Insider Guide to Marina Bay, Singapore

Discover the best things to do in Marina Bay, Singapore, with top attractions, restaurants, rooftop bars, hotels and insider tips for exploring this iconic district.

Our guide to Marina Bay covers everything you need to know to eat, shop, explore and enjoy one of Singapore’s most iconic districts.

Marina Bay is the postcard image of Singapore that most people picture before they arrive. Home to Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay and the famous Merlion, it’s where futuristic architecture meets luxury hotels, iconic landmarks and spectacular skyline views.

But Marina Bay isn’t just about ticking off the big sights.

You’ll also find beautiful waterfront walks, hidden viewpoints, excellent restaurants and some of the city’s best free experiences.

Whether you’re visiting Singapore for the first time or returning for another trip, Marina Bay is an area you’ll want to come back to again and again.

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Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love Marina Bay

Tourists taking photos on phones at Merlion Singapore.

It is home to many of Singapore’s most famous landmarks.
The skyline views are among the best in Asia.
There are plenty of free things to do.
It’s one of the best areas in Singapore for walking.
You’ll find some of the city’s finest hotels.
Great restaurants, bars and shopping are all within easy reach.
Marina Bay is especially magical after dark.

Things to do in Marina Bay

Supertrees lit up at night at Gardens by the Bay Singapore.

One of the best things about Marina Bay is that many of the main attractions are within easy walking distance of each other. You can easily spend an entire day exploring the area, although most visitors find themselves returning several times during their trip.

From iconic landmarks and waterfront walks to museums, shopping and spectacular light shows, there is plenty to keep you busy.

Insider Tip: Marina Bay is particularly beautiful in the early morning or after dark, when temperatures are cooler and the skyline really comes alive.

Here are some of our favourite things to do in Marina Bay:

Visit Gardens by the Bay – one of Singapore’s most famous attractions, with its futuristic Supertrees, Cloud Forest and Flower Dome. Be sure to stay for the free Garden Rhapsody light and sound show in the evening. Click here to buy tickets.
Walk across the Helix Bridge – this distinctive DNA-inspired bridge offers fantastic views of the Marina Bay skyline and is particularly beautiful after dark.
Admire the Merlion – no first visit to Singapore is complete without a photo with the city’s most famous symbol.
Explore Marina Bay Sands – even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth visiting to admire the architecture, browse the shops and soak up the atmosphere.
Take in the views from the SkyPark Observation Deck – enjoy panoramic views across Marina Bay, the Singapore skyline and the surrounding islands. Click here to buy tickets.
Visit the ArtScience Museum – famous for its lotus-shaped building and immersive exhibitions, this is one of Singapore’s most interesting museums. Click here to buy tickets.
Ride the Singapore Flyer – One of the world’s largest observation wheels, the Singapore Flyer offers breathtaking views across Marina Bay, the city skyline and, on clear days, even parts of Malaysia and Indonesia. It’s particularly magical at sunset or after dark when the city lights begin to sparkle. Click here to buy tickets.
Watch the Spectra Light and Water Show – this free nightly show outside Marina Bay Sands combines fountains, lasers and music against the backdrop of the city skyline.
Stroll along the Marina Bay waterfront promenade – one of our favourite things to do in the area. The views are fantastic and there are plenty of places to stop for a drink, take photos or simply watch the world go by.
Explore The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands – even if shopping isn’t high on your list, this luxury mall is worth a look for its striking architecture and indoor canal. There’s a huge range of dining options here too – from a food court to celebrity chef restaurants.
Enjoy a Singapore River Cruise – seeing Marina Bay from the water offers a completely different perspective. Click here to buy tickets.
Visit the Red Dot Design Museum – A lesser-known attraction showcasing innovative products and award-winning designs from around the world. It’s worth a look if you enjoy architecture, design and quirky exhibits.

Best Time to Visit Marina Bay

One of the things we love most about Marina Bay is how different it feels throughout the day.

