Sydney Harbour Bridge
Sydney Harbour Bridge
4.5
About
Spanning the city center to the North Shore, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a wide steel arch bridge known for its beauty as well as function, providing a crossing for cars, trains, bikes and pedestrians. While the more daring can do the BridgeClimb to the top of the structure, opened to traffic in 1932, anyone can enjoy a walk for free.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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- Milsons Point • 9 min walk
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- Kirstie GNantwich, United Kingdom48 contributionsYou’ll pinch yourself!We visit the blue mountains as we have family there. Sydney is an hour away by car ( with little traffic) and I have to say it is the most stunning city I have ever seen, you don’t tire of it. Take in the sites of the opera house, by land or by sea it is breathtaking, the harbour bridge and the ‘rocks’ bars and restaurants and of course the beautiful botanical gardens; when you need a break from the crowds ( it does get busy around circular quay) hop on a ferry and visit one of the many beaches or go to Darling harbour just around the corner.. there is so much to see and do in Sydney, you can’t tire of it. We love it. This year we had glorious sunshine and 24 degrees, last year at the same time it rained for a month non stop! Spring can be unpredictable.. but even when it’s raining, Sydney is amazing!Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 4 October 2023
- Raintree_ThailandBangkok, Thailand4,443 contributionsSydney's big hanger!The Sydney Harbour Bridge is immediately recognized by nearly everyone. It's graceful lines and impressive engineering are easy to appreciate. Visitors with the time and limited fear of heights may wish to do the "bridge climb" which is very interesting and informative.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 5 October 2023
- Qudsia s1 contributionHappy endingYes, i went to sydney with my Girlfriend The sydney harbour bridge was so interesting The Sydney Harbour Bridge is a steel through arch bridge in Sydney, spanning Sydney Harbour from the central business district (CBD) to the North Shore. The view of the bridge, the harbour, and the nearby Sydney Opera House is widely regarded as an iconic image of Sydney, and of Australia itself. Nicknamed "The Coathanger" because of its arch-based design, the bridge carries rail, vehicular, bicycle and pedestrian traffic.[1][2] Under the direction of John Bradfield of the New South Wales Department of Public Works, the bridge was designed and built by British firm Dorman Long of Middlesbrough, and opened in 1932.[3][4] The bridge's general design, which Bradfield tasked the NSW Department of Public Works with producing, was a rough copy of the Hell Gate Bridge in New York City. This general design document, however, did not form any part of the request for tender, which remained sufficiently broad as to allow cantilever (Bradfield's original preference) and even suspension bridge proposals. The design chosen from the tender responses was original work created by Dorman Long, who leveraged some of the design from its own Tyne Bridge which, though superficially similar, does not share the graceful flares at the ends of each arch which make the harbour bridge so distinctive.[5] It is the eighth longest spanning-arch bridge in the world and the tallest steel arch bridge, measuring 134 m (440 ft) from top to water level.[6] It was also the world's widest long-span bridge, at 48.8 m (160 ft) wide, until construction of the new Port Mann Bridge in Vancouver was completed in 2012.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 29 October 2023
- AtkinsMelbourne, Australia3 contributionsA family-friendly outingIts modern and diverse atmosphere, combined with its rich historical roots, make it a must-visit destination. Take a stroll along the picturesque waterfront and marvel at the stunning views of the city skyline. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture through the various dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Admire the historical landmarks, such as the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, and learn about its fascinating past.Visited October 2023Travelled with familyWritten 31 October 2023
- LisaToronto, Canada309 contributionsGo for the experienceWe decided to walk from circular keg to Kirribilli. Luckily I was with someone who knew the route otherwise you would need to rely on the signs which were small or even a bit hidden. The walk is windy but the views are amazing. Would Definitely recommend if you are mobile. There are 3 sets of steps up and steps going down, but I believe there is a lift if you can’t manage them.Visited November 2023Travelled with familyWritten 6 November 2023
- _a_duenkiCanton of Zurich, Switzerland36 contributionsUnforgettable walk over the Sydney Harbour Bridge.I enjoyed an unforgettable walk over the Sydney harbour bridge. Amazed by the beauty of the architecture of the bridge. I also loved the excellent view over Sydney itself and especially the very best view over the Sydney Opera House. There is also a possibility to climb over the bow of the Harbour Bridge, of course with safety equipment. Climbing over the bridge will cost something. Just walking over the bridge is free.Visited November 2023Travelled soloWritten 21 November 2023
- LeannieHanoi, Vietnam2,518 contributionsStunningNot sure there is anyrhing new I can say about this. We were fortunate enough to see fireworks over it on new years eve and then saw it in daylight on our last day in Sydney. It really is iconic and lovely to see especially on a sunny day.Visited January 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 2 January 2024
- CodyDCWashington DC, District of Columbia7,107 contributionsAmazing bridge and landmark for Sydney - a must see when in SydneyI was lucky and had a hotel room with a view of the bridge, so got to see the bridge whenever in the hotel day or night. There are many ways to get a different view of the bridge from walking around the harbour to taking a ferry. I had planned on walking the bridge, but ran out of time. Would like to do that if ever in Sydney in the future.Visited December 2023Travelled soloWritten 6 January 2024
- london057Dublin, Ohio683 contributionsThis is the Best Bridge 🌉 OceaniaThis is the best bridge 🌉 in Oceania . Another thing this bridge 🌁 is big like the Brooklyn Bridge 🌉 in New York , Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and Tower Bridge 🌁 in London, England 🏴. Lastly, I could go back to this bridge.Visited December 2023Travelled with familyWritten 20 January 2024
- Kimberly W367 contributionsGreat experience seeing Sydney lit up at nightRecently visited here with my two friends. We climbed at 7pm so caught sunset. The climb is very easy- you dont need any level of fitness to be able to do this- just the ability to walk. The guide was very friendly and he gives commentary throughout the walk with the headphones provided. There is a lot of health and safety but it doesnt drag too much. They also breathalyse you beforehand so make sure you dont have a pint before! The city looks amazing all lit up at night- i would recommend this time (it also was the cheapest!) Great experience overall and would recommend :)Visited January 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 26 January 2024
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4.5
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Sally G
Penkridge, UK42 contributions
Feb 2020
It takes 3.5 hours to climb the bridge. Extremely well organised and certainly health and safety is their number 1 concern. However of the 3.5 hours 2 hours are taken up on getting prepared and the company taking photographs which you can then pay for. There is a tower on the bridge and a scenic tower in the city so is it worth paying to climb the bridge. The exhilaration isn’t worth the cost
Written 12 March 2020
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.
Hitchiker_bear
Country Victoria, Australia715 contributions
Apr 2021
.
A walk across Sydney Harbour Bridge (not to be confused with the Climb up the arch) is possible, however not enjoyable unless comfortable with excessive noise and vehicle fumes.
Walkers are caged in by high, small grid fencing which curves over the footpath. It is impossible to get good photographs through the mesh and steel struts jut out from the bottom of the mesh. Vehicles thunder past close by on the same level as walkers. Anyone who has walked over Manhattan Bridge where vehicles are under that bridge, and the path has a more casual vibe for cyclists and pedestrians who can loiter and admire the views uncaged, will be disappointed if expecting a similar experience on this Sydney bridge.
The footpath on the South/City side begins near the Argyle Street Cut near the Glenmore Pub. To access the Northern side: from Milson Point walk uphill on Broughton Street,( the bridge will be on your left above you), cross Fitzroy Street and a little further on up Broughton Street, a glass encased lift to the bridge deck comes into view. Also a set of stairs.
The southern bridge Pylon and museum closed due to covid 19 at the time of writing $19 for Adults $12.50 for Seniors. The views from the Pylon may be better.
A walk across Sydney Harbour Bridge (not to be confused with the Climb up the arch) is possible, however not enjoyable unless comfortable with excessive noise and vehicle fumes.
Walkers are caged in by high, small grid fencing which curves over the footpath. It is impossible to get good photographs through the mesh and steel struts jut out from the bottom of the mesh. Vehicles thunder past close by on the same level as walkers. Anyone who has walked over Manhattan Bridge where vehicles are under that bridge, and the path has a more casual vibe for cyclists and pedestrians who can loiter and admire the views uncaged, will be disappointed if expecting a similar experience on this Sydney bridge.
The footpath on the South/City side begins near the Argyle Street Cut near the Glenmore Pub. To access the Northern side: from Milson Point walk uphill on Broughton Street,( the bridge will be on your left above you), cross Fitzroy Street and a little further on up Broughton Street, a glass encased lift to the bridge deck comes into view. Also a set of stairs.
The southern bridge Pylon and museum closed due to covid 19 at the time of writing $19 for Adults $12.50 for Seniors. The views from the Pylon may be better.
Written 3 May 2021
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.
Judith R
Sydney, Australia55 contributions
Mar 2019
From Circular Quay enjoy the 10 minutes or so to Kirribilli (goes every half hour from Wharf 4). Look for the lifts or the stairs which take you up to the bridge level. Take a leisurely stroll across the bridge. The view is so stunning you hardly notice the buzzing of the traffic. Once you reach the steps down to The Rocks, it’s only a short walk back to Circular Quay. Maybe you’d like to turn right left towards Observatory Hill instead of turning right towards Circular Quay when you come down the stairs. The old stone cottages at Observatory Hill are picturesque and there are brilliant views across the Harbour. Nearby, right next to the main route across the bridge, is the S H Irwin Gallery where there is always an interesting exhibition (there is a charge). From here it is a few minutes walk to Wynyard.
Written 27 February 2020
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.
Pam105
New Jersey96 contributions
Jan 2020
We chose not to climb to the top of the Bridge because it was very expensive and we could not take our cameras but would have to rely on the tour guide's ability to take decent photos. Instead we climbed (or take the elevator) halfway up the Bridge to one of the Pylons to visit the Bridge museum (includes a short movie) and to take photos. The awesome views from the south Pylon Lookout was just as good as if one had climbed to the top. If you want bragging rights, than I suggest you climb the Bridge but it was not worth it for us. We were very satisfied walking on the Bridge and taking photos.
Written 1 July 2020
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.
Chris H
Sydney, Australia88 contributions
Oct 2020 • Family
We have always wanted to ‘do’ the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb since we moved here 7 years ago, and after booking a weekend hotel stay we finally booked a Summit climb.
The weather was very kind, bright blue skies, mid twenties C, and a light breeze, so perfect conditions.
The whole experience took about 3.5 hours from arriving and preparation, with probably 2.5 hours actually on the bridge. Prep is very through, and our guide (Ali) was great, taking the time to engage with every single person in the group. My wife isn’t great with heights but very much more at ease after a chat with Ali.
The only part of the climb that in reality that might make some nervous is the two sets of steep steps that lead on to and off the arches of the bridge. They’re called ladders, but they are wide stair cases rather than ladders, with hand rails, and of course you’re clipped in via the safety harnesses.
The views were fantastic, locally and far and wide, and right across to the Blue Mountains. I think it’s easy to forget that Sydney is built on one of the most picturesque harbours in the world, and we were lucky to see it at its best.
The only downside is the 100% restriction on taking a camera of any sort despite plenty of opportunities to make it safe - as they do with their own gear you have to wear - and even such things as fitness trackers. This of course drives silly prices for the photos they take of you, which of course you end up taking - it just feels like a rip off on top of the pretty expensive
Apart from that minor gripe, we recommenced this marvellous experience to locals and tourists alike.
The weather was very kind, bright blue skies, mid twenties C, and a light breeze, so perfect conditions.
The whole experience took about 3.5 hours from arriving and preparation, with probably 2.5 hours actually on the bridge. Prep is very through, and our guide (Ali) was great, taking the time to engage with every single person in the group. My wife isn’t great with heights but very much more at ease after a chat with Ali.
The only part of the climb that in reality that might make some nervous is the two sets of steep steps that lead on to and off the arches of the bridge. They’re called ladders, but they are wide stair cases rather than ladders, with hand rails, and of course you’re clipped in via the safety harnesses.
The views were fantastic, locally and far and wide, and right across to the Blue Mountains. I think it’s easy to forget that Sydney is built on one of the most picturesque harbours in the world, and we were lucky to see it at its best.
The only downside is the 100% restriction on taking a camera of any sort despite plenty of opportunities to make it safe - as they do with their own gear you have to wear - and even such things as fitness trackers. This of course drives silly prices for the photos they take of you, which of course you end up taking - it just feels like a rip off on top of the pretty expensive
Apart from that minor gripe, we recommenced this marvellous experience to locals and tourists alike.
Written 10 October 2020
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.
Vicki H
Richardson, TX3 contributions
Jan 2020
Be prepared to give up all belongings, phone, wallet, watches and clothes!
So we understood the clothes (you have to put on suits as it’s super hot up there) but no phone or camera for photos (oh don’t worry they take pictures) I guess we were stupid in thinking oh ok since you can’t take your phone they will take pictures and email them to you. Yea no when you get back they send you to a room where you get your certificate and a group picture (if you want to be seen you better be in the front of the group or you are too small or hidden behind someone)and then they show you the picture package of 1-3 pictures for $60. Some may say oh that’s not that bad for a memory but when you just spent between $250 -$350 per person and you can’t take your camera you would think they could give you the pictures. The climb was super simple and safe so that was a good thing and our guide Ben was great. But to walk for 5 minutes. Stand and wait for 20 minutes. Walk and take a picture of everyone in your group 5 different times and an 8 second video again (12 different people remember)
I will say the information given about the history of the bridge great. But again not $600 worth! I would suggest spend $40 and walk the bridge 1/2 way go up the look out tower and see the same stuff you see up at the top. Very disappointed and feel deceived! Maybe our fault but wanted everyone else to know the ins and outs to make a informed decision.
So we understood the clothes (you have to put on suits as it’s super hot up there) but no phone or camera for photos (oh don’t worry they take pictures) I guess we were stupid in thinking oh ok since you can’t take your phone they will take pictures and email them to you. Yea no when you get back they send you to a room where you get your certificate and a group picture (if you want to be seen you better be in the front of the group or you are too small or hidden behind someone)and then they show you the picture package of 1-3 pictures for $60. Some may say oh that’s not that bad for a memory but when you just spent between $250 -$350 per person and you can’t take your camera you would think they could give you the pictures. The climb was super simple and safe so that was a good thing and our guide Ben was great. But to walk for 5 minutes. Stand and wait for 20 minutes. Walk and take a picture of everyone in your group 5 different times and an 8 second video again (12 different people remember)
I will say the information given about the history of the bridge great. But again not $600 worth! I would suggest spend $40 and walk the bridge 1/2 way go up the look out tower and see the same stuff you see up at the top. Very disappointed and feel deceived! Maybe our fault but wanted everyone else to know the ins and outs to make a informed decision.
Written 22 January 2020
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.
Bruce M
Sydney, Australia821 contributions
Feb 2020
We have lived in Sydney all our lives and it took a visit from overseas friends to include this in a walking tour of Sydney.
The walk from the Milsons Point side is well sign posted from the railway station and is an easy walk after a short climb up stairs to the bridge deck.
The walkway is on the eastern side ( ie the Opera House side) and gives a fNtasic perspective of many of the iconic Sydney sights.
The southern pylon as a compact museum and an excellent viewing platform which shouldn't be missed. The price is a fraction of the cost ($47 for family's. $19 for adults with discounts for seniors and students) of the bridge climb and while the views would not be the same, they are nonetheless absolutely worth the cost.
The walk from the Milsons Point side is well sign posted from the railway station and is an easy walk after a short climb up stairs to the bridge deck.
The walkway is on the eastern side ( ie the Opera House side) and gives a fNtasic perspective of many of the iconic Sydney sights.
The southern pylon as a compact museum and an excellent viewing platform which shouldn't be missed. The price is a fraction of the cost ($47 for family's. $19 for adults with discounts for seniors and students) of the bridge climb and while the views would not be the same, they are nonetheless absolutely worth the cost.
Written 12 February 2020
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.
Louise S
London, Canada42 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
We braved our fears and signed up for the bridge climb. It was a really awesome experience and we always felt like we were in knowledgeable and professional hands. Obviously they have been doing this for a while and the seamless procedure to get ready really gives you confidence in their ability. Our guide was very experienced and he was able to gauge the fitness levels of the group and proceed accordingly. We opted for the quick route and it worked out perfectly.
Written 15 March 2020
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.
Michael T
Formby, UK1,130 contributions
Feb 2020
The iconic bridge is the showpiece of Sydney harbour, even more so than the Opera House. It is like a huge welcome mat. You can admire it from afar, sail under it, walk along it, all for free, or you can pay to climb up it. We swerved the last option but enjoyed the bridge for every day of our stay in Sydney. In our opinion it beats the Golden Gate (which is painted in a rust-coloured preservative) hands down. It is British designed and built, mimicking the Tyne Bridge in Newcastle.
Written 20 February 2020
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.
RobertCPickering
Pickering72 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
I did this walk with my daughter. On the plus side, safety is paramount, all the staff are brilliant, the views are amazing. For me the fact that my hero Bruce Springsteen had done the walk, well if it was good enough for Bruce it was good enough for me. The weather was glorious, late afternoon, not to warm and a nice breeze towards the top. It is something I will always remember. On the downside I thought the cost was extortionate, approx £170.00 for a walk of not much more than 90 minutes, the rest of the time was taken up by health and safety. Another £35.00 for photos (optional) which you do not actually get, but a barcode for you to print out yourself at further expense. Is it value for money? No. Should you do it? Then the answer is probably yes.
Written 24 February 2020
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.
Wie kann man die Harbour Bridge in Sydney zu Fuß überqueren?
Written 24 February 2023
I have seen that when you do the harbour bridge climb you also get to go to the pylon lookout, I was wondering do you have to use it on the same day or can you come back at another time does it have an expiration date?
Written 30 January 2020
They give you a pass for the pylon, you can use the same day, another day or give to someone else. As we only had a few days in Sydney, we gave the passes to my Aunt to use with a friend.
Written 5 February 2020
Die Brücke betreten Legal aber nur Unten nach Oben nur für teuer Geld.
Ich war zwei mal Oben bei Tag&Nacht Teuer aber gut Angelegt.Gruß
Written 5 February 2019
Wife has a frozen shoulder but is physically fit will she be allowed to climb the bridge !! It’s already paid for 😱
Written 8 January 2019
Before you start the climb you have to practice climbing the ladders and stairs which are the same on the bridge, if she cannot do this (which is not demanding) they will decide if she can go. It is not difficult I have has a knee replacement and having the other one done soon and had no trouble, and it is more demanding on the knee than a shoulder
Written 28 February 2019
Donde puedo aparcar mi auto para que no me salga tan cara la visita al Puente de la Bahía de Sídney?
Written 21 October 2018
Ich würde nicht mit dem Auto fahren, sondern mit den öffentlichen Verkehrsmitteln (ist ganz einfach)
Written 2 December 2018
We will be in Sydney for a few days in July 2019. How much is the Bridge Climb and is it worth the money compared with other attractions? We are on a guided tour and have one free day. Any advice appreciated. Thanks Simon UK
Written 12 October 2018
One day so what about climbing the pylon and walking over the bridge, get the ferry back, then take another ferry either to Watson’s or Manly and back for the views. Then walk to the opera house and back to Darling Harbour for the evening buskers. If you have time to pop in the free bits of the Sea museum that would be good, or pay to see the big ships. For the ferry rides you need to pick up an Opal card from any convenience store or tourist info place and you won’t need more than 16 dollars for the day as it has a daily max. Each ride is about 3-4 dollars. Daily max on sundays is less than 4 dollars meaning lots of free rides.
Written 31 December 2018
If you have one of there hats do you get to keep it at the end of the climb as me and my are there in October and sure going to climb the bridge
Written 9 September 2018
Hi 603queens
The climb companies provide what you need for the climb - but I'm not sure if you get to keep their hat! If you Google Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb you can ask directly.
Enjoy the climb!
Written 9 September 2018
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