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

National Portrait Gallery (solo trip)

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How Solo-Friendly is National Portrait Gallery?

90%Solo-Friendly
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The gallery is free, offers daily 30-minute introduction tours and the Smartify self-guided app, so a solo traveler can explore at their own pace without scheduling issues.

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

Positives:

  • Social opportunities: Group tours and Art Break sessions are great for meeting other visitors
  • Central location: Close to Old Parliament House and local bus stops

Challenges:

  • Ticketed exhibitions: Special shows can cost up to $25 and sell out quickly
  • Peak times: Weekends and school holidays can get crowded in main galleries
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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 solo trip?

  1. Free entry to Australia’s largest portrait collection
  2. Daily guided and self-guided tours tailored for solo visitors
  3. Interactive sketching prompts with Art Cart
  4. Café terrace with views to rest and reflect
  5. Easy to combine with nearby Parliament precinct walks

Recommended visit duration: 2-4 hours

Why 2-4 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to see key portraits, join a tour and enjoy the café

(View National Portrait Gallery on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in National Portrait Gallery

Introduction Tour:

Join the free 30-minute tour at 2pm to learn about signature portraits

Tip: Meet at the ground floor information desk 5 minutes before start

Smartify Self-Guided Audio Tour:

Scan portraits with the Smartify app for curator stories

Tip: Download the app and bring headphones for uninterrupted audio

Art Break Session:

Attend the slow-looking session every Thursday at 12:30 pm

Tip: Arrive early to secure a spot and chat with fellow visitors

Art Cart Drawing Station:

Use drop-in drawing prompts near Gallery 1 to sketch portrait details

Tip: No booking needed; try the current ‘bright brooches’ theme

Portrait Café & Terrace:

Enjoy coffee and light bites on the outdoor terrace

Tip: Order a flat white and sit facing Parliament House for the best view

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

Weekday mornings in winter offer quieter galleries and softer natural light

✈️ 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 Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Standard gallery entryAUD 0
Special exhibition ticketAUD 25
Coffee at caféAUD 5
Souvenir postcardAUD 4
Total EstimatedAUD 34

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. Use public transport: Take the free city bus to the gallery stop to avoid parking fees
  2. Book special tickets early: Reserve paid exhibition tickets online to guarantee entry
🚗 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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