Merlion Singapore

Merlion Park is a famous Singapore landmark and a major tourist attraction, located near One Fullerton, Singapore, near the Central Business District. The Merlion is a mythical creature with a lion's head and the body of a fish that is widely used as a mascot and national personification of Singapore. Standing at 8.6 metres high and weighing 70 tonnes, the Merlion statue has a lion’s head and a fish’s body, and is housed here in this 2,500 square metre park.

The Merlion's body symbolises Singapore's humble beginnings as a fishing village when it was called Temasek, which comes from the same root as the word tasek ('lake' in Malay). Its head represents Singapore’s original name, Singapura, or ‘lion city’ in Malay.

The aesthetically carved statue of Merlion presents a host of activities that the tourists can engage in. The attractiveness of the location apart from the statue is the bay with water spouting out of Lion's mouth. Tourists can click many photos near the statue or hop on a bumboat to take the experience onto another level. You can explore the entire area by taking a stroll near the statue. If you plan to visit here in the evening then you have to witness the amazing show of colour lights that makes it a magnanimous watch. By the bay of the Merlion Park is a wide and expansive verdant garden adjacent to the Marina Reservoir.

Merlion Park is completely free to visit and has many restaurants, souvenir shops and cafes in its vicinity. The cafes and restaurants serve the most delicious and famous delicacies called Kopi, Laksa and Kaya which are unmissable. The hours seem to slip away when you are lost in the picturesque locale with live music playing by the banks of the river. The Statue at Merlion Park is situated at 1 Fullerton which is near the waterfront at Marina Bay. A short walk from Raffles Place MRT station, the park can also be visited through the day tours which also stop at other hot spots in Singapore.

Essential information

Location: The complete address of the Merlion Park is 1, Fullerton road near the waterfront at the Marina Bay. The park is located at a short distance from Raffles Place MRT station. 

Timing: There are no fixed timings for visiting Merlion Park as it is a part of the city and is open 24 hours. But officially the time to visit is from 10.00 AM to 8.00 PM. If you want to witness the fabulous light shows then ensure you visit from Sunday to Thursday at 8 pm and 9 pm respectively. If you are there only on a Friday and Saturday then the timing would be 8 pm, 9 pm and 10 pm. 

Price: You can visit Merlion Park complexly free of cost.

Things to do in Merlion Park

Merlion Park is Singapore’s most famous tourist spots where you can spend an entire day happily and crave for more. A lot of things can be done while you are here, yet you never get enough of this amazing destination. For first time travellers to this land, Merlion Park will speak of its culture and rich heritage. Some of the things that you can do here are enlisted below:

Take countless pictures – You can take pictures with the Merlion statues, with the cub and the lion for keepsake. You can try out different tricks in photography, especially the famous picture pose of showing that water is sprouting from your mouth and not the Lions!

Sunset by the Bay – It will be a crime to miss the sweeping sunsets of the bay while you can sit by the banks to engage your senses to seep in the evening sun. The sight is impressive for sure and if you are travelling there in the evening do not miss to capture this. 

Bumboat ride – Hop on the relaxing river cruises from Merlion Park and explore various other locations near the Merlion Park. The impressive skyline and the shiny Singapore river water is all you need to make this a memorable one. 

Spectra Light and water show and a live band – Enjoy the evening’s glittery light show with amazing laser technology to make your evening worth. You could also sit there comfortably and listen to the band of live music playing your favourite song.

Visit cafes and do some shopping – A lot of concept restaurants and cafes in Singapore offer great meals and snacks which are must to visit when you are there. Do not forget to fetch a great souvenir on your way back from the many stores offering vibrant collections.

Best Restaurants to eat in and near Merlion Park

Alt Pizza –

If you love your pizzas straight out of the oven then this is the place to be. A contemporary pizza place with not so exorbitant prices. The Pizza station also gives you the liberty to create your own pizza with the number of combinations exceeding your expectations.

Forlino –

The Italian fine dining destination with elegant interiors and stunning views of the Marina Bay is your journey to the most genuine Italian dishes which are prepared and curated by award-winning chefs. The vast menu put together by the restaurant covers everything that you have ever asked for. 

The Lighthouse Restaurant and Rooftop bar –

Get the grand views of Singapore at this restaurant serving authentic Italian cuisine with specialties. Get mesmerized with the breath-taking views of the skyline of Singapore and the Marina Bay waterfront. 

Saint Pierre –

One of the most intimate dining options in Singapore the subtle Saint Pierre has a lot of French-inspired dishes along with Modern European and vegetarian-friendly options. The restaurant is also a kid-friendly zone as well as suitable for those who want to engage in personal conversations and romantic nights.

The 100th Starbucks Store Fullerton WaterBoat House –

Located close to the Fullerton Hotel and the Singapore River, Starbucks coffee shop is one of the most favourite hotspots to visit. A great location for a quiet coffee and conversations, visit this star bucks for drooling snacks and rejuvenating coffee. 

Shoukouwa –

An intimate fine dining located very close to Merlion Park, one can explore a great variety of seafood which it is famous for. The specialties here are the classic Japanese Sushi which comes prepared fresh and yummy. To heighten your gastronomic experience, visit this elegantly decorated restaurant which is a must-visit if you are a sea-food aficionado.

Best Hotels to stay near Merlion Park

Ritz Carlton, Millennia –

It is one of the best options for visitors who love a lavish sophisticated stay. Apart from the Merlion Park, the hotel is close to several other wonderful sightseeing options. The decor of the rooms spells luxury with ultra-stylish interiors and amenities that will make you comfortable. 

Fullerton Hotel Singapore –

The neo grand classical landmark of Singapore, the hotel offers diverse accommodation options, Rolls Royce Privilege, a lifestyle package and the assurance of an opulence stay. There are a lot of local attractions close by and its tour will be arranged by the efficient staff in the Hotel. 

Marina Bay Sands –

One of the most popular and iconic hotels of Singapore, the sprawling hotel features 2561 rooms with a host of entertainment options like gambling, sampan rides and ice-skating. The prime attraction of this location is its rooftop infinity pool which is considered as the world’s largest infinity pool.

Pan Pacific -

Located in the Central district of Singapore, explore this towering luxury with world class amenities and signature dishes served exclusively at the comforts of the hotel. This 5 star property offers dynamic views of Singapore and is located close to the best sites in Singapore especially the Marina Bay.

The Westin –

Located in the vicinity of Marina Bay, plan your stay at the Westin to experience bliss and peace. Great location with great food at the in-house restaurant is some of the added attractions of this wonderful hotel.

Fairmont –

Located in the heart of Singapore, this upscale accommodation has 769 ultra-luxurious rooms and suites featuring comfortable style and international designs adorning the room. The spa at the Hotel has several treatment options available and also is Asia's largest Spa.

Tips for visiting Merlion Park

If you plan your trip between May and September you are set to enter a time with the maximum number of tourists. This is perhaps a great time to visit here because this is the main tourist season in Singapore with many ongoing festivals like a food festival and the Singapore Grand Prix. Do not plan your trip to Merlion Park during the period between October and January as your plans will be hampered with the intermittent showers and rains.