
Start at the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia at Federation Square, the world’s first major public gallery dedicated to Australian art.
Neighbouring ACMI, the Australian Centre for the Moving Image is Australia’s national museum of film, TV, videogames, digital culture and art. Then take a walk over the Princes Bridge and on to the Royal Botanic Gardens to enjoy the array of plant species from around the world, sweeping lawns, tranquil lakes and majestic trees and a selection of dining options.
After some afternoon rest and relaxation, it’s time to dress to impress for the Private Gallery Dinner at NGV. This exclusive, unforgettable evening of art, music, fine dining and wine entails a private tour, intiate live music experiences and degustation dinner in front of the National Gallery of Victoria’s revered masterpiece, Giambattista Tiepolo’s The Banquet of Cleopatra.
Start the second day with an early VIP All-Access Tour of Arts Centre Melbourne, including hidden underground corridors, backstage and collections of artefacts, costumes and props from Australia’s circus, dance, music, opera and theatre heritage in the Australian Performing Arts Collection Store and the contemporary Australian Music Vault, then breakfast in an exclusive VIP lounge, alongside two Academy Awards®.
Continue on to the Melbourne Cricket Ground for the MCG Private Tour Experience, available Thursdays 10am, 12 noon and 2pm. Step out onto the hallowed MCG turf, access the cricket viewing rooms and prestigious Melbourne Cricket Club. Then tour the National Sports Museum and finish with refreshments in the Paddock Café.
Spend the final day exploring Melbourne’s CBD’s renowned contemporary art galleries, cafés and restaurants. Start in Flinders Lane then meander into the adjoining laneways to find street art, great coffee, food and wine bars locals love. Or take in some cultural heritage at some of Melbourne’s great institutions, State Library of Victoria, Melbourne Museum and the World Heritage-Listed Royal Exhibition Building, just north of the city centre.
Photo: Visit Victoria