Art Gallery of New South Wales - Sydney, New South Wales

Clare C.

We had a wonderful visit to the NSW Art Gallery. The story time in the children’s library was such a lovely experience, and the kids really enjoyed it. We also loved the interactive exhibits in the gallery, which made the visit engaging and fun for the whole family. A great place to spend time together.

1715km

Great museum with alot of art to see from new to old history. It’s so big that you definitely need 2 or 3 hours for it.

They have a cafe/restaurant where you can take a break. Various of nice food options available for a very affordable price as well!

Would recommend going here, it’s a must and since it’s free so you have nothing to lose.

Julio Y.

Visiting from Vancouver, Canada, as an architect, the Art Gallery of New South Wales was a must-see for me — and it absolutely exceeded expectations. The building is a beautiful blend of heritage and modern architecture, and the collections are thoughtfully curated, showcasing everything from Australian and European masterpieces to contemporary and Indigenous works.

I was especially captivated by my experience on the -4 floor, where I discovered Angelica Mesiti’s The Rites of Passage. The installation is located in The Tank, a massive underground space originally built as a World War II oil bunker. The raw concrete columns, once used to support the bunker’s heavy structure, now create an extraordinary, almost cathedral-like setting for the artwork. Their monumental, industrial presence adds an incredible sense of gravity and history to the experience — a feeling of being surrounded by layers of time and memory.

Mesiti’s immersive video and sound piece fills the cavernous space with emotion, reflecting on human rituals, nature, and transformation. It’s the kind of artwork that makes you stop, reflect, and truly feel connected to both the space and the stories being told.

What makes the Art Gallery of New South Wales even more special is the harmonious blend of the old and new. The original installations, housed in the gallery’s heritage areas, carry a sense of classical beauty, while the new, modern exhibits in the Sydney Modern expansion push boundaries and invite a more experimental, contemporary experience. Both the old and new installations are unique in their own way, offering a diverse range of art that speaks to different times and emotions.

Entry to the main exhibitions is free, making it an even more welcoming experience for all visitors. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a creative professional, or simply curious, this gallery offers a truly inspiring and unforgettable experience. Highly recommend it to anyone visiting Sydney!

Hugh R.

The Art Gallery of New South Wales is nothing short of extraordinary. Nestled beside the Royal Botanic Garden with sweeping views of Sydney Harbour, this iconic gallery is a celebration of art, culture, and creativity that both locals and tourists can treasure.

From the moment you walk through its grand sandstone facade into its expansive halls, you’re welcomed by a breathtaking blend of classical elegance and contemporary innovation. The recent expansion – Sydney Modern – has elevated the gallery into a world-class cultural institution. The new light-filled spaces and thoughtful architectural design offer an immersive experience that feels open, accessible, and inspiring.

The collection itself is incredibly diverse and thoughtfully curated. Whether you’re drawn to Indigenous Australian art, classic European masters, contemporary installations, or bold modern works from Asia and the Pacific, there’s something here to stir every soul. The gallery’s dedication to showcasing First Nations artists is particularly powerful, giving voice and visibility to some of Australia’s most important cultural narratives.

Beyond the artworks, the Art Gallery NSW offers enriching public programs, engaging guided tours, and family-friendly experiences that make art approachable for everyone. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate, always ready to answer questions or offer insights that enhance your visit.

Whether you have an hour or an entire day, a visit to the Art Gallery of New South Wales is an uplifting, unforgettable journey into the world of art. Highly recommended!

Kia K.

A must-visit in Sydney! The Art Gallery of NSW offers a stunning collection ranging from classical to contemporary works. Beautifully curated exhibits, peaceful atmosphere, and free entry make it even better. The new North building is a modern gem with great views. Perfect for art lovers or anyone seeking inspiration. Don’t miss the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art section!

Daryna B.

There are two separate buildings and the new building is a beautiful modern space with several terraces and interesting outdoor art installations. The old building has a more conventional gallery feel and a wonderfully thought provoking collection of art. Both are worth a visit and you could spend anywhere from an hour to a half day here easily. Also saw quite a few wedding parties outside, it must be a place to come to take wedding photos.

Min M.

The Art Gallery of New South Wales is one of Sydney’s cultural treasures, and stepping inside feels like entering a world where beauty, history, and creativity come together. What makes this gallery so special is not just its elegant architecture—flooded with natural light and framed by grand sandstone facades—but also the extraordinary diversity of its collection.

🌍 A Collection That Spans the World

The gallery houses an impressive range of artworks that move effortlessly across continents and centuries. From European old masters and impressionist paintings to contemporary international works, the variety ensures that every visitor finds something to connect with. You might walk from a Renaissance canvas into a room filled with bold modern installations, each space telling a different chapter of the global story of art.

🎨 Australian Identity on Display

One of the highlights is the gallery’s dedication to Australian art, both historic and contemporary. Visitors can explore colonial-era works that captured early impressions of the landscape, alongside bold and thought-provoking pieces from today’s artists. The gallery also gives an important platform to First Nations art, with a stunning collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander works. These pieces bring a depth of cultural meaning, connecting Australia’s ancient heritage with its modern artistic voice.

🖼️ Asian and Pacific Masterpieces

AGNSW also stands out for its Asian art collection, ranging from delicate Japanese screens and Indian miniatures to powerful Chinese contemporary works. The gallery’s curators have built bridges across cultures, giving visitors a rare opportunity to explore Asia-Pacific creativity within the same walls as European and Australian traditions.

🌟 Architecture & Atmosphere

Beyond the artworks, the gallery itself is a beautiful place to spend time. Its mix of historic wings and modern extensions creates a journey through both space and style. Light-filled halls, soaring ceilings, and thoughtfully designed galleries make viewing art a serene, inspiring experience. The location, right on the edge of the Domain with views toward Sydney Harbour, adds to the sense of being in a cultural sanctuary within the city.

✨ Why It’s Special

What makes the Art Gallery of New South Wales so memorable is the way it balances diversity with depth. You don’t just see a sample of world art—you see whole stories unfold: the evolution of Australian identity, the resilience and creativity of Indigenous voices, the innovation of Asia-Pacific artists, and the global conversation they are all part of.

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✅ In short: The Art Gallery of NSW is more than a collection of paintings and sculptures—it’s a living dialogue between past and present, local and global, tradition and innovation. Beautiful, diverse, and thoughtfully curated, it’s a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the richness of art in all its forms.

Helen S.

Art Gallery of NSW 🎨| A Day with the Masters
Hidden in Sydney city but full of surprises — original works by Monet, Van Gogh & Picasso, all for free!
From peaceful galleries to bold modern spaces, every corner feels like a quiet art adventure.
Even the light paints with you.
Come to Sydney, not just for the views, but for a moment with the world’s greatest art.