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Book Sydney Opera House Tours
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Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.
Guided Tour of Sydney Opera House
- Walk under the glorious sails of Sydney Opera House and discover how it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site on a 30-minute or 1-hour guided tour.
- Relish the intricate details of Utzon's architectural masterpiece at famed performance venues like the Joan Sutherland Theatre and the Concert Hall.
- Opt for a tour in Mandarin, Spanish, German, Japanese, Korean, or French, and enjoy the convenience to cater to your language preference.
Inclusions
- Admission to the Sydney Opera House
- 30/60-min guided tour in 6 languages (based on option selected)
- Headset
- Tip: Keep an eye out for the resident seal – Benny! It’s often seen sunbathing on the northern steps of the Opera House.
- The guided tour is available in French, Mandarin, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and German.
- The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users.
- Note that the following are not allowed during this experience: large bags, video recording.
- Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Sydney Opera House Architecture Tour
- Embark on a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House and learn about its fascinating architectural history.
- Discover the story of Jørn Utzon, the Danish artist behind the world-famous sculpture on Sydney Harbour.
- Enhance your tour by immersing yourself in a digital experience featuring 270-degree visuals and sound
- As you walk beneath the shell-like structures of the Sydney Opera House, your guide will tell you about how visionaries, architects, engineers, and artists came together to build this architectural and engineering masterpiece.
Inclusions
- English-speaking guide
- Sydney Opera House stages lots of live performances, so venues are subject to availability at the time of your tour. Please note the Concert Hall is currently closed as it is undergoing renewal works to improve theatre machinery, acoustics, and accessibility.
- Suitcases or large bags can't be stored, however, you can contact the nearest storage facility.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guided Walking Tour of Sydney Opera House
- Make your way to one of Australia's most iconic landmarks, the Sydney Opera House.
- Bask in the elegance and grandeur of this beloved attraction that registers over 8 million visitors annually.
- This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Australia's proudest achievements and boasts a modern-expressionist design in its architecture.
- Follow around an expert English-speaking guide who will show you the best of the Opera House while filling you in on its significance in Australian history and culture.
Inclusions
- Admission to the Sydney Opera House
- Expert English-speaking tour guide
- Headset
- Arrive early to allow time for security screening. If possible, please bring a smaller bag or leave it at home for faster processing.
- Video recording is prohibited inside the venue.
- Please note that bags larger than a standard handbag will need to be cloaked on arrival and may be subject to a search before being cloaked. Suitcases or large backpacks will not be permitted to be cloaked within the Sydney Opera House facilities.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guided Back Stage Tour of Sydney Opera House
- Embark on an enriching 2.5-hour guided tour, delving deep into the backstage world of the universally acclaimed Sydney Opera House.
- Unravel unique tales of the theatre, uncovering hidden spaces and learning insider secrets that set this tour apart from the rest.
- Get an up-close view of theatre magic, from the Concert Hall's organ to the Joan Sutherland Theatre's rear stage lift.
- Relish a sumptuous breakfast in the Green Room, an exclusive domain of performers, culminating your backstage exploration on a high note.
Inclusions
- 2.5-hour guided tour
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Breakfast (Please find the menu here).
- Tip: Don't miss the backstage view of the iconic sails, a unique perspective only available on this tour.
- Children below the age of 10 are not permitted on this tour.
- This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and individuals with mobility impairments.
- Video recording is strictly prohibited on this tour.
- For safety, flat, enclosed, rubber-soled shoes must be worn on this tour as there are over 300 steps to climb.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guided Tour of Sydney Opera House with Meals and Drink in Multiple Languages
- Embark on a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and indulge in a delicious meal for a wholesome experience.
- Gain exclusive backstage access, walk the same path as notable performers, and immerse in the architectural grandeur of the 'sails'.
- Relish a delectable meal and drink at the Opera House's restaurant, offering unparalleled views of the Sydney Harbour and its landmarks.
- Explore the rooms and corridors and capture photos from rare vantage points as you embark on the guided tour in your preferred language.
