Located next to the Fitzroy River, the new Rockhampton Museum of Art is a major architectural and cultural attraction in the CBD. Originally established as the Rockhampton Art Gallery in the late 1960s, the museum boasts an impressive collection of twentieth-century Australian paintings. The collection spans from mid-twentieth century works to contemporary art, comprising more than 3,000 objects.

This is a beautiful medieval structure, first built at the end of the 13th century, and the subject of many additions and alterations over the years. Head up the stairs in Piazza IV Novembre and into the Sala dei Notari – completely covered in allegorical and biblical frescoes that date from the 13th century. Entering the palazzo from Corso Vannucci takes you to the Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria and to two further rooms: the Collegio della Mercanzia and the Collegio del Cambio. The Collegio della Mercanzia is beautifully panelled in wood, probably done by German craftsmen in the 15th century. The Collegio del Cambio has two rooms, the second with stunning late 15th century frescoes by Perugino.

The museum is a recap of Malaysia’s cultural, human, and natural history. The collection runs from ancient history, including a model of Malaysia's best-known archaeological discovery, the 11,000-year old Perak man, and continues on into modern times, featuring royal attire and paraphernalia.