Experience only the best of National Gallery of Victoria
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4.7/5
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From happy customers
Loved by 49 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5
K
Katherine K
New ZealandCouple
5/5
Last week
Fantastic exhibition, was impressed by how many pieces there were. The shop had loads to look at and I purchased the book which was great value
K
Kirry T
AustraliaSolo
5/5
3 weeks ago
The main purpose for my visit from Sydney was to see this exhibition. As a textile artist and a long time admirer of Westward it was definitely on my bucket list. Ironically, I was actually more inspired by the Comme de Garçon collection.
M
Mollie M
Couple
5/5
Dec 2025
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:)
M
Malcolm G
AustraliaCouple
5/5
2 weeks ago
Very well put together exhibition. Wasnt too keen o the real early stuff but the latter part from the great depression and street photography was outstanding.
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Discover National Gallery of Victoria: Australia’s oldest, Melbourne’s boldest art museum
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.
What to expect at National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
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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.
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.
Things to know before booking your National Gallery of Victoria tickets
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
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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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
Most visitors spend 2–3 hours exploring highlights, though art lovers often stay half a day. With two sites (NGV International and NGV Australia), you can choose to see both in one day or split across visits.
Yes, NGV is family-friendly. Kids can enjoy NGV Kids exhibitions, workshops, and holiday programs, while parents explore the galleries. Prams and strollers are permitted, and baby-changing facilities are available.
Photography is allowed in most permanent collection areas, but flash, tripods, and selfie sticks are not. Some special exhibitions prohibit photography altogether; look for signage or check with staff.
Yes, NGV has several dining options, including the Tea Room for high tea and the Garden Restaurant for seasonal menus. Cafés also serve light meals, coffee, and family-friendly options.
Yes, NGV Friday Nights combine live music, food, and after-hours access to exhibitions. The gallery also runs public talks, lectures, and seasonal festivals like the NGV Triennial.
Yes. NGV offers a free mobile app with exhibition highlights, self-guided tours, and collection information. Printed maps are also available at the entrance.
Absolutely. The two sites are just a 10-minute walk apart, connected by St Kilda Road and Federation Square. Entry to both is free for permanent collections.
Popular spots include the Waterwall at NGV International’s entrance and the kaleidoscopic Great Hall ceiling. Both are visitor favorites for Instagram.
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
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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
Entry to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV International) between 6pm to 10pm
Unlimited entry to Westwood | Kawakubo exhibition (7 Dec 25 to 19 Apr 26) featuring works of British designer Vivienne Westwood and Japanese designer Rei Kawakubo
Live DJ performances
Exclusions
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Entry to other paid exhibitions
Meals and refreshments
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
See the exhibit showcasing Cartier’s rare jewels & iconic designs at the NGV International.
Everything you get: Entry to CARTIER: Melbourne Winter Masterpieces® 2026, featuring more than 300 extraordinary objects, including precious jewels, historic gemstones, iconic watches, and clocks, tracing Cartier’s evolution from the early 20th century to contemporary creations. See design drawings from the Cartier archives that reveal the creative process behind legendary pieces like the panther brooch, mystery clock, and Tank watch.
Why choose this: See Cartier’s iconic creations up close; rare pieces and heritage treasures that showcase a century of design mastery. A must-visit for anyone passionate about art, luxury, and craftsmanship.
Inclusions
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Entry to Melbourne Winter Masterpieces® Cartier Exhibition
Entry to National Gallery of Victoria
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.
Assistance dogs are welcome at the venue. Please ensure your assistance dog is wearing their jacket or harness while at the Gallery.
Additional information
Facilities: Parents room.
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.
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
A landmark exhibition celebrating the pioneering women in photography at the NGV International.
Everything you get: Entry to Women Photographers 1900–1975: A Legacy of Light, featuring over 300 photographs, prints, photobooks, and magazines by more than seventy women artists. Discover iconic and rare works spanning portraiture, fashion, documentary, and avant‑garde photography.
Why choose this: Don’t miss the chance to see groundbreaking works by women who revolutionized photography—iconic, rare, and never-before-seen images that inspire, challenge, and captivate. A must-visit for anyone passionate about art, culture, and powerful visual storytelling.
Inclusions
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Entry to Women Photographers 1900–1975: A Legacy of Light Exhibition
Entry to National Gallery of Victoria
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.
An exhibition access guide, including a sensory map, will be available to help people with neurodiversity, disability or sensory sensitivities prepare for their visit.
Assistance dogs are welcome at the venue. Please ensure your assistance dog is wearing their jacket or harness while at the Gallery.
Additional information
Facilities: Parents room.
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.
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
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.
Melbourne Winter Masterpieces® Cartier Exhibition at National Gallery of Victoria Tickets
See the exhibit showcasing Cartier’s rare jewels & iconic designs at the NGV International.
Everything you get: Entry to CARTIER: Melbourne Winter Masterpieces® 2026, featuring more than 300 extraordinary objects, including precious jewels, historic gemstones, iconic watches, and clocks, tracing Cartier’s evolution from the early 20th century to contemporary creations. See design drawings from the Cartier archives that reveal the creative process behind legendary pieces like the panther brooch, mystery clock, and Tank watch.
Why choose this: See Cartier’s iconic creations up close; rare pieces and heritage treasures that showcase a century of design mastery. A must-visit for anyone passionate about art, luxury, and craftsmanship.
Women Photographers 1900–1975: A Legacy of Light Exhibition at National Gallery of Victoria Tickets
A landmark exhibition celebrating the pioneering women in photography at the NGV International.
Everything you get: Entry to Women Photographers 1900–1975: A Legacy of Light, featuring over 300 photographs, prints, photobooks, and magazines by more than seventy women artists. Discover iconic and rare works spanning portraiture, fashion, documentary, and avant‑garde photography.
Why choose this: Don’t miss the chance to see groundbreaking works by women who revolutionized photography—iconic, rare, and never-before-seen images that inspire, challenge, and captivate. A must-visit for anyone passionate about art, culture, and powerful visual storytelling.
