National Gallery of Victoria or NGV as it is known is Australia’s first and biggest public art gallery. Opened in 1861 during Melbourne’s gold rush the gallery benefitted from donations of artworks and money towards cultural activities from rich citizens. It currently operates at two venues, NGV International in Southbank, in the heart of the city’s galleries and performing arts venues and the Ian Potter centre in Federation Square a few minute’s walk away. The NGV’s owns over 65,000 artworks spanning thousands of years by ancient, indigenous and modern artists and sculptors.

The NGV’s extensive collection of Australian prints, drawings, paintings, decorative arts and sculpture, Asian art, international prints, drawings, paintings, decorative arts and sculpture, fashion and textiles, Mesoamerican and Pacific art, antiquities, indigenous art and photographs most of which are on display at any one time including more than 18,500 works online, will not disappoint. With free entry to its permanent collections at both locations art lovers can enjoy access to one of the world’s best collections and view amazing works by artists and sculptors from one end of the globe to the other both contemporary and ancient. With many visitor-friendly additions such as cafes, restaurants and shops and redesigned galleries that set off the art works admirably, visitors can have an exhilarating experience viewing and understanding some of the world’s most iconic art works and antiquities. Films, talks on the NGV’s collections, children’s programs, tours and special after dark program with talks, live music, food and wine to suit the selected theme are some of the programs the gallery implements to keep art in the mind of the citizens of Victoria and also to educate and inform and to make the whole an exciting audio visual and even a gourmet experience. The NGV is a lovely space to spend hours or even a whole day enjoying its exhibits and exploring the world through its collection.

Stay at The Langham Melbourne to experience a lively Southbank location close to the cultural and entertainment heart of the city enlivened by many restaurants and clubs. Experience well appointed comfortable and stylish Melbourne accommodation the key to any successful stay in the city. As one of much lauded and popular Melbourne hotels, guests are offered a great range of services and facilities including holistic specially designed spa treatments, an up to date leisure centre and an excellent selection of dining options to temp most palates that hold their own among Southbank’s great selection of restaurants.