Sydney Opera House

Introducing Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House, located in the north of Sydney's city center, is a landmark building. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, it houses a water-based complex combining a theatre and halls beneath a shell-shaped roof. Its interior is inspired by Mayan and Aztec temples. Construction began in March 1959 and was completed and opened on October 20, 1973, taking a total of 14 years. The Sydney Opera House is an Australian landmark and one of the most distinctive buildings of the 20th century.

The Sydney Opera House consists primarily of two main halls, several smaller theaters, performance halls, and other ancillary facilities. Both halls are housed within the larger sail-shaped structure, while the smaller performance halls are located within the plinth at the bottom. The largest of the main halls is the Concert Hall, which can accommodate up to 2,679 people.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon humid climate;

Indoor architecture, enjoyable in all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to spend 3 to 4 hours. It is a rare opportunity to listen to a concert before leaving.

Tickets

The standard ticket price for internal tours is AUD 37, and external tours are free.

Attraction opening hours

9:00-17:00

---

Most Popular FAQs for Sydney Opera House

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Sydney Opera House, designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, is one of the most iconic buildings in the world. Opened in 1973, it represents Australia's cultural and artistic spirit. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and hosts over 1,500 performances annually.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Opera House is located at Bennelong Point in Sydney Harbour. It's easily accessible by public transport: Circular Quay is a short walk away, where you can catch buses, trains, or ferries. Alternatively, taxis and rideshare services can drop you off directly at the entrance.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Opera House is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM for tours. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially on weekdays to avoid the crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Tickets for a guided tour are around 43 AUD. You can buy tickets online via the official Opera House website or purchase them at the box office on-site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It’s recommended to book tickets for tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking a day or two ahead is typically sufficient, but booking earlier guarantees your preferred time slot.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A guided tour takes approximately 1 hour. If you're attending a performance, expect to spend 2-3 hours. For a full experience, including a visit to the gift shop and dining, plan for 2-4 hours.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Concert Hall, known for its world-class acoustics.
• The Drama Theatre, where more intimate performances take place.
• The Forecourt, offering stunning views of Sydney Harbour and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in English and other languages, including Mandarin, Spanish, French, and German. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the Forecourt, offering panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and the Harbour Bridge. Inside, the upper balconies of the Concert Hall provide excellent photography opportunities of the stunning architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a guided tour to learn about the architecture, followed by a visit to the main halls like the Concert Hall and Drama Theatre. If you’re attending a performance, relax and enjoy the show afterward. Don’t forget to explore the nearby areas like Circular Quay after your visit.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

The Opera House offers evening performances, but there are no specific night tours or light shows. However, the building is beautifully lit at night, and the surrounding area offers great views after sunset.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Opera House can be crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings, especially in the off-season (autumn and winter).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The Opera House has clean toilets, cafes, and a gift shop. Water stations are available, and there are also multiple restaurants nearby for dining. Rest areas are located throughout the venue, both indoors and outdoors.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The Opera House is fully accessible for people with disabilities, including wheelchair access. There are also special programs for children and family-friendly performances.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Credit cards and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are accepted throughout the Opera House, including for tours, food, and merchandise. Cash payments are generally not preferred.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Opera Bar: Enjoy drinks and casual dining with a view of Sydney Harbour.
• Bennelong Restaurant: A fine dining experience located inside the Opera House.
• Several cafes around Circular Quay offer casual dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian, vegan, and halal options available at Opera Bar and Bennelong Restaurant. Circular Quay also has multiple restaurants offering diverse food options.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Four Seasons Hotel Sydney is nearby, offering luxury accommodations.
• The Sydney Harbour YHA is a more budget-friendly option with beautiful views of the Opera House.
• There are also various boutique hotels and serviced apartments within walking distance.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Royal Botanic Garden is just a short walk from the Opera House.
• The Sydney Harbour Bridge, where you can walk or climb to the top for stunning views.
• The Museum of Contemporary Art and The Rocks district are also nearby for cultural exploration.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The Opera House has a gift shop where you can buy Opera House-themed merchandise, including books, art prints, and musical memorabilia. Typical souvenirs include Sydney Opera House models and branded apparel.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, you can easily continue your trip by walking to Circular Quay for ferry rides to Manly, Watsons Bay, or other harbor destinations. Alternatively, take a bus or train from Circular Quay Station, located a short walk away.