Early mornings are peaceful and relatively cool, making them ideal for a stroll along the waterfront or a visit to Gardens by the Bay before the crowds arrive. During the afternoon, many visitors retreat to the area’s shopping malls, museums and cafes to escape the heat.

Sunset is when Marina Bay really starts to shine. As the sky changes colour and the city lights begin to twinkle, rooftop bars fill up and the waterfront takes on a magical atmosphere. After dark, you’ll be treated to the Spectra Light and Water Show and the illuminated Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay.

We highly recommend coming to Marina Bay in the evening. In our opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful places in Singapore after dark.

Sightseeing Tours in Marina Bay

Open top bus tour passing Marina Bay Sands Singapore.

We love taking tours in a new city. It’s a great way to get your bearings, get to know your surroundings through the eyes of a local and gain a more in-depth understanding of the history and culture.

If you enjoy exploring with a guide, here are some of our favourite tours that showcase Marina Bay and some of Singapore’s other highlights:

Big Bus Singapore Hop on Hop Off Tour – one of the best ways to get started on your sightseeing in a new city. Sightseeing made easy, with designated stops, frequent buses and a pre-recorded commentary in a choice of languages. Learn more here.
Big Bus Night Tour – This open-top bus tour allows you to experience the beauty of Singapore at night and call in at some key sights, including dinner at Lau Pa Sat and taking in the light show at Gardens by the Bay. Learn more here.
Marina Bay Mini Segway Tour – A cruisy and fun way to travel, you’ll segway from the National Stadium to Gardens by the Bay and back, taking in Marina Bay, the Singapore Flyer and the CBD as you go. Click here to learn more.
The Original DUCKtours – Discover Singapore in 30 minutes on land and 30 minutes on sea, including a cruise around Marina Bay to take in the sights from the water. Learn more here.
Singapore: Lion City Highlights – this cycling tour takes in the big city sights and the charming back streets of Marina Bay, Chinatown, Little India and more, while learning about Singapore history and culture. Learn more here.
Marina Bay Night Tour by Bicycle – This cycling tour takes you around Marina Bay and visits the spectacularly lit-up Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay. You’ll cycle past the Singapore Flyer and feel the breeze of the Kallang River as you head towards the iconic National Stadium. Click here to learn more.

Shopping in Marina Bay

Canal rides in the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.

Marina Bay is one of Singapore’s best areas for shopping. From luxury boutiques and designer labels to large shopping centres packed with restaurants, supermarkets and entertainment, there’s something for every budget.

Even if you’re not planning a shopping spree, many of these malls are worth visiting in their own right. They’re air-conditioned, beautifully designed and great places to escape the midday heat or shelter from one of Singapore’s sudden tropical downpours.

If shopping is high on your Singapore wish list, our Insider Guide to Shopping in Singapore covers the city’s best malls, markets and shopping districts.

Insider Tip: Many of Marina Bay’s shopping centres are connected by underground walkways, making it easy to move between them without having to step outside. You’ll quickly discover that shopping malls in Singapore are much more than places to shop. They’re where people eat, meet friends and escape the heat.

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands – Singapore’s most famous luxury shopping destination, home to designer brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Gucci. Even if you’re not buying anything, it’s worth visiting for the architecture and the indoor canal complete with sampan boat rides.
Marina Square – One of the area’s largest malls, with a good mix of fashion stores, beauty brands, restaurants and family-friendly attractions. It’s also home to one of Singapore’s biggest Zara stores.
Suntec City – A huge shopping complex with hundreds of shops, restaurants, supermarkets and entertainment options. While you’re here, don’t miss the Fountain of Wealth, once recognised as the world’s largest fountain.
Millenia Walk – A quieter and more upscale mall known for its furniture stores, lifestyle brands and speciality shops.
Raffles City Shopping Centre – Conveniently located next to City Hall MRT station, this popular mall offers everything from high street fashion and department stores to casual dining and cafes.
Marina Bay Link Mall – Hidden beneath the office towers in the Marina Bay Financial Centre, this underground mall feels much more local. It’s popular with office workers and is a great place for reasonably priced lunches, coffee and everyday essentials.

