National Gallery
Free collection of Western painting on Trafalgar Square — Van Gogh to Turner.
The call
Worth it if you're watching the budget and you only have one day.
Short answer
Is National Gallery worth it?
National Gallery deserves a place on most first itineraries.
The answer depends on your budget, time and travel style; the breakdown below shows who gets the most value.
Why
- 01
Seven centuries of masterpieces (Van Gogh's Sunflowers, Turner, Caravaggio) for free, right on Trafalgar Square.
- 02
Manageable in a focused hour or two.
Is it a fit?
Go if
This is your first trip to London
A free hit of instantly recognisable masterpieces, central and easy to slot into any day.
You're watching the budget
National Gallery earns the spend, even on a tight budget.
You only have one day
Short trip or not, keep National Gallery.
You're traveling as a couple
As a couple, National Gallery is an easy yes.
Plan it well
- Cost
- Free (special exhibitions ticketed)
- Timing
- Weekday mornings or Friday late opening to dodge the busiest hours.
- Booking
- Free entry; special exhibitions are ticketed.
- Allow
- 1.5–2.5 hrs
- Accessibility
- Step-free with lift access; the Getty Entrance is the level, accessible way in.
- Getting there
- Charing Cross or Leicester Square Tube, right on Trafalgar Square.