Helix Bridge

The Helix Bridge is a curved footbridge across Marina Bay. Its steel frame twists like a strand of DNA. It opened in 2010 and is free to walk across.

The bridge links Marina Bay Sands with the Marina Centre side of the bay. It is part of the popular walk around the waterfront and has some of the best views of the bay.

What is the Helix Bridge?

The Helix Bridge is for people on foot only. It runs next to a road bridge but is a separate structure. It is about 280 metres long.

The design is based on DNA, the molecule that carries the code for life. Two curved steel spirals wrap around the walkway. The idea is to suggest life, growth and renewal.

At night, lights pick out the letters c, g, a and t along the bridge. These stand for the four bases that make up DNA. The lights make the bridge a favourite subject for photos.

What to see and do on the Helix Bridge

The walk across takes only a few minutes. Most people stay longer to enjoy the views and take photos.

• Viewing platforms: four platforms stick out over the water and give clear views of the bay.
• Marina Bay Sands: the three hotel towers and the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark rise above one end of the bridge.
• The city skyline: look across the bay to the towers of the Central Business District.
• The ArtScience Museum: the white lotus-shaped ArtScience Museum sits close to the bridge.
• The lights at night: see the coloured DNA letters glow after dark.

How to get to the Helix Bridge

On the Marina Bay Sands side, the nearest MRT station is Bayfront, on the Circle Line and the Downtown Line. Walk through the Marina Bay Sands complex to the waterfront.

On the Marina Centre side, the nearest MRT station is Promenade, also on the Circle Line and the Downtown Line. From there, walk towards the bay and the Singapore Flyer.

Many visitors reach the bridge on foot as part of a loop around the bay. You can start at Merlion Park and walk past the Esplanade to reach it. For help with the trains, see our guide on how to use the MRT in Singapore.

Best time to visit the Helix Bridge

The bridge looks its best after dark. The lights come on, and the city skyline glows across the water. This is the best time for photos.

Early evening is a good choice. You can see the sunset, then watch the lights come on. Daytime visits are fine too, but the sun can be strong, so bring water and a hat.

Many people combine the bridge with the free evening shows around the bay. Our guide to free light shows in Singapore explains what is on.

Tips for visiting

• Go after dark to see the DNA lights at their best.
• Use the viewing platforms for photos so you do not block the walkway.
• Keep to one side when it is busy, as many people walk across.
• Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk around the whole bay.
• Bring water on hot days, as the walk around the bay has little shade in places.

Food and things to do nearby

The bridge is a good link between several sights. Walk to Gardens by the Bay from the Marina Bay Sands side. In the evening, follow the Marina Bay Night Walk for more views of the bay lit up.

For a meal, Summer Pavilion and Colony are at The Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore on the Marina Centre side. Browse more restaurants in Marina Bay and the CBD.

To stay nearby, look at PARKROYAL Collection Marina Bay or other hotels in Marina Bay and the CBD. For more ideas that cost nothing, see Free Things To Do and our guide to photo spots.

FAQs about the Helix Bridge

Is the Helix Bridge free?

Yes. The Helix Bridge is a public footbridge and is free to walk across.

How long is the Helix Bridge?

The bridge is about 280 metres long. The walk across takes only a few minutes.

When was the Helix Bridge opened?

The Helix Bridge opened in 2010.

What do the letters on the Helix Bridge mean?

The letters c, g, a and t stand for the four bases of DNA. They light up in colour at night.