What makes it 88% Couple-Friendly: Free guided walks, calm exhibition halls and a terrace café let couples share art and lunch easily; access is smooth, yet limited interactive or romantic extras stop it reaching a perfect score.
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: This time lets you join a tour, view key portraits, and pause at the café at a relaxed pace.
Welcome Introduction Tour:
Join the 30-minute overview of signature portraits and gallery spaces.
Tip: Meet at the Info Desk by 2 pm to secure a spot; no extra ticket needed.
Collection Highlights Tour:
Follow a guide through top portraits each day.
Tip: Arrive by 2:15 pm at the Ground Level Info Desk; tours fill up fast.
Art Break Session:
Attend the slow-looking session to focus on one portrait together.
Tip: Drop in on Thursdays at 12:30 pm; bring headphones for audio reflections.
Portrait Café Stop:
Enjoy coffee or light lunch on the terrace.
Tip: Order a coffee (around AUD 5) and grab a table outside for gallery views.

Robert Somerville
A Celebration of Australian Stories – One of Canberra’s most engaging cultural attractions Set in a striking modern building, the National Portrait Gallery showcases portraits of the people who have shaped Australia’s identity, from early leaders to contemporary icons. Permanent displays sit alongside rotating exhibitions, each thoughtfully presented to highlight diverse stories and artistic styl...
Timeshare Chinchilla
Free art gallery specialising in portraits of famous Australians. There is a slight skew to more contemporary art styles but there are still traditional oil paintings (which I love!) The staff are really friendly and helpful at this museum. The first gallery is overwhelming with floor to ceiling portraits on both sides. Use a room guide to read up about each artist and subject. Some of the oil pai...
Lynne Cowan
I spent a lovely morning exploring two of Canberra’s cultural gems. The National Portrait Gallery (Free entry) was a highlight — beautifully curated with a wide range of portraits that offer a unique insight into Australian identity and history. The space is modern, light, and thoughtfully laid out, making it easy to enjoy each work at your own pace.
John John
A beautifully curated gallery that perfectly blends art, history, and storytelling. The space is bright, modern, and thoughtfully designed — it’s a pleasure just to walk through. Each portrait captures more than just a face; it captures a story, a moment, a piece of Australia’s cultural identity. Staff were welcoming and knowledgeable, and the temporary exhibitions are always worth seeing. Highly ...
Korda Design
Korda was so lucky to be able to create this Beautiful Bespoke Rug for the Gordon Darling Hall at The National Portrait Gallery in Canberra, home to some of the nation's most significant portrait artworks, showcasing those who have shaped the culture of Australia. The light grey background of the rug is luxurious cut pile New Zealand wool and the dark grey accents are textured loop pile New Zealan...
During late summer weekends, join the Relaxed Afternoons session on Sundays at 3 pm for fewer crowds and dimmed lights.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry to main galleries | AUD 0 |
| Special exhibition tickets for two | AUD 50 |
| Café coffee for two | AUD 10 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 60 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia
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