Sydney Opera House - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Sydney Opera House
Sydney Opera House
4.5
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
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$45.00
All you need to step foot in the door.
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Top ways to experience Sydney Opera House
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
See what travellers are saying
  • Thomas L
    Balsall Common, United Kingdom34 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Excellent experience
    A fantastic building that lived up to our advance expectations. It was in a lovely location on the harbour and looked amazing - a great work of design. We wanted to do a tour but were all booked for the time of our visit - so suggest book well in advance
    Dear O6271WDthomasl, Thankyou for this fabulous review. The Sydney Opera House truly is unmatched in terms of architecture and location. We are so pleased to hear you enjoyed your time here visiting and would love to welcome you back again for a tour one day. Kind regards, Team SOH
    Written 23 April 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited April 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 21 April 2023
  • un o
    Geelong, Australia3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Nice architecture
    A masterpiece that stands out in the skyline like a white beacon of culture. It's a multi-purpose community meeting place, where you can attend a show, take a tour, or just admire the architecture. It's a must-see for anyone visiting Sydney, and a great place to take a selfie!
    Dear uno33, Thank you for your lovely review and encapsulating the essence of the Sydney Opera House! I always think of this quote from the American architect Louis Kahn: “The sun did not know how beautiful its light was, until it was reflected off this building.” Our Iconic landmark is for everyone a place of storytelling, history with a touch of magic. We hope to welcome you back soon. Kind regards, Team SOH
    Written 9 May 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited May 2023
    Written 8 May 2023
  • Willamina
    Wallan, Australia8 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Awe-Inspiring Performance Arts Centre
    With its unique architecture, the Sydney Opera House has become an international symbol of creativity and innovation. It is a place that inspires and delights with its range of performances. From opera, ballet and theatre to comedy, music and dance, the Sydney Opera House is a hub of cultural activity. It is a place of creativity and imagination, where artists can come together to share their work and ideas.
    Dear willaminad, Thank you for your wonderful review of the Sydney Opera House! We have at least 7 different performance spaces and especially on weekends we have a great variety of performances to enjoy. We also have daily guided tours to learn more about the beautiful and unique architecture and the unusual history of this iconic building. We are looking forward to welcoming you back in the near future. Warm Regards, Team SOH
    Written 15 May 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited May 2023
    Written 14 May 2023
  • Fallert
    Sydney, Australia7 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    An Elegant and Stunning White Beauty
    The Sydney Opera House is a stunningly beautiful white building that is an iconic symbol of Australia. It is a truly elegant structure, with its shell-like roofs and white walls, and is an architectural masterpiece. It is also a world-renowned performing arts venue, hosting a wide variety of performances from opera to ballet to concerts. The atmosphere inside is simply breathtaking, and the views from the outside are equally stunning. I highly recommend visiting the Sydney Opera House if you get the chance - it is a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
    Dear fallertd Thank you so much for your five star review and wonderful description of Sydney Opera House. We love to hear about the unforgettable experiences our iconic building creates for our visitors. We look forward to welcoming you back again soon. Team SOH
    Written 22 May 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited May 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 17 May 2023
  • janet m
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Welcoming Team Sydney Opera House
    I visited The Opera House wondering about a specific piece of art work. The Welcoming Team went above and beyond to assist me. Their friendly manner and genuine interest in my request was excellent. They should be very proud of their team and how they showcase the Opera House and their dedicated desire to help. All I can say is thank you so much. Cheers Janet
    Dear janet m, Thank you so much for your lovely review! We have passed your kind feedback on to our excellent Welcome Team. The Welcome Team is passionate about going above and beyond to provide memorable experiences to all visitors, and they are delighted to have been able to assist you with your enquiry. We look forward to welcoming you back soon to the Sydney Opera House! Kind regards, Team SOH
    Written 2 June 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited May 2023
    Travelled solo
    Written 29 May 2023
  • 2CAtravelers
    Brattleboro, Vermont878 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    So Unique
    Our friends walked with us from dinner on the Quay and showed us through the Opera House after dark. The outside lighting was spectacular, to say the least. We were able to tour around the inside in the lobby area which was interesting. I would liked to have taken a tour.
    Dear 2CAtravelers, Thank you for taking the time to write a review. We are so glad you enjoyed your visit to our iconic landmark. We agree, the walk from Circular Quay to the Opera House at night is a special sight to see with the sails and harbor glistening with light. We are thrilled you got the chance to visit our Box Office areas as the interior architecture is very unique. Next time, our one hour guided tours will take you around the Opera House and into our theatres learning all about our history along the way. We look forward to welcoming you back at the Sydney Opera House and hopefully meeting you on one of our guided tours soon! Regards, Team SOH
    Written 12 June 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited March 2023
    Written 10 June 2023
  • ntjsmith
    Lancaster, United Kingdom163 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Couldn’t visit Sydney with a trip the the Opera house
    Spent the day walking around Sydney whilst on a recent business trip and could not have gone all that way without seeing the opera house , truly is a wonderful building. It looks smaller on the pictures you see of it and don’t realise how big it is until up close. Definitely one of the most icon buildings in the world
    Dear ntjsmith, Thank you for your lovely review, we are so glad that you enjoyed your visit to the Sydney Opera House. We agree the this iconic building is a spectacular view, especially in person. We hope to welcome you back again soon. Kind regards, Team SOH
    Written 25 June 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited June 2023
    Travelled on business
    Written 23 June 2023
  • zahida b
    Sydney, Australia3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A majestic performing arts centre located on the Sydney
    It is renowned for its unique design, a white-tiled building composed of a series of sail-like shells. It is a world-class venue for the performing arts, hosting over 40 shows each week from some of the most renowned performers in the world. From ballet to opera, theatre, comedy, and more, the Sydney Opera House is an unforgettable experience. The building's design is a marvel in itself, providing a truly unique atmosphere for the performing arts. The views of the harbour and the city skyline from the Opera House are breathtaking, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
    Dear 269zahidab, Thank-you for this fabulous review. Fun fact about our tiles is that they were specially made by Swedish company Höganäs AB and are designed to catch and mirror the sky with all its varied light throughout the day. They are also self-cleaning; rainwater washes away dirt so manual cleaning of the soaring sculptural arches isn’t required. We are so pleased you enjoyed your visit and we hope to welcome you back again soon. Kind regards, Team SOH
    Written 25 June 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited June 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 24 June 2023
  • Tiffanie
    Sydney, Australia6 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A cultural icon with innovative design
    The Sydney Opera House is an iconic cultural landmark in Australia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its innovative design and stunning harbour view make it a must-see destination. From the grand theatre to the outdoor performances, the Opera House offers a unique experience for everyone. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a lifelong fan, the Sydney Opera House is sure to wow you.
    Dear tiffanieh2017, Thankyou for this in-depth review. The Sydney Opera House is the symbol of modern Australia. A World Heritage-listed masterpiece of “human creative genius,” it exists because a few brave people dared to think differently. From conception to completion, the building tested the limits of engineering, construction and design. When the Opera House opened its doors in 1973, changing the image of Australia, a new era of cultural discovery and community engagement began. Five decades later, we stand as an important community meeting place, the nation’s busiest performing arts centre and an integral part of Sydney through our contribution to culture, heritage, sustainability and tourism. We are so pleased you enjoyed your time here with us and we hope to welcome you back again soon. Kind regards, Team SOH
    Written 17 July 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited July 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 10 July 2023
  • SANGEETA S
    Sydney, Australia4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A world-class masterpiece with harbour view!
    Sydney Opera House is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Land Down Under! From the creative architecture to the stunning harbour view, this world-class masterpiece is a sight to behold. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this iconic landmark!
    Dear 97sangeetas, Thank you for writing your lovely review. We agree the Sydney Opera House is an iconic, world class masterpiece and on 28 June 2007 the Sydney Opera House was included on the UNESCO World Heritage List under the World Heritage Convention, placing it alongside the Taj Mahal, the ancient Pyramids of Egypt and the Great Wall of China as one of the most outstanding places on Earth! We hope to welcome you back to the Sydney Opera House soon. Kind regards, Team SOH
    Written 20 July 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited July 2023
    Travelled with family
    Written 14 July 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
4.5 of 5 bubbles24,996 reviews
Excellent
18,649
Very good
4,961
Average
1,052
Poor
201
Terrible
137

Graham I
Swindon, UK7 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
A wonderful experience with a very interesting and knowledgeable guide. Our guide was passionate about the opera house and its history
Written 11 April 2024
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.

Vickie F
Sanibel Island, FL1 contribution
4.0 of 5 bubbles
The tour of the opera house was wonderful. Clear, positive, and the presenter made accommodation for people who had difficulty climbing stairs. But: we got the tickets with “main meal” afterwards and expected something special. But it was not, it was just a voucher for one of two restaurants and the voucher was a very limited menu. So I’d say definitely go on the tour, but without the meal supplement. You’ll have many more choices without it.
Written 11 April 2024
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.

"TJ"
Weeki Wachee, FL119 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Apr 2024 • Solo
You cannot see enough of this place! To have a personalized tour is the way to go. Breathtaking views & sights and the history of its construction alone is nearly unbelievable! You can't stop taking photos & videos, except when the guide tells you "No photos"! One word of advice for the tour; it does take a good hour, or just over an hour and though the tour also includes a meal and a drink, I recommend taking the tour AFTER 9 am. We were done by 1010-1015, and when I went to the canteen to redeem my ticket for my meal and a drink, I was told it was NOT VALID until 11 am, even though the canteen is already open for coffees and such. I did not feel like waiting another 45 minutes for it. That's something that is NOT 'printed' anywhere on what the tour includes! Other than that...it's a DEFINITE MUST DO!
Written 10 April 2024
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.

jw6969
Virginia Water, UK2,342 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I’d been dreaming of visiting the Royal Opera House since I was a little boy - so, maybe 50 years! We chose to do the backstage tour as there wasn’t anything on that we fancied watching. An early start is required to get to the Opera House for 6.45am! I forget our tour guides name but she was great. We got to see an amazing amount of ‘behind the scenes’ areas - several stages, musicians pit, green room, scenery areas and so on. Slight disappointment in not seeing inside the big stars changing rooms..and it all ended up with a very decent breakfast in the Green Room with all of us chatting until we were kicked out. Top tour! I think it was $175 a head which I thought was ok.
Written 10 April 2024
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.

dare2burbest
Melbourne, Australia172 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2024 • Solo
I went to see Simone Young at the Opera House. A fabulous performance and venue. Was on my bucket list so glad I can tick it off. Easy to navigate your way around and staff are very accommodating. Seating is comfortable but stairs are steep so be aware when booking. Acoustics are amazing.
Written 10 April 2024
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.

Cydny W
Woodinville, WA151 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Apr 2024 • Family
This is wonderful way to see the Opera House behind the scenes. Our guide was excellent and so knowledgeable.So many fun facts that no-one would ever know.
A must do while in Sydney. Dinner/Lunch was fun also. It was a totally fun day!!
Written 9 April 2024
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.

Justo Alejandro A
Dubai10 contributions
1.0 of 5 bubbles
The tour doesn’t include the visit of the main hall, which is terribly disappointing and it wasn’t mentioned when we bought the tickets at the box office. In many countries this is called “scam”

You are walked through two small theaters and receive innumerable data points about number of seats or speakers which doesn’t fill in any way the gap left by not visiting the main auditorium
Written 7 April 2024
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.

Nomad08781192391
2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2024 • Couples
Wow wow wow. That's how you describe a crooner like Tom Jones, who is soon to turn 84, yet sings like he is still in his early years. Physically he has aged but clearly it is Tom Jones. Although he is a bit robotic when walking or gyrating but that just proved, and proves, to us all that if HE can do it, then we have no excuses. Sold out and backed perfectly by his 5 piece band which, once and again, when you got it, you got it!
Written 4 April 2024
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.

Betty C
6 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2024 • Family
Extremely interesting tour of a beautiful, magnificent building. Be sure to make reservations early because it gets very crowded. Restaurants nearby are also crowded and not worth your time and money. Take a ferry that gives you a great view of the Opera House and bridge. You'll get a good picture opportunity.
Written 2 April 2024
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.
Dear T9877DTbettyc, Thank you for this 5-star review. We are thrilled to hear you had a positive experience on your tour. Being a world-famous landmark, we do draw in some crowds so great idea to book in advance. A Sydney Opera House guided tour is a unique way to get access inside our theatres and learn more about the history of the building and how it came to be such an important part of Sydney's history. Great tip about catching a ferry! Not only are the ferries iconic in Sydney but they offer some pretty special vantage points on the Harbour. The best ones for the Opera House are rides to Manly or Watsons Bay. Thanks again for this kind review, we hope we can welcome you back to the Sydney Opera House again soon. Kind regards, Team SOH
Written 3 April 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

tammyBaltimore_Md
Baltimore, MD2,414 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Apr 2024 • Solo
Beautiful building from many angels around the harbor, only way to actually go into the halls is paying $45 for a tour, otherwise can walk up the stairs, and go partially around.
Definite photo op must
Written 1 April 2024
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.
Dear tammyBaltimore_Md, Thank you for taking the time to leave us this kind review. Walking around the Sydney Opera House site is a must for anyone visiting Sydney. You can actually walk the whole way around the Opera House and take in different vantage points of the architecture along the way. One of our favorites is the Northern end of the Opera House site as if you were standing directly in front of it. If you venture up there, you may also get a chance to say hello to our resident seal, Benny who loves to sunbake on our steps at the front. Another favourite, is walking up the main Monumental Stairs. Here you may be able to find some spots where you can touch one of the million famous tiles that make up the Opera House sails. We understand the guided tour may not be for everyone, but we hope there are some pockets of magic to be had when visiting this incredible site. Thank you again, we hope you managed to get some great snaps during your visit to the Opera House! Kind regards, Team SOH
Written 3 April 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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Sydney Opera House - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Frequently Asked Questions about Sydney Opera House

Sydney Opera House admission prices can vary. Entrance tickets currently cost AU$102.14, while a popular guided tour starts around AU$5.09 per person.

According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Sydney Opera House:




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