sydney opera house free tour

Best Free and Paid Ways to See the Sydney Opera House

by Sharyn McCullum | Last updated Nov 28, 2023 | Sydney | 22 comments

When visiting Sydney , a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sydney Opera House is surely on your list. Now there are different ways you can choose to see the Opera House, some ways are free and others will cost you. So in this post, I am going to give you the rundown on the best free and paid ways to see the Sydney Opera House. So no matter your budget, you have options to spend time here.

Table of Contents

Why Visit the Sydney Opera House?

The Sydney Opera House sits proudly on Sydney’s harbour foreshore on Bennelong Point, and has done so since it was opened by Queen Elizabeth II on the 20th October, 1973. It is an Australian icon and whether it is your first visit to Sydney or you are a local Sydney-sider, everyone pays a visit to the Sydney Opera House. Even though it was built as a musical facility, there is more to it than that and you will discover them on a visit. And there are a number of ways you can visit and enjoy this icon of Sydney.  

How to Choose the Best Way to See the Sydney Opera House?

As mentioned, there are free and paid options to see the Sydney Opera House. Depending on your budget and your time will influence how you visit the Sydney Opera House.

Free Options to See the Sydney Opera House

There are a few free ways to see the Sydney Opera House.

Walk around the Sydney Opera House

Yep, even if you are flat broke, it costs nothing to walk around the Opera House and Sydney Harbour foreshore . Walk up the paved reddy brown granite pebbly steps while gazing at the 89m high white tiled scallop shells above you – just wonderful! And the views of Sydney Harbour as you walk around the perimeter of the Sydney Opera House are spectacular! You can even go inside to some of the public areas that are open, including the toilets and the gift shop.  

See the Opera House from the water

Walking around the Sydney Opera House is great, but jump on a ferry or go on a boat tour and you will get a different view of the Opera House from the water. It will only cost a couple of dollars for the ferry ride.

Be invited to an event inside

This can be a tricky one as you need to know someone who is having an event there. I was once invited to main music hall for my sister’s graduation from Teachers College. It was so big inside and the organ is extremely large.

Paid Options to See the Sydney Opera House

Pay to see a show.

There are always shows at the Opera House and not just opera or music. I once went to see a comedian, Bob Downe , who was performing there. We had a drink in the bar overlooking the harbour before the show – how decadent!

Go on a tour of the Sydney Opera House

There are different tours available to experience the Sydney Opera House. All Opera House tours can be booked at the ticket counters inside the Sydney Opera House or online. Tours include:

Guided tour – Discover the stories, history, and magic of Sydney Opera House with a guided tour. Step beneath the world-famous sails and be shown around the building visiting the main spaces including the Concert Hall.

You can book a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House here .

Guided tour with lunch nearby – yep, after a tour of the Sydney Opera House indulge in a meal at one of the restaurants nearby.

You can book a guided tour with lunch here .

VIP Backstage tour with breakfast . This tour is run daily at 7am. See the Opera House’s backstage areas including the dressing rooms and orchestra pits before enjoying breakfast.

You can book a VIP Backstage tour with breakfast here .

Experience an opera performance at the iconic Sydney Opera House . There is no better way to appreciate the Sydney Opera House than seeing and hearing a performance in the Concert Hall.

You can book to see a performance here .

Dine at Bennelong Restaurant. Having a meal at Bennelong Restaurant is quite an indulgent experience. You can eat for around $250 for 2 course meal and $290 for a 3 course meal. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner Wed through Sunday – check out the menu and book your table here .

How to Get to the Sydney Opera House

Now you know the free and paid things to do at the Sydney Opera House, how will you get there. If you are staying in accommodation nearby Sydney Harbour, then you could walk however, many catch a train, bus or ferry to Circular Quay. From here, it is a further 5-10 minutes walk to reach the Opera House.  

Now, there’s only one more thing to say, enjoy your visit to Sydney’s Opera House, no matter how you choose to visit. I’d love to hear about your planned visit or your visit in the comments.

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22 comments.

It’s been a while since I’ve been to the Opera House, I think just over 10 years ago now! It was incredible though, you’ve provided great information on how to see it 🙂

The Opera House hasn’t changed much in 10 years – it’s just as iconic as ever! I hope you can get back there one day in the future.

This is a great place for my family to visit. They really love opera so much. Thank you for this information =)

Then you will love visiting the Sydney Opera House because they have many opera performances for you to enjoy.

It’s pretty awesome that walking up and visited the Sydney Opera house is free! I like the idea of seeing it from the water, but it does make me happy when buildings that are as iconic as this are free to get up close!

Absolutely, but it is what tourism in Sydney wants – it wants an inclusive Sydney so it makes all the icons easy to see.

What an insightful article on tips for seeing the Sydney Opera House! Great for those on a budget travelling to Sydney. Thanks for sharing these helpful tips!

Yes, it doesn’t matter what budget you have on a visit to Sydney – there are ways to discover the Sydney Opera House.

The Sydney Opera House is so iconic! Great tips on how to see it for free but would gladly pay for the experience.

I would gladly pay for the experience also but seeing it as much as I do, walking around it suffices.

The opera house looks so amazing! I really wanna go one day – thanks for the guide 🙂

I hope you can, the Sydney Opera House is amazing to see.

I recently visited Western Australia and was so sad I couldn’t make it east – but I really hope to soon! Visiting the Sydney Opera House is definitely on much bucket list.

Yes, I hope you can too – Sydney is so beautiful and visiting the Sydney Opera House is a must on any visit to Australia.

It’s my dream to see this extraordinary building. Tell me, did the people of Sydney immediately appreciate the architecture or did it grow on them, as the Eiffel Tower did in Paris?

I don’t remember when it was first built – but I think it was a controversial design and of course, you have the lovers of it, and the haters. But I think it has grown on everyone and IS just apart of Sydney Harbour. The harbour would look strange without it!

I studied abroad in Sydney and was elated to see the Sydney Opera in person for the first time. I was a student on a budget but enjoyed walking around it and seeing it from the ferry! Great tips – so many options.

There are a number of options to see the Sydney Opera House. I’m glad you had a chance to see it.

Such a comprehensive list! I recently went to Sydney again after about 8 years and just walked around, but next time I’d like to see the Opera House by the water!

Yes, what a treat to see the Opera House from the water. I hope you get to see it from the water next visit to Sydney.

My husband has been to Sydney a few times. While he hasn’t toured inside the Opera House, he has marveled at the light shows projected on and around it.

The Opera House is beautiful at night with the different light shows.

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G’Day! Sharyn here, an Aussie loving discovering Australia. Let me show you around so you can discover Australia too.  Read my story here.

