National Museum of Singapore Singapore
Explore Singapore's 700-year journey through immersive exhibits, stunning architecture, and captivating art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
National Museum of Singapore Singapore
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Singapore's 700-year journey through immersive exhibits, stunning architecture, and captivating art.
"A must-visit for understanding Singapore's rich history and vibrant culture."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
While some exhibits are free, booking tickets in advance can save time, especially for special exhibitions.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive galleries.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Singapore Odyssea
Glass Rotunda
An immersive journey through Singapore's 700-year history, blending art, history, and technology.
Sebastião Salgado's Amazônia
Exhibition Hall
Stunning black and white photography showcasing the Amazon rainforest and its indigenous peoples.
History of Singapore Galleries
Permanent Galleries
Explore the nation's rich past, from its early days to modern development, through engaging exhibits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Getting Around Singapore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
While some exhibits are free, booking tickets in advance can save time, especially for special exhibitions.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive galleries.
📱 Download Museum App
Enhance your visit with interactive features and audio guides.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Singapore is hot and humid; carry a water bottle.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
While some exhibits are free, booking tickets in advance can save time, especially for special exhibitions.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive galleries.
📱 Download Museum App
Enhance your visit with interactive features and audio guides.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Singapore is hot and humid; carry a water bottle.
📸 Capture the Moment
Many exhibits offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially the Singapore Odyssea.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Museum of Singapore for its engaging exhibits, particularly the immersive 'Singapore Odyssea' and the insightful historical galleries. The museum's central location and accessibility via public transport are also frequently highlighted as positives. Some visitors note that while permanent galleries are often free for locals, international visitors may incur fees, and special exhibitions can add to the cost.
"Recently attended the Singapore Night Festival, pretty cool light and arts installations. Enjoyed the free admission after 7pm during this period. Liked the architecture and interior decor, much atmosphere and clean. Spent about 3hours just exploring the museum yet not to explore the whole programme! Come before 6 Sep 2025."
Che C
"This is an awesome place if you want to learn about the history of Singapore! Its aesthetics are beautiful and definitely wonderful to simply have a look at, but it is particularly useful if you read all the information given beside each exhibit. They also have a bracelet in one of the sections that you can use to answer questions throughout the museum. At the end, it reveals your personality based on the answers you gave.
If you have kids, they have a nice workbook for kids to complete as they explore each section of the museum."
Vinolyn Keren
"You can't go wrong with National Museum of Singapore, highly curated to share the history of the island state with great information. If you are a history buff or just a visitor. I am sure you will learn a thing or two after your trip here.
Tips: always look out for their special exhibition that they usually put on once in a while during special occasion. This time it's LEGO.
Hope you enjoy your trip here."
Isaac L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Museum of Singapore is easily accessible via the MRT. The nearest stations are City Hall (NS25/EW13) and Bras Basah (CC2). From either station, it's a short walk. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab are also readily available.
Yes, there is parking available at the museum and nearby buildings. However, using public transport like the MRT is often more convenient and cost-effective.
Absolutely! The National Museum is centrally located and within walking distance of the National Gallery Singapore, Peranakan Museum, and Fort Canning Park.
For layovers, taking a Grab or taxi directly from the airport to the museum can save valuable time. The MRT is also an option if you have ample time.
The National Museum of Singapore is generally accessible, with ramps and elevators available. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the permanent galleries is often free for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents. For international visitors, there may be a fee for permanent galleries and special exhibitions. The 'Singapore Odyssey' experience is currently free.
Ticket prices vary depending on the exhibition. While permanent galleries might be free for locals, international visitors can expect to pay a fee. Special exhibitions like Sebastião Salgado's Amazônia will have separate ticket prices. Check the official website for current pricing.
It's highly recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially for popular exhibitions or during peak seasons, to secure your entry and avoid queues.
The museum is typically open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM. However, hours can vary for special exhibitions or during holidays, so it's best to check their official website before your visit.
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted for ticket purchases at the museum and online.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the 'Singapore Odyssea' in the Glass Rotunda for an immersive historical journey. Sebastião Salgado's 'Amazônia' exhibition offers powerful black and white photography. The permanent galleries detailing Singapore's history are also highly recommended.
