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Australia/Things to Do in Canberra, couple trip

National Portrait Gallery (couple trip)

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How Couple-Friendly is National Portrait Gallery?

88%Couple-Friendly
View Map

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.

Google
Reviews4.5/ 5
(from 2,043 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free Guided Tours: Daily tours let you learn key stories without extra cost.
  • Accessible Layout: One-level galleries and lockers at entry keep your visit smooth.

Challenges:

  • Weekend Crowds: Popular tours and café seating fill up quickly on weekends.
  • Booking for Special Tours: Curator-led tours require advance booking via the website.
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🏖️ Explore National Portrait Gallery with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around National Portrait Gallery. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is National Portrait Gallery?

  • A national portrait museum devoted to collecting and exhibiting paintings, photographs and sculptures of influential Australians
  • A collection comprising over 500 works that trace the nation’s history and cultural identity through likenesses of its notable figures
  • A purpose-built 14,000-square-metre contemporary building featuring bold geometric architecture in Canberra’s Parliamentary Triangle

What is so special about National Portrait Gallery for couple trip?

  1. Free guided and curator-led tours unveil signature Australian portraits
  2. Art Breaks and Relaxed Afternoons offer intimate viewing moments
  3. Smartify app delivers audio stories and artist insights
  4. Portrait Café overlooks quiet terraces for a light meal
  5. Geometric building design and central location in Parkes add to the experience

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

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.

(View National Portrait Gallery on Map)

Couple-Friendly Activities in National Portrait Gallery

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.

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

  1. Download Smartify: Use the app on your phone to scan portraits for audio stories.
  2. Arrive Early: Get to the Info Desk 10 minutes before tour times to avoid missing out.
🏖️ Tour National Portrait Gallery like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in National Portrait Gallery. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of National Portrait Gallery

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Robert Somerville

Robert Somerville

Aug 2025

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

Timeshare Chinchilla

Jul 2025

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

Lynne Cowan

Jul 2025

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

John John

Jun 2025

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 Design

May 2025

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...

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

During late summer weekends, join the Relaxed Afternoons session on Sundays at 3 pm for fewer crowds and dimmed lights.

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

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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Entry to main galleriesAUD 0
Special exhibition tickets for twoAUD 50
Café coffee for twoAUD 10
Total EstimatedAUD 60

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 Portrait Gallery

Address: King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia

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About National Portrait Gallery

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 6102 7000

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