Merlion Park, Singapore: The Iconic Must-See Stop
No trip to Singapore is ever complete without a visit to Merlion Park. Framed by the skyline of Marina Bay and overlooking the glittering waters of the bayfront, the Merlion stands proudly as Singapore’s official mascot – half lion, half fish, and 100% iconic.
Taking a photo here isn’t just a tourist ritual – it’s practically a rite of passage. Whether you’re doing the classic “open-mouth” pose or catching the water stream at just the right angle, this is the place to make it clear: you’ve arrived in Singapore.
What to Expect at Merlion Park
The Merlion Statue is 8.6 meters tall, spouting water from its mouth. It symbolizes Singapore’s origins as a fishing village (the fish tail) and its original name Singapura (meaning “lion city”).
Best time for photos is early morning or just before sunset for ideal lighting and fewer crowds. It gets crowded quickly, so if you want that perfect photo, be ready to move fast and secure your spot.
The Merlion statue sometimes undergoes maintenance, but the closures are brief, and the park usually remains open to visitors.
How to Get to Merlion Park from Popular Locations
From Chinatown / Cube Family Capsule Hotel
Walking takes around 20 to 25 minutes. Follow the route southeast past Telok Ayer, cross Cavenagh Bridge, and you’ll arrive at the bayfront.
For MRT, board at Chinatown MRT (NE4/DT19), transfer at Dhoby Ghaut to the Circle Line, and alight at Esplanade (CC3). From there, it’s a 10-minute walk.
From Changi Airport (SIN)
By MRT, the total journey is about 50 minutes. Board at Changi Airport MRT Station (CG2), transfer at Expo (CG1/DT35), then again at Promenade (CC4). Alight at Raffles Place (NS26/EW14) and walk around 10 minutes.
By taxi, the ride takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes and costs about SGD $25 to $30 depending on traffic.
From Marina Bay Sands Hotel
Walking from the hotel takes only about 15 minutes along the bayfront promenade. Use the Helix Bridge for a scenic shortcut that leads directly to the Fullerton Hotel and Merlion Park.
Make It a Day Trip
After visiting Merlion Park, it’s easy to explore more of the city on foot. Cross the Helix Bridge to Marina Bay Sands for shopping, dining, or panoramic views. Then head to Gardens by the Bay and enjoy the Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, or the Children’s Garden.
Don’t miss the evening light show at the Supertree Grove. It starts at 7:45 PM or 8:45 PM, but it’s recommended to arrive by 7 PM for a good spot.
Nearby Food Stops
Maxwell Hawker Centre near Chinatown is famous for local dishes such as Hainanese chicken rice.
Makansutra Gluttons Bay, near Esplanade, offers authentic Singaporean street food with views of the bay.
Satay by the Bay inside Gardens by the Bay is a great option if you plan to continue your trip there after Merlion Park.
A Visitor’s Perspective
One traveler shared their experience:
“We walked from Chinatown to Merlion Park with our two kids and grabbed coffee along the bay. The kids loved the view and open space, and walking to Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay made the day feel like a mini city adventure. Pro tip – get to the Supertree Grove early for the light show!”