Looking for gifts to take home? Our guide to the best souvenirs to buy in Singapore has plenty of ideas.

Marina Bay Restaurants and Cafes

People alfresco dining at Marina Bay, Singapore.

You’ll certainly never go hungry in Marina Bay. Whether you’re after a quick lunch, a casual meal or a memorable fine dining experience, you’ll find plenty of options here.

One of our favourite spots for a meal is around One Fullerton and Collyer Quay, where several restaurants and bars offer alfresco seating with fantastic views across the water to Marina Bay Sands. It’s a particularly lovely area for lunch or dinner as the sun begins to set.

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is another great place to eat. You’ll find everything from excellent food courts and casual cafes to celebrity chef restaurants and fine dining experiences.

Here are some of our favourite places to eat in Marina Bay:

Satay by the Bay – Located within Gardens by the Bay, this relaxed hawker-style dining area is a great place to sample local dishes without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a larger hawker centre experience, Lau Pa Sat is only a short walk away from Marina Bay.
LAVO Italian Restaurant & Rooftop Bar – Located on the rooftop of Marina Bay Sands, LAVO serves generous Italian-American dishes alongside some of the best views in Singapore. Their famous one-pound meatball is a must-try.
KOMA Singapore – One of Singapore’s most stunning restaurants, KOMA is famous for its dramatic interiors, giant Japanese bell and contemporary Japanese cuisine.
Caffe Fernet – Sitting right on the waterfront at Collyer Quay, Caffe Fernet is one of our favourite places for an alfresco meal or sunset drink. The views across Marina Bay are hard to beat.
Din Tai Fung (The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands) – A reliable favourite for perfectly crafted xiao long bao and Taiwanese comfort food. It’s a great option if you’re looking for something delicious without the price tag of some of the area’s more upscale restaurants.
Jypsy One Fullerton – This stylish Japanese restaurant enjoys one of the best waterfront locations in Singapore. Grab an outdoor table if you can and enjoy the stunning Marina Bay views.
Bread Street Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay – Located at Marina Bay Sands, this lively British restaurant serves classic dishes with a modern twist. The fish and chips and beef Wellington are particularly popular.
WAKUDA Singapore – Combining Japanese tradition with contemporary design, WAKUDA offers an elegant dining experience and beautifully presented dishes in a sophisticated setting.

Insider Tip: If you have your heart set on one of Marina Bay’s more popular restaurants, especially those with outdoor seating or skyline views, it’s worth making a reservation in advance.

For even more inspiration, take a look at our guides to the best Singapore restaurants with a view, the latest Michelin Guide Singapore winners and our roundup of the best dim sum restaurants in Singapore.

Rooftop Bars in Marina Bay

Aerial view of Ce La Vi on top of Marina Bay Sands.

One of the best ways to experience Marina Bay is from above.

As the sun sets and the city lights begin to twinkle, Marina Bay transforms into one of the most spectacular places in Singapore for a drink with a view. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy the skyline, there are plenty of fantastic rooftop bars to choose from.

Insider Tip: Sunset is by far the most popular time to visit, so it’s worth making a reservation if you have a particular bar in mind.

CE LA VI – Perched on top of Marina Bay Sands, this iconic rooftop bar boasts some of the best views in Singapore. It’s hard to beat for a special night out.
Spago Bar & Lounge – Located on the rooftop of Marina Bay Sands, Spago offers elegant cocktails and spectacular views overlooking the infinity pool and city skyline.
Lantern Rooftop Bar – Sitting atop The Fullerton Bay Hotel, Lantern is one of our favourite spots for views across Marina Bay and the Marina Bay Sands skyline.
LeVeL33 – The world’s highest urban craft brewery is known for its excellent beers and panoramic views over Marina Bay.
Kinki Restaurant + Bar – Slightly more relaxed and less expensive than some of the other options, Kinki offers fantastic views and a fun atmosphere.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, our guide to the best rooftop bars in Singapore rounds up even more incredible places for sunset drinks and skyline views.