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Sydney Opera House celebrates 50th birthday with light show and free tours

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Reporting by Alasdair Pal in Sydney; Editing by Lincoln Feast.

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Sydney Opera House Celebrates 50th Birthday With Light Show and Free Tours

FILE PHOTO: Former architect and tour guide Peter Sekules poses for a photo at the Sydney Opera House in Sydney, Australia September 29, 2023. REUTERS/Alasdair Pal/File Photo

By Alasdair Pal

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Sydney Opera House celebrated its 50th birthday on Friday, with a laser show planned to illuminate the iconic building.

Officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II on 20 October 1973, the Opera House is widely regarded as one of the greatest architectural designs of the 20th century, with 10.9 million people visiting every year.

The building will be illuminated on Friday evening by a light show created by Australian audio-visual artist Robin Fox, before welcoming an expected 37,000 people on Saturday for free tours, its first open day in eight years.

"A symbol around the world and a national treasure turns 50," Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

"Happy Birthday to an Australian icon."

As part of the 1956 Opera House international design competition, 233 designs were submitted by architects from around the world with Jorn Utzon from Denmark chosen as the winner.

Construction began in 1959 with the project meant to take four years to complete, but after Utzon resigned due to a change in government, design differences and a blow out in costs, the structure took 14 years to complete.

The Sydney Opera House was added to UNESCO's World Heritage List in 2007.

(Reporting by Alasdair Pal in Sydney; Editing by Lincoln Feast.)

Copyright 2023 Thomson Reuters .

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Sydney Opera House 50th Anniversary Free Events

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To celebrate the huge milestone, here are four free and fabulous events you don’t want to miss

For five decades now, the Sydney Opera House has dominated the Circular Quay landscape. It has been a place for people to come together, connect, create and celebrate art and culture in all its many forms. So to honour this iconic landmark’s 50th anniversary, there’s going to be a big party – and everyone is invited. 

The free festivities kick off on October 19 with From the Sails: Light Years   – a film that will be projected onto the Opera House sails. This fascinating flick provides an insight into the original design and construction process, the grand opening in 1973, and its ongoing contribution to the community. It will be accompanied by a live-sync soundscape, and run nightly from sunset to 11pm until October 30.

From October 20-30, be sure to catch From the Steps: Voices at Dusk , a free daily event where community choirs will perform live at the Monumental Steps. Curated by resident company Sydney Philharmonia Choirs’ artistic director Brett Weymark OAM, it’s set to be a magical showcase of the talent and creativity that thrives in the local community.

In a rare, one-off performance on November 10, catch Aria Award-nominated artist Ngaiire and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra for an unforgettable evening of music, art and power. Held on the Forecourt, the set list will be packed with soulful pop bangers from Ngaiire’s critically acclaimed album 3 , which have been beautifully reimagined and arranged for orchestra by composer Alex Turley.

Finally, be transported to the Top End with Wanha! Journey to Arnhem , a musical trip through Yolŋu Country that’s taking place on November 17. Starring some of Arnhem Land’s most talented musicians – including Djakapurra Munyarryun, Dhapanbal Yunupingu, Juran Adams and Andrew Gurruwiwi – it will feature stunning visuals, narration and a combination of sung traditional language and English .

Free celebrations for the Sydney Opera House’s 50th anniversary begin on October 19. Ngaiire and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and Wanha! Journey to Arnhem are free with registration.  For  more information on the line-up of events and registration, head to the website .

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Sydney Opera House | Tours & Free Light Show at Australia’s Top Landmark

Sydney Opera House in Sydney , Australia, is one of the most recognizable buildings in the world. Situated on Sydney Harbour , it serves as an important landmark and cultural hub. The iconic building and its white shell-like roof structures occupy an outcrop of land known as Bennelong Point , which juts out into the harbor. It is located just a short walk away from other famous landmarks, like Circular Quay and Sydney Harbour Bridge . No trip to Sydney would be complete without a visit to Sydney Opera House .

Sydney Opera House | An Overview

A multi-venue performing arts center, Sydney Opera House is considered to be among the greatest architectural works of the 20th century. It was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007 and was noted for being “one of the indisputable masterpieces of human creativity.” The structure, which brings together both ancient and modernist influences, was well ahead of its time – even ahead of the construction technology that was available at the time. It is also connected to the past by a location considered sacred for thousands of years by the local Gadigal people.

History of Sydney Opera House

The idea to build an opera house in Sydney first started to gain traction in the mid-1950s. In February of 1956, the New South Wales premier decided to hold an international competition for the design of a new opera house at Bennelong Point . A Danish architect named Jørn Utzon, who was living north of Copenhagen at the time, sent off his designs just before the competition closed in December of that year. Though he was an unknown name, Utzon’s unique design was announced as the winner in January of 1957.

• Construction began on March 2nd, 1959, and almost immediately ran into problems. Utzon himself resigned from the project in 1966. Nevertheless, work continued, and the project was finally completed in 1973, a decade past the original completion date and 1,357% over budget.

Today, Sydney Opera House is the top tourist destination in the entire country and one of the busiest performing arts venues in the world. It sees more than 8 million visitors a year, 1.5 million of whom attend a show. About 350,000 visitors opt to take a guided tour of the incredible building as well.

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Badu Gili – Free Light Show at Sydney Opera House

Badu Gili is a free experience that takes place every evening at Sydney Opera House . During the performances, the eastern sail is illuminated with spectacular light projections depicting First Nation stories. “Badu Gili” means “water light” in the language of the traditional inhabitants of Bennelong Point . There are two different projections, each around seven minutes in length. The first one is shown at sunset and the second one at 7 p.m. The two projections are repeated at 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. The best spot for viewing the performances is at the top of the Monumental Steps.

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Sydney Opera House Tours

While you are welcome to walk around Sydney Opera House , signing up for a guided tour is a great way to really take it all in. A knowledgeable tour guide will lead you under the sails and through the fascinating venues, regaling your group with stories about the history and magic of the place. Tours operate every day of the year except for Christmas Day and Good Friday. They depart regularly throughout the day, starting at 9 a.m., with the last tour leaving at 5 p.m.

• Tickets for a Sydney Opera House tour cost $42 for adults and $22 for children. Tours last about an hour, and it is recommended that you wear comfortable shoes as you will be on your feet for the duration. It is also recommended that you book your tickets ahead of time, as spots do tend to sell out early.

If you want to get a peek at what goes on behind the curtain at Sydney Opera House , then sign up for a Backstage Tour. Explore rehearsal spaces and get the inside scoop on operations from expert guides. Tours depart every day at 7 a.m. and last for about two and a half hours. Tickets cost $175 per person, and children must be 10 years of age or older to take the Backstage Tour. You must book your spot on a tour in advance. Guests are also advised to wear enclosed, rubber-soled shoes for comfort and safety.

Check In to InterContinental Sydney , Step Out to Sydney Opera House

Seeing a Show at Sydney Opera House

The best and most memorable way to experience Sydney Opera House is, of course, to catch a show. There are more than 2,000 shows a year to choose from, so chances are that you can find a production that appeals to you during your visit. Plus, the world-class live music venues offer unparalleled acoustics and ambiance. While Sydney Opera House regularly hosts operas, you can also see concerts, symphony orchestras, Broadway shows, ballets, stand-up comedy shows, and much more. A number of theatrical companies also hold regular performances at Sydney Opera House , including Sydney Theatre Company, Australian Chamber Orchestra, Opera Australia, and The Australian Ballet. It is advisable to book your tickets for a show you are interested in well in advance.

Check In to Shangri-La Hotel Sydney , Step Out to Sydney Opera House

Dining and Drinks at Sydney Opera House

Sydney Opera House offers some of the best dining experiences in the city, complete with spectacular views of Sydney Harbour . Enjoy a meal or a drink before catching a show or after taking a tour at any of the following spots.

• Bennelong – One of the most highly regarded fine-dining restaurants in Australia, Bennelong features a menu inspired by authentic Australian ingredients and flavors.
• Opera Bar – Located along the edge of the water, Opera Bar provides excellent views of Sydney Harbour Bridge and serves up local flavors.
• Opera Kitchen – Situated right under the famous sails, Opera Kitchen offers burgers, sandwiches, and Asian-inspired dishes like poke bowls.
• Portside – A casual and family-friendly spot, Portside is perfect for a light meal and a glass of wine. Diners are also treated to views over Circular Quay .
• Theatre Bars – Sydney Opera House has three bars where you can also have a drink or light snack before a show. They are found in the Western Foyers, Joan Sutherland Theatre, and Concert Hall.
• The Lounge – Another fantastic spot where you can relax before a show, The Lounge offers lobby-style seating and a cafe-style menu of quick and tasty nibbles.

There are three different tours available at Sydney Opera House that incorporate the venue’s fantastic restaurants. Taste of the Opera House is a four-hour experience where visitors wine and dine their way through Bennelong , Opera Bar , Opera Kitchen , and Portside . Tour and Tasting Plate incorporates a regular tour with a tasting plate at Opera Kitchen , while Tour and Dine incorporates a regular tour with a meal at Opera Bar .

Check In to Rydges Sydney Harbour , Step Out to Opera Bar

How to Get to Sydney Opera House

Sydney Opera House is just a quick, six-minute walk from Circular Quay , a Sydney transport hub accessible via ferries, buses, and trains from all over the city. The world-famous sails will be instantly visible from wherever you arrive, making it easy to know where to go.

If you are driving to Sydney Opera House , then you can park in the multi-level Sydney Opera House Car Park, which is accessible from the northern end of 2 Macquarie Street. The car park is owned and operated by Wilson Parking and has space for 1,200 vehicles. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can take advantage of prepaid discounted parking by booking a spot online ahead of time, but there are convenient pay machines on-site as well.

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Sydney Opera House Tours

Step inside and discover the legendary history and extraordinary secrets of the Sydney Opera House. You can choose from their one hour, backstage, architectural, mobility and kids tours.

You’ve seen the outside but that’s only half the story. Beneath our magnificent sails lies incredible spaces and stories. Learn about the controversial history, unforgettable performances and exciting future of the Sydney Opera House. Walk through and see the House up close and personal. Each perspective brings a unique and breathtaking experience.

Sydney Opera House Architectural Tour

Sydney Opera House Backstage Tour

Sydney Opera House Tour

Sydney Opera House Mobility Access Tour

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Sydney Luxury Travel Blog Sydney Opera House Tour – Local Review & Tips

Sydney Opera House Tour Review – A Local’s Perspective

Considering the Sydney Opera House backstage tour during your visit? Great idea. This is one of the most popular tourist activities in Sydney and for good reason. I have accompanied guests on our Sydney tours through this experience many times and always enjoy it and learn something new about this fascinating and iconic building. So what’s it like to do the tour? How much does it cost? When does it operate? And is it worth adding to your Sydney city tour itinerary? Read on to get the perspective of a seasoned Sydney tour guide .

The Opera House tour experience

If you are coming to visit Sydney to the first time it will be impossible to miss the beautiful and timeless curves of the Sydney Opera House . Whether you fly over it as you arrive or enjoy it from your hotel window or as a backdrop on an evening meal or Sydney harbour cruise it is a landmark which will grab your attention and make you look again and again. The beautiful sail like facade changes during the seasons and during the day, reflecting the light and begging to be photographed from every new angle it reveals.

But. if admiring from a far is not enough for you and you want to get more intimately acquainted then a Sydney Opera House Tour is for you. It is also the only way to get inside without having tickets to a performance or event. It is wonderful to walk the entire way around the base and get up close to the exterior facade, especially at dusk, but to get inside the tour is essential. The Opera House tour is a 1 hour walking tour with headsets to ensure you don’t miss anything.

Opera House tour Group sizes are kept to around 12 and you will hear all of the fascinating stories about the architect Jorn Utzon, the dramas and conflicts, the huge construction challenges that were overcome, the reaction of the Sydney public at the time and the ultimate triumph of this UNESCO listed landmark. There are plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos and a variety of media is utilised to tell the stories. The tour does get you inside some of the performance spaces but this varies based on the season and schedule at the time of visit.

Opera House tour entry fee and opening hours

The standard Opera House tour runs every day of the year and there is a very generous schedule of 1 hour tours that start from 9am and leave every half hour through till 5pm every day of the week. Entry is $43 for adults and $23 for children with $33 concession and family pricing available too. There is also a longer 2 hour option, tours that include meals and child focussed programs too. An Access Tour for those with mobility difficulties is available every day at 12noon an the Opera House is about to commence huge upgrades to make the the whole facility more accessible for visitors with physical limitations.

Opera House tour with a pram

The standard Opera House tour has over 200 steps and so is not ideally suited to visitors with prams so consider bringing a baby back pack or sling if you plan to visit with small children.

Can we get inside the Sydney Opera House?

The only way to get inside the Sydney Opera House is on a scheduled tour or if you have purchased a ticket to a performance or event in one of the many spaces. You can walk the entire perimeter of this immense structure and go up the stairs at the front which are a very popular photo location. Visit early morning or at dusk to get the best light and most evocative photographs. Image in this blog was taken late in the afternoon.

Can we visit the Opera House on a Sydney tour itinerary?

You sure can. I frequently build a tour into one of our tailored Sydney city tours and usually suggest a later afternoon tour so that the touring time around the city is not affected. Guests usually then just head back to their Sydney hotel on foot or grab dinner nearby at one of the many waterfront dining options, either casually at the Opera Bar or fine dining at Benelong or Aria .

Inspired? Explore these related tours

Classic Sydney City Private Tour – Full Day

Custom Theme – Sydney City 6 Hour Private Tour

Classic Sights – Sydney Half Day Private Tour

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Should you do a Sydney Opera House Tour?

A Sydney Opera House tour is many Sydney visitor’s to-do list. Regardless of your budget, spending some time here is a must. I often get asked, “Should I book a Opera House Tour or just walk around the outside”? My standard answer is, “Well, that depends.” So let’s go find out what “that depends” on!

Travelling on a tight budget

Interested in the opera house’s history and architecture, interested in seeing a theatre performance, someone who loves to see how the place works – backstage tours, opera house tours for someone who loves good food, don’t forget the gift shop.

This post contains affiliate links. Our full disclosure policy  is here .

Ways to see the Sydney Opera House

Whether you should do an Opera House tour depends on your interest in architecture, performing arts, your budget and the time you have available for your visit. So let’s explore the varioius options and find out the best way for you to see Sydney’s iconic white sails.

If you are flat broke, you can still walk around the Opera House – head inside via the Drama Theatre staircase and even use the toilets.

Make sure you walk around the building and take photos from different angles, climb the front stairs and touch the tiles .

Well, the next option is probably going to suit you. The Architectural Essentials Tour is a one-hour tour covering all the main public spaces and gives you the history of the building, the design, and the architect. You can take photos of any areas that are not dressed for performances. I recently did this tour – for the 5 th time –and the new to me video segments that cover the construction are a great addition.

Each guide seems to tell slightly different stories; ours shared a story of Pavarotti refusing to attend a reception in the Concert Hall foyer area because of his phobia of purple carpet. 

She also told us about Arnold Schwarzenegger’s visit to compete in a Mr Universe competition on the Concert Hall stage in the 1970s.

I have enjoyed my tours, and all the guides have been excellent, but apparently, this is not always the case and like anywhere you visit, the tour is only as good as the person giving it. I would think the majority are doing an excellent job.

Opera singer Pavarotti has a phobia of purple and would not attend an event in this foyer unless they covered the carpet. They did!

Some areas included in the Essentials tour are the Drama Theatre, Concert Hall, Utzon Room, and the Northern Foyer, although this may vary on the timing of your visit. If any areas are being dressed for performances or are being used for private functions, you will bypass them. To give you an idea of how often this happens is impossible, however, on my five tours I have only missed the concert hall once. I have also always been allowed to take photos. 

Book your Opera House tour now – you can cancel up to 24 hours it starts if needed.

An alternative to taking the tour and next best budget-wise is to attend a performance. There are over 40 shows a week, and a quick check of this month’s tickets discovered the Bangarra Dance Theatre performing in the Drama Theatre.

If you want to see the Concert Hall, and it is very impressive, I suggest a symphony concert. Opera Australia packages are also available, and you can even include dinner with your show if you like.

If no headline shows are running during your visit these regular Opera performances are great.

I have not done one of these tours, so I sadly have no photos to share, but if you are a performer yourself or a passionate arts fan, the backstage tour   will probably appeal to you. Run daily at 7am; only twelve people can join each tour, allowing you to get up close to the action.

You need to book in advance for these and bookings close two days before. This two-hour tour visits the stages and orchestra pits, dressing rooms and breakfast in the green room on the conclusion. Tours are available in several languages, including tours for the hearing impaired.

A backstage tour is a very special experience

You can, of course, skip the tour altogether and spend the money eating and drinking instead. On our last wedding anniversary, my husband surprised me with dinner at the Opera House fine dining restaurant Bennelong.

We opted for the pre-theatre menu, which is excellent value; with the right seating, you get to watch the sunset while eating dinner inside one of the shells. They also do a mean Negroni. Bookings are essential here, often a few weeks in advance, but they take walk-ins for the bar menu. I am not much of a food reviewer, so check out this blog post for more.

There are also a few outdoor dining options – perfect spots to watch the sunset.

Book an Opera House Tour with a meal

If you need to take a gift home for someone you love, I think a Lego Opera House beats a t-shirt every time!

So there you go… all you need to plan a great day at the Opera House. While you can buy a ticket for most tours on the day, if you want to do one of the specialist tours or have a limited budget, I would suggest booking in advance .

If you are interested in taking photos of this iconic building, check out the Best Places to photograph the Sydney Opera House .

While you are here, why not explore the Royal Botanic Gardens or take a self-guided walk around the Rocks, Sydney’s oldest quarter?

Have questions about things to see and do in Sydney? Head over and join our Facebook Group and we will be happy to help

1 thought on “Should you do a Sydney Opera House Tour?”

I’ve done the backstage tour many times and it is fantastic. It’s great to see how everything works behind the scenes. In fact I haven’t done the other tour! From what you have said I need to do one, they sound great. Also great tip on grabbing a copy of SMH 😉

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Sydney city guide: Best things to do and where to stay in Australia’s magnificent harbour city

S prawling around one of the planet’s biggest and most beautiful natural harbours, Sydney is perhaps the ultimate city destination in Australia . With its swoonworthy physical attributes, laidback charm and trio of icons – namely the opera house, Sydney Harbour Bridge and sweeping Bondi Beach – the New South Wales capital almost effortlessly wows.

Though the city stretches westwards way beyond Parramatta (Sydney’s geographic heart) to the base of the Blue Mountains, nearly all of its visitor appeal lies in the city centre, central suburbs and beaches . Founded in 1788, Australia’s first British settlement has evolved into a true world city that’s liveliest when Mardi Gras fills the streets with sequins, parades and parties.

If you’re heading down under, our Sydney guide provides a heads-up on what to do, where to eat and drink, and the best spots to stay in the Harbour City.

Access all arias

You can’t miss Sydney Opera House . Designed by Danish architect Jorn Utzon and opened in 1973, this concrete-and-ceramic-tile masterpiece celebrated its 50th anniversary with a major renovation of its performance spaces. Ideally, immerse yourself in an opera, concert, recital or play; otherwise take a tour (from £22pp) to discover those rooftop sails and the building’s history.

Read more on Australia travel :

• Mornington Peninsula: How travellers are seeking out Australia’s hot springs
• The best deals for a luxury Australia holiday in 2024
• Why you should book a holiday to Ningaloo, Australia’s ‘other reef’

Bridge the gap

Sydney’s second major landmark, the Harbour Bridge, unites the CBD (central business district) with the North Shore suburbs. For those with a head for heights (and the best part of £150 to spare), Bridge Climb is the classic experience. Alternatively, take the train to North Sydney and walk back over the bridge for free, with the opera house and city skyline before you.

Sydneysider culture goes big on the beach. Bondi is the icon, for its fine sand, surfer scene, and Icebergs saltwater pool, or hop on the ferry to Manly and its similarly sandy, pine-tree-lined promenade. Not a fan of waves? Stay within the harbour: the North Shore’s Fairlight Beach or more hidden-away Castle Rock Beach are fantastic.

Go walkabout

All around the harbour, fragments of foreshore and bushland constitute Sydney Harbour National Park . Weaving much of it together is the 80km Bondi to Manly Walk , via woodland, beaches, parks and urban promenades. En route, enjoy Aboriginal rock carvings, wildlife encounters (kookaburras, bush turkeys, water dragons) and cooling dips. Ferry and bus connections break it into manageable chunks.

Art and culture

The Art Gallery of New South Wales is lauded for its sculptures, exhibitions and collections, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artworks. Qtopia , meanwhile, is a must for LGBT+ travellers and allies. As befits a city known for its massive Mardi Gras celebrations, this museum tells the story of community trailblazers whose actions helped decriminalise homosexuality in New South Wales in 1984.

Where to stay

Base yourself central to everything at Paramount House Hotel. Located where the CBD crashes into Surry Hills, this former movie company headquarters has been transformed into a 29-room boutique hotel, with rooms (nearly all of which have outdoor spaces) that are cosy, colourful, and come with the feeling of staying at a cool friend’s apartment. Room-only doubles from £175.

Find a similar price point just round the corner at Ace Hotel Sydney, where the concrete-meets-carpet aesthetic and a slightly retro vibe make the guest rooms at once supremely comfortable and delightfully homely. Top-floor restaurant Kiln is a community favourite, while the street-level diner and coffee shop keep things buzzing throughout the day. There’s also a bijou but excellent gym.

For a fun, yesteryear resort vibe, Oxford House in nearby Paddington wins for its laidback style, cheerful service, and poolside restaurant that doubles as a popular brunch spot for locals. The 55 light-filled rooms benefit from colourful artworks, warm tones and quality amenities, and doubles start from £145.

For more in the way of budget stays, Space Q Capsule Hotel delivers conveniently located, quirky, cool and cost-effective digs within a five-minute walk of Central station.

Where to eat

Asian flavours abound in Sydney. Ever-popular Chin Chin in Surry Hills is the go-to for beef rendang, crispy duck pancakes and prawn summer rolls, all bursting with freshness (mains from £12-20). Similarly upbeat is Uncle Mings : a quirky dumpling den serving small bites and cocktails on a CBD laneway. For something simpler, Japanese temaki are a commonplace, cheap (around £2 each) and healthy on-the-go snack; Hero Sushi is a good place to find them. Also refreshingly affordable is Spice Alley : a Chippendale backstreet whose hawker-style outlets span Singaporean, Thai, Malaysian, Cantonese and Japanese favourites, from satay skewers to special fried rice.

This being a coastal city, there’s no shortage of waterfront restaurants. The Boathouse on Manly’s Shelly Beach wins for its indoor/outdoor ambience, great design, and High Tide Happy Hour (alternatively, try the Balmoral Beach branch). At Bondi Pavilion, meanwhile, a much-needed renovation to mark its centenary has given this seafront landmark a buzzing brunch spot in Glory Days , with poke bowls, avo-on-toast breakfasts, and great coffee as the standouts.

Casually upmarket Café Sydney is perfect for special occasions. Situated atop Circular Quay’s historic Customs House, this classic spot enjoys foreground-filling Harbour Bridge views and a menu celebrating Aussie produce from barramundi to Sydney rock oysters, supported by thoughtful cocktail and wine lists.

Where to drink

Get a hint of its history at The Treasury , where coffee and cocktails are sipped in what was the courtyard of an 1851 building. Now enclosed to form a light-filled atrium, it’s a chic space with monochrome floor tiles, velvet booths, and an Art-Deco-style bar that complements the grand brick-and-sandstone architecture.

Elsewhere in the CBD, enjoy elevated views from Dean and Nancy on 22 , where inventively quirky cocktails (brought to life with candy floss or smoke-filled bubbles) come with a side of highrise scenery. Try the gin-based Alien on Holiday or colourful Watermelon Sugar High, all priced at around £14.

Rather more hidden away are the bijou bars on the YCK Laneways , a lively precinct around York, Clarence and Kent Streets. Highlights include Sammy Junior , which segues from daytime coffees to evening cocktails, or speakeasy-style Stitch Bar , which you’ll find behind a faux frontage.

Where to shop

Of the CBD’s major shopping malls, QVB stands out for its beautifully restored Victorian architecture (all tiled floors, balustrades and glass domes) packed with mostly international brands. Over in Chippendale, Central Park is a much more modern affair good for youth-oriented fashion and footwear from the likes of Glue Store and Hype DC, plus Pigeonhole and its range of gifts and clothing with a sustainable slant.

Also worth checking out are the boutiques in Paddington along Oxford Street, or continue down it all the way to Bondi Beach, which has evolved from its “daggier” backpacker days into something much more credible. Gould Street and Hall Street are the go-to spots here; check out Tuchuzy for its Aussie and international fashions.

Architectural icon

Sydney Tower (formerly Centrepoint) is the city’s tallest structure, whose golden turret (with observation deck ) sits atop a slender shaft.

What currency do they use?

Australian dollar.

What language do they speak?

Should i tip.

It isn’t expected, but 10 per cent is appreciated.

What’s the time difference?

Average flight time.

Around 22 hours from London , depending on layover duration. Emirates offers convenient connections from London , Manchester, Glasgow, Newcastle and Birmingham, via Dubai .

Public transport

AirportLink trains whisk travellers into the city in 15 minutes to connect with buses, trams and ferries. Top up an Opal (like London’s Oyster card) for seamless travel, or simply touch on and off with your credit card.

For that classic shot of the opera house with a Harbour Bridge backdrop, head to Mrs Macquarie’s Point in the Botanic Gardens . Otherwise, take the ferry to Cremorne Point to see towering skyscrapers crowning the opera house.

Insider tip?

If jetlag has you up pre-dawn, go watch the sun rising over the opera house from Hickson Road Reserve.

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• Special Offers

Under 35? Get great value opera tickets

Access great discounts all year-round, and behind-the-scenes opportunities — for free*.

Ever wanted to give opera a try? Or maybe you’re already developing a taste for it, and want even more of this great art form in your diet? Here’s your chance.

We believe opera is for everyone, which is why we are determined to make opera more accessible for younger audiences.

If you're 35 and under, you’re invited to register for Under 35s . It’s free (and commitment-free) and gives you access to the following benefits:

15% discount to opera performances*

Once you’ve signed up, you’ll be able to log into our website and buy tickets to most opera performances for 15% off! You can also bring a friend in the same age bracket, who can book for the same price.

The opportunity to access heavily discounted tickets.

If 15% wasn’t enough, if you’ve signed up we’ll let you know throughout the year when we have major discounts available for Under 35s.

The chance to glimpse behind the scenes.

We’ll be offering you the opportunity to meet artists and fellow young opera fans, go behind the scenes and attend special events for free.

Launch offer: $35 tickets to Tosca ^

To celebrate the launch of the Under 35s program, Under 35s will have the opportunity to purchase one (or two) tickets to Tosca in either Melbourne or Sydney for just $35, available in A, B, C, D, and E Reserve (excluding Premium Reserve).^

Make sure you sign up now to avoid missing out, the offer is limited to 500 tickets!

UPDATE: The allocation of $35 tickets for performances at Sydney Opera House has now been exhausted, but you can still use your Under 35s membership to receive a 15% discount* to the season. Tickets are still available for performances at Melbourne's Margaret Court Arena.

Join the Under 35s program

By signing up, you agree to join our promotional program, which includes receiving updates and offers about the Under 35s program as well as our e-newsletter and other email communications.

For tickets purchased through the program, you (and your guest) will be required to show proof of age when entering the venue to verify your age.

Register now

Already have an account? Add Under 35 Membership now.

*By signing up to Under 35s, you declare that you are aged 35 or under. You may be required to provide proof of age upon registration and Opera Australia reserves the right to reject any membership for a person it has reason to believe is not aged 35 or under. Your membership will be automatically cancelled when you turn 36. Any person attending on an Under 35s ticket will be required to show valid proof of age. This includes both members and any guests with an Under 35s ticket. Those without a valid ID, or who are not aged 35 or under, will be refused entry. Discounts cannot be applied to tickets retroactively – tickets already purchased cannot be refunded in favour of an Under 35s ticket. Under 35s discounts cannot be used in conjunction with other offers. Tickets are strictly subject to availability. Opera Australia reserves the right to exclude any performances or price reserves from Under 35s discounts. All offers associated with Under 35s membership are valid until 31 December 2024.

^This offer is valid until 11:59pm Friday 24 May 2024 or until the allocation is exhausted. It is only available to Australian residents aged 35 or under. The offer is available for tickets to performances of Tosca at Margaret Court Arena from 24 to 30 May 2024, and Sydney Opera House from 25 June to 16 August 2024 in A, B, C, D, and E Reserve. Subject to availability. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Cannot be used on past purchases. Tickets booked at this price cannot be transferred, exchanged or refunded. A $9.80 booking fee applies.

24 – 30 May 2024, Margaret Court Arena 25 June – 16 August 2024, Sydney Opera House

A thriller with sensational music, opera’s best villain and an unforgettable ending, Tosca will keep you on the edge of your seat.

A must-see if you love stories full of action, films about love and war, stunning choral music.

Watershed: The Death of Dr Duncan

14 – 16 June 2024 Sydney Opera House

A dazzling new operatic work by some of Australia’s most acclaimed creative talents, bringing a real-life tragedy, and eventual triumph, to the stage.

A must-see if you love Choral music, stories of triumph over adversity, visually stunning and physically thrilling productions.

Il Trittico

3 – 19 July 2024 Sydney Opera House

Three short operas by one of opera’s greatest composers offer a triple helping of music and emotion: thrilling drama, personal crisis and sparkling comedy.

A must-see if you love getting bang for your buck, emotional stories, melodrama.

20 July – 9 August 2024 Sydney Opera House

Shakespeare’s searing portrait of a prince in crisis in an acclaimed contemporary opera by Australian composer Brett Dean.

A must see if you love Shakespeare, contemporary opera and theatre, political drama.

The Puccini Gala Concert

25 & 27 July 2024 Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall

A star-studded celebration of some of opera’s most moving music.

A must see if you love opera anthems, tear-jerkers and hearing some of the world's finest voices in concert.

Breaking the Waves

26 & 28 July 2024 Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall

Lars von Trier’s film about a young woman’s shocking sacrifices for her husband is a powerful new opera for our times, by one of the world’s most exciting composers, Missy Mazzoli.

A must-see if you love moody cinema, psychological drama, contemporary opera at its most adventurous.

Così fan tutte

1 – 17 August 2024 Sydney Opera House

Two men attempt to seduce the other’s lover in an elaborate ruse to win a bet. Mozart’s sublime music makes this opera must-see.

A must-see if you love light-hearted stories, gorgeous music, costume drama-comedies like A Room with a View.

26 September – 5 October 2024 Carriageworks, Sydney

The world’s oldest poem meets opera’s most cutting-edge artists in this spectacular new work, directed by Kip Williams (Sydney Theatre Company’s The Picture of Dorian Gray ).

A must see if you love the most cutting-edge contemporary opera, ancient mythology, stories of love and loss.

16 – 19 October 2024 Palais Theatre, Melbourne

A new opera based on Murray Bail’s acclaimed novel, Eucalyptus is an Australian fairytale, unusual love story and poetic ode to trees.

A must see if you love contemporary opera, Australian stories, strong female leads.

The Magic Flute

9 – 16 November 2024 Geelong Arts Centre

Embark on an enchanting adventure and meet a host of wondrous characters in Mozart’s The Magic Flute .

A must-see if you love adventure stories, famous music, happy endings, opera performed in English.

13 & 15 November 2024 Geelong Arts Centre

Prepare for goosebumps. Chorus! assembles the Opera Australia Chorus in full force, to deliver an exhilarating program of opera’s grandest highlights.

A must-see if you love passionate singing, chorale music, or the Hallelujah Chorus during Carols by Candlelight .

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• Exploring The Crown Jewels: Famous Landmarks In Australia

14 May 2024

If you wish to experience a land of timeless beauty and rich culture, it’s hard to say no to famous landmarks in Australia . The biggest island in the world is famous for its seashores, coastline, and landmarks. Offering a glimpse into the historical culture, here is the intensively researched list of the most noteworthy landmarks you must explore at least once in your life.

7 Famous Landmarks In Australia

From sun-kissed shores to the expansive red deserts of the Outback, Australia is a continent adorned with iconic landmarks. All of these narrate a story of the past, represent our present and help us foresee the future. Let’s explore the most famous landmarks in Australia and realise how they are the epitome of resilience, offering a spirit of this remarkable continent.

1. The Great Barrier Reef

Image Source: Shutterstock

Search for “famous landmarks in Australia” on the internet and you will see images of the cleanest shores of the world. The Great Barrier Reef has become an identity of Australia. It’s not just because of its white sand and clear waters, but due to the conservation efforts being done here. For travellers, this is a paradise.

The magical wonders of the Great Barrier Reef will amaze you. From a heart-shaped island to a remarkable assortment of marine life, you will see everything here. Some of the world’s most rare and iconic animal species live here. Dugongs, dolphins, sharks, corals, turtles and even more can be found in their natural habitat.

Why visit here: Cleanest and longest coastline in the world

Best time to visit: Sunset and dawn

Entry-free: Environmental management charges range from $6 to $10. Boat rides and activities may cost between $200-$250.

Must Read: Facts About Great Barrier Reef

2. Sydney Opera House

With millions visiting every year, the Sydney Opera House is one of the well-known landmarks, not just in Australia but the entire world. A stunning building with the ultimate architecture exudes vibrant vibes. Experts often refer to it as one of the most famous landmarks in Australia, a marvel of the 20th century. The lotus-like shape represents his vision, creativity and skills for structural design. When here, you can easily indulge in a backstage tour, watch the show, or have a drink at the famous Opera House Bar. So, what awaits you? Add this amazing attraction to your itinerary.

Why visit here: Gaze at the unique construction and lush interiors

Best time to visit: Evening or night

Entry-free: Adults: $45, Child: $25. Family: $115

3. Port Arthur

Did you know that around 164,000 convicts were shipped to Australian colonies on more than 806 ships between 1788 and 1868? Well, here is a monument that will remind you all of it. Port Arthur in Tasmania is a historical settlement that has witnessed the great historical incident that steered the direction of Australia and Great Britain.

In 1830, Port Arthur used to be a small timber station. Now, it is the most popular convict site in Australia’s history. The local community values the site as a former township, where their ancestors grew and became part of unforgettable history.

Why visit here: A memorable historical landmark to take you back in history

Best time to visit: During the day

Entry fee: $30 Onwards

Suggested Read: Queensland Museums

4. 12 Apostles

From historical places to the natural wonders, Australia has it all. 12 Apostles is not just another hilly range, but much more. These are the giant limestone rocks nestled off the Port Campbell National Park shore. These can be easily seen while you are on the Great Ocean Road in Victoria.

So, what makes these giant stones make it to our list of famous landmarks in Australia? Well, it’s not their size or nature, but their alignment that wonders everyone. Interestingly, these are located close to each other and appear to be a pattern naturally. And guess what? These rock formations are 15 to 20 million years old. Now, that deserves some viewing for sure.

Why visit here: Outwardly natural wonder – Enjoy the scenic drive on Great Ocean Road

Best time to visit: Dawn and sunrise

Entry-free: None

5. Gold Coast

For beach lovers, this is more than a paradise. The Gold Coast is one of the most famous landmarks in Australia, offering over 35 miles of white sand to enjoy, revive or simply get a tan. Besides plenty of options for eating, lounging, or relaxing, ample sea sports and activities are going on here.

Just a few steps outside the beach, you may enjoy the lush green rainforest and indulge in delicious culinary delights. Furthermore, travellers may hike along the designated paths alongside diverse flora, passing through many cascading waterfalls. All in all, Gold Coast is a place where you can experience both beach and forest life.

Why visit here: Ideal for relaxing, short treks, food, lounging and activities

Best time to visit: Throughout the day

Entry fee: None

Suggested Read: Cafes In Gold Coast

6. Barron Gorge National Park

Just outside the city of Cairns, in the northern Queensland region of Australia, Barron Gorge National Park welcomes you with a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor exploring options. Part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, the diversified park is a well-liked spot for outdoor activities, like trekking.

The Barron River and the Barron Gorge form a striking environment featuring a magnificent waterfall as the main draw. Take a stroll along the well-liked Rainforest Walk to observe a variety of plants and animals and to obtain diverse viewpoints of the magnificent Barron Falls. Enjoy the breathtaking vistas from various vantage points and click perfect shots. Additionally, you can soak in the jaw-dropping views while unwinding on a ride along the nearly five-mile Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Hence, Barron Gorge National Park is among the famous landmarks In Australia you must visit on your next vacation.

Why visit here: Enjoy the natural, historical and spiritual essence of Australia

Best time to visit: Mornings or during the day

7. Three sisters

Blue Mountains is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These are 1.03 million hectares of breathtaking sandstone plateaux, plunging gorges and temperate eucalypt forests. These mountains are one of the natural wonders that Australia has to offer. The most striking feature of this range is the iconic Three Sisters.

The three fifty million-year-old rocks are standing tall alongside each other, gauging the time travel. The rock formation arises from the desert and is an unusual spectacle to watch, especially at sunset. The breathtaking site draws in large numbers of day-trippers and tourists from Sydney.

Why visit here: Amazing natural wonder and mountain desert Best time to visit: Sunset Entry Fee: None

Further Read: Queensland Wildlife

From the ancient walls of Arthur Port that speak history to the natural waters of the Great Barrier Reef, there are many famous landmarks In Australia worth exploring. There is so much more to see in this majestic nation. So, plan your trip to Australia and let the adventure begin.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Cover Image Source: Shutterstock

Frequently Asked Questions About Famous Landmarks In Australia

How many landmarks are there in Australia?

Australia is probably the country with the maximum number of landmarks. There are more than 230 landmarks, including natural and man-made ones.

Is Australia a big country?

Australia is the world’s sixth-largest country and covers only about 5% of the land area.

How many UNESCO Sites are there in Australia?

There are a total of 20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Australia, with prominent ones being the Great Barrier Reef, Shark Bay, K’gari and many more.

Is it tough to reach Australia by Air?

Australia is well-connected by air routes to almost every country of the world. However, depending on your country, it might take more time to reach Australia due to inter-connecting flights.

How many days does it take to cover the entire of Australia?

Australia is a large country and there is plenty to see. Hence, it would take at least 10 days to visit every prominent tourist spot in the country. If you want to travel more, the sky's the limit.

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National Parks in Australia Must Try Restaurants in Australia Water Parks in Australia

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Audra McDonald

11 may 2024.

In the Concert Hall

Musical Theatre

Audra McDonald in Concert. Most Tony Awarded Performer in Broadway History! Star of The Good Fight , Private Practice , The Gilded Age , Beauty & The Beast .

$8.95 booking fee applies per transaction

Prices correct at the time of publication and subject to change without notice. Exact prices will be displayed with seat selection.

The only authorised ticket agency for this event is  Sydney Opera House . For more information about Authorised Agencies, see the frequently asked questions below.

Sydney Opera House Insiders pre-sale 9am, Tuesday 14 November 2023

Become a Sydney Opera House Insider to receive exclusive pre-sale access What’s On e-newsletter pre-sale 9am, Wednesday 15 November 2023 General Public tickets on-sale 9am, Friday 17 November 2023

Wheelchair accessible

There are a number of wheelchair and companion seating locations available.

To book accessible seating contact Box Office via email or telephone on: +61 2 9250 7777 (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm AEST)

Find out more about  accessibility at Sydney Opera House

The duration of this event is approximately 2 hours & 20 minutes, including a 20 minute interval.

Event duration is a guide only and may be subject to change.

Suitable for all ages.

Children aged 15 years and under must be accompanied at all times.

The Opera House is committed to the safety and wellbeing of children that visit or engage with us. Read our  Child Safety Policy . 

Also on this page

Venue information, covid-safe information, frequently asked questions, seating map.

Download seating map (PDF)

Audra McDonald live in concert

Audra McDonald, international singing phenomenon, television and film star, is unparalleled in the breadth and versatility of her artistry as both a singer and actor. But her voice must be heard to be believed. 

The winner of a record-breaking six Tony Awards, two Grammy Awards and an Emmy Award, she is also the only performer to have won a Tony Award in all four acting categories. 

She is one of Hollywood’s most loved leading ladies, starring in TV dramas such as Liz Reddick in The Good Fight and The Good Wife , Private Practice as Dr Naomi Bennett, The Gilded Age , Law and Order: Special Victims Unit , Kidnapped and The Bedford Dairies . 

She has also appeared in many films including as Madame de Garderobe in Disney’s live-action Beauty and the Beast .

Presented by Concertworks

When she sings—ah, its a God-touched voice. This is one performance that lovers of musical theatre and lets be honest, simply music, wont want to miss. New York Times

Watch the trailer for Audra McDonald

Other information

Our foyers will be open 90 minutes pre-show for Concert Hall and Joan Sutherland Theatre performances, and two hours pre-show for Western Foyer venue performances. Refreshments will be available for purchase from our theatre bars. All Sydney Opera House foyers are pram accessible, with lifts to the main and western foyers. The public lift to all foyers is accessible from the corridor near the escalators on the Lower Concourse and also in the Western Foyer via the corridor on the Ground Level (at the top of the escalators). Pram parking will be available outside the theatres in the Western Foyer.

The Sydney Opera House Car Park, operated by Wilson Parking, is open and available to use. Wilson Parking offer discounted parking if you book ahead. Please see  their website  for details.

Please check the  Transport NSW website  for the latest advice and information on travel. You can catch public transport (bus, train, ferry) to Circular Quay and enjoy a six min walk to the Opera House. 

The health and wellbeing of everyone attending the Opera House is our top priority. We’re committed to making your experience safe, comfortable and enjoyable, with a number of measures in place including regular cleaning of high-touch areas, air conditioning systems that maximise ventilation, and hand sanitiser stations positioned in all paths of travel. We remind our audiences and visitors to please stay home if you feel unwell. If you need to discuss your ticketing or booking options, contact our Box Office team on 02 9250 7777.

The health and wellbeing of everyone attending the Opera House is our top priority. We have a number of safety measures in place including regular cleaning of high-touch areas, air conditioning systems that maximise ventilation, and hand sanitiser stations positioned in all paths of travel. While face masks are no longer required, we ask all our patrons and visitors to practise good hygiene. Please stay home if you feel unwell and read more about our flexible ticket options .

The Sydney Opera House no longer requires patrons to show that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Ticket purchases and collection at our Box Office is discouraged and eTicket or postal delivery methods should be used, wherever possible. However, if you are collecting your tickets from the Box Office, we recommend doing this at least 60 minutes before the event starts. If you have already received your tickets, the venue doors will be open 45 minutes pre-show for Joan Sutherland Theatre performances, and 30 minutes pre-show for Western Foyer venue performances. Please take your seats as soon as you arrive. 

If you are late, we will seat you as soon as we can and, where possible, in your allocated seat. However, to reduce movement in the venue as well as minimise disruption to the performance and other patrons, ticketholders may be seated in an allocated latecomer’s seat. Please be aware that some events have lock-out periods. In these cases, latecomers will be admitted at a suitable break in the performance. On occasions, this may not be until the interval, or at all where there is no interval. 

Details of our right to refuse admission can be found in our  General Terms and Conditions for Tickets and Events.

In accordance with our venue security procedures, Opera House security will be scanning and checking bags under the Monumental Stairs, prior to entering the building. Bags will be scanned by an x-ray machine, and staff will wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling your belongings, such as gloves. Cloaking facilities will be open 60 minutes pre-show for Concert Hall and Joan Sutherland Theatre performances, and 60 minutes pre-show for Western Foyer venue performances. However it is strongly encouraged that you travel lightly to minimise contact and queuing. Any bags larger than an A4 piece of paper will need to be checked into the Cloak Room.

The authorised agency for this event is the Sydney Opera House.

Only tickets purchased by authorised agencies should be considered reliable. If you purchase tickets from a non-authorised agency such as Ticketmaster Resale, Viagogo, Ticketbis, eBay, Gumtree, Tickets Australia or any other unauthorised seller, you risk that these tickets are fake, void or have previously been cancelled. RESALE RESTRICTION APPLIES. For more details, please refer to our  General Terms and Conditions for Tickets and Attendance at Events.

Please contact Box Office on 9250 7777 as soon as possible to advise if you can no longer attend.

Foyers will be open 90 minutes pre-show for Concert Hall and Joan Sutherland Theatre performances, and two hours pre-show for Western Foyer venue performances. Refreshments will be available for purchase from our theatre bars.

The venue doors will be open 45 minutes pre-show for Concert Hall and Joan Sutherland Theatre performances, and 30 minutes pre-show for Western Foyer venue performances.

Please bring a credit or debit card for any on site purchases to enable contactless payment. You’re welcome to bring your own water bottle but no other food and drinks are permitted inside our venues. Opera Bar, Opera Kitchen and Portside are also available for you to enjoy.

The health, safety and wellbeing of everyone at the Sydney Opera House is our top priority. In line with this commitment, the Opera House became a smoke-free site in January 2022. Read our Smoke-free Environment Policy . 

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