Sydney Opera House

Sydney Opera House
Sydney Opera House
Sydney Opera House showing modern architecture, music and general coastal views
Sydney Opera House featuring a square or plaza, general coastal views and modern architecture
Sydney Opera House featuring interior views, theater scenes and modern architecture


Take in a performance or just take in the splendour of one of the world’s most famous buildings.

Mention Sydney, and the Sydney Opera House will almost certainly come to mind. This 20th century architectural masterpiece is one of the most instantly recognisable buildings in the world. Whether you are coming to enjoy one of its world-class productions or you just want to see this iconic building, no visit to Sydney would be complete without a trip to the opera house.Listed as a world heritage site, Sydney Opera House has won many architectural awards and plaudits for its unique design. It’s also home to some of the most reputable artistic companies, namely Opera Australia, The Australian Ballet, Sydney Theatre Company and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Over one million visitors pass through the building every year to come and admire its magnificent interiors and to enjoy some of the world’s best opera, ballet and classical music performances.The Sydney Opera House is surrounded on three sides by Sydney Harbour. If you’re feeling energetic, climb the Monument Steps to get some of the best views over the harbour. This location is also a photographer’s dream, so bring your camera and take a few memorable holiday snaps.The building is such a popular tourist spot that most areas have been made freely available to the public. The reception boasts a striking floor-to-ceiling tapestry which was inspired by Bach’s Hamburg Symphonies.The internal structure comprises several different concert venues, with the Concert Hall, the Joan Sutherland Theatre and the Drama Theatre being the most prominent. Guided tours of the Sydney Opera House theatres are available if you’d like a look around. Expert guides will talk you through the history and share anecdotes about all of the great performers who have graced the Sydney Opera House since its inauguration in 1973.If you fancy a bite to eat while you’re taking in the opulence of the Sydney Opera House, there is everything from child-friendly cafés to upmarket restaurants to cater for all visitors. You can also enjoy particularly attractive views across the harbour at the Opera Bar.The Sydney Opera House box office and tour information desk is open seven days a week for bookings.

Tours & day trips

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Food, drink & nightlife

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Adventure & outdoor

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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 Sydney Opera House

At the iconic Sydney Opera House, visitors can enjoy engaging performances, including those by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and various opera events. Beyond the artistic offerings, the area is bustling with shopping and entertainment options, making it a vibrant hub for tourists. Don't miss the chance to explore the remarkable events hosted at this architectural marvel, ensuring a memorable trip to Sydney.

Shopping

The nearest shopping experience is The Rocks Markets, only 644m from the Sydney Opera House, offering a vibrant atmosphere with local crafts and souvenirs. Martin Place, 1.3km away, and Centrepoint, 1.4km away, both feature a variety of shops catering to families and tourists alike.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at the Metro Theatre, a music concert venue just 1.6km from the Opera House. For some outdoor activity, enjoy a round of golf at Moore Park Golf Course, located three miles away. Unwind with a rejuvenating treatment at Lume Sydney Spa, two miles away.

Adventure

Embark on the Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk, a stunning hiking trail 6.4km from the Sydney Opera House, showcasing breathtaking scenery. Alternatively, navigate the McElhone Stairs maze, located 1.4km away, perfect for family fun. For adventure seekers, dive into underwater sports at Ben Buckler Point, 8.0km away.

Nightlife

In Sydney, the Sydney Observatory offers a unique blend of entertainment and family vibes, perfect for stargazing enthusiasts. The Sydney Theatre Company provides a romantic atmosphere filled with cultural performances, while the Open Air Cinema creates a charming setting for films under the stars, ideal for families and couples alike.

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

Find the best attractions near Sydney Opera House

While visiting the iconic Sydney Opera House, immerse yourself in its rich culture and history, and explore nearby attractions such as the picturesque Sydney Harbour and the fascinating Sydney Observatory. Don't miss the vibrant urban parks and historic civic buildings surrounding the area, offering a delightful outdoor experience for all travellers. Experience the charm of this renowned landmark and its captivating surroundings, making your visit truly memorable.

  • Circular Quay: A bustling harbour that offers a vibrant atmosphere, Circular Quay is perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying scenic views of the water. With its beach vibes and proximity to ferries, it's a gateway to exploring Sydney's iconic sights.
  • Sydney Harbour Bridge: Known for its historic significance, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is an architectural marvel. Embrace the cultural vibes as you walk or cycle across this iconic bridge, soaking in panoramic views of the city and harbour.
  • International Convention Centre Sydney: This modern event venue showcases Sydney's business acumen. With its sleek design and versatile spaces, it hosts a variety of conferences and exhibitions, making it a hub for professionals and tourists alike.

Best time to go to Sydney Opera House

The best time to visit Sydney Opera House can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Sydney Opera House falls in January, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Sydney Opera House falls in July, visitor numbers are slightly low 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 SunnyAverageSlightly High
March70.9°F (21.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April66.4°F (19.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May61.2°F (16.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
June57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
August57.2°F (14.0°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September61.2°F (16.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November67.6°F (19.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December70.3°F (21.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sydney Opera House

To save money during your visit to the Sydney Opera House, consider travelling between May and July when hotel prices drop