Raffles Landing Site Singapore
Symbolic spot where Sir Stamford Raffles landed in 1819, marking the birth of modern Singapore. A historical marker by the river.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Raffles Landing Site Singapore
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Symbolic spot where Sir Stamford Raffles landed in 1819, marking the birth of modern Singapore. A historical marker by the river.
"A quick but meaningful stop to connect with Singapore's founding history by the scenic river."
📸 Capture the Skyline
Combine the statue with the modern skyline for a striking contrast. Early morning or late afternoon light is best.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Riverfront
Walk along the Singapore River for scenic views and to connect with other landmarks like the Merlion.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Raffles Statue
Singapore Riverfront
A bronze statue commemorating Sir Stamford Raffles' arrival in Singapore in 1819. A key historical marker.
Riverside Promenade
Along the Singapore River
Enjoy a leisurely walk with views of modern skyscrapers and historic colonial buildings. Great for photos.
Historical Context Plaque
Near the statue
Read about the significance of this spot where Singapore's modern history reportedly began.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Raffles Landing Site
Beyond the Statue: Exploring the Vicinity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Skyline
Combine the statue with the modern skyline for a striking contrast. Early morning or late afternoon light is best.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Riverfront
Walk along the Singapore River for scenic views and to connect with other landmarks like the Merlion.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Singapore is hot and humid year-round. Carry water and wear light clothing.
🏨 Nearby Luxury
Consider a visit to the historic Raffles Hotel for a Singapore Sling, though it's pricey.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Skyline
Combine the statue with the modern skyline for a striking contrast. Early morning or late afternoon light is best.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Riverfront
Walk along the Singapore River for scenic views and to connect with other landmarks like the Merlion.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Singapore is hot and humid year-round. Carry water and wear light clothing.
🏨 Nearby Luxury
Consider a visit to the historic Raffles Hotel for a Singapore Sling, though it's pricey.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate Raffles Landing Site as a historically significant marker and a pleasant spot for a brief riverside stroll. Its central location makes it convenient to combine with other city attractions. However, some find it to be a very quick visit with limited activities directly at the site itself.
"If you're a lover of art and culture, Singapore will have you in awe! From the iconic architecture of the National Gallery to the cutting-edge exhibits at the ArtScience Museum, there’s so much to explore. The city also has this magical night vibe—when the lights come on, the whole place transforms! I’d definitely say sunset to evening is the best time to see the city in its full glory."
Loanna Angelidaki
"Visited back in early March. This spot marks the location were it is believed Sir Stamford Raffles made his landing in Singapore. It’s a nice spot on Boat Quay, with a statue of the man himself. Not the most amazing thing to see, but it's a bit of history."
macedonboy
"There is some controversial as to where Stanford Raffles actually landed.
Some believed that it was at Kallang Basin.
But nevertheless, with his arrival, representing British East India Company and the vested interest here, it had slowly transformed this once idyllic fishing kampong to a thriving seaport and bustling metropolis."
Forest BK
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Raffles Landing Site is via the MRT. Alight at Raffles Place MRT Station (NS1/EW14) and follow the signs. It's a short walk from the station. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
Yes, Raffles Landing Site is very well-connected by public transport. The MRT station is right nearby, making it convenient for visitors.
Absolutely! Raffles Landing Site is within walking distance of many key attractions, including the Merlion Park and the Fullerton Hotel. It's part of a scenic riverside walk.
For first-time visitors, the MRT system is highly recommended. It's clean, efficient, and affordable. You can use an EZ-Link card or your contactless credit card.
While there are parking options in the Raffles Place area, public transport is generally more convenient and recommended for reaching this central location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Raffles Landing Site is an open public space and a historical marker. There is no admission fee to visit the statue and the surrounding plaza.
As an outdoor public space, Raffles Landing Site is accessible 24/7. However, it's best visited during daylight hours for sightseeing and photography.
There is no entrance fee. The site is a public monument and accessible to everyone at any time.
While there isn't a specific tour for just the landing site, many general Singapore history tours will include this location. The Raffles Hotel nearby offers history tours.
