Hotels near Merlion Park

The Merlion - a half-fish, half-lion sculpture spouting water into Marina Bay - is Singapore's official tourism symbol since 1972. The 8.6-metre, 70-tonne original Merlion at Merlion Park stands on a small promontory at the mouth of the Singapore River with the city skyline behind. The lion head represents the Sanskrit name Singapura (Lion City) and the fish body represents the city's origins as a fishing village.

The promenade includes a smaller Merlion cub (2 metres) and is right opposite Marina Bay Sands across the bay - prime selfie location with both icons. The area connects to the Esplanade Theatres (the durian-shaped buildings) and the Boat Quay restaurant strip along the river. Free to visit; open 24 hours. Allow 30 minutes. Combine with a Singapore River cruise (S$28) for a different angle.

Pro Tip: Walk the Helix Bridge across the bay to Marina Bay Sands at 19:50 - you cross during the Spectra show with both icons in view from mid-bridge. The DNA-shaped pedestrian bridge is itself one of Singapore's most photographed structures.