibitions

Asian art & early European

You'll see exquisite Chinese ceramics, Japanese woodblock prints, and textiles from across Asia, alongside early European works from the Medieval and Renaissance periods.

European & international masters

Masterpieces from the 15th–19th centuries sit alongside decorative arts, sculpture, and global treasures. This is where NGV’s best-known Old Masters live.

Contemporary and modern art

From postwar abstraction to cutting-edge installations, the top floor showcases bold ideas and new acquisitions that reflect today’s global art scene.

Sculpture garden and outdoor spaces

Step outside into a tranquil garden dotted with sculptures and often home to annual architectural installations, a quiet contrast to the buzzing galleries inside.

Ian Potter Center at NGV Australia

At Federation Square, this sister gallery is dedicated entirely to Australian art, from Indigenous works and colonial painting to contemporary icons.

Learn more about NGV
French Impressionist paintings displayed in an orange gallery at NGV, Melbourne Winter Masterpieces 2025.
  • Open daily 10am to 5pm at both NGV International and NGV Australia. Last entry: 30 minutes before closing.
  • Closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day.
  • On ANZAC Day (25 April), open from 1pm to 5pm.

Best time to visit

  • Weekdays: Arrive before 11am or after 3:30pm for quieter galleries.
  • Weekends & holidays: Expect larger crowds, especially families.
  • Peak exhibitions: Melbourne Winter Masterpieces (June–Aug) draws the biggest crowds; visit early in the day or midweek.
Check best times to visit

NGV International: 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne (Arts Precinct) | Find on maps

  • By tram: Multiple routes (1, 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67, 72) stop on St Kilda Road (for NGV International).
  • Walking/train: From Flinders Street Station, it’s a ~10–15 minute walk toward the Arts Precinct and Federation Square.
  • Parking: Paid parking is available at nearby precinct garages (Arts Center Melbourne, Federation Square).

NGV Australia (Ian Potter Center): Federation Square, Melbourne | Find on maps

Getting to NGV
Tourists outside National Gallery of Victoria, enjoying garden view before 3-course lunch.
  • NGV International (St Kilda Road): Main entrance marked by the dramatic Waterwall; step-free and accessible.
  • NGV Australia (Fed Square): Accessible from Swanston and Flinders Streets, with ramps and elevators.
  • All visitors undergo security screening.
  • Online or printed tickets may be scanned at entry; collector counters also available.
Visitors dining at Garden Restaurant, NGV International, Melbourne, with garden view.
  • Restrooms & baby change: Available on all levels; accessible toilets throughout.
  • Cloakroom & lockers: Free cloak service for large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas.
  • Wi-Fi: Free across both galleries.
  • Dining & retail:
    • Garden Restaurant: Seasonal menus 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM (Friday nights extended during exhibitions)
    • Tea Room: High Tea, light fare, wine & coffee options
    • Gallery Kitchen/café for snacks & casual meals.
Plan your visit
Visitor with headphones viewing French Impressionist painting at NGV Melbourne exhibition.
  • Step-free access: Both NGV sites have ramps, lifts, and wide corridors.
  • Restrooms: Accessible and gender-neutral toilets on all levels.
  • Wheelchair & scooter hire: Free loan available at entrances; pre-book recommended.
  • Hearing loops: Installed in auditorium, education theatres, and select gallery spaces.
  • Sensory-friendly options: NGV runs relaxed sessions with reduced noise and lighting, designed for visitors with autism or sensory sensitivities. Designated quiet spaces are also available on request.
  • Service animals: Welcome throughout both galleries.
Service dog in red vest beside wheelchair user.
  • Photography: Allowed in most areas, but no flash, tripods, selfie sticks, or drones. Some temporary exhibitions may prohibit photography altogether; check signage.
  • Food & drink: Not permitted in galleries; only allowed in NGV cafés and restaurants.
  • Baggage: Large bags, backpacks, umbrellas, and suitcases must be checked into the free cloakroom. Carry only essentials inside.
  • Etiquette: Speak softly, keep phones on silent, and do not touch artworks or lean on display cases.
  • Smoking & vaping: Prohibited inside all NGV buildings and courtyards.
  • Animals: Only service animals are permitted.

From Hokusai to Picasso: NGV’s Must-see artworks

Cleopatra at a banquet table with attendants, National Gallery of Victoria.

The Banquet of Cleopatra by Giambattista Tiepolo (1743) | Level 2, European Art Galleries

A dramatic Old Master painting, famed for its opulence and storytelling, and one of NGV’s most celebrated highlights.

Weeping Woman painting by Picasso at National Gallery of Victoria.
The Great Wave off Kanagawa by Hokusai, displayed at National Gallery of Victoria.
Abstract painting "Big Yam Dreaming" by Kwementyay Kngwarreye at National Gallery of Victoria.
Stained-glass ceiling by Leonard French at National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne.

Frequently Asked Questions

General entry to the permanent collection is free and doesn’t require a booking. Special exhibitions like French Impressionism or Westwood | Kawakubo need a ticket, which can be pre-booked online to avoid queues.

More reads

Exhibitions at NGV

Plan your visit to NGV

Getting to NGV

NGV opening hours