Circular Quay

Circular Quay which includes a city, general coastal views and a sunset
Circular Quay
Circular Quay
Circular Quay
Circular Quay


Under the gaze of the magnificent Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney’s transport hub is a terminal of unexpected beauty.

Getting around this bustling metropolis and tourist paradise, you’re likely to cross paths with Circular Quay at some point during your travels. Located between two of the city’s most unmistakable landmarks, the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, the quay is easy to find, even for first-time visitors.Located in the inlet dubbed Sydney Cove, Circular Quay is the official landing site of the First Fleet that set sail for Australia from England back in 1787. Even today, it retains a naval theme, with Circular Quay being the best place in Sydney to catch a ferry to many other spectacular locations. Its location also makes it an excellent place to enjoy some spectacular views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House and it is always buzzing with life as visitors and commuters go about their daily business.Circular Quay is also home to a busy railway station and bus station. The range of transport options on offer, combined with its attractive, central location mean you have plenty of choice when it comes to ways of getting around Sydney’s many great sights. Sydney residents are a welcoming bunch, so if you get lost or stuck somewhere for any reason, there will always be a friendly face willing to help you out.This wonderful location is more than just a transport hub—Sydney is one of the first places in the world to welcome in the New Year, and the spectacular firework display celebrating this draws some of Sydney’s biggest crowds. Circular Quay is also right next to the recently refurbished Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA), a real honeypot for culture seekers and it’s also free to get in!For lovers of architecture, Customs House is also located in the Circular Quay area. This impressive structure is one of Sydney’s heritage buildings, and houses numerous interesting exhibitions as well as an extensive library. Customs House has a spectacular grand atrium and distinctive Helix staircase, along with striking and contemporary interior decor. Feast your eyes on the giant model of the city displayed in a glass case on the ground floor of the development.Being adjacent to the harbour, Circular Quay is the perfect place to catch a boat, whether you’re looking for a romantic sunset dinner cruise, or a fun tour of the harbour for all the family, Circular Quay has something to offer.

Tours & day trips

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History & culture

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Private & custom tours

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Food, drink & nightlife

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Adventure & outdoor

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Popular places to visit


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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Circular Quay

Circular Quay offers a vibrant mix of activities for visitors, including exceptional shopping options and family attractions. You can explore entertainment experiences such as live performances at the iconic Sydney Opera House. For those seeking a bit of adventure, enjoy scenic hikes nearby that showcase the stunning harbour views. This lively hub is perfect for family outings, ensuring a delightful experience for everyone.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Circular Quay, visit The Rocks Markets for unique souvenirs just 322m away. Martin Place, 805m away, offers a vibrant mix of entertainment and shopping. If you're up for a drive, head to Centrepoint, located 966m away, for more family-friendly options.

Recreation

The Metro Theatre offers an exhilarating atmosphere with live music performances, perfect for those seeking entertainment. For sports enthusiasts, Moore Park Golf Course provides a refreshing outdoor experience amidst lush greenery. Meanwhile, Lume Sydney Spa promises ultimate relaxation with indulgent body treatments, ensuring a rejuvenating retreat.

Adventure

The Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk, located 6.4km from Circular Quay, offers breathtaking coastal views and invigorating hikes. For family fun, navigate the McElhone Stairs, a delightful maze 1.6km away. For thrill-seekers, Ben Buckler Point, 8.0km distant, provides exhilarating underwater sports experiences.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Theatre Royal, just 805m from Circular Quay, offering romance and cultural entertainment. For family-friendly fun, visit Sydney Observatory, only 483m away. Don't miss the State Theatre, 1.1km from Circular Quay, blending romance and captivating performances.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Circular Quay

Circular Quay offers a vibrant mix of urban parks, historic buildings, and lively streets, making it an ideal destination for those seeking culture and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore iconic attractions such as Sydney Harbour and immerse themselves in the city's rich history while enjoying the best local sights. With plenty of activities and sights nearby, Circular Quay promises an unforgettable adventure for tourists eager to discover all that Sydney has to offer.

  • Sydney Opera House: An iconic symbol of Sydney, this architectural marvel is renowned for its unique sail-like design. Visitors can enjoy a variety of cultural performances and guided tours that immerse them in its vibrant artistic atmosphere, located 644m from Circular Quay.
  • Sydney Harbour Bridge: This historic bridge offers stunning views of the harbour and city. Experience the thrill of a guided climb or a leisurely walk across its arches, situated 805m from Circular Quay, where you can soak in its rich history and cultural significance.
  • International Convention Centre Sydney: A premier venue for conferences and events, it showcases contemporary design and state-of-the-art facilities. Located 1.6km from Circular Quay, it has a bustling business vibe, perfect for networking and engaging with industry leaders.

Best time to go to Circular Quay

The best time to visit Circular Quay can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Circular Quay falls in January, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Circular Quay falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February72.7°F (22.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March70.9°F (21.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
April66.4°F (19.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May61.2°F (16.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
June57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
July55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August57.2°F (14.0°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September61.2°F (16.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November67.6°F (19.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December70.3°F (21.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Circular Quay

To save money on your visit to Circular Quay, consider travelling during the off-peak months of May to July when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best deals, and aim for a Monday stay to further reduce costs. Utilise Expedia’s search tools to filter options by budget, and explore package deals that combine flights and hotels. Additionally, take advantage of free activities around the area, and use public transport to navigate efficiently and affordably.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Circular Quay are May to July, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Circular Quay about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Circular Quay is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Circular Quay is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search wizard to refine your options according to your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Circular Quay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.