Journey Through Time at These 9 Museums in Singapore

Singapore may be famous for its dazzling skyline and futuristic attractions, but beyond the surface lies a rich tapestry of culture, history and art, which is best explored through its diverse array of museums. From chronicles of the nation’s past at the National Museum of Singapore to the futuristic lotus-inspired ArtScience Museum, each institution tells a unique story. You can wander through ancient artifacts, admire contemporary art, and learn about the roots of diverse local communities. Ready to embark on a cultural adventure? Let’s explore the best museums in Singapore and discover the treasures they hold!

9 Museums in Singapore That Every Traveler Must Visit

Here's a list of the popular museums in Singapore that offer enriching experiences for every traveler:

1. National Museum of Singapore

National Museum of Singapore is arguably the best place to begin your journey of discovering the heritage of the country, spanning over 700 years. Established in 1849, it is the oldest museum in the country and is housed in a colonial building featuring Renaissance-style architecture. It has 11 permanent galleries, offering over 1700 cultural artifacts, immersive slideshows and interactive programs. Singapore History Gallery showcases a captivating journey from its early days to the present, while special exhibitions often explore unique facets of culture and heritage. Located in Civic District, the museum is in proximity of other attractions, making it one of the most visited places in Singapore.

Visiting Hours: 10 AM to 7 PM, Daily

Best Time to Visit: Morning on weekdays

Ticket Price Range: SGD 10 for senior citizens and students, SGD 15 for adults

Tips for Visiting National Museum of Singapore:

• Allocate at least 2 to 3 hours to explore the main galleries at the museum
• Audio guides are available in multiple languages for a deeper experience
• Carry a camera to take photographs of the exhibits
• Entry for residents and citizens of Singapore is free

2. ArtScience Museum

Located within the Marina Bay Sands, ArtScience Museum is an architectural marvel with a stunning lotus-shaped design. Opened in 2011, this iconic museum hosts world-class exhibitions that explore the intersection of art, science, culture, and technology. It is divided into 21 galleries, each offering a new perspective and encouraging visitors to ponder the big questions of current times. Its major highlight is the ‘Future World: Where Art Meets Science’, a permanent exhibition with interactive digital art installations suitable for visitors of all ages. Moreover, the museum has hosted exhibitions by globally renowned artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent Van Gogh, Salvador Dalí, Andy Warhol and M.C. Escher.

Visiting Hours:

• Sunday to Thursday – 10 AM to 7 PM (Last entry at 6 PM)
• Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 9 PM (Last entry at 8.15 PM)

Best Time to Visit: Afternoon on weekdays

Ticket Price Range: SGD 21 to SGD 50 (depending on the exhibition)

Tips for Visiting ArtScience Museum:

• Book tickets online in advance, especially for popular exhibitions
• Visit on an afternoon during weekdays, when there are lesser crowds
• Arrive early to explore the museum in the morning slot
• Check for displays on display and sections closed for maintenance

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3. Asian Civilisations Museum

Sitting on the banks of Singapore River, Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) houses a 5000-year artistic heritage of Asia. Founded in 1997, the museum features 11 well-organized galleries with 1300 artefacts from different civilizations that have flourished across the Asian continent. Here, visitors can see Chinese ceramics, Indian sculptures, Southeast Asian textiles, Islamic artworks and so much more. It also highlights the connections and exchanges between different cultures across Asia, which have shaped Singapore and the wider region over the centuries.

Visiting Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday – 10 AM to 7 PM (Last entry at 6:30 PM)
• Friday – 10 AM to 9 PM (Last entry at 8:30 PM)

Best Time to Visit: Friday evening

Ticket Price Range: SGD 20 for adults, SGD 15 for students and seniors, Free for children below 6 years

Tips for Visiting Asian Civilisations Museum:

• Join one of the free guided tours to get expert insights into the collections
• Don’t miss the riverfront view from the cafe in the museum

4. National Gallery Singapore

Established in 2015, National Gallery Singapore is a new but one of the best institutions dedicated to art and culture of the country. Covering an area of 64,000 square meters, it is the largest visual arts venue in Singapore. It spans across four floors in two beautifully restored buildings that initially housed the Supreme Court and City Hall. The museum is home to the world’s largest public collection of Singaporean and Southeast Asian art since the 19th century. Its comprehensive collection comprises more than 9000 items, including art journals, art archives, artist monographs and exhibition catalogues.

Visiting Hours: 10 AM to 7 PM, Daily

Best Time to Visit: Weekdays

Ticket Price Range: SGD 20 for non-citizens

Tips for Visiting National Gallery Singapore:

• Check the schedule for curator talks and special programs
• The rooftop bar offers stunning views of the Padang and Marina Bay
• There is a dedicated kids' zone, making it ideal for family visits

Suggested Read: Top Things to Do in Singapore for a Delightful Travel Experience

5. Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum

For those fascinated by the natural world, Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum (LKCNHM) is an absolute gem. Located within the National University of Singapore, the museum houses an impressive collection of zoological and botanical specimens. Although LKCNHM was established in 2015, its roots date to Raffles Museum from 1878. It is divided into two levels, namely the Biodiversity Gallery and the Heritage Gallery that feature different zones. The main attraction at the museum is the trio of magnificent dinosaur fossils right at the entrance. The exhibits trace the history of life on Earth, with a special focus on Southeast Asian biodiversity.

