Sydney Opera House: Tickets and Tours

Few buildings in the world are quite as iconic as the Sydney Opera House, its white roof having welcomed ships into the harbor for more than 50 years.

Getting your hands on some Sydney Opera House tour tickets is the best way to uncover the stories beneath its unmistakable façade and see inside the hallowed halls of this prestigious institution.

Here's all you need to know about the Sydney Opera House, one of the most iconic attractions in Sydney.

How much do Sydney Opera House tickets cost?

• Adults: AU$43 (US$28)
• Concession: AU$33 (US$21)
• Children ages 5-15: AU$23 (US$15)
• Children under 5: Free

Who is eligible for discounts?

Concession tickets are available for people in the following categories:

• Holders of an Australian Senior Card
• Australian Pensioners
• full-time students aged 16 and above

Should you book in advance?

Sydney Opera House tours are incredibly popular and very likely to sell out. There are also limited spots on each tour and you need to book online to secure a timeslot that suits your itinerary.

What are the best Sydney Opera House tours?

There are several Sydney Opera House tours and experiences to choose from, each with a different focus and optional extras.

Sydney Opera House walking tour

Your Sydney Opera House ticket is your gateway to culture. Go on an immersive journey through the elegant halls and captivating foyer areas and delve into the secrets that have secured this architectural wonder a coveted spot on the World Heritage list.

Venture beyond the iconic sails and enter a realm where the genius of Danish architect Jørn Utzon comes to life. In just one hour, you'll unravel the intricacies of this unmissable masterpiece—a true embodiment of artistry and innovation.

You can also upgrade your experience to include a meal and a drink afterward.

Sydney Opera House guided backstage tour

Join a seasoned guide, well-versed in the theatre's rich history, to unveil the captivating tales that unfold both onstage and behind the scenes.

Step into the realm of secrets as you explore the hidden corners typically reserved for the dedicated staff and talented performers who grace these hallowed halls. Traverse the world-famous stage and venture into the inner sanctums, such as the enchanting dressing rooms.

Concluding this captivating morning expedition, you'll gather with your intimate small group for a delightful breakfast at House Canteen, nestled by the tranquil harbor.

Sydney Opera House performance tickets

Truly appreciate the masterful creation of this cultural beacon by booking Sydney Opera House tickets to a performance. You can attend performances of La Traviata, Orpheus and Eurydice, The Magic Flute, Theodora and more.

These performances are 2 to 3 hours long and are brought to life by some of the finest operatic performers the world over.

Architectural tour of Sydney Opera House

Architectural enthusiasts will find this tour to be a captivating exploration of the construction of the Sydney Opera House. You will learn about the visionary Danish architect who transformed the vision for 21st-century architecture by creating the face of Sydney.

During this enlightening one-hour architectural experience, you will discover the remarkable collaborative efforts of visionaries, architects, engineers, artists, idealists, and pragmatists who came together to fuse engineering prowess and architectural creativity.

Are there any combined tickets or tours including the Sydney Opera House and other attractions?

If you are strapped for time, book a combo tour to see the Sydney Opera House as well as other attractions in the vicinity all in one day.

Sydney Opera House plus Bondi Beach tour

This private Sydney tour visits the forecourt of the Sydney Opera House and icons like Harbour Bridge and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. You can also choose to participate in the Harbour Bridge Climb after the tour.

What will you see inside?

A guided tour of the Sydney Opera House provides an enriching experience both inside and outside this iconic architectural masterpiece. Inside the Opera House, you'll explore its stunning interiors, such as the Grand Foyer adorned with vibrant tapestries and the Utzon Room, offering breathtaking harbor views.

You'll also have the chance to step into renowned performance venues like the Concert Hall and Joan Sutherland Theatre, where world-class artists showcase their talents. Throughout the tour, you'll learn about the history, architecture, and cultural significance of this landmark.

Venturing outside, you'll be greeted by the mesmerizing sight of the Sydney Harbour, where the Opera House's distinct white sail-like shells contrast beautifully with the blue waters and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

The outdoor experience allows you to capture iconic photographs and appreciate the Opera House's architectural grandeur against the backdrop of one of the world's most picturesque harbors.

How to get there?

This might be the most unmissable structure in Sydney and it is located on the Sydney Harbor Foreshore. You can get there by taking the T3, T4 or T8 trains to Circular Quay or the Line 343 bus. You can also take the ferry to Circular Quay. From there, it is only a short 6-minute walk to the Opera House.

There is a taxi rank on Macquarie Street and an underground car park right underneath the building with access from the same street. Parking is limited and visitors are urged to use public transportation for a stress-free and sustainable visit.

What are the opening times?

Sydney Opera House operates tours every day between 8 AM and 5 PM. Performances are held from 7.30 PM and last between 2-3 hours. Tours take place every 30 minutes during daytime hours.

Refer to the official website of the Sydney Opera House to make sure there are no unforeseen closures on the day of your visit.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

The Sydney Opera House is wheelchair friendly for people attending performances but unfortunately, walking tours are not accessible for people with mobility issues. You'll climb between 200 and 300 stairs during the tour. The Opera House offers a wheelchair-friendly tour each day at noon, following a more accessible route.

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

Being one of the city’s main attractions, the best time to visit the Sydney Opera House is during spring or autumn, outside of the Australian summer holidays period (December and January).

If you're visiting the Sydney Opera House specifically for a performance, it's a good idea to check their calendar in advance and plan your trip accordingly.

Which other attractions can be visited in Sydney?

• Sydney Tower Eye
• Harbour Bridge Climb
• Sidney Harbour National Park

Travel tips

• The Opera House and its surroundings involve a lot of walking. Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore the area on foot.
• The forecourt of the Opera House is open and can get sunny. If you're spending time outside wear sunblock, sunglasses and consider bringing a hat.
• There are several restaurants and bars within the Opera House complex, ideal to enjoy drinks or dinner before a performance.
• If you're planning to see a show, make sure you book your tickets in advance as popular performances can sell out quickly.
• It's advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes before a performance.
• While Sydney is generally laid-back, some performances at the Opera House might have a formal dress code, especially for evening events.
• Large bags and backpacks might not be allowed inside the theatres, so consider leaving big items at your accommodation.