Merlion Park
Singapore's mythical Merlion statue, a symbol of the city-state, offering iconic views of Marina Bay.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
Merlion Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Singapore's mythical Merlion statue, a symbol of the city-state, offering iconic views of Marina Bay.
"A must-see icon with breathtaking views of Marina Bay."
📸 Beat the Crowds
Visit early morning or late evening for better photos and fewer people.
🚇 Easy MRT Access
Alight at Raffles Place MRT station for a short walk to the park.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Merlion Statue
Merlion Park
Singapore's mythical creature, half-lion and half-fish, spouting water. A quintessential photo opportunity.
Panoramic Marina Bay Views
Merlion Park waterfront
Stunning vistas of Marina Bay Sands, the Singapore Flyer, and the city skyline. Perfect for sunset.
Jubilee Bridge Promenade
Adjacent to Merlion Park
A pedestrian bridge offering elevated views and a great spot for photos with the Merlion and skyline.
Planning Your Visit
Free to Explore, But Plan Your Timing
Accessibility and Nearby Attractions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Beat the Crowds
Visit early morning or late evening for better photos and fewer people.
🚇 Easy MRT Access
Alight at Raffles Place MRT station for a short walk to the park. +1
💰 It's Free!
Enjoy the iconic Merlion and views without any admission fee.
💡 Photo Hack
Step away from the main crowd for a cleaner shot with MBS and Merlion.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Beat the Crowds
Visit early morning or late evening for better photos and fewer people.
🚇 Easy MRT Access
Alight at Raffles Place MRT station for a short walk to the park. +1
💰 It's Free!
Enjoy the iconic Merlion and views without any admission fee.
💡 Photo Hack
Step away from the main crowd for a cleaner shot with MBS and Merlion.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with other Marina Bay attractions like Esplanade and Helix Bridge.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Merlion Park is a universally recognized symbol of Singapore, offering free access to iconic views and the mythical Merlion statue. While some find it a bit touristy, its accessibility and the stunning Marina Bay backdrop make it a worthwhile stop for most visitors, especially when combined with nearby attractions.
"Singapore's iconic spot. Very busy during the day. The views presented are stunning and even though it is busy you still get a beautiful view, just to sit quietly and enjoy the atmosphere. Walking Walking across the river and bridge looking from a distance is very beautiful."
ruby kurniawan
"Me and my boyfriend recently stayed in Singapore for 5 days and of course we visited the famous Merlion. The place is iconic and a must-see, with a nice view of Marina Bay Sands in the background. The only downside is that it was very crowded when we went, so it was hard to take a proper photo — we had to wait for the space to clear a bit. Still, it’s free to visit and worth seeing at least once when in Singapore."
Joanne Bodanio
"What a place to hang around. At night it is even more amazing all the flashing lights, the culture, the crowd definitely must be a place to visit to see the whole area. At the left most is the view of the esplanade at the very front is the iconic Marina Bay Sands, at the back is the OG that is the fullerton hotel and at the right is the whole Marina Bay area. I highly recommend coming here any time of the day, either way it is a beautiful place to tour around."
Anjo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take the MRT to Raffles Place station. From there, it's a short, well-signposted walk to the park. +1 Some visitors also opt for Grab or taxis, but be mindful of potential surge pricing.
Yes, Merlion Park is generally accessible 24/7, making it a great spot for late-night strolls or early morning visits.
Absolutely! Merlion Park is centrally located within the Marina Bay area. You can easily walk from attractions like Marina Bay Sands, the Esplanade, and the Helix Bridge.
The closest MRT station is Raffles Place (EW14/NS26). From the station, follow the signs towards the waterfront.
Taxis are usually available, but during peak hours or late at night, you might experience a wait. Grab is also a popular option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Merlion Park and viewing the Merlion statue is completely free.
There are no admission fees to visit Merlion Park or to see the Merlion statue itself.
Merlion Park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, allowing for visits at any time.
For fewer crowds and better photo opportunities, early mornings or late evenings are recommended.
Yes, you can get quite close to the Merlion statue. There's a designated area for visitors to take photos and admire it.
📸 📸 Photography
To avoid the typical tourist shots, try moving a few meters away from the main crowd for a cleaner angle that includes both the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands.
Early mornings offer soft, natural light and fewer people. Evenings provide a stunning backdrop of the illuminated city skyline.
Yes, with a bit of maneuvering, you can capture both iconic landmarks in a single frame. Experiment with different angles from the waterfront or the Jubilee Bridge.
The waterfront area of Merlion Park offers excellent views of the sunset over Marina Bay, with the city skyline as a dramatic backdrop.
Any modern smartphone with good low-light capabilities will work well, especially for evening shots. A DSLR or mirrorless camera will offer more control for professional shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around Merlion Park, particularly One Fullerton, has numerous restaurants and cafes offering various cuisines.
While not directly in the park, you can find excellent hawker food at Lau Pa Sat, which is a short walk or a quick ride away.
One Fullerton, adjacent to Merlion Park, features a range of dining establishments, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants with bay views.
Dining options vary. You can find more affordable meals at nearby hawker centers or opt for pricier restaurants with bay views.
Yes, several cafes are located within One Fullerton and along the Marina Bay promenade, perfect for a coffee break.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's also a great starting point for a family-friendly walk around Marina Bay. You can easily combine a visit with a stroll across the Jubilee Bridge or a trip to the nearby ArtScience Museum, which often has interactive exhibits for children. Pack some snacks and water, as while there are dining options nearby, they can be pricier.
💰 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, utilize the efficient MRT system to reach the park, alighting at Raffles Place station.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles; moving away from the main viewing area can yield unique compositions that include both the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Merlion: Symbol of Singapore
While some locals might find it a bit kitschy, the Merlion remains a powerful emblem of Singaporean identity and a must-see for tourists. It's a focal point for national pride and a constant reminder of the country's unique heritage. The statue's water-spouting feature adds a dynamic element, making it a captivating sight, especially when illuminated at night.
Many visitors find the Merlion to be a surprisingly engaging landmark, despite its somewhat unusual design. It's a testament to how a single symbol can encapsulate a nation's story and aspirations. The surrounding park offers a pleasant space to relax, take photos, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Marina Bay.
Navigating Merlion Park and Marina Bay
From Merlion Park, you can easily walk to other key attractions such as the Marina Bay Sands integrated resort, the ArtScience Museum, and the Gardens by the Bay. The Helix Bridge, a pedestrian bridge inspired by DNA, is also nearby and offers unique architectural views.
When planning your visit, consider the time of day. Early mornings are ideal for avoiding crowds and capturing serene shots of the bay.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit