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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
View Map

What makes it 90% Solo-Friendly: The gallery offers free entry, daily highlight tours and a self-guided phone app, so a solo visitor gets rich content, quiet study space and safe facilities without needing companions.

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

Positives:

  • Free permanent collection: Standard galleries have free entry, so you can explore without cost.
  • Flexible schedule: Self-guided audio and drop-in sessions let you set your own pace.

Challenges:

  • Limited seating: The gallery has few benches in exhibition spaces; plan brief stops.
  • Ticketed exhibitions: Special shows need separate tickets and may sell out quickly.
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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 solo trip?

  1. Free entry to 500+ Australian portraits.
  2. Self-guided audio and daily guided tours for solo context.
  3. Drop-in art stations let you sketch and interact.
  4. On-site café and shop for breaks and souvenirs.

Recommended visit duration: 2-4 hours

Why 2-4 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to explore the permanent collection, join a guided or audio tour, and take breaks at the café.

(View National Portrait Gallery on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in National Portrait Gallery

Smartify Audio Tour:

Scan portraits with the Smartify app for curator commentary and artist interviews.

Tip: Download the app and load audio guides before arrival to avoid slow gallery Wi-Fi.

Daily Introduction Tour:

Join a free 30-minute guided tour at 2 pm to learn key stories behind the portraits.

Tip: Meet at the Information Desk on the ground floor five minutes before the start.

Art Cart Drawing Stations:

Use free drop-in art stations to sketch portrait details with simple prompts.

Tip: Arrive early to secure a spot, especially on Thursdays when stations fill up.

Portrait Café Break:

Recharge with coffee, tea or light meals at the on-site café (9 am–4 pm).

Tip: Try the outdoor terrace on sunny days for views of the National Triangle.

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

  1. Pre-book special exhibitions: Buy tickets online ahead to secure your entry slot.
  2. Visit midweek mornings: Arrive before 11 am Tuesday to Thursday for quieter galleries.
  3. Use Smartify offline: Download audio guides and maps to your phone before you enter.
🏖️ 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)?

Visit before 11 am in summer to escape the heat in air-conditioned galleries. In winter weekends, guided tours fill up fast—book special exhibition tickets online early.

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

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Smartify AppAUD 0
General entryAUD 0
Special exhibition ticketAUD 25
Café coffeeAUD 5
Lunch dishAUD 15
Souvenir catalogueAUD 30
Total EstimatedAUD 75

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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