For those who wish to explore Singapore like a local, and skip expensive tourist traps. Here’s my favourite route around Merlion Park to Esplanade, Helix Bridge and Marina Bay Sands (MBS).

I love it when family come to visit. Love bringing them around, and playing tourist. I’ve brought countless to see Singapore’s iconic landmarks and tourist attractions. My favourite is walking from Merlion Park to Esplanade, Helix Bridge and Marina Bay Sands (MBS).

My friends even asked why am I not sick of the place yet. But with the right weather, walking is perfect to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Singapore river and skyline makes a perfect combination, you know?

Merlion Park

First, I would recommend to start with the most famous Singapore icon, Merlion. The Merlion is the national personification of Singapore so obviously you haven’t been to the sunny island if you haven’t seen the Merlion.

Opening Hours: All Day
Admission: Free
How to get there:
Merlion Park is accessible by taxi and MRT. The nearest MRT is Raffles Place MRT. Exit through exit door G, and walk towards UOB Tower towards Fullerton Hotel.

Singapore River Cruise

Secondly, there are two options from here. The first option is to take the Singapore River Cruise to Marina Bay Sands (MBS) right away. Skip touring around Singapore river, which is a rip off and a total tourist trap. The trip to MBS will only cost you $6.

This is a good option for those who aren’t much a walker. Choosing this option you will miss out the walk to Esplanade, the well known durian shaped building and art centre.

View the second option  below.

Opening Hours: 9AM – 11PM
Admission: $6 to MBS
How to get there:
Singapore River Cruise ticketing box is located near the Merlion statue at Merlion Park. It’s impossible to miss.

Esplanade – Theatre On The Bay

If you choose the second option, you will be walking to Esplanade Theatre Singapore. Fondly nicknamed “the Durian” because of its resemblance to the local fruit, you will see noticeable creative vibe here. From the ever-changing visual arts display near the main entrance to my favourite world-class performances and vinyl record store!

Opening Hours: 8AM – 2AM
Admission: $6 to MBS
How to get there:
Getting there is easy by MRT to City Hall or Esplanade (Circle Line) station. From there it is a ten-minute walk. Look out for a durian like building with a pair of two large aluminium and glass domes on the riverfront.

Singapore Flyer

If you choose to walk, you will be passing beautiful Singapore city view. If it’s not enough, you can view the whole city in a bird’s eye view at Singapore Flyer. The Singapore Flyer not only offers you stunning views of the city, but is one of the city’s most recognisable architectural icons.

I would skip this tourist trap, though. And save some bucks for good food, instead.

Opening Hours: 8.30AM – 10.30PM. Last admission at 10.15PM.
Admission: $33 for Adults & $21 for Children
How to get there:
Stop at Marina Square MRT (Circle Line) or Promenade MRT station. The Singapore Flyer is located next to Marina Square.

Helix Bridge

Helix is a pedestrian bridge linking Marina Centre with Marina South in the Marina Bay area in Singapore. It is an amazing piece of architecture, no wonder it’s used as pre-wedding photoshoot location. I specially love watching the sunset here on my way to The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.

Opening Hours: All Day
Admission: Free
How to get there:
Take MRT to Promenade MRT station, and walk towards Marina Bay Sands.

Marina Bay Sands (MBS)

Being Singapore’s largest luxury shopping mall, there’s something for everyone at The Shoppes. Shopping for the fashionistas, ArtScience Museum for the cultured, Gardens By The Bay for nature lovers. Ice skating rink, casino, DC Cafe, SkyPark, infinity pool. You name it.

If enjoying panoramic views of the city at night is your thing, I’d say Cé La Vi SkyBar is the perfect place for you. The circular rooftop bar offers live DJ sets from 7pm weeknights and midday on weekends.

And of course, you can’t miss Spectra, a free-to-public outdoor light and water show displayed over the water at the Event Plaza along the promenade. Showtime is at 8PM and 9PM on Sunday to Thursday, and 8PM, 9PM and 10PM on Friday and Saturday.

Opening Hours: 10.30AM – 11PM
Admission: Free
How to get there:
Take MRT to Promenade MRT station, and walk towards Marina Bay Sands.

 

I hope this helps you explore like a local in Singapore, and skip tourist traps.

The best thing about this itinerary is that it could take up half a day to a full day, depending on your preference and speed. Also, there’s something for everyone – from food and shopping to scenery and museum visit.

Looking for more things to do and eat in Singapore?

Have a look at our Singapore Travel Guide for more!

Let me know what’s your favourite attractions in Singapore. If you find it helpful, feel free to share and pin the image above with your friends.

Explore like the locals, city walkers!