Experience Artistic Brilliance at NGV International
Among the myriad of artistic wonders Melbourne has to offer, NGV International stands out as a point of creative brilliance.
Offering free access to the finest in art and design, along with an extensive focus on accommodating accessibility needs, NGV International is worth adding to your must-visit list.
We went on a free guided gallery tour, enjoyed a tasty lunch at the garden café, and found ourselves in awe of the many ingenious artists.
The upcoming ticketed exhibition, Yayoi Kusama, takes up the entire ground floor showcasing the iconic and influential contemporary artiste.
>> Head straight to our personal tidbits and accessibility advice for NGV International
exploring NGV International
Upon entering NGV International, you are greeted by a diverse range of art forms that captivate the senses. From sculptures by renowned artists like Elmgreen & Dragset and Maurizio Cattelan to digital animations by emerging talents, every corner of the gallery exudes creativity and innovation.
As you wander through the exhibition halls, you will encounter thought-provoking installations, mesmerising films, and interactive displays that invite contemplation and introspection.
Related reading: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Ian Potter Centre, NGV Australia
Yayoi Kusama at NGV
Join the celebration of Yayoi Kusama’s art at Melbourne’s NGV International from 15 December 2024 until 21 April 2025.
This comprehensive exhibition features immersive installations, her famed polka dot motifs, and unique works designed for Australian audiences. The experience includes dedicated spaces for children, making it an engaging outing for families. Tickets are $35 for seniors card holders.
Free Guided Tours
Whether you are interested in learning about indigenous art, contemporary design, or avant-garde filmmaking, NGV International has something to pique your curiosity.
For visitors looking to enhance their visit, NGV offers a range of guided tours and educational programs. These insightful experiences provide a deeper understanding of the artworks on display, and enrich the cultural journey.
Free guided tours run at least twice daily, as well as various other special events hosted throughout the year as well. No bookings are required.
I’ve always loved the NGV, but was unaware of the guided tours until I read about them on your website. So I took advantage of this new knowledge when visiting Melbourne last week – it was so interesting!
Definitely something to be squeezed in to every visit to Melbourne.
– Christine
NGV Triennial
NGV International serves as a sanctuary for art enthusiasts, offering a flood of exhibitions and events to ignite the imagination. The NGV Triennial, a biennial exhibition, is a testament to the gallery’s commitment to presenting cutting-edge artistic expressions.
Featuring over 100 curious projects by 120 artists, designers, and collectives, the NGV Triennial is a visual feast that spans all four levels of the gallery. As a visitor, you will be enveloped in a powerful and moving portrait of the world today, experiencing art in its most evocative forms.
Through the lens of contemporary art, you can explore themes of identity, sustainability, and social justice, gaining new insights and perspectives along the way. Each piece makes you stop and think twice about the artists message.
The NGV Triennial ran in 2024, and is expected to return again in 2027.
I had been to the NGV a few times but never had a guided tour. The Triennial Exhibition was made interesting having a guide explain the various artist types and works. I would not have appreciated the more unusual artwork as much without a guide to share her views and explanations.
Our guide was very engaging and easy to relate to. I would recommend this particular Triennial Exhibition, but I also enjoyed being in the gallery itself, discovering those new things since the last time I visited. Like the entrance sculptures, the outdoor area, the lovely cafe, and the stained glass ceiling. It was great to see and feel the familiar water on the glass at the front entrance. Having the temporary fire feature included in the water wall was quite intriguing. I would definitely recommend this free outing to our beautiful city of Melbourne.
– Terrie
Dining at NGV
The Gallery Kitchen provides a range of easy grab-and-go food options which we found to be healthy and fresh. We took our lunch to the garden outside where several tables and chairs provide a delightful alfresco setting.
For a more luxurious experience, the Tea Room on level one has delectable handmade cakes, and the Garden Restaurant offers a seasonal a la carte menu overlooking the gardens.
Accessibility at NGV International
With its guided tours, workshops, or interactive sessions, NGV International strives to make the gallery experience enriching and accessible for all visitors.
With accessible entrances and lifts throughout the building, it is easy to navigate the exhibition spaces. Wheelchair hire is available. Additionally, the museum’s layout is spacious and barrier-free, which ensures smooth passage between artworks and installations.
NGV International also provides accessible toilets equipped with handrails and ample space for manoeuvring. What’s more, these facilities are conveniently located on each level of the gallery.
For visitors with visual or hearing impairments, the gallery offers a range of services to enhance their experience. The museum provides large print guides and audio guides for selected exhibitions and signage throughout the museum is clear and legible.
In addition, NGV International welcomes guide dogs and assistance animals. Staff members are trained to assist visitors with accessibility needs, by providing guidance and support as required. Find out more on their website here.
Getting there
The nearest train station to NGV International is Flinders Street Station, located approximately 500 metres away. You can easily catch a tram (3-3A, 6, 67, or 70) or bus (207, 220, 246, 251, 302) along St Kilda Road. Additionally, there are paid parking facilities available nearby.
Tidbits for visiting NGV International
- Free entry to the permanent exhibitions;
- Free guided walking tours run daily, no booking required;
- Kusama exhibition runs from 15 December 2024 until 21 April 2025. (Adult tickets are $38 and a seniors card discount is available at $35);
- Enjoy an easy lunch from the cafe and sit on a table out in the gardens;
- Other dining options include the Garden Restuarant or Tea Rooms;
- Ramp access, lifts and accessible toilets;
- Large print guides and audio guides available;
- Plan a visit to NGV Australia as well, but you might need another whole day for this;
- Located 500 metres from Flinders St Station, with buses and trams stopping nearby;
- Various parking facilities close by.
NGV International
180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3006
(03) 8620 2222 https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/