Where to Stay in Marina Bay

Boy in rooftop swimming pool with a view of Marina Bay.

Marina Bay is one of the most popular places to stay in Singapore, especially for first-time visitors. With many of the city’s top attractions right on your doorstep and excellent transport connections to the rest of Singapore, it’s hard to beat for convenience.

This is also where you’ll find some of Singapore’s most luxurious hotels, many with spectacular rooftop pools and stunning skyline views. While Marina Bay isn’t the cheapest area to stay, you’re guaranteed a memorable stay.

Many of Singapore’s most impressive hotels with rooftop pools are located in Marina Bay, giving you another reason to choose this location. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, there are few better places to stay in the city.

Here are some of our favourite hotels in Marina Bay:

Marina Bay Sands – Singapore’s most iconic hotel needs little introduction. With its famous rooftop infinity pool, world-class restaurants and unbeatable location, this is the ultimate splurge hotel. If it’s within your budget, staying here is a truly memorable experience. Check prices here.
The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore – One of the most luxurious hotels in the city, with elegant rooms, exceptional service and a spectacular rooftop pool overlooking Marina Bay. Check prices here.
The Fullerton Hotel Singapore – Housed in Singapore’s former General Post Office, this grand heritage hotel combines colonial elegance with a fantastic location at the edge of Marina Bay. Check prices here.
Mandarin Oriental Singapore – Fresh from a major renovation, the Mandarin Oriental boasts beautiful rooms, excellent dining and some of the best views in the city. Check prices here.
The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore – Famous for its spacious rooms and incredible Marina Bay views, this long-time Singapore favourite is one of the city’s most luxurious hotels. If you book a Marina Bay View room, you’ll enjoy one of the best hotel views in Singapore. Check prices here.
PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay – Often described as Singapore’s “garden-in-a-hotel”, this stylish property features lush greenery, spacious rooms and an excellent pool area. Check prices here.
Pan Pacific Singapore – Popular with families and business travellers alike, this large hotel offers spacious rooms, a lovely swimming pool and easy access to Marina Square and Suntec City. Check prices here.

Insider Tip: If your budget stretches to it, we recommend booking a room with a Marina Bay view. Waking up to that skyline, or enjoying it illuminated at night, is one of those experiences that makes a trip to Singapore feel extra special.

If you’re still deciding where to base yourself, our guide to where to stay in Singapore compares all of the city’s most popular neighbourhoods. We also take a closer look at Marina Bay vs Orchard vs Sentosa to help you choose the area that’s right for you.

How to Get to Marina Bay

Getting to Marina Bay is easy, and thanks to Singapore’s excellent transport system, you’ll have no trouble reaching the area from anywhere in the city.

Insider Tip: Marina Bay is served by several MRT stations, so it’s worth checking which station is closest to your destination. Bayfront Station is ideal for Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay, while Raffles Place is more convenient for the Merlion and One Fullerton area.

MRT – Bayfront, Raffles Place, Marina Bay, Promenade, Esplanade and City Hall stations all provide easy access to different parts of Marina Bay. The MRT is clean, affordable and usually the quickest way to get around Singapore.
Bus – Numerous bus routes serve the Marina Bay area, with stops close to major attractions and shopping malls.
Taxi and Grab – Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced in Singapore. Grab, Gojek and TADA are the three main ride-hailing apps used in Singapore and are a convenient option. They can be especially useful if you’re travelling with children or returning to your hotel after a long day of sightseeing.
On Foot – One of the things we love about Marina Bay is how walkable it is. It’s easy to stroll here from nearby areas such as Clarke Quay, Boat Quay, the Civic District and even Chinatown.
Singapore River Cruise – For something a little different, why not arrive by boat? Singapore River cruises offer a scenic way to reach Marina Bay while taking in some of the city’s most famous landmarks along the way.

Read our full guide to exploring Singapore by Public Transport here.