A Beginner’s Guide to Exploring National Gallery Singapore

Visiting National Gallery Singapore for the first time? Immerse yourself in the rich Singaporean heritage and captivating stories of Singapore and Southeast Asia through its art. Housed in two beautifully restored national monuments — the former Supreme Court and City Hall — the Gallery is a must-visit for sightseeing in Singapore and offers engaging museum tours that blend architecture, history, and creativity under one roof.

Whether you’re here for an hour or a whole afternoon, here’s how to create a truly memorable visit. 

Start with Singapore Stories: Pathways and Detours in Art

Begin your visit with Singapore Stories: Pathways and Detours in Art, in the revamped DBS Singapore Gallery. This permanent exhibition invites you to wander through a rich, ever-changing journey of Singapore’s art history, uncovering stories that twist, turn, and surprise at every corner. You’ll encounter questions that are both historical and personal: Whose story is this? Where is home? What is new? What is art for? 

As you explore, masterpieces by pioneering artists such as Georgette Chen’s Self-Portrait, Liu Kang’s Working at the Brick Factory, Chua Mia Tee’s National Language Class, and Chen Wen Hsi’s Gibbons sit alongside contemporary works that reinterpret what “Singaporean art” means today. The experience is both reflective and full of discovery — a reminder that art, like the nation itself, is always evolving. 

Take your time in this space, pausing to notice how familiar scenes — a bustling market, a winding river, a quiet portrait — reveal layers of memory and identity. It’s a gentle, reflective way to begin understanding how artists across generations have captured the spirit of Singapore. 

Tip: Take a break in DBS Singapore Gallery 1 — the refurbished cinema seats are a cosy spot to watch vintage film clips that bring Singapore’s early movie industry to life.

Make Your Way to Between Declarations and Dreams: Art of Southeast Asia since the 19th Century

Move from local stories to regional connections as you head to the UOB Southeast Asia Gallery in the Former Supreme Court Wing to explore Between Declarations and Dreams: Art of Southeast Asia since the 19th Century. If you’re curious about how Southeast Asia’s artists captured the spirit of change across the centuries, this gallery is unmissable. Showcases over 300 works tracing the shared artistic impulses shaping the region across generations — a highlight for any museum tour in Singapore.

The exhibition’s title comes from a 1948 poem by Indonesian poet Chairil Anwar, written during his country’s struggle for independence. That dialogue between hope and reality — between art and politics — gives this gallery its soul.

As you step through these galleries, you’ll move between centuries and ideas — from colonial-era paintings to bold modern installations — linking key turning points in the region’s history: colonial rule, independence movements, and the rise of modern nations. Discover how artists across time embraced bold new ideas while honouring their traditions, creating a rich and vibrant blend of styles and stories that reflect freedom, identity, and resilience.

Tip: Don’t rush! Some of the most intriguing works are tucked away in smaller corners or use unconventional materials. Keep your eyes open and let the gallery surprise you.

Where Heritage Meets Modern Design

Beyond innovative exhibitions, the Gallery's architecture is a highlight worth exploring. As the last of the city’s neoclassical buildings, the exterior of the Former Supreme Court Wing boasts grand Corinthian features, while a closer look at its interior reveals Art Deco details. Wander through the grand corridors of the Former Supreme Court Wing, taking in the sweeping staircases and the restored Supreme Court Foyer, which features the Foundation Stone. Did you know that beneath this stone lies a time capsule, set to be opened in the year 3000?

From elegant handrails and art-deco light fittings to bold black-and-white terrazzo floors with striking geometric patterns, every detail tells a story. Peek into former courtrooms, now exhibition spaces, and you’ll discover how the building’s history is woven into every corner.

Moving into Padang Atrium, you’ll find that sunlight floods the space between the City Hall and Supreme Court Wings. The Lower Link Bridge, suspended above, is a popular photo stop for visitors, offering a unique perspective of the architecture. Look up at the filigree roof above the atrium and the Supreme Court terrace — you’ll notice how it gently filters light, inspired by forest canopies and the weaving of natural fibres like rattan.

From here, you can make your way up to the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery for panoramic views of the Civic District and the Padang below. Here, you’ll also find Temple, the latest installation from the Ng Teng Fong Rooftop Commission, part of the Singapore Biennale, where contemporary art meets the cityscape in a striking display.

Tip: Pause in transitional spaces — stairwells, bridges, and atriums often hide restored court fixtures, inscriptions, and subtle artworks that tell the story of the building itself. 

Join a Guided Tour or Explore at Your Own Pace

For a deeper look at the Gallery’s art and architecture, join one of its free guided tours — led by passionate guides and docents who bring history to life — a great way to discover hidden stories and deepen your appreciation of Singaporean heritage.

Building Highlights Tour

Learn about the Gallery’s remarkable transformation from the former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings. This tour uncovers architectural gems and fascinating design details that bring the Gallery’s history to life. The Building Highlights Tour is free for all visitors — perfect if you want a quick but insightful introduction to the Gallery.

Highlights of the Gallery

Perfect for your first-time visit to National Gallery Singapore, this tour showcases signature artworks and key architectural features across both the Singapore and Southeast Asia galleries. A General Admission ticket is required for this tour.

Prefer to explore at your own pace? Pick up a self-guided tour map or follow the Ultimate First-Timer’s Guide on the Gallery’s website — perfect if you like lingering at your favourite artworks or taking your time to rediscover old favourites on a return visit. 

Before You Go

📅 Opening hours: Daily, 10am – 7pm (last admission at 6.30pm)

🎟️ Tickets: A General Admission ticket is required for most exhibitions — purchase yours online or at the ticketing kiosks on-site.

🕒 Best time to visit: Mornings are usually quieter, with soft daylight filtering through the galleries — perfect if you prefer a slower, more contemplative museum experience.

Exploring National Gallery Singapore is more than just a day out — it’s a journey into the region’s shared memories and artistic spirit. As you leave, you’ll find yourself thinking back to those quiet moments between brushstrokes and light — reminders of creativity, connection, and change.