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Australia/Things to Do in Canberra, couple trip

National Gallery of Australia (couple trip)

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How Couple-Friendly is National Gallery of Australia?

88%Couple-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 88% Couple-Friendly: Couples can share volunteer tours, stroll the lakeside sculpture garden, sip champagne at the seasonal bar, and linger over café meals, creating an easy art-filled date with few logistical issues.

Google
Reviews4.6/ 5
(from 6,742 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free Entry to Collection: General admission to the main Australian and international galleries is free.
  • Lake Burley Griffin Views: The Sculpture Garden overlooks the lake, ideal for a romantic stroll.

Challenges:

  • Weekend Crowds: Sculpture Garden and major exhibitions fill up on weekends.
  • Limited Café Seating: Seating can run out during peak lunch hours; plan off-peak times.
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🏖️ Explore National Gallery of Australia with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around National Gallery of Australia. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is National Gallery of Australia?

  • A national gallery of visual art presenting Australian and international paintings, sculptures and decorative arts
  • Home to one of the world’s most extensive collections of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art
  • A modernist complex designed by Colin Madigan on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra

What is so special about National Gallery of Australia for couple trip?

  1. Free daily guided tours ideal for couples
  2. Outdoor sculptures and Skyspace by the lake
  3. Self-paced audio tours via app or iPod
  4. Friday evening champagne bar for date nights
  5. Café and restaurant with views over the garden

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time for a guided tour, main galleries and a stroll through the Sculpture Garden

(View National Gallery of Australia on Map)

Couple-Friendly Activities in National Gallery of Australia

Join the Complimentary Guided Tour:

Daily volunteer-led 60 min tour of NGA highlights.

Tip: Book a spot online for the 10:30 am or 2 pm tour to avoid waiting.

Explore the Sculpture Garden and Skyspace:

Walk among 26 outdoor sculptures and enter James Turrell’s Skyspace.

Tip: Visit close to sunset for softer light and fewer daytime visitors.

Use the NGA Audio App or Hire an iPod:

Self-guided audio tours let you go at your own pace.

Tip: Download the free NGA app before arrival or hire an iPod for A$7.

Pop-Up Veuve Clicquot Sculpture Bar:

Seasonal Friday evening champagne bar in the Sculpture Garden.

Tip: Arrive when doors open to secure a table and enjoy the live DJ set.

Relax at NGA Café or Sculpture Garden Restaurant:

Casual coffee or sit-down lunch with garden views.

Tip: Try the sandwich specials (around A$15) and request seating by the windows.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to National Gallery of Australia

  1. Book Tours Ahead: Reserve guided tour spots online to guarantee your preferred time.
  2. Combine with Lakeside Walk: Extend your visit by walking the nearby lakeside trail after the gallery.
🏖️ Tour National Gallery of Australia like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in National Gallery of Australia. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of National Gallery of Australia

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Martin G

Martin G

Aug 2025

Nice feature exhibition, and a great opportunity to see this in Australia; and, to wander through the Gallery afterwards. Worth a visit. Entry to the Gallery: Free Entry to the featured Cezanne to Giacometti Exhibition: $25 for adults. Cafe: Chicken wrap and a coffee $21. Parking: Underneath at $4 per hour…and we stayed for three hours. Staff are really helpful and happy to share their k...

Mighty Brown Mouse

Mighty Brown Mouse

Jul 2025

It has been my dream to visit the National Gallery of Australia, but what let down it was. I expected grandeur and feast for the eyes, instead got a tired, weary, dated building that seems to be just there. Although the masters' works were shown, most of them just hung on the wall, didn't touch or move me at all. I found the curation wanting and dated. There were a few highlights such as the Sydne...

Vanessa Kerton

Vanessa Kerton

Jul 2025

Wonderful. Open spaces , quiet and good for all, singles ,couples, groups and older children. Maybe leave the tiny tots home ( purely for your own sanity). There are many exhibitions that are only bordered by white ground lines which indicate staying out of that area. There were enough adults who were chastised by security, asking them to please move out of the area, tiny tots wouldn't be able to ...

Zac T

Zac T

Jun 2025

NGA might just be my favourite museum in Canberra! Wonderful art and stuff in very spacious areas. Free entry in most areas other than limited-time paid exhibitions. This museum definitely caters to non-art appreciators as well with their large variety of work.

Indaylakwatsera Gamay

Indaylakwatsera Gamay

Mar 2025

The National Gallery offers a fantastic experience with its well-thought-out space and carefully curated collection. The layout of the galleries is spacious, providing a comfortable viewing experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the artworks without feeling cramped. The collection itself is impressive, showcasing a diverse range of masterpieces from different periods and styles, making it a m...

When is the best time to visit National Gallery of Australia (Canberra, Australia)?

In spring–summer, attend the Friday evening Veuve Clicquot Sculpture Bar. In winter, visit galleries early in the morning to beat the crowds.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Canberra on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)

ItemCost (Approx.)
iPod audio guide hireAUD 7
Light meal at NGA CaféAUD 15
Glass of Veuve ClicquotAUD 15
Total EstimatedAUD 37

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of National Gallery of Australia

Address: Parkes Pl E, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia

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About National Gallery of Australia

Opening Hours

Monday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+61 2 6240 6411

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