Yes, you can visit Raffles Landing Site at night. The area is generally safe, and you can enjoy the city lights reflecting on the river. However, visibility for photos might be limited.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots are typically with the Raffles statue in the foreground and the modern Singapore skyline or the Fullerton Hotel in the background. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light.
It can be challenging to get a clear shot of the statue without other people in it, especially during peak hours. Visiting early or late can help.
A standard smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the site. If you want to emphasize the skyline, a camera with a good zoom or wide-angle lens can be beneficial.
Drone usage is generally restricted in Singapore's city center, especially around historical sites and government buildings. It's best to check current regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
There are no specific restrictions on personal photography at Raffles Landing Site. However, commercial photography might require permits.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
At Raffles Landing Site, you can see the statue of Sir Stamford Raffles, read the historical plaque, and enjoy a walk along the Singapore River. It's a place for a brief historical reflection and photo opportunities.
You only need about 15-30 minutes to see the statue and read the plaque. However, many visitors combine it with a longer walk along the river, so you could spend an hour or more in the area.
It can get moderately crowded, especially during peak tourist times or when tour groups are present. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can offer a less crowded experience.
Public restrooms are not directly at the landing site itself, but you can find them in nearby public areas, shopping centers like One Raffles Place, or at the Fullerton Hotel.
Yes, children can visit Raffles Landing Site. It's a good spot to introduce them to Singapore's history in a brief, engaging way. The open space is good for them to walk around.
🍽️ 🍹 Food & Dining
Yes, the Raffles Place area is a business district with many dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. The historic Raffles Hotel also offers dining experiences.
You can get a Singapore Sling at the Long Bar in the Raffles Hotel, which is a short walk away. Be aware that it is quite expensive.
For more affordable options, explore the food courts in nearby office buildings like One Raffles Place or head towards Lau Pa Sat hawker centre, which is a short taxi or MRT ride away.
Street food is not typically found directly at Raffles Landing Site. For hawker food experiences, you'll need to travel to designated hawker centers.
Dining at Raffles Hotel is a luxurious experience, often featuring colonial charm and fine cuisine. The Long Bar is famous for its Singapore Sling and peanut-shell-on-the-floor tradition.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Keep the visit brief and focus on the visual aspects. Afterwards, head to the nearby Merlion Park for more engaging photo opportunities or consider a ride on the Singapore River cruise for a more interactive experience. Remember to bring water and hats, as it can get very hot.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To save money on food, avoid the upscale restaurants in the immediate vicinity. Instead, head to nearby hawker centers like Lau Pa Sat (a short MRT ride away) or explore the food courts within the office buildings in Raffles Place for more economical meal options.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the full scene, or a telephoto lens to isolate details. Be patient, as getting a clear shot of the statue without people can be challenging. The riverside promenade also offers excellent vantage points for capturing the bustling river traffic and the city's architectural diversity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Raffles Landing Site
The area around Raffles Landing Site has transformed dramatically since 1819. From a humble trading post, it has evolved into a bustling financial district, with towering skyscrapers now dominating the skyline where dense jungle once stood. Despite the modernization, the landing site retains its historical importance, offering a tangible connection to the island's colonial past. It's a place where the old meets the new, a common theme throughout Singapore.
Many visitors find the site a brief but meaningful stop. It's less about grand spectacle and more about historical contemplation. It's often visited in conjunction with other nearby landmarks, providing context for Singapore's rapid development.
Exploring the Singapore Riverfront
Many visitors enjoy a leisurely stroll, taking in the sights and sounds of the river. You can watch the bumboats (water taxis) ferry passengers, observe the city's vibrant life, and capture stunning photographs, especially during the 'golden hour' before sunset. The area is well-maintained and offers plenty of benches for resting and soaking in the atmosphere.
Combining a visit to Raffles Landing Site with a river cruise or a walk to the Merlion Park provides a comprehensive experience of this iconic waterfront. It's a perfect way to understand Singapore's journey from a small trading post to a global metropolis.
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