National Gallery Singapore

新加坡國家美術館

A premier art institution housed in two historic buildings that showcases Southeast Asian and international contemporary art across 19,000 square meters of gallery space. It offers world-class collections and rotating exhibitions that appeal to art enthusiasts of all levels.

Things to do

• Explore the Southeast Asian Art Collection — Browse the Gallery's extensive permanent collection spanning from the 10th century to contemporary works, with particular depth in Indonesian, Thai, Vietnamese, and Filipino art.
• Visit the Rotunda Hall — Marvel at the soaring dome and classical architecture of this restored 1926 landmark space within the National Museum building that serves as a dramatic entrance to the Gallery.
• Attend Curatorial Talks and Artist Sessions — Participate in guided discussions and meet-the-artist events that provide deeper insight into featured exhibitions and artists' creative processes.
• Explore the Contemporary Art Wing — Discover rotating international contemporary exhibitions housed in the modern Former City Hall building section, featuring cutting-edge installations and multimedia works.
• Discover the Print and Photography Collection — View intimate galleries showcasing Southeast Asian prints, photographs, and works on paper that reveal regional artistic traditions often overlooked in mainstream narratives.
• Browse the Gallery Shop — Purchase art books, exhibition catalogues, and locally-designed merchandise featuring works from the Gallery's collections.

Food to try

• Nasi Padang at nearby hawker stalls — Sample this Indonesian rice-based dish with multiple curried accompaniments available at Marine Parade Food Centre or similar venues a short walk from the Gallery.
• Laksa at Gallery Café — Enjoy a bowl of creamy coconut curry noodle soup, a quintessential Southeast Asian comfort dish, served at the Gallery's own café overlooking Marina Bay.
• Dim Sum experience — Visit one of the nearby Cantonese dim sum restaurants in Marina Bay to enjoy bite-sized portions of dumplings, rolls, and other traditional preparations.
• Satay skewers — Try grilled meat skewers with spiced peanut sauce from hawker carts in the surrounding area, a beloved Southeast Asian street food staple.
• Kopi at the Gallery Café — Experience traditional Singapore-style coffee prepared with condensed milk and served either hot or iced, a local ritual and essential pause during your visit.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress modestly for religious art spaces — When viewing galleries with Buddhist, Hindu, or Islamic religious artworks, wearing respectful clothing with covered shoulders and knees shows cultural sensitivity.
• Photography restrictions in certain galleries — Always check signage before photographing, as some temporary exhibitions and sensitive cultural works prohibit flash photography or are photography-free zones.
• Reserve tickets in advance — Major exhibitions and special events often sell out, particularly on weekends and public holidays, so purchasing tickets online beforehand is highly recommended.
• Observe quiet observation etiquette — Singaporean cultural practice emphasizes respectful, quiet contemplation in galleries—keep conversations hushed to preserve the meditative atmosphere for all visitors.