How to Get to Esplanade by MRT

Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay is a cornerstone of Singapore's arts and culture scene, known for its unique durian-shaped architecture. Centrally located and easily accessible, it is a short walk from both City Hall and Esplanade MRT stations. Our step-by-step guide shows you how to go to Esplanade by MRT via scenic above-ground paths or indoor alternatives for your comfort and convenience. With indoor routes that are fully sheltered and air-conditioned, you never have to worry about bad weather getting in the way of your family day out.

From City Hall MRT 

One of the nearest MRT stations to Esplanade is City Hall. The busy interchange for the North-South (Red) and East-West lines (Green) is easilyaccessible from across Singapore. Please note that the walk may take approximately 10–15 minutes, especially if you have little ones in tow, or are travelling with strollers.

Above Ground/Outdoor

This unsheltered route, which takes you from City Hall MRT station to Esplanade, is perfect for leisurely strolls with your family. It will also bring you up close and personal with the Victorian-style Tan Kim Seng fountain, which was officially unveiled on 19 May 1882 but moved from Fullerton Square to Esplanade Park in 1929. Built to honour Tan's generous contribution towards Singapore's first reservoir and waterworks, the fountain was gazetted as a national monument in 2010.

Here’s how to get from City Hall MRT station to Esplanade:

1. Exit City Hall MRT station and take the escalator or lift to street level.

2. Go towards Raffles City Shopping Centre and through the indoor doorway.

3. Exit on the opposite side and go straight, you’ll see McDonald’s on your left.

4. Cut across the zebra crossing and head towards the Singapore Recreation Club.

5. Go along Connaught Drive.

6. Turn left when you see the picturesque Tan Kim Seng fountain.

7. Keep an eye out for the bus stop and turn right once you see it.

8. Take the glass lift from L1 to B1.

9. Cut across the underground tunnel and pay attention to oncoming vehicles.

10. You've reached Esplanade (Basement 1)!

Underground/Indoor

Scorching or stormy weather? Head to Esplanade through this sheltered path which will take you through CityLink Mall, keeping you in air-conditioned comfort the entire way. Families travelling with prams and strollers should note that there are some stairs and escalators here that you will have to navigate. There are also stair lifts available for wheelchair users at every set of escalators and stairs.

Here’s how to get to Esplanade via CityLink Mall:

1. Take Exit C and go straight until you reach the escalator, which will be on your left.

2. Take the escalator, stairs, or stair lift down.

3. Go through CityLink Mall until you reach the end and take the escalator, stairs, or stair lift down.

4. Head towards the entrance of Esplanade Tunnel.

5. Go through the tunnel toward Esplanade (Basement 1).

If you are a wheelchair user and would like to use the stair lift, look for an intercom next to any escalator to call for assistance. You may also call CityLink Mall at 6334 2575 for help.

Esplanade MRT

Looking for directions from Esplanade MRT station The nearest MRT station to Esplanade isn't just confined to Singapore's Red/Green lines. You can also walk from the Esplanade MRT station on the Circle Line to Esplanade Mall.Families with little ones and strollers in tow will need about 7-10 minutes to reach Esplanade.

Above Ground/Outdoor

How to walk from Esplanade MRT station to Esplanade? This route is a wonderful way to get some fresh air and some steps in before you head to the Theatre or Concert Hall for a performance. Unlike the City Hall to Esplanade routes, you will arrive at Esplanade Mall itself and not at Esplanade’s Basement 1 Level.

Follow this route to go from Esplanade MRT station to Esplanade:

1. Take Exit D at Esplanade MRT station.

2. Take the lift up from B2 to L1, street level (Nicoll Highway).

3. Go straight and walk along the shaded area outside Credit Suisse.

4. Turn left when you come to the corner of One Raffles Link South.

5. Cross the road and head towards Esplanade Mall.

6. You've reached Esplanade Mall (Level 1).

Underground/Indoor

Are your little ones getting antsy because of the hot weather? Bring them to Esplanade using this sheltered route for air-conditioned comfort that will help to cool them down. Do note that there will be escalators and stairs along the way, which families travelling with strollers and prams will have to navigate. There are also stair lifts available for wheelchair users at every set of escalators and stairs.

Follow this indoor route to reach Esplanade via Basement 1.

Wheelchair users who require the use of a stair lift may look for an intercom next to any escalator to call for assistance. Alternatively, you may also call CityLink Mall at 6334 2575 for assistance.

1. From Exit D of Esplanade MRT Station, take the lift and go from Level B2 to Level B1, One Raffles Link/CityLink Mall.

2. Turn right and go straight until you reach the escalators on the right.

3. Keep going and head straight through the open doors until you reach another set of escalators and stairs.

4. Go up towards the entrance of Esplanade Tunnel.

5. Head on through the tunnel to reach Esplanade (Basement 1).

Ready to Explore Esplanade?

With programmesranging from music, dance, theatre and visual arts to those catered forfamilies and children, there's always something exciting to look forward to at Esplanade. From City Hall MRT station o Esplanade MRT station, our little red dot’s most exciting arts centre is easily accessible rain or shine. Whether you prefer getting to Esplanade via a casual stroll outdoors or through a sheltered route away from the sun, look forward to a day of family fun at Singapore’s beloved “durian” with a little preparation.

Plan your visit to Esplanade today—check out our upcoming shows and family-friendly activities to make the most of your trip.