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Canberra, couple trip, Things to Do
Australia/Things to Do in Canberra, couple trip

National Portrait Gallery (couple trip)

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How Couple-Friendly is National Portrait Gallery?

85%Couple-Friendly
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Couples benefit from calm galleries, free 2 pm highlights tour to share, and a café terrace for a relaxed lunch date, though evening openings are rare so night outings are limited.

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

Positives:

  • Free guided tours: Daily tours at 2 pm add context and stories to the portraits.
  • Terrace skyline views: The Café offers panoramic views of Parliament House and city landmarks.
  • In-depth audio guides: Smartify app enriches your visit with artist interviews and background.

Challenges:

  • Limited seating: Gallery tours and some exhibitions require standing for 30+ minutes.
  • Weekend crowds: Midday on weekends can be busy; expect lines for special exhibitions.
  • Pay parking: On-street parking is metered; arrive early to find spots nearby.
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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 tours offer personal insights into Australia’s portraits
  2. Contemporary building provides unique photo backdrops
  3. Terrace Café serves drinks with panoramic city views
  4. Smartify app delivers engaging audio stories as you explore
  5. Rotating special exhibitions keep the experience fresh

Recommended visit duration: 2-4 hours

Why 2-4 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time to join a free tour, explore key portraits and relax at the Terrace Café without rushing.

(View National Portrait Gallery on Map)

Couple-Friendly Activities in National Portrait Gallery

Welcome Introduction Tour:

Join a 30-minute guided walk through signature portraits.

Tip: Meet at the Information Desk on the Ground Level by 2 pm to secure your spot.

Smartify Audio Guide:

Scan portraits with your phone for curator stories and interviews.

Tip: Download the Smartify app before you visit and bring headphones.

Terrace Café Visit:

Enjoy coffee or light meals with views over the Parliamentary Triangle.

Tip: Time your visit for late afternoon to capture the skyline at golden hour.

Architectural Photo Op:

Admire and photograph the building’s geometric façade.

Tip: Stand across King Edward Terrace for the best angle of the sculptural exterior.

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

In summer, bring a hat and water for the outdoor terrace. In winter, arrive later to enjoy the warm interior and reduced crowds. Check the Gallery’s website in spring for major new exhibitions.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Canberra on Trip.com. New app users enjoy exclusive deals.

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Reviews of National Portrait Gallery (Canberra)

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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...

Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Permanent collection entryAUD 0
Welcome tour (free)AUD 0
Coffee at Terrace Café (2)AUD 10
Light lunch (2)AUD 36
Special exhibition tickets (2)AUD 40
Souvenir print or bookAUD 30
Total EstimatedAUD 116

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

How to Maximize Your Visit to National Portrait Gallery

  1. Book exhibitions ahead: Reserve paid exhibition tickets online to skip the ticket queue.
  2. Visit on weekdays: Weekdays after 11 am are quieter and more peaceful for couples.
  3. Combine with park walk: Stroll through nearby Commonwealth Park to extend your outing.
🚗 Planning to explore multiple Canberra attractions? A rental car often costs less than daily taxi trips. Check Trip.com for deals. New users save up to 8% OFF and enjoy the freedom to travel on your schedule.

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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