To fully appreciate the exhibits, especially the permanent galleries and a special exhibition, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you plan to see multiple museums, consider separating them.
Yes, the museum often offers free guided tours. These are a great way to gain deeper insights into the exhibits. Check the schedule upon arrival or on their website.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas for personal use, but flash photography and videography are usually prohibited. Some special exhibitions may have specific restrictions, so always look for signage.
The museum offers restrooms, a gift shop, and a cafe. Lockers may also be available for storing your belongings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum typically has a cafe or restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a coffee. It's a convenient spot to refuel during your visit.
The cafe usually offers a selection of light meals, snacks, and beverages. The offerings might include local Singaporean dishes alongside international favorites.
The museum is located in a vibrant area with numerous dining options. You can find a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and hawker centers nearby, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition galleries. It's best to consume them in designated areas or before entering.
Museum cafes are usually family-friendly, offering a relaxed atmosphere. You can check their menu online to see if it suits your family's preferences.
📸 📸 Photography
The Glass Rotunda with its 'Singapore Odyssea' projection is a stunning visual spectacle. The architecture of the museum itself, especially the facade and interior spaces, also makes for great shots. 
Photography for personal use is usually permitted in most galleries, but always check for signage regarding flash and tripods. Special exhibitions might have stricter rules.
Fort Canning Park, just a short walk away, features the famous 'tree tunnel' staircase that has gone viral on social media. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
Daytime visits offer natural light, which is great for general photography. Evening visits might be more atmospheric, especially if there are light installations or projections.
Yes, smartphones are perfect for capturing memories at the museum. The interactive elements of 'Singapore Odyssea' are particularly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The museum's permanent galleries also offer a visually stimulating way to introduce kids to Singapore's history. Tips for families: Arrive early to avoid crowds and meltdowns. Take advantage of the museum's cafe for snacks and breaks. Consider joining a guided tour if available, as they can often make history more accessible and fun for younger visitors.
🏛️ Art & History Enthusiasts
Recommendations: Dedicate ample time to explore the permanent galleries thoroughly. Don't miss special exhibitions like Sebastião Salgado's 'Amazônia' for a different artistic perspective. Consider booking a guided tour to gain deeper insights from experts.
📸 Photography Buffs
+1 The museum's architecture itself, a blend of classical and modern styles, provides excellent opportunities for architectural shots. Photo tips: Visit during the day for natural light. Be mindful of photography rules within exhibits. For iconic nearby shots, head to Fort Canning Park's 'tree tunnel' early in the morning.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Singapore Odyssea Experience
+1This voyage seamlessly blends history, art, and technology, creating a multi-sensory experience. Through stunning visuals and interactive displays, you'll witness pivotal moments and cultural shifts that have shaped Singapore. It's a modern approach to storytelling that appeals to all ages, making history come alive in a way that traditional exhibits might not.
+1Travelers have praised the innovative use of technology and the magical feel of the Odyssea. It's described as one of the coolest new immersive art experiences in Singapore, offering a unique perspective on the country's heritage. The experience is designed to be both educational and entertaining, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.
Exploring Singapore's History
Visitors often highlight the engaging nature of the historical displays. Unlike dry historical accounts, the museum utilizes a variety of media, including artifacts, multimedia presentations, and interactive elements, to bring stories to life. This approach makes learning about Singapore's history an enjoyable and memorable experience for everyone.
For those interested in a deeper dive, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that focus on specific periods or themes. These can offer unique perspectives and showcase specialized collections, adding further depth to your understanding of Singapore's rich cultural tapestry.
Photography at the National Museum
+1Beyond the Odyssea, the museum's classical and modern architecture provides a stunning backdrop for photos. The grand facade and elegant interiors offer numerous opportunities for architectural photography. When photographing exhibits, remember to check for any restrictions on flash or tripods, as these are often prohibited to protect the artifacts.
For those looking for iconic shots beyond the museum walls, Fort Canning Park is just a short walk away and features the highly Instagrammable 'tree tunnel' staircase. Visiting early in the morning is crucial to capture this spot without the crowds.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit