Book The Best Sydney Tours

Educational whale watching cruise with a marine biologist onboard.

• Starting point: Circular Quay
• Everything you get: A 2-hour 45-minute cruise aboard a spacious sightseeing vessel with indoor and outdoor seating, live expert commentary from a marine biologist, and a whale sighting guarantee offering free rebooking within 1 year if no whales are spotted.
• Why choose this: A comfortable, family-friendly experience that combines whale watching with educational insights from marine experts, helping you understand whale behaviour in context while enjoying a relaxed time on the water.
• Sights: Scenic views of Sydney Harbour and the Pacific Ocean, with frequent sightings of humpback whales breaching and playing—plus occasional encounters with dolphins, seabirds, and other marine life.
• Upgrades: Choose from 2h45, 3-hour, 4-hour, a 2-day hop-on hop-off ferry pass, or whale watching + Taronga Zoo cruises with deck or lounge layouts, plus options for meals, drinks, extended harbour views, a zoo visit, and a longer whale sighting rebooking window for more time on the water and increased whale spotting opportunities.

Inclusions #

2-hour & 45-minute whale watching cruise

• 2-hour & 45-minute whale watching cruise

• Starting point: Circular Quay

• Marine biologist

• Live informative commentary

• Indoor & outdoor seating

• Whale sighting guarantee: free rebooking within 1 year if no whales spotted

3-hour whale watching cruise (as per option selected)

• 3-hour whale watching cruise

• Starting point: King Street Wharf

• Expert crew

• Live informative commentary

• Four outdoor viewing decks

• A large downstairs cabin

4-hour whale watching cruise (as per option selected)

• 4-hour whale watching cruise

• Starting point: Eastern Pontoon, Circular Quay

• Expert crew

• Live informative commentary

• Hot breakfast or buffet lunch onboard

• Whale sightseeing guarantee: If no whales are spotted during your cruise, you can join another whale watching cruise free of charge within the next 3 years.

Whale watching cruise with Taronga Zoo entry (as per option selected)

• 2.5-hour whale watching cruise

• Starting point: Circular Quay

• Live informative commentary

• Whale sighting guarantee: free rebooking within the season if no whales spotted

• Entry to Taronga Zoo

• Return Rocket ferry to Circular Quay

Whale Watching Cruise with 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Ferry Pass (as per option selected)

• Flexible whale cruise & sightseeing for explorers and city visitors

• 2-day Sydney Harbour hop-on hop-off pass (timetable here)

• Smartphone commentary, printed map & highlights for hop-on-hop-off ferry

• 2.5-hour whale-watching cruise

• Expert commentary

• Indoor & outdoor seating

• Whale sighting guarantee: free rebooking within the season if no whales spotted

What's not allowed

• Boarding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not permitted.
• Large bags or oversized luggage cannot be accommodated on this experience.

Accessibility

• If you have pre-existing medical conditions (e.g., heart disease, asthma) or are pregnant, please consult your doctor before booking.
• Wheelchair users and guests with limited mobility should contact us in advance to discuss vessel accessibility.

Additional information

• Facilities: Onboard bar
• The weather here tends to bring unexpected twists. Dress in warm layers and flat enclosed shoes for adaptable comfort.
• As an open-water cruise, you may experience wave motion. If you are prone to seasickness, we recommend taking over-the-counter remedies for a more comfortable experience. Follow instructions and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
• Whale sightings are guaranteed. If no whales are spotted, you’ll receive a complimentary return trip within 12 months, subject to availability. Contact the provider for details.
• The tour operates in all weather conditions, including rain. To reschedule due to weather, contact the provider at least 24 hours in advance.

For the hop-on hop-off tour and cruise, you can join a tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket. For the night tour, hop-on hop-off service is not available.

Hop-on Hop-off Tour - Red Route The Red (City Tour) route loops through downtown, and you'll encounter a mix of historical landmarks, grand civic buildings, leafy parks, and vibrant shopping districts. Featured highlights include Macquarie Place Park, a peaceful heritage oasis beside historic Bridge Street, and the elegant façade of St Mary’s Cathedral, located near the Hyde Park Barracks Museum. Popular stops: Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Rocks & Botanical Gardens

Hop-on Hop-off Tour - Blue Route The Blue (Bondi Tour) features scenic coastal vistas, trendy neighborhoods, and the vibrant buzz of Sydney’s beach culture, illuminating the city’s outdoor lifestyle and sun-soaked charm. You'll pass by the Intersection on Oxford Street, renowned for fashion boutiques and stylish cafes, before the route heads towards the golden sands and surf at Bondi Beach itself. Popular stops: Bondi Beach, Rose Bay & Double Bay

Hop-on Hop-off Cruise Tour

• First cruise: 7:35am from Circular Quay - Wharf 6 (9:15am during weekends & public holidays)
• Last cruise: 6:40pm from Circular Quay - Wharf 6 (5:05pm during weekends & public holidays)
• Frequency: every 15-60 mins
• Popular stops: Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, Shark Island

Night Tour

• Departure: 7pm & 7:30pm from Stop #1 (Phillip Street, Circular Quay)
• Frequency: Twice every evening
• Duration: 1.5 hours

Click here to see the night tour map.

Inclusions #

• 24/48-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off bus tour

• Access to Red & Blue routes

• 1-day hop-on hop-off harbour cruise with smartphone commentary (based on option selected)

• 1.5-hour Sydney night tour with live English-speaking guides (based on option selected)

• Pre-recorded commentary in English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Mandarin, Korean, Chinese & Japanese (on the bus)

• Free earphones (on the bus)

• Mobile app with a detailed map and live bus tracking

Exclusions #

• Hop-on hop-off service for night tour

What's not allowed

• Keep in mind that smoking is not allowed on the cruise.

Accessibility

• The cruises and lower decks of the buses are wheelchair accessible.
• Ramps are available onboard and around the boarding areas for easy access.
• Mobility scooters and large wheelchairs are not allowed on the buses.
• Just a heads up, each bus can only accommodate 1 wheelchair at a time. If there is already a passenger in a wheelchair, please wait for the next one.
• Your guide dogs are welcome on the cruise.

Additional information

• Make sure to check in with Big Bus first to receive your voucher for the hop-on hop-off cruise.
• The night tour does not include hop-on hop-off service.

Inclusions #

• Entry to Sydney Cricket Ground

• 90-minute walking tour

• Expert local guide

• Exclusive entry into SCG Museum

Expert-led day with Scenic World, zoo, ferry, before the big buses arrive.

• What you'll get: Scenic World rides: world’s steepest railway, glass-floor skyway, and cable car over Jamison Valley; Sydney Zoo entry with kangaroo and emu feeding; Echo Point stop for the Three Sisters; panoramic lookouts like Lincoln’s Rock and Cahill’s; Leura village lunch break; rainforest walkway; scenic ferry return under the Harbour Bridge; hotel pickup and guided commentary.
• Who's it for: Travelers who value stress-free timing and expert guides who blend Aboriginal stories, history, and humor into a fun, family-friendly day.

Inclusions #

• Travel with regional Blue Mountains specialists in a small group of 18–20 people

• Professional local expert guide providing engaging commentary

• Full entry to Scenic World, including: Scenic Railway, Scenic Walkway, Scenic Skyway, Scenic Cableway

• Guided rainforest boardwalk walk with lookout and vantage points in the Blue Mountains

• 1-course sit-down lunch at a mountain resturant, with dietary options available for: vegetarian, vegan. gluten-free (as per option selected)

• River cruise return by local ferry into Sydney Harbour [as per option selected]

• Australian Animal Experience at Sydney Zoo

• Deluxe model vehicles with Wi-Fi on board

Exclusions #

• Meals and beverages (available to buy onsite)

What to bring

• Bring comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour includes outdoor activities and walking.
• Carry a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at pickup or entry.
• Don’t forget your camera for photo opportunities at scenic lookouts.
• Bring a water bottle and sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

What’s not allowed

• Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
• Smoking, alcohol, and illegal substances are strictly prohibited during the tour.
• Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed on the tour bus or at certain attractions.

Accessibility

• No storage available
• Not suitable for wheelchairs (collapsible or electric), walkers, strollers, large luggage

Additional information

• Hotel pickup is only available from selected Sydney City hotels; ensure your hotel is eligible before booking.
• The tour concludes at Circular Quay at approximately 5pm; return transport to your hotel is not included.
• The tour operates in small groups for a more personalized experience.
• Please arrive at your designated pickup point at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• The itinerary and timings may be subject to change due to weather or operational requirements.
• The choice between Sydney Zoo and Featherdale Wildlife Park will be made by the tour group on the day of travel.
• Preferences can be accommodated if submitted at least 48 hours before departure.
• This is an all-weather activity.
• Changes to travel dates are only permitted if requested more than 24 hours before the tour date.

Half-day Blue Mountains tour with Scenic World rides, iconic lookouts, and a relaxed Leura village stop.

• What you’ll get: Entry to Scenic World with an Unlimited Discovery Pass for the Cableway, Skyway, and Scenic Railway, plus visits to Echo Point, the Three Sisters, Cahill’s Lookout, and free time in Leura village. Includes round-trip Sydney CBD transfers, live guide commentary, and a snack with water.
• Who’s it for: Ideal for first-time visitors, families, and anyone short on time who wants a mix of scenic views, light adventure, and a relaxed village stop.
• Upgrades: Make your day better with a return ferry to Sydney Harbour, gliding past iconic sights as you return to the city.

Inclusions #

• Half-day Blue Mountains tour

• Round-trip hotel transfers from Sydney CBD

• Live commentary by driver guide

• Access to Leura township, Three Sisters, Echo Point & Cahill’s lookout

• Entry to Scenic World

• Unlimited access to 3 attractions: Cableway, Skyway, & Railway

• Complimentary water bottle & snack aboard AC minivan

• 1-hour Sydney Harbour cruise (as per option selected)

What to bring

• Bring a camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, valid ID and hat.

Additional Information

• Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
• Regarding hotel pickups: Due to operational scheduling requirements, hotel pickup is not available for bookings made after 12pm on the day before the tour departure. If your booking is made after this cutoff time, please make your own way to the meeting point.
• Meeting Point: Coach Bay 8, Western Forecourt, Central Station

Beat the crowds, Scenic World & zoo visits. 10 hours, easy. Early departure advantage.

• What’s included: Ride the Scenic Railway and cable car, then reach Echo Point early for golden light and crowd-free photos of the Three Sisters. Continue with wildlife encounters at Sydney Zoo and finish the day with a Parramatta River ferry into Sydney Harbour, sailing past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
• Who it’s for: Travelers who value quieter lookouts, shorter lines, and time to linger at views. Hotel pickup included, with small groups of ~20 for a smoother, less rushed day.

Inclusions #

• Full-day trip to the Blue Mountains from Sydney

• Pickup from central meeting point in Sydney; return via Parramatta River ferry to Circular Quay

• English-speaking guide

• Walks/lookouts: Three Sisters lookout; possible short bushwalks or lookout stops throughout the day

• Entry to Scenic World

• Unlimited access to 4 attractions: Cableway, Skyway, Railway, Walkway

• Entry to Sydney Zoo

Exclusions #

• Meals

• Personal expenses

Please click here for a detailed route map and its boarding points You can join a tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket.

Hop-on hop-off tour - Red route

• First bus: 9am from stop #1 (George Street, Circular Quay)
• Last bus: 5pm from stop #1 (George Street, Circular Quay)
• Frequency: Approx. every 25-30 mins
• Popular stops: Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay, Darling Harbour, The Rocks & Botanical Gardens

Hop-on hop-off tour - Blue route

• First bus: 9:30am from stop #1A (Phillip Street, Circular Quay)
• Last bus: 5pm from stop #1A (Phillip Street, Circular Quay)
• Frequency: Approx every 35 to 45 mins
• Popular stops: Bondi Beach & Double Bay

Inclusions #

Sydney Hop-on Hop-off Tour

• 24-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off tour

• Access to Red & Blue routes

• Pre-recorded commentary in English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Mandarin, Korean, Chinese & Japanese

• Free Wi-Fi

• Complimentary earphones

• Mobile app with a detailed map and live bus tracking

Sydney Tower Eye

• Fast-track entry to Sydney Tower (All entries before 1 pm)

• Tickets are only valid on your selected date, between 10 am-1pm

• 4D cinema show

• Free Wi-Fi

Sydney Hop-on Hop-off Tour

• Tip: Savor the historic charm of The Rocks & Circular Quay with a feast. Delight in hearty pub grub, scrumptious steak pies, and top-notch specialty coffee.
• The lower decks of the buses are wheelchair accessible.
• Ramps are available onboard and around the boarding areas for easy access.
• Mobility scooters and large wheelchairs are not allowed on the buses.
• Note that the combined weight of the customer, their assistant, and their mobility aid must be under 300 kg (660 lb) for safe boarding ramp use. The wheelchair must also fit within the designated seating area.
• Just a heads up, each bus can only accommodate 1 wheelchair at a time. If there is already a passenger in a wheelchair, please wait for the next one.
• Require special accommodations for your disability? Rest assured as you can contact infoau@bigbustours.com and they'll try to assist you.

Sydney Tower Eye

• Tip: Visit the Tower Eye at dusk for a magical sunset experience. Watch as the heavens blush in hues of orange & pink, while city lights dance like fireflies.
• Keep in mind large bags and loose items are not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely! However, you can leave your bags with Westfield's concierge service if you need to.
• Keep your camera tucked away – photography is strictly not allowed at the Skywalk.
• Strict dress code: No skirts or dresses allowed on the Skywalk experience. Only closed-in shoes, pants, or shoes are allowed.
• This experience is wheelchair accessible.
• Nose kits for guests with sensory sensitivity and extra eyes kits for guests with visual impairments are conveniently available on this experience.
• Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
• Children under 17 years must be accompanied by a paying adult.
• Tickets for Sydney Tower are only valid on your selected date, from 10 am to 1pm.

Express whale watching cruise with dual viewing decks & expert onboard commentary.

• Starting point: Campbells Cove or Darling Harbour, depending on the ticket variant selected.
• Everything you get: Choose between a 2-hour express cruise or an extended 2.5-hour whale watching experience aboard Ocean Dreaming II, featuring indoor and outdoor viewing decks, climate-controlled cabins, expert commentary from the crew, and a whale sighting guarantee with free rebooking if no whales are spotted.
• Why choose this: Enjoy a streamlined and time-efficient whale watching experience designed for fast access to offshore whale migration routes without unnecessary add-ons. With convenient CBD departure points & flexible cruise durations, this cruise focuses on maximising whale sightings and overall comfort on the water.
• Sights: Cruise past Sydney Harbour landmarks including the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Sydney Heads before heading offshore to spot humpback whales breaching, tail slapping, and spy hopping. You may also encounter dolphins, seabirds, and other marine wildlife along the way.
• Upgrade: Choose the longer 2.5-hour cruise departing from Darling Harbour for extra time on the water, additional harbour sightseeing, and more opportunities to spot humpback whales offshore.

Inclusions #

• 2-hour or 2.5-hour whale watching cruise (as per option selected)

• Expert crew & marine naturalists

• Three viewing decks

• Live informative commentary

• Whale sighting guarantee: Free return cruise voucher valid within the same season or the following year if no whales are observed during your cruise.

What to bring

• Bring your camera, binoculars, and seasickness medications.

What’s not allowed

• Smoking and vaping are not permitted on the vessel.
• Alcohol and other illegal substances are not allowed onboard.

Accessibility

• The vessel is wheelchair accessible.

Additional information

• Your cruise will depart from either Campbells Cove or Darling Harbour, depending on the ticket variant selected.

Inclusions #

• Full-day tour to Blue Mountains

• Pick-up from central Sydney meeting point; return with Harbour Ferry to Circular Quay

• Entry to Scenic World

• Unlimited access to rides: Skyway, Cableway, Railway, Walkway

• Entry to Sydney Zoo with free close-up koala photo

• Walks/lookouts: Echo Point in Katoomba for sweeping views of the Three Sisters and Jamison Valley, rainforest boardwalks at Scenic World, and cliffside lookouts

Exclusions #

• Meals and Beverages

Hop-on hop-off, Explorer Bus through Blue Mountains. Flexible, easy.

• What’s included: Travel the Red Route with unlimited hop-on hop-off access for 24 hours, covering ~29 stops through Katoomba and Leura. Highlights include Echo Point with views of the Three Sisters, Leura Cascades, and Katoomba Falls. Each ticket comes with pre-recorded commentary in English and a 72-page guidebook with suggested itineraries.
• Who it’s for: Independent travelers and families who want flexibility without missing iconic stops. Choose a pass-only option or bundle with Scenic World access and dining for a complete day.

Inclusions #

• 24-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off pass

• Access to Red Route

• Pre-recorded commentary in English

• Free 72-page guidebook with custom itineraries

• Entry to Scenic World (as per option selected)

• Unlimited access to 4 attractions: Cableway, Skyway, Railway, Walkway

• Food & beverage voucher redeemable at Scenic World (as per option selected)

You can join a tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket.

Hop-on Hop-off Tour - Red Route This breathtaking route emphasizes the raw natural beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage area, focusing on dramatic cliffside vistas, lush rainforest canopies, and the thrilling wilderness experiences found at Scenic World. Popular stops: Echo Point, Katoomba Falls, Scenic World