Inclusions
- 1-hour tour of Sydney Opera House
- Guided tour in 6 languages (based on option selected)
- Lunch
- Drinks
- Headset
- Tip: If you're a music enthusiast, ask your guide about the acoustics of the concert hall, as they're considered to be some of the best in the world.
- The guided tour is available in German, Spanish, French, Mandarin, Japanese, or Korean.
- The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users.
- Note that the following are not allowed during this experience: large bags and video recordings.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guided Tour of Sydney Opera House with Meals and Drink
- Soak up the grandeur and elegance of the world-renowned multi-venue performing arts center of Sydney Opera House.
- Enjoy an hour-long guided tour and gasp at the attraction’s unique series of glistening white sail-shaped shells that will have you reaching for your cameras.
- Pass by venues and theaters as intriguing facts and stories about performances of the past become known to you.
- Post your tour, head to the Opera House’s House Canteen or Opera Bar for lunch accompanied by one drink.
- Gorge on a delicious meal as you drink in uninterrupted views of the famed Harbor Bridge and the surrounding city skyline.
Inclusions
- Admission to the Sydney Opera House
- Expert English-speaking tour guide
- Lunch at Opera Bar or House Canteen
- 1 Drink
- Tip: Make sure to wear comfortable and flat shoes as the guided tour will entail a fair amount of walking, with around 300 stairs to cover.
- Click here to know more about the House Canteen menu.
- Select one main meal and a beverage from the listed menu.
- No table reservations are required. (free seating).
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
SydneySydney Opera House
Top things to do in Sydney
Why go on a Sydney Opera House Tour?
- Knowledgeable Guides: Enjoy the company of experienced guides who will enhance your visit with interesting anecdotes and historical facts.
- Exclusive Areas: Explore areas not usually accessible to the general public, such as backstage, dressing rooms, and production areas, gaining a unique insight into the inner workings of this world-renowned performing arts venue.
- Architectural Highlights: Get up close and personal with the extraordinary architecture of the Sydney Opera House, including its iconic sails and innovative construction techniques.
- Cultural Significance: Discover the Opera House's role in shaping Australian identity and its significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Picture-Perfect Views: Benefit from the knowledge and expertise of guides who can direct you to the best vantage points for capturing breathtaking photos of the Sydney Opera House against the backdrop of Sydney Harbour.
All Your Sydney Opera House Tour Options
Guided Tours
Explore the Sydney Opera House with a knowledgeable guide as they take you through all the fascinating aspects of the performance venue in glorious detail. The guided tour is perfect for you if you love learning interesting facts about the landmark you're visiting. From fascinating insights into the constitution of the opera house to little-known facts that enrich your visit, a guided tour is the perfect way to experience the beauty and majesty of the world-famous multi-venue performing arts center in Sydney.
Meal Combo Tours
Looking for a complete Sydney Opera House experience? Opt for a special guided tour and meal combo. You will be accompanied by a fun and well-informed guide who will lead your tour through all the interesting aspects of this multi-venue performing arts center in Sydney . To make the experience even better, your experience will include a fabulous meal at the Opera Kitchen. This Combo tour is one of a kind, and sure to leave you happy and sated!
Discounted Tickets
Children aged 5-15 years can book discounted tickets. Students aged 16 and above can get discounts on their tickets provided they present a valid Student ID.
Sydney Opera House Highlights
Nestled majestically along the sparkling waters of Sydney Harbour, this magnificent performing arts center provides an opportunity to delve deeper into its rich history and experience the magic of world-class performances. Immerse yourself in the architectural wonder, explore its intricate interiors, and witness the breathtaking performances that have graced its stages.
Architecture
The Sydney Opera House, designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, is an architectural marvel that seamlessly combines innovation and beauty. Its unique sail-like structure, inspired by the billowing sails of a ship, captures the essence of Sydney's nautical heritage. The gleaming white ceramic tiles that adorn the exterior of the building reflect the changing hues of the sky and the harbor, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle.
Sydney Opera House Architecture
History
The history of the Sydney Opera House is as fascinating as its design. Construction of the building began in 1959 and took 14 years to complete, finally opening its doors to the public in 1973. Since then, it has become an enduring symbol of Australia's cultural identity and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The challenges faced during its construction only add to its legendary status, making it a testament to human perseverance and creative vision.
About Sydney Opera House
Interiors
Step inside the Sydney Opera House, and you'll be greeted by an enchanting world of artistry and elegance. The interiors are just as breathtaking as the exterior. The Concert Hall, with its grand organ and exceptional acoustics, is the largest performance space within the Opera House and can seat up to 2,679 guests. The Opera Theatre, known for its intimate atmosphere, hosts opera, ballet, and theatrical performances, seating up to 1,547 people. Other spaces include the Drama Theatre, the Playhouse, and the Utzon Room, each with its own unique charm and purpose.
Rooms Within
The Sydney Opera House is not only home to magnificent performance spaces but also houses various other rooms that cater to different needs. The Utzon Room, named after the architect, offers panoramic views of the harbor and is often used for chamber music performances, small gatherings, and receptions. The Forecourt, an expansive outdoor area, is where you can witness breathtaking performances and events against the backdrop of Sydney Harbour Bridge. The Studio, a versatile space, hosts contemporary performances, workshops, and experimental theater.
Sydney Opera House Shows
From mesmerising operas to captivating ballets and thought-provoking theatre productions, this iconic venue offers an array of shows and performances that are sure to leave you spellbound.
Opera
The Opera Theatre, with its intimate setting and exceptional acoustics, hosts magnificent opera performances by world-renowned companies and talented artists. From timeless masterpieces like Mozart's "The Marriage of Figaro" to contemporary operas, the Opera House offers a diverse repertoire to indulge your passion for this captivating art form.
Ballet
The Concert Hall, with its versatile stage, serves as the perfect setting for breathtaking ballet performances. Whether it's the timeless classics like Tchaikovsky's "Swan Lake" or innovative contemporary ballet productions, the Opera House provides a platform for world-class ballet companies to showcase their talent.
Theatre
The Sydney Opera House is also a hub for theatrical performances that cater to a wide range of genres and styles. The Drama Theatre and the Playhouse, with their intimate settings, offer an immersive theatrical experience.
Music
In addition to opera, ballet, and theatre, the Sydney Opera House presents an impressive range of music performances that cater to different musical tastes. The Concert Hall, renowned for its exceptional acoustics, hosts symphony orchestras, chamber music ensembles, and solo recitals by world-class musicians.
Plan Your Visit to Sydney Opera House
Timings
Getting There
Food & Drink
Accessibility
Facilities
Stay
Nearby
Welcome Centre Timings
Every day: 8:45 AM to 5 PM
Closures: Closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Eve
Specific Tour Timings
Architecture Tour: Saturdays 1 PM onwards
Guided Tours: Everyday 9 AM to 3:30 PM
Slots will have to be booked when booking your tickets.
Plan Your Visit
Address: Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
- Train: Train Lines: T2, T3, T8
Nearest Station: Circular Quay - Bus: Bus Routes: B1, L90, L94, 333, 370, 392, 400, 422, 423, and 490.
- Nearest Stop: Circular Quay, Young St, Stand D stop
- Water Taxi: Routes: F1, MFF
Distance From Ferry Station: 8 min walk
- Sydney Cove Oyster Bar: Gorge on classy European and Asian seafood served in a peaceful setting overlooking the tranquil blue water of the Sydney Harbour.
- Bennelong Restaurant and Bar: Amongst the most iconic restaurants in Australia, this cathedral-esque eatery serves premium quality local cuisine.
- Aria Restaurant: Presented by chef Matt Moran, this opulent, glass-walled dining room is known for serving contemporary Australian haute cuisine.
- Opera Kitchen: This modern eatery serves unique food for all budgets and offers stunning views of the majestic Sydney Harbour.
- Searock Grill: Featuring plenty of outdoor seating and a modern menu, this casual restaurant is famous for its delectable Australian seafood and steak.
Sydney Opera House includes several facilities and accommodations to help everyone experience this beautiful marvel.
- There are ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets available throughout the facility for wheelchair access.
- You can access the Concert Hall via a staff-operated lift available at the box office foyer and connecting to the southern foyer and stall doors 4, 5, 11, and 12.
- You can reach the John Sutherland Theatre through a staff-operated lift in the box office foyer that is linked to the southern foyer and stall doors 21 and 26.
- You can also take a public lift from the lower concourse to the box office.
- Access to the Western Theatre (Playhouse and Drama Theatre) is available through the Western Foyers.
- The Playhouse can be reached via a platform stairlift while the Utzon Room is accessible via a platform lift on the entrance.
Restrooms: The Box Office Foyer and Western Theatre Foyer are equipped with accessible toilets.
Bars: To ensure that patrons don't have to walk around to get a quick bite or a drink during the performances, each performance venue inside the Opera House features a well-stocked bar. The bars at Concert Hall Theatre and Joan Sutherland Theatre are open for patrons at least 90 minutes before the show starts and during the intermission. The Western Foyer Theatre is also equipped with a bat which is open pre-theatre.
Budget Hotels
London Plane Backpackers, Nomads Sydney, Megaboom City Hotel
Mid-Range Hotels
Travelodge Hotel Sydney Martin Place, InterContinental Sydney - an IHG Hotel, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth
Luxury Hotels
Park Hyatt Sydney, Crown Sydney, Meriton Suites World Tower, Sydney
Madame Tussauds: Meet your favourite celebrities and characters with their life-like wax models at Madame Tussauds Sydney.
SEA LIFE Sydney: Take a marine walk as you discover magnificent aquatic creatures native to Sydney living in their habitat. Learn about conservation measures as you interact with these fascinating animals.
Sydney Harbour Cruise: Take a relaxing cruise along the Sydney Harbour and discover the city's most popular landmarks from the waters. Take a Vivid Sydney cruise to witness the city be illuminated by mesmerising lights.
Blue Mountain Tours: Escape the city's bustle and take a day trip to the Blue Mountains to indulge your nature enthusiast in the serene mountains, lush forests, deep canyons and beautiful waterfalls.
All Your Questions About Sydney Opera House Tour Answered
Is it worth taking a Sydney Opera House tour?
A tour of the Sydney Opera House is definitely a must-do experience for any architectural enthusiast. You get to discover how this engineering marvel was built, how the Opera House shaped the history of performance art and the city of Sydney, and even explore the beautiful vistas of the Sydney Harbour.
Can I take a tour of the Sydney Opera House without booking a show?
Of course, you can. There are several guided tours available for Sydney Opera House that allow you to explore the monument without having to book a show ticket.
Can I enter the Sydney Opera House for free?
No, you will either need to have a show ticket or a tour ticket to be able to enter the Sydney Opera House. You can book a guided tour here.
Where can I book Sydney Opera House tours?
You can book Sydney Opera House tours both online and offline at the Welcome Centre. We suggest booking your Sydney Opera House tours online for better convenience.
What are the types of Sydney Opera House tickets available?
There are two types of Sydney Opera House tickets available: performance tickets and guided tours.
What are the different types of guided tours available for Sydney Opera House?
You can either take a walking tour of the Sydney Opera House, an architectural tour, or even a meal combo tour that includes dining at one of the restaurants at Sydney Opera House.
How long is a Sydney Opera House tour?
The Sydney Opera House tours usually take about an hour. We suggest that you set aside at least 2 hours to make the most of your visit.
Can I cancel my Sydney Opera House tour?
Cancellation and refund policies depend on the type of ticket you purchase. Most tickets offer full refunds on cancellations done up to 24 hours before the scheduled time. Please check your ticket information before purchasing.
Where is Sydney Opera House located?
Sydney Opera House is located at Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia. Find it on Maps
What are the timings for Sydney Opera House tours?
While the architecture tour is available only on Saturdays from 1 PM, the other guided tours of the Sydney Opera House are available every day from 9 AM to 3:30 PM. Find all the information you need to plan your visit to the Sydney Opera House.
When was the Sydney Opera House built?
The construction of the Sydney Opera House began in in 1959 and was completed in 1970.
Is the Sydney Opera House wheelchair accessible?
Yes, there are lifts, accessible toilets, and other accessible services available at the Sydney Opera House.
