National Gallery of Australia

Set on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, the National Gallery of Australia is a temple to visual arts, housing the country's most significant collection of Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, Asian, and international art. The building itself is a modernist marvel, with its brutalist concrete forms softened by sculptural gardens and a sprawling water feature. Inside, you'll wander through galleries that trace Australia's artistic journey from Indigenous bark paintings to contemporary installations, alongside blockbuster exhibitions featuring works by the likes of Monet, Picasso, and Warhol.

Highlights & What to See

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art: The gallery's collection is one of the finest in the world, including the iconic Aboriginal Memorial – 200 hollow-log coffins commemorating Indigenous Australians who died defending their land. Don't miss the bark paintings from Arnhem Land and the vibrant desert dot paintings.
• Australian art: See masterpieces by Tom Roberts, Arthur Streeton, and Margaret Preston, plus modern works by Sidney Nolan, Brett Whiteley, and Patricia Piccinini. The Blue Poles by Jackson Pollock is a crowd favourite – a controversial purchase that now defines the gallery's international collection.
• International art: From ancient Asian sculptures to European Old Masters and American Abstract Expressionism, the gallery's global holdings are impressive. Look for Rodin's The Burghers of Calais and a rich collection of Southeast Asian ceramics.
• Sculpture Garden: A tranquil outdoor space featuring works by Henry Moore, Ai Weiwei, and Australian sculptors, with stunning views over Lake Burley Griffin. It's free to enter and perfect for a picnic or a contemplative stroll.
• Special exhibitions: The gallery hosts world-class temporary exhibitions – check what's on before your visit. Past shows have included works by Rembrandt, Matisse, and the Impressionists.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least two to three hours to do the permanent collections justice. If you're an art enthusiast, you could easily spend a full day here, especially if you attend a guided tour or a talk. The café is excellent for a lunch break, and the gift shop is a treasure trove of art books and Indigenous crafts. To avoid crowds, visit on a weekday morning; weekends can be busy with families.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Australian War Memorial – A short drive or a pleasant walk along the lake, this moving tribute to Australia's military history is a must-see, with its evocative galleries and the Hall of Memory.
• Parliament House – Visit the seat of Australian democracy, where you can tour the chambers, see the impressive art collection, and enjoy panoramic views from the roof.
• Lake Burley Griffin – The gallery's lakeside setting invites a stroll or bike ride along the shore. Rent a paddleboat or join a cruise for a different perspective on Canberra's landmarks.
• Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre is a hit with families, offering interactive exhibits that explore science through play. It's a short walk from the gallery.

Please check official sources for current details.