Merlion Park

Merlion Park is home to the Merlion, a statue with the head of a lion and the body of a fish. It stands at One Fullerton, on the edge of Marina Bay. The park is free to visit and is one of the most photographed places in Singapore.

Most visitors stop here early in their trip. This guide explains what to see, when to go for photos and how to get there.

What is Merlion Park?

The Merlion is the best-known symbol of Singapore. The lion head stands for Singapura, an old name meaning lion city. The fish body recalls the city's beginnings as a fishing village.

The main statue is about 8.6 metres tall. Water pours from its mouth into the bay. The statue first stood near the mouth of the Singapore River. It was moved to its current spot in 2002, when the park opened here.

The park itself is small and open to the sky. It has a wide paved area by the water where people gather to take photos and enjoy the view.

What to see and do at Merlion Park

The visit is mostly about the statue and the view. Give yourself time to walk around and find a good angle.

• The Merlion statue: see it up close and watch the water pour into the bay.
• The Merlion cub: a much smaller Merlion stands behind the main statue.
• Views across the bay: look across to the three towers of the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark.
• The Esplanade: the spiky domes of the arts centre sit across the water.
• Fun photos: many visitors pose so the Merlion seems to pour water into their mouth or hands.

How to get to Merlion Park

Raffles Place MRT station is the closest. From the station, it is a short walk towards the waterfront at One Fullerton.

You can also walk here along the Marina Bay waterfront. From the Esplanade, cross the Jubilee Bridge to reach the park. The walk around the bay is flat and easy.

New to the trains? Our guide on how to use the MRT in Singapore explains the basics.

Best time to visit Merlion Park

Early morning is the quietest time. The light is soft, the air is cooler and you can take photos without big crowds.

Evening is also popular. The Merlion is lit up at night, and the city lights reflect on the water. It is a good start or end point for an evening walk around the bay.

Singapore is hot and humid all year, and there is little shade by the statue. Bring water and a hat if you visit in the middle of the day.

Tips for visiting

• Go early in the morning for photos without crowds.
• Be patient at the front of the statue. People take turns for photos.
• Keep a firm grip on your phone near the water.
• Do not climb on the statue or the railings.
• Bring water and sun protection on hot days.

Food and things to do nearby

Merlion Park is a good starting point for a walk around Marina Bay. Cross the bay to the Helix Bridge and the ArtScience Museum. In the evening, follow the Marina Bay Night Walk to see the bay lit up.

Head a short way up the Singapore River to Boat Quay, a row of old shophouses with riverside restaurants. For local food, read our guide to the best hawker centres in Singapore for tourists. You can also browse restaurants in Marina Bay and the CBD.

The Fullerton Bay Hotel is right by the waterfront if you want to stay close. See more hotels in Marina Bay and the CBD. For more ideas that cost nothing, see our list of Free Things To Do and 20 Free Things to Do in Singapore.

FAQs about Merlion Park

Is Merlion Park free to visit?

Yes. Merlion Park is a free, open-air park. You do not need a ticket.

How tall is the Merlion statue?

The main Merlion statue is about 8.6 metres tall. A much smaller Merlion cub stands behind it.

How long do I need at Merlion Park?

Most people spend 30 minutes to an hour here. Allow more time if you want to walk around the bay.

What is the nearest MRT station?

Raffles Place MRT station is the closest. It is a short walk to the waterfront at One Fullerton.