Circular Quay

Introducing Circular Quay

Circular Quay is an area of ​​Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, located on the northern edge of Sydney's central business district on Sydney Cove between Bennington Point and The Rocks. Circular Quay is part of the City of Sydney local government area.

Circular Quay consists of a waterfront promenade, pedestrian shopping mall, parks, restaurants and cafes, and has a train station and several ferry terminals. Circular Quay is semi-circular and was originally called "Semi-Circular Quay", but was later simplified to its current name.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons, best in summer and autumn

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1 to 2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Circular Quay

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

Circular Quay has been a central part of Sydney's history since the early European settlement. It served as the primary docking area for early ships and has developed into one of the city's most important transport hubs, connecting ferries, trains, and buses. It’s also a cultural focal point, offering access to various museums, historic sites, and restaurants with views of the harbor.

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

Circular Quay is located in the heart of Sydney's central business district. It is easily accessible by train via Circular Quay Station, by bus, taxi, or on foot. It's also well-connected by ferry services, making it a gateway to other parts of the harbor.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Circular Quay itself is always open, but for attractions like the Museum of Contemporary Art or the Sydney Opera House, visiting hours vary. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays to avoid the crowds. Sunset also provides beautiful views of the harbor and nearby landmarks.

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

There is no fee to access Circular Quay itself. However, attractions such as the Sydney Opera House and the Museum of Contemporary Art have entry fees. Tickets for these attractions can be purchased online or at the venue.

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

For popular attractions like the Sydney Opera House, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking a few days ahead is usually sufficient for most visitors.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can easily spend a couple of hours exploring Circular Quay and its surroundings. A more thorough visit, including nearby attractions like the Opera House or The Rocks, could take half a day.

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

The must-see highlights near Circular Quay include the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the Museum of Contemporary Art. The area around the quay also offers great views of the harbor and provides access to ferries for sightseeing tours.

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

Guided tours are available for the Sydney Opera House and other landmarks nearby. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages, including English, Mandarin, French, Spanish, and others, for self-guided tours of attractions like the Opera House and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

For photography, Circular Quay offers excellent views of the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the bustling harbor. The best spots include the promenade near the quay, the Royal Botanic Garden, and the Opera House forecourt.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at Circular Quay, take a walk along the harbor, visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, then head toward the Opera House. From there, you can walk over to the Royal Botanic Gardens or take a ferry to explore the harbor further.

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

Circular Quay is a beautiful place to visit at night, especially with the illuminated Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. The Vivid Sydney light festival also features spectacular light shows in and around Circular Quay during the winter months. Night tours of the Opera House and harbor cruises are also available.

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

Circular Quay can get crowded, particularly on weekends and during major events. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays, especially in the early mornings or late afternoons. Avoid peak tourist seasons like summer and public holidays if you prefer less crowded times.

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

There are plenty of public toilets around Circular Quay, along with several cafes, restaurants, and shops. Water refill stations are available, and there are ample rest areas with views of the harbor.

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

Circular Quay is easily accessible for people with mobility issues, as it has well-maintained walkways, ramps, and elevators. The nearby Opera House and Museum of Contemporary Art also offer accessibility options for disabled visitors. There are no steep inclines, and most areas are stroller-friendly.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted in shops, cafes, and attractions near Circular Quay. It’s still a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small purchases at outdoor vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several excellent dining options near Circular Quay, including Café Sydney, Opera Bar, and Bennelong, all offering fantastic views of the harbor. The Rocks district also has a range of cafes and restaurants with diverse cuisines.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Many restaurants near Circular Quay, such as those in The Rocks, offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal options. The Opera Bar and Bennelong also cater to various dietary requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Luxury hotels close to Circular Quay include the Four Seasons and the Shangri-La. Budget options are available nearby, like The Russell Hotel and Wake Up! Sydney.

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

Nearby attractions include the Sydney Opera House, Royal Botanic Garden, The Rocks, and the Museum of Contemporary Art. You can also easily catch a ferry from Circular Quay to Manly or Taronga Zoo for a scenic day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are several souvenir shops around Circular Quay and The Rocks. Typical souvenirs include Australian-themed items like opal jewelry, koala and kangaroo plush toys, Aboriginal art, and postcards.

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

After visiting Circular Quay, you can continue your journey by taking a ferry to various harbor destinations, a train from Circular Quay Station, or a bus. Taxis and rideshare services are also available.