Visiting Hours:

• Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
• Monday – Closed

Best Time to Visit: Morning on weekdays

Ticket Price Range: SGD 16 to SGD 21 for residents and non-residents

Tips for Visiting Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum:

• Keep at least 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the museum and adjacent biodiversity garden
• It’s a bit outside the city center, so plan your transport accordingly
• Check out the gift shop for nature-themed souvenirs
• Book tickets online for guaranteed entry and avoiding long queues

6. Peranakan Museum

Situated in the Museum District, Peranakan Museum is an unmissable landmark for those who love history and exploring different cultures. Established in 2008, it is a sister institution of the Asian Civilisations Museum and is dedicated to the vibrant Peranakan Chinese culture. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the customs, traditions, and intricate aesthetics of the Straits-born people of mixed Malay and Chinese heritage. Housed in a beautifully restored former school, it has ten permanent galleries filled with stunning artifacts, including colorful porcelain, intricate beadwork, and fine furniture.

Visiting Hours:

• Saturday to Thursday – 10 AM to 7 PM
• Friday – 10 AM to 9 PM

Best Time to Visit: Morning on weekdays

Ticket Price Range: SGD 12 to SGD 16

Tips for Visiting Peranakan Museum:

• Explore interactive displays that explain the significance of various Peranakan rituals and objects
• Plan a visit of about an hour for comfortable exploration of the museum

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7. Indian Heritage Centre

Located in the heart of Little India, the Indian Heritage Centre (IHC) showcases the history, culture, and contributions of the Indian community in Singapore. It is housed in a four-storey buildingwith a striking modern facade inspired by traditional Indian stepwells, which makes it an unmissable landmark in the neighborhood. The museum features five permanent galleries with over 400 artifacts and photographs, three large interactives and over 20 touch screen interactives that trace the journey of Indian migrants to Southeast Asia.

Visiting Hours:

• Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM)
• Monday – Closed

Best Time to Visit: Afternoon on weekdays

Ticket Price Range: SGD 8 for foreign visitors

Tips for Visiting Indian Heritage Centre:

• Combine your visit with a walk around Little India to experience the culture firsthand
• Attend the cultural performances and workshops hosted at the museum

8. Changi Chapel and Museum

Founded in 2001, the Changi Chapel and Museum offers a profound look into the dark chapter of Singapore’s history. It is a poignant tribute to the prisoners of war (POWs) and civilian internees who suffered in Changi prison camp during the Japanese Occupation in World War II. The museum showcases personal stories of courage, loss, and resilience through letters, drawings, and personal artifacts from 1942 to 1945. The adjacent chapel is a replica of the original St. George’s Church built by the POWs.

Visiting Hours:

• Tuesday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (last entry at 5 PM)
• Monday – Closed

Best Time to Visit: Mornings for quiet reflection

Ticket Price Range: Free for Singaporeans/PRs, Ticketed for Foreign Visitors (around SGD 8)

Tips for Visiting Changi Chapel and Museum:

• The calm atmosphere of the museum is ideal for self-reflection
• Learn about the site via an audio guide narrated by former internees with a deeply personal touch

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9. Red Dot Design Museum

For lovers of contemporary design and innovation, the Red Dot Design Museum is must-see. Housed in a striking glass building along the Marina Bay, it showcases more than 2000 objects across different fields that have won the prestigious Red Dot Design Award. From consumer electronics to furniture, the exhibits at the museum celebrate beautiful and functional designs from 60 countries of the world. The museum was earlier situated on Maxwell Road but was relocated to its current location in 2017.

Visiting Hours:

• Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 7 PM
• Saturday – 10 AM to 7 PM

Best Time to Visit: Evening

Ticket Price Range: Approximately SGD 10 to SGD 20

Tips for Visiting Red Dot Design Museum:

• Buy unique souvenirs and design-forward gifts from the shop in the museum premises
• Stroll along the waterfront after exploring the museum

Other Information About Singapore

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Museums in Singapore

• Check for Free Admission days on the official website and plan your visit accordingly
• Buy a Museum Pass that offers entry to multiple museums
• Book tickets online to save time and enjoy guaranteed entry
• Take advantage of free guided tours led by volunteers for fascinating insights into history
• Carry only essentials to move around freely
• Keep yourself hydrated and energized throughout the exploration
• Avoid flash photography inside the museums and don’t touch the exhibits
• Keep your voice low to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone

10 Things to Do in Singapore

• Explore the Gardens by the Bay, known for the iconic SuperTree Grove and cooled conservatories
• Spend a day enjoying attractions, rides, and shows at Universal Studios
• See diverse marine life at S.E.A. Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world
• Go on a river cruise at Clarke Quay and see iconic landmarks from a different angle
• Experience of mix of food, heritage and shopping in Chinatown
• Climb up the SkyPark Observation Deck at Marina Bay Sands for panoramic views
• Embark on a food tour at a hawker center like Lau Pa Sat or Maxwell Food Centre
• Discover the cultural heritage and colorful streets of Kampong Glam
• See more than 2,800 animals at the world-famous Singapore Zoo
• Take a tour of Little India neighborhood for deep cultural immersion

How to Reach Singapore:

Take a direct flight to Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), the main arrival point in Singapore from over 400 cities in about 100 countries. Airlines like Malaysia Airlines, Thai AirAsia, Korean Air, AirAsia, Air Mauritius, and Singapore Airlines offer regular services to and from the country.

Singapore is more than just a world of glamour and entertainment. The diverse range of museums in Singapore ensures there is something for everyone. Whether you are art enthusiast, an academic, or simply a curious traveler, the rich cultural landscape of Singapore is bound to leave you inspired and enriched. For a seamless and memorable experience, plan your trip with our exclusively crafted Singapore tour packages. Enjoy comfortable and convenient travel, stay and local experiences without any worries and create memories that you will cherish through life!

FAQ’s - Museums in Singapore