Melbourne’s Best Art: from National Galleries to Laneways

In Melbourne, art isn’t just something you see—it’s something you feel. It spills out of galleries, takes over laneways, and surprises you in unexpected places. Often called Australia’s cultural capital, Melbourne is a city where creativity is part of everyday life.

Imagine starting your day at the National Gallery of Victoria, surrounded by timeless masterpieces, then wandering down Hosier Lane, where street art constantly evolves with the city’s energy. Or stepping into The Lume, where famous artworks come alive with lights, music, and even scents.

From grand institutions to raw street art, Melbourne’s artistic landscape invites you to explore, reflect, and be inspired. Let’s dive into the highlights that make this city a must-visit for art lovers.

Melbourne’s art galleries are as creative and diverse as the city itself. Whether you love classic masterpieces or cutting-edge installations, these spaces capture Melbourne’s artistic spirit.

The National Gallery of Victoria, or NGV, is Australia’s oldest and most famous art gallery. Open since 1861, it houses an incredible collection that spans everything from historic European masterpieces to dynamic Indigenous Australian art and bold contemporary works.

The NGV operates across two venues: NGV International and The Ian Potter Centre. NGV International showcases global exhibitions, while The Ian Potter Centre celebrates Australian art. Both are in Southbank’s Arts Precinct, just a short stroll from Federation Square.

Before you leave, pause at the gallery’s iconic water wall—a favourite spot for photos and a uniquely NGV experience.

Pro Tip: Popular exhibitions can sellout quickly, so check the NGV’s schedule and book your tickets online ahead of time.

Looking for art that pushes boundaries and makes you think? Head to the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art (ACCA) located in Southbank. Even its rust-red steel building, with its bold, sculptural design, is a work of art that stands out in Melbourne’s Arts Precinct.

ACCA showcases contemporary art by both local and international artists. You’ll find installations, multimedia pieces, and works by both up-and-coming and well-known artists.

Pro Tip: Take your time here—some pieces are best appreciated when you slow down and soak it all in. After your visit, grab a coffee nearby to reflect on the ideas the art sparked.

For a mix of art, history, and nature, the Heide Museum of Modern Art is the perfect escape. Located in Bulleen, just 30 minutes from Melbourne’s city centre, this unique destination features a modern art gallery, stunning sculpture park, and beautifully landscaped gardens.

Once home to artists John and Sunday Reed, this place is more than a gallery—it’s a piece of Australian art history. Wander through the museum’s halls to see works that trace the evolution of Australian modern art, or stroll outside to enjoy the sculptures and fresh air.

Pro Tip: Pack a picnic to enjoy in the gardens, or stop by the café for a coffee surrounded by nature.

If you’ve ever wished you could step into a painting, The Lume makes that dream come true. As the world’s largest digital art gallery, this immersive space at South Wharf uses cutting-edge technology to turn famous masterpieces into fully interactive experiences.

Imagine Van Gogh’s Starry Night swirling around you in larger-than-life projections, accompanied by classical music and even subtle scents to match the mood. The Lume doesn’t just show art—it surrounds you with it, engaging all your senses in an unforgettable adventure.

Pro Tip: Visit during quieter hours for plenty of space to explore, and be ready to capture the moment—this place is made for great photos.

At ArtVo, you’re not just looking at art—you’re part of it. This interactive gallery in Docklands is filled with 3D murals and illusion-style artworks designed to trick the eye and spark your imagination. From 'climbing' towering waterfalls to 'floating' through outer space, every corner offers a fun, photo-worthy moment.

It’s a hit with families, friends, and anyone who loves to get creative with their camera. ArtVo is proof that art doesn’t have to be serious to be amazing—it can be playful, too.

Pro Tip: Bring your camera—this place is full of Instagram-worthy moments.

If you’re into discovering fresh, emerging talent, No Vacancy is the gallery for you. Tucked away in Melbourne’s CBD, this independent gallery is all about showcasing new perspectives through its rotating exhibitions.

The vibe here is relaxed and welcoming, making it an easy stop for anyone exploring the city. There’s even a cosy onsite café where you can sip a coffee while soaking in the creative energy.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the exhibition schedule—No Vacancy’s lineup is always changing, so there’s something new every time you visit.

Melbourne’s laneways are more than just shortcuts through the city—they’re open-air galleries where energetic street art transforms walls into canvases. Each lane tells its own story, constantly evolving as new murals, graffiti, and stencils appear.

If you visit just one laneway in Melbourne, make it Hosier Lane. A short walk from Federation Square, this alley is a constantly evolving gallery of street art. Bold murals, intricate stencils, and graffiti tags layer over each other, creating a raw and electric atmosphere.

What makes Hosier Lane special is its unpredictability—new works appear almost overnight, so no two visits are the same. One day, you might find a neon political statement; the next, a delicate hidden portrait.

Pro Tip: Visit early for fewer crowds, or come in the evening to experience the lane’s energy under city lights.

A tribute to the legendary Australian rock band AC/DC, this laneway combines music and art in a truly unique way. Located in the heart of the city, AC/DC Lane features bold, music-inspired murals that celebrate Melbourne’s rock heritage.

It’s a smaller laneway than Hosier Lane but packs just as much personality, especially for music lovers and street art enthusiasts.

Pro Tip: Take your time to explore the lane’s murals—some pieces hide clever references to local music legends.

Melbourne’s art scene is a celebration of creativity, and planning your visit can help you make the most of it. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Timing: Many galleries, including the NGV and Heide Museum, host seasonal exhibitions, so check schedules ahead of time. Mornings offer quieter experiences, while evenings bring a unique energy to the laneways as murals glow under the city lights.

• Nearby attractions: Combine your gallery visits with other nearby highlights, such as the Botanic Gardens near Southbank or Docklands’ waterfront dining.

• Accessibility: Most galleries are easily accessible by public transport, and many offer facilities for families, including kid-friendly exhibits like ArtVo.

• Souvenirs and memories: Don’t forget to stop by gallery gift shops or laneway boutiques for unique souvenirs, from art prints to handmade crafts.

Whether you’re a lifelong art lover or just curious to explore, Melbourne’s galleries and laneways promise an experience you won’t forget. So, start planning your trip today by staying in one our hotels in Melbourne and let the city’s creativity leave its mark on you.