Is Merlion (Singapore) Worth Visiting?
The Merlion is an iconic symbol of Singapore, instantly recognisable and a must-see for many first-time visitors. It's all about capturing that perfect photo with the mythical creature spouting water against the backdrop of Marina Bay. Its popularity stems from its unique design and representation of Singapore's history as a fishing village (the fish tail) and its original name, Singapura, meaning "lion city" in Malay (the lion's head).
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit Merlion (Singapore)
Planning your visit to the Merlion? Here's what you need to know to make the most of your trip. Knowing the best time to see this iconic statue will help you avoid crowds and capture the best photos.
- Opening Hours: The Merlion Park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is early in the morning (around 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM) or late in the evening (after 8:00 PM). These times offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.
- Busiest Times: Weekends and public holidays tend to be the busiest. Avoid visiting during lunchtime (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM) and late afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) on these days.
- Estimated Visit Duration: Allow approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour for your visit. This gives you enough time to take photos, enjoy the views, and soak in the atmosphere.
Location Details about Merlion (Singapore)
Want to know where is the Merlion located? Finding this famous landmark is easy with these location details. Here's everything you need to know to get there.
- Address: Merlion Park, 1 Fullerton Road, Singapore 049213
- Parking Availability: Limited parking is available at One Fullerton and nearby buildings like the Fullerton Bay Hotel. Street parking is very limited.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: The Merlion Park is wheelchair accessible, with paved pathways and ramps.
How Much to Enter / Visit Merlion (Singapore)
Curious about tickets, passes, or tours for the Merlion? The good news is that visiting the Merlion Park is completely free! Here's what you need to know.
- Entry Fee: Free. There is no charge to visit the Merlion Park and view the Merlion statue.
- Tours: While visiting the Merlion itself is free, some guided walking tours of Marina Bay may include a stop at the Merlion Park. These tours will have their own pricing. You can buy these tours from Traveloka.
How To Go to Merlion (Singapore)
Need to know how to go to the Merlion? Getting to the Merlion is straightforward using Singapore's efficient public transport system. Here's a breakdown of your options.
- MRT: The closest MRT station is Raffles Place (East-West Line and North-South Line). From Raffles Place, take Exit H and walk towards the waterfront. The Merlion Park is approximately a 5-minute walk.
- Bus: Several bus routes stop near the Merlion Park. Check the SBS Transit or SMRT websites for the most up-to-date bus schedules and routes. Alight at bus stops near Fullerton Square.
- Ride Hailing: Ride Hailing services are readily available in Singapore. Simply book a ride to Merlion Park.
- From Changi Airport: Take the MRT from Changi Airport (East-West Line) to Tanah Merah station. Transfer to the westbound train towards Joo Koon and alight at Raffles Place station. Follow the directions above from Raffles Place. Alternatively, take a Ride Hailing service directly from the airport.
Things To Do in or near the Merlion
Looking for nearby attractions and activities around the Merlion? There's plenty to see and do in the vicinity of this iconic landmark. Here are some ideas for things to see nearby.
- Activities in Merlion Park:
- Take photos with the Merlion statue.
- Enjoy the views of Marina Bay Sands, the Esplanade, and the Singapore skyline.
- Stroll along the waterfront promenade.
- Have a picnic in the park.
- Watch the light show at Marina Bay Sands (Spectra).
- Activities Nearby Merlion:
- Visit the ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands.
- Take a ride on the Singapore Flyer.
- Explore Gardens by the Bay.
- Go shopping at Marina Bay Sands Shoppes.
- Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants along the Marina Bay waterfront.
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Nearby MRT Station & Bus Stops near the Merlion Singapore
Navigating to and from the Merlion is easy with the nearby MRT and bus stations. Here's a quick guide to the closest transport options. Knowing the nearby MRT station is essential for easy access.
- Raffles Place MRT Station (NS26/EW14): Approximately a 5-minute walk (400m). This station is served by the North-South and East-West Lines.
- Bus Stops Nearby:
- Fullerton Square (Bus Stop ID: 03011): Served by bus routes 10, 10E, 70, 75, 100, 107, 128, 130, 133, 162, 196, 196E.
- Collyer Quay (Bus Stop ID: 03021): Served by bus routes 10, 10E, 70, 75, 100, 107, 128, 130, 133, 162, 196, 196E.
- Transport Card: You can use a Singapore Tourist Pass, EZ-Link card, or NETS FlashPay card on both the MRT and buses. Contactless credit/debit cards are also accepted on buses and MRT.
Tips To Go to Merlion (Singapore) and Safety Tips
Planning a trip to the Merlion? Here are some helpful tips and safety precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. These tips will help you make the most of your visit.
- What to Bring:
- Sunscreen: Singapore's sun can be intense, so protect your skin.
- Sunglasses and a hat: For added sun protection.
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated, especially during the hotter parts of the day.
- Camera: Capture those iconic Merlion photos!
- Comfortable shoes: You'll be doing a fair bit of walking.
- Tourist Safety Tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade when needed.
- Use insect repellent, especially in the evenings.
- Follow local guidelines and regulations.
- Be mindful of the weather, as Singapore can experience sudden rain showers.
Best Hotel Area in Singapore
Choosing the best area to stay in Singapore can significantly enhance your travel experience. Each neighbourhood offers a unique vibe and caters to different preferences. Here's a guide to some of the best districts.
- Marina Bay: Best for luxury travellers and those seeking iconic views. Home to Marina Bay Sands and other high-end hotels.
- Orchard Road: Ideal for shopaholics and those who enjoy being in the heart of the action. Known for its numerous shopping malls and restaurants.
- Clarke Quay: Perfect for nightlife enthusiasts and those looking for a vibrant atmosphere. Features numerous bars, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Bugis: Great for budget travellers and those interested in exploring local markets and cultural attractions. Offers a mix of budget-friendly accommodations and unique shopping experiences.
- Sentosa Island: Suitable for families and those seeking a resort-style getaway. Home to beaches, theme parks, and various recreational activities.
Where to Eat Inside or near Merlion (Singapore)
Craving some delicious Singapore food near the Merlion? From cafes to local street food, there's something for everyone. Here are some places to eat to satisfy your cravings.
- Cafes/Restaurants:
- LeVeL33: A rooftop bar and restaurant offering stunning views of Marina Bay and a modern European menu.
- OverEasy Fullerton: An American-style diner located at One Fullerton, serving classic comfort food with a view.
- Starbucks (One Fullerton): For a quick coffee and snack with a view of the Merlion.
- Local Street Food:
- Lau Pa Sat (Telok Ayer Market): A historic hawker centre a short walk from Marina Bay, offering a wide variety of Singaporean dishes like Chicken Rice, Satay, and Hokkien Mee.
- Makansutra Gluttons Bay: An open-air hawker centre near the Esplanade, serving local favourites like Chilli Crab, Char Kway Teow, and Rojak.
- Satay by the Bay: Located at Gardens by the Bay, this hawker centre specialises in satay and other grilled dishes.
Shopping Places near Merlion (Marina Bay)
Looking for some retail therapy near the Merlion? Marina Bay and the surrounding areas offer a variety of shopping experiences, from luxury boutiques to department stores. Here are some shopping mall nearby.
- Marina Bay Sands Shoppes: A luxury shopping mall featuring high-end brands, designer boutiques, and flagship stores.
- One Fullerton: A smaller shopping complex with a selection of restaurants, bars, and retail outlets.
- Suntec City Mall: A large shopping mall with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, located a short walk from Marina Bay.
Best Hotels to Stay near Merlion (Singapore)
Finding the perfect place to stay near the Merlion is easy with a range of excellent hotels in the area. Here are some of the best options for your consideration. These hotels offer convenient access to the Merlion and other attractions.
- Marina Bay Sands: An iconic hotel with stunning views, a rooftop infinity pool, and a wide range of amenities.
- The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore: A luxurious hotel with waterfront views and elegant rooms.
- Pan Pacific Singapore: A stylish hotel with a central location and excellent facilities.
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Hotels with Swimming Pools near Merlion
Want to relax by the pool during your Singapore trip? Here are some fantastic hotels near the Merlion that offer stunning swimming pools. These hotels provide a refreshing escape from the city heat.
- Marina Bay Sands: Famous for its iconic infinity pool overlooking the city skyline.
- The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore: Features a rooftop pool with panoramic views of Marina Bay.
- Pan Pacific Singapore: Offers a large outdoor swimming pool with lush landscaping.
Hotels with Parking near Merlion
Driving in Singapore and need a hotel with parking? Here are some convenient hotels near the Merlion that offer parking facilities for guests. These hotels make it easy to explore the city by car.
- Marina Bay Sands: Offers ample parking for hotel guests and visitors.
- The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore: Provides parking facilities for guests.
- Pan Pacific Singapore: Has parking available for hotel guests.
Searching for a place to stay in Singapore? Explore top hotels in popular destinations: Best Hotels in Bugis | Best Hotels in Kallang | Best Hotels in Sentosa Island | Best Hotels in Marina Bay | Best Hotels in Orchard | Best Hotels in Clarke Quay | Best Hotels in Little India
Best Hotels near Singapore Changi Airport
Need a convenient place to stay near Singapore Changi Airport? Here are some top hotels that offer easy access to the terminals. These hotels are perfect for layovers or early morning flights.
Average Room Rate hotels near Merlion
Planning your budget for a hotel near the Merlion? Average room rates can vary depending on the time of year and the specific hotel. Be sure to check Traveloka for the latest prices and deals.
To get the best deals on hotels, keep an eye out for promotions and discounts. New Traveloka users can often enjoy special offers, such as using the promo code BOOKTRAVELOKA to get up to 8% OFF.
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Conclusion
Visiting the Merlion in Singapore is a quintessential experience, offering a chance to connect with the city's iconic symbol and enjoy the stunning Marina Bay views. To make your trip even smoother and more affordable, consider booking your flights and accommodations through Traveloka.
Traveloka offers a wide selection of cheap hotels nearby, ensuring you find the perfect place to stay within your budget. Plus, you can easily compare prices and amenities to make an informed decision. Whether you're looking for affordable hotels nearby or the cheapest room in Singapore, Traveloka has you covered.
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