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Visit Sydney Opera House | Timings, Location, Tips & More

Get ready to visit the Sydney Opera House

You’ve got your tickets, now get ready to explore Sydney’s iconic Opera House. From its sail-like architecture to world-class performance halls, here’s what you need to know for a seamless visit.

Plan your visit to the Sydney Opera House

Opening hours & tour timings
Location
Getting there
Facilities
Dining
Nearby
Tips
Backstage tour group walking at Sydney Opera House.
  • Welcome Centre & in-person bookings: Monday–Sunday, 8:45am– 5pm
  • Closed: Christmas Day & New Year’s Eve
  • Architecture tour: Saturdays, 8:15am or 10am
  • Guided tours: Daily from 9am – 5pm
  • Backstage tours:  Daily, 7am only
  • Best time to visit: You’ll want to visit the Sydney Opera House in September to October when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller.
Sydney Opera House with visitors on the promenade during a guided tour.
  • Address: Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Find on Maps
  • Located between Sydney Cove and Farm Cove, next to Sydney CBD and a 5-minute walk from the Royal Botanic Garden
  • Train: Nearest station Circular Quay (T3, T4, T8), 6-minute walk from the station
  • Bus: Lines 115, 293, 304, 343, 333, 373X, 396X, 374X, 165X to Circular Quay
  • Light Rail: L2 to Circular Quay
  • Ferry: F3 & MFF to Circular Quay
  • Car: From Sydney CBD, head east on Macquarie Street toward Bennelong Point. Follow signs to the Opera House; paid parking is available at Wilson Parking, 2 Macquarie Street.
  • Courtesy bus: Free wheelchair-accessible bus from Circular Quay to Western Foyer
Woman unlocking a white locker with a key.
  • Parking: Paid car park at Wilson Parking, 2 Macquarie Street, 1200 spaces, accessible spaces on Levels 1 & 6; book online for discounts
  • Lockers: Secure cloaking and locker room facilities are available for visitors carrying items larger than A4, allowing you to explore comfortably without extra baggage.
  • Telephone: Public telephones are conveniently located at the Lower Concourse and outside the Stage Door, so you can stay connected during your visit.
  • Baby Changing: Baby changing tables and nappy bins are provided at multiple locations, including the Western Foyers, Lower Concourse, Drama Theatre, and Playhouse.
  • Shop: The Opera House shop, located next to the Welcome Centre on the Lower Concourse, offers a wide range of souvenirs, gifts, and memorabilia to remember your visit.
Couple dining outdoors with Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge in the background.
  • Opera Bar: Enjoy fresh, locally inspired Sydney cuisine and drinks while taking in sweeping views of Sydney Harbour.
  • Bennelong: Located inside the Opera House, this iconic restaurant offers formal dining with expertly crafted Australian dishes and a fine selection of wines.
  • Portside Sydney: Offers a relaxed dining experience with indoor and outdoor seating, letting you savor contemporary Australian dishes while overlooking the Harbour.
  • House Canteen: Open all day, this spot serves everything from breakfast and casual lunch to late-night snacks, with a menu featuring both Australian and Asian flavors.
  • The Lounge: A cozy area to enjoy coffee, tea, or other beverages before a performance.
  • Midden by Mark Olive: Contemporary Australian cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, offering a vibrant menu and modern dining atmosphere.
Visitors at Echo Point lookout viewing the Three Sisters rock formation in Blue Mountains, Australia.
  • Australian National Maritime Museum: Explore fascinating maritime exhibits, step aboard historic ships and submarines, and marvel at Australia’s fastest boat. A must-visit for history and sea enthusiasts.
  • SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium: See 14 themed zones showcasing rare and exotic marine life, from tropical fish to sharks, rays, and penguins.
  • Blue Mountains Tours: Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains and enjoy the Scenic Skyway, walk among cliffs and waterfalls, and soak in views of the wilderness.
  • Sydney Skydive: Experience the thrill of a tandem skydive over Sydney, taking in panoramic city and harbour views.
People on a guided tour in the Utzon Room, Sydney Opera House, viewing colorful wall art.
  • Plan ahead: Book tours, performances, and parking in advance to avoid last-minute stress and secure the best spots.
  • Weekday advantage: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, making it easier to explore the Opera House at your own pace.
  • Dress comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking, as you’ll be exploring multiple levels and venues.
  • Stay updated: Check the Opera House website for any schedule changes, closures, or special events to make the most of your visit.
  • Capture memories: Bring a camera or smartphone—both the iconic architecture and harbour views provide fantastic photo opportunities.
























Book your Sydney Opera House tour

Sydney Opera House Guided Walking Tour
Book now, pay later
30 min - 1 hr
Meals included
More details
Guided Back Stage Tour of Sydney Opera House with Breakfast
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
2 hr 30 min
Meals included
More details
Sydney Opera House Architecture Tour
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
1 hr 15 min
Guided tour
More details
Guided Tour of Sydney Opera House with Meals and Drink
Book now, pay later
30 min - 1 hr
Meals included
More details
from
AU$75.80

Accessibility at Sydney Opera House

Mobility
Hearing
Vision
Accessibility tips
Guided tour with mobility access at Sydney Opera House.
  • Accessible lift: A wheelchair-accessible lift on the Harbour Bridge side connects all three main levels.
  • Accessible seating: Available in every theatre. Contact the Box Office to book.
  • Reduced prices: Wheelchair and companion seats are sold at the highest concession rate. Companion Card holders receive a free companion ticket.
  • Wheelchair loans: Standard wheelchairs can be borrowed an hour before shows at the Western Foyer (Joan Sutherland Theatre & Concert Hall).
Audio guides with headphones.
  • Captioning: Selected shows feature open captions displayed on screens.
  • Auslan interpretation: Certain performances have Auslan interpreters on stage.
  • Surtitle screens: Joan Sutherland Theatre displays surtitles for most operas.
  • Assistive hearing systems: FM Augmentation (all venues except Utzon Room) and Hearing Loops (Concert Hall, Drama Theatre, Playhouse, Joan Sutherland Theatre).
  • Relay service: Speech and hearing-impaired guests can request free speech-to-speech or online relay services.
Sydney Opera House
  • Audio descriptions: Live audio description is offered for some shows via a free headset connected to the FM system.
  • Service animals: Guide and service dogs are welcome. Contact the Opera House in advance to arrange suitable seati
Sydney Opera House
  • Contact box 0ffice: Ask about discounts and companion tickets when booking.
  • Bring a companion: Staff can assist with directions, but cannot provide attendant care.
  • Access maps: Venue-specific access maps are available for easier navigation.
  • Check show accessibility: Not all performances include accessible services—confirm before booking.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Sydney Opera House

What are the Sydney Opera House opening hours?

The Opera House is open daily, though timings vary for tours, the Welcome Centre, and the Box Office. You can check detailed Sydney Opera House timings to plan your visit.

How do I get to the Sydney Opera House?

The Opera House is located at Bennelong Point and is easily accessible by train, bus, light rail, ferry, or car. For detailed routes and parking options, see our directions guide.

When is the best time to visit the Sydney Opera House?

The best time to visit is September to October when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller. Weekdays and early mornings are also quieter.

Are guided tours of the Sydney Opera House available?

Yes, guided tours run daily and offer a behind-the-scenes look at the architecture and performance halls. You can explore different tour options on our guided tours page.

 Is the Sydney Opera House wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Opera House offers lifts, accessible seating, hearing loops, audio descriptions, and wheelchair loans to ensure all guests can enjoy their visit.

Can I dine inside the Sydney Opera House?

 Absolutely. From casual bites at Opera Bar to fine dining at Bennelong, there are plenty of options. Learn more on our restaurants and dining page.

What attractions are near the Sydney Opera House?

 Nearby highlights include the Royal Botanic Garden, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, and the Australian National Maritime Museum, all within easy reach.