The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is Australia鈥檚 oldest and most visited art museum. Located in Melbourne, it houses an extensive collection of artworks from around the world, including European, Asian, Oceanic, and Australian art. The NGV is renowned for its dynamic exhibitions, impressive architecture, and commitment to showcasing both historical and contemporary art.
How to Reach National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
- By Tram: The closest tram stop is at St Kilda Road, serviced by routes 1, 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67, and 72.
- By Train: Flinders Street Station is a short walk from the gallery.
- By Bus: Various bus routes connect to St Kilda Road.
- By Car: Paid parking is available nearby, including at Arts Centre Melbourne.
Weather in Melbourne
Melbourne has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons:
- Summer (December-February): Warm temperatures between 14-30掳C (57-86掳F).
- Autumn (March-May): Mild and pleasant with temperatures around 10-25掳C (50-77掳F).
- Winter (June-August): Cool with temperatures between 6-15掳C (43-59掳F).
- Spring (September-November): Variable weather, ranging from cool to warm.
Timings of the National Gallery of Victoria
The NGV is open daily:
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Closed on: Good Friday and Christmas Day
Why is the National Gallery of Victoria Famous?
The NGV is renowned for its vast and diverse collection, which includes works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Rembrandt, Monet, and Van Gogh. The gallery also hosts international exhibitions, contemporary installations, and cultural events that attract millions of visitors every year.
Entry and Visit Details
- General Admission: Free
- Special Exhibitions: May require a paid ticket
- Guided Tours: Available for free and paid exhibitions
History and Architecture
The NGV was founded in 1861, making it Australia鈥檚 oldest public art gallery. The current building, designed by architect Roy Grounds, opened in 1968. Its most iconic feature is the Great Hall鈥檚 stained-glass ceiling, one of the largest in the world.
Things to Do
- Explore the Permanent Collection: View artworks from various cultures and time periods.
- Attend Special Exhibitions: Experience temporary exhibitions from world-famous artists.
- Enjoy the Great Hall: Relax under the mesmerizing stained-glass ceiling.
- Visit the NGV Design Store: Shop for unique art-inspired gifts.
- Experience Interactive Installations: Participate in hands-on activities and workshops.
Facts about the NGV
- The NGV hosts over 3 million visitors annually.
- It has two sites: NGV International on St Kilda Road and NGV Australia at Federation Square.
- The gallery鈥檚 collection includes over 75,000 artworks.
Tips for Visiting
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
- Check the NGV website for current exhibitions and events.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the gallery is large.
- Visit the caf茅 for a relaxing break during your tour.