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Sydney Opera House
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Sydney Opera House

See all things to do
See all things to do
Sydney Opera House
4.5
#3 of 738 things to do in Sydney
Points of Interest & LandmarksArchitectural BuildingsTheatres
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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About
One of the most iconic buildings in the world – the Sydney Opera House is an architectural masterpiece and vibrant performance space. It's a place where the past shapes the future, where conventions are challenged and cultures are celebrated. Step inside and discover the stories that make the Opera House so inspiring. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a first-timer or an aficionado, the Sydney Opera House has something for everyone.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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Admission tickets
from AU$43.00
All you need to step foot in the door.
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The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Central Business District
The Sydney Central Business District is abuzz with energy. Power brokers run to and from high rise buildings and after-work drink places, high-end shoppers tour venues like the QVB, and fine diners frequent the many celebrity chef restaurants. For a dose of culture, walk to the NSW Art Gallery, or visit the Sydney Museum. To escape the hustle and bustle, reconnect with nature at the Sydney Botanical Gardens or picnic lunch at High Park. No matter your interest, be sure to check the full calendar of events hosted by the city, from the Sydney Festival in January to October’s Good Food Month at Hyde Park.
How to get there
  • Circular Quay • 8 min walk
Reach out directly
Best nearby
We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Restaurants
4,387 within 5 kms
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3,160
0.3 km$$$$ • Contemporary • Australian • Vegetarian Friendly
Bennelong Restaurant Sydney
1,458
86 m$$$$ • Australian • Vegetarian Friendly • Vegan Options
Quay Restaurant
2,075
0.4 km$$$$ • International • Contemporary • Fusion
Opera Bar
2,048
0.2 km$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • Bar • Australian
The Tea Cosy
395
0.6 km$$ - $$$ • Irish • Vegetarian Friendly • Vegan Options
6 HEAD 1788
182
0.5 km$$$$ • Steakhouse • Australian • Gluten Free Options
The Spice Room
1,055
0.6 km$$ - $$$ • Indian • Vegetarian Friendly • Vegan Options
Ribs & Burgers The Rocks
683
0.6 km$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • Steakhouse • Barbecue
The East Chinese Restaurant
418
0.3 km$$ - $$$ • Chinese • Asian • Cantonese
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521
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Attractions
797 within 10 kms
Opera Australia
1,110
47 mOperas
The Australian Ballet
77
55 mBallets
Sydney Harbour
21,958
0.2 kmBodies of Water
The Opera House to the Botanic Gardens Walk
6,576
0.3 kmScenic Walking Areas
Sydney Writers Walk
9
96 mPoints of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues
Government House
273
0.3 kmHistoric Sites • Government Buildings
Sydney Ferries
21,342
0.6 kmFerries
Sydney Harbour Bridge
14,015
0.7 kmBridges
ATTY Gallery
309
0.6 kmArt Galleries
Sydney Harbour Circle Walk
290
0.6 kmHistoric Walking Areas
See all
See what travellers are saying
  • RLML
    128 contributions
    Back Stage Tour
    We were fortunate to be able to attend a back stage tour which have recently restarted following the pandemic. The tour required an early morning start to avoid disrupting the working day inside the Opera House but it was worth it to see behind the scenes in this iconic building. Our guide was informative and had a great sense of humour.
    Sydney Opera House
    Dear Mark L, Thank you for your review. We are delighted that you enjoyed your backstage tour, and that you found the early start worthwhile! We are also pleased to hear that you had an excellent experience with one of our very knowledgeable and friendly tour guides. There is always so much happening behind the scenes at the Sydney Opera House, and we are very excited to be able to share it with our visitors again! Thanks again for your review. We look forward to welcoming you back soon to the Sydney Opera House! Kind Regards, Team SOH
    Written 20 December 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited December 2022
    Written 11 December 2022
  • Scott G
    Washington DC, District of Columbia408 contributions
    A must do
    Would you go to Paris and not take a picture of the Eiffel Tower? We didn't visit inside, however, you can take plenty of pictures from outside (day and night), and you can walk on its plazas. After seeing so many pictures of this building, it is interesting to see it up close. And there are gardens nearby to visit when you're done.
    Sydney Opera House
    Dear Scott G, Thank you for your kind review. We are very glad to hear that you enjoyed your visit to the Sydney Opera House and its surrounds. We hope that finally seeing our iconic building in person exceeded your expectations, and that you were able to take many beautiful photos! Thanks again for the review. We hope to welcome you back soon to the Sydney Opera House - perhaps for a guided tour or performance inside the building! Kind Regards, Team SOH
    Written 20 December 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited September 2022
    Written 11 December 2022
  • dilip m
    Pune, India317 contributions
    Architectural Marvel
    A tour to the Opera House is bound to be memorable. An architectural marvel it would leave a lasting memory. The area around it throngs with tourists clicking selfies with the structure in the background and has many eating joints to offer. The Opera House itself with its multiple auditoriums is awe inspiring. Truly it’s a landmark of Sydney and must to visit attraction.
    Sydney Opera House
    Dear dilip m, Thank you for your lovely review. We are very glad to hear that you enjoyed your visit to the Sydney Opera House. Our excellent building has been inspiring people from all over the world for nearly 50 years! We are delighted that you were able to forge a lasting memory with us. Thanks again for the review, we look forward to welcoming you back soon! Kind Regards, Team SOH
    Written 20 December 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited November 2022
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 11 December 2022
  • Katrina L
    12 contributions
    Sydney's most Iconic structure worth visiting
    You can book at the Opera House and go on one of their tours taking you through the concert halls and behind the scenes that are most informative. If you're lucky you'll get to sit and have a listen to part of a professional rehearsal if there's one in progress. Otherwise worth the walk up from Circular Quay to admire this piece of Iconic Sydney architecture. Have lunch or a drink at the Opera Canteen, Bar or Kitchen with a killer view of the harbour.
    Sydney Opera House
    Dear katrinae717, Thank you for leaving us a review. We are thrilled that you had an excellent experience with us at the Sydney Opera House, including attending a guided tour and enjoying the surrounding views of stunning Sydney Harbour. We are also pleased to hear that you were lucky enough to catch a rehearsal from one of our extremely talented resident companies! Thanks once again for the review. We look forward to welcoming you back to the Sydney Opera House! Kind Regards, Team SOH
    Written 20 December 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited December 2022
    Written 12 December 2022
  • Steph
    2 contributions
    Sails & sea shells
    The tour of the Sydney Opera House was fascinating. Not only to view the various theatres, but the history of the architecture & planning was engrossing. It wasn’t straightforward but there’s no doubt the end result is enthralling. Well worth taking the tour.
    Sydney Opera House
    Dear stephaniebY9208DM, Thank you for the lovely review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your guided tour of the Sydney Opera House, and that you found the story of our incredible building so fascinating. The story definitely has its twists and turns, and our very knowledgeable tour guides never get tired of telling visitors about it! We are very glad to hear that you found the experience worthwhile. Thanks again for the review. We look forward to welcoming you back to the Sydney Opera House! Kind Regards, Team SOH
    Written 20 December 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited December 2022
    Written 16 December 2022
  • Nam Hung T
    Singapore, Singapore91 contributions
    Visit Opera House and watched a show
    We visited the Disney Opera House and also watched The Very Hungry Caterpillar show. It was a children’s performance so our kids enjoyed it immensely. There were a lot of nice props and puppets built for the stories featured in the show, and the story was engaging for kids. Then we had a walk around to take a look at the iconic building. It was really unique, but I found it a bit ageing now. Maybe some renovations are due.
    Sydney Opera House
    Dear Nam Hung T, Thank you for your review. We are very glad that you and your children enjoyed seeing The Very Hungry Caterpillar at the Sydney Opera House. We agree that our building is very unique! In the lead up to our 50th birthday next year, we have recently completed our Decade of Renewal at the Sydney Opera House, preserving our heritage whilst also ensuring that the building can be enjoyed for many generations to come! Thanks again for the review. We look forward to welcoming you back soon! Kind Regards, Team SOH
    Written 20 December 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited December 2022
    Travelled with family
    Written 18 December 2022
  • TheDeSilvas
    Gaborone, Botswana149 contributions
    A memorable experience at an iconic venue
    We attended a children’s show at the Opera house and highly recommend it for families with younger children. Our children aged from 1-6yrs and they loved the performance which was only 45minutes, ideal for young children and adults. Enjoyed drinks before and after the show at the Cafe which was outdoors. A memorable experience for all!
    Sydney Opera House
    Dear TheDeSilvas, Thank you for your lovely review. We're so glad that your children loved the show and that you all had a fantastic experience at the Sydney Opera House, we think it's pretty special!! We hope to welcome you and your family back to the Sydney Opera House again soon. Warmest regards, SOH Team
    Written 21 December 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited December 2022
    Travelled with family
    Written 21 December 2022
  • NJA_7
    London, United Kingdom984 contributions
    Australia's most Famous Landmark
    As we rounded the corner onto the main path, the Opera House appeared before us. This is such an impressive sight, it is a huge building. It’s simply one of the most famous buildings in Australia and as you would expect the area is very busy. For some reason we were both under the impression that the building was silver from the times we’d seen it on TV or in pictures, but it is indeed a creamy white colour. We walked all around it, and then along the path in the botanical gardens in order to get a better view as it’s really best viewed from a slight distance. Unfortunately we were unable to book a tour.
    Sydney Opera House
    Dear NJA_7, Thank you for your lovely review and for visiting our iconic landmark. The tiles on our sails reflect the light and can look dramatically different on any given day. American architect Louis Kahn once said of the Sydney Opera House: “The sun didn't know how beautiful its light was, until it was reflected off this building”. We hope to welcome you back for a tour one day! Warmest regards, SOH Team
    Written 31 December 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited November 2022
    Written 24 December 2022
  • Jordan
    Columbus, Ohio137 contributions
    Velvet Rewired
    Beautiful building and obvious must-see for Sydney. I was amazed by the architectural details. You just can't see that in a picture online or on TV. My husband and I saw Velvet Rewired in the Studio. Smaller theater space so all tickets are good ones. Fun cabaret-type show with aerialists, trick skaters, singing, dancing, etc. So much fun! Be aware the lights and smoke may be disorienting for some attendees.
    Sydney Opera House
    Dear JDellish, Thank you for your review. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your visit to the Sydney Opera House. We agree that the best way to experience our amazing building is in person! We are also very glad to hear that you were able to make the most of your visit with us by attending a performance, and that you had fun at Velvet Rewired. Thanks again for the review. We look forward to welcoming you back to the Sydney Opera House! Kind regards, Team SOH
    Written 5 January 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited January 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 1 January 2023
  • Pink P
    533 contributions
    Iconic Architecture
    You can't be in Sydney and not visit the instantly recognizable Opera House. It's even more beautiful at night with the colored lights on it. Take the tour inside and then just wander around outside as it's right opposite the Harbor Bridge. Impossible not to get a great pic from there.
    Sydney Opera House
    Dear Pink P, Thank you for your kind review. We are very pleased to hear that you had a great experience visiting the Sydney Opera House. We think our beautiful building looks perfect at all times of the day, but we do agree that it is spectacular when illuminated at night! Thanks again for leaving us a review. We hope to see you again soon at the Sydney Opera House. Kind regards, Team SOH
    Written 5 January 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited December 2022
    Written 1 January 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
24,792 reviews
Excellent
18,492
Very good
4,931
Average
1,048
Poor
198
Terrible
127
flo220
New York City, NY321 contributions
Inside tour of iconic landmark -- don't miss it
Oct. 2023 • Couples
Very interesting tour of the iconic Sydney opera house. Since it is hard to get tickets to performances, this was the only way to see the inside of it. The tour guide was enthusiastic and gave a lot of information and seemed to go out of her way to get us into as many of the rooms as possible. While it is pricey it shouldn't be missed, if possible.
Review of: Sydney Opera House Official Guided Walking Tour
Written 6 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Idalia R
2 contributions
The Opera House tour!
Nov. 2023 • Family
Absolutely worth doing!
Getting to know the story of how the Opera House was planned, develop and build is just amazing! Glad my boys got to do it and enjoying it so much.
Review of: Sydney Opera House Official Guided Walking Tour
Written 6 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sheridan
Christchurch, New Zealand9 contributions
A meeting place like no other
Dec. 2023 • Couples
A distinctive and famous community meeting place with a stunning harbour view. It's a place where you can have a picnic, take a tour, and enjoy a show! Whether you're looking for a fun day out or a romantic evening, the Opera House is sure to provide a memorable experience. Just don't forget to bring your camera – you'll want to capture the beauty of this iconic building!
Written 6 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
birgitw243
4 contributions
Opera House tour
Dec. 2023 • Family
We were not allowed to take any pictures!
Our guide was too self important and short on facts and detail about the opera house.
Did not get see much of the interior, had to watch videos!
Review of: Sydney Opera House Official Guided Walking Tour
Written 5 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Leonie L
Adelaide, Australia1 contribution
Must do Tour
Excellent tour with Peter, the tour guide. He was passionate about the history, and we could tell he loved his job.
He took us to places where we felt very spoilt, getting to the Swan Lake rehearsal!
Review of: Sydney Opera House Official Guided Walking Tour
Written 5 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Clarke
Sydney, Australia6 contributions
Stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere
Nov. 2023 • Family
The Sydney Opera House is an iconic example of Danish design, offering a unique and diverse program of events. From world-renowned opera and ballet performances, to contemporary music, theatre and more, the Sydney Opera House has something for everyone. Enjoy the famous views of the harbor and the city skyline, and explore the many restaurants, bars and shops that make the Sydney Opera House a must-see destination.
Written 4 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
International traveler
Herndon, VA4 contributions
Very enjoyable tour
Wonderful peek at the inside of this iconic landmark. Bella was an informative guide and very patient with our early morning group.
Review of: Sydney Opera House Official Guided Walking Tour
Written 3 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Relax828987
3 contributions
Worth taking!
Nov. 2023 • Solo
Our guide was Zoe and she was great -- very entertaining and knowledgeable. The microphone/headphone system meant we all could hear what she said easily. I wish more tours would do this. Having taken the tour heightened my enjoyment of a performance in the Concert Hall the next day, so I highly recommend it. One thing that wasn't clear was the location of the Welcome Center where one needs to report to start the tour - it's on the lower level on the Harbour Bridge side.
Review of: Sydney Opera House Official Guided Walking Tour
Written 29 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John Mills
Benson, AZ473 contributions
Exceptional acoustics and seating, lousy management
Nov. 2023 • Friends
My wife and I and another couple were lucky enough to get the last few seats available for the Chinese National Symphony Orchestra tour at the Sydney Opera House. We sat in what would normally be the choir loft, but let me tell you they were superb seats. I wish other venues would make the effort to put seats there like Sydney Opera House does.

The only down side is the restrooms are on the ground level and it’s quite a walk from the choir loft to get there. The concert was supposed to start at 2030, but didn’t till 2045 because they wouldn’t open the seating gates till 2015. No way you can seat that many people in 15 minutes. The concession stands didn’t open till 2020, causing more people to be late.
Written 28 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
wendy lyons-beck
Tauranga, New Zealand198 contributions
Do it
A fantastic tour with a full explanation of the process and time frame of the architecture and engineering of this amazing building. Highly recommend this tour.
Review of: Sydney Opera House Architectural Tour
Written 28 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Sydney Opera House: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Frequently Asked Questions about Sydney Opera House
Sydney Opera House admission prices can vary. Entrance tickets currently cost AU$110.73, while a popular guided tour starts around AU$5.04 per person.
According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Sydney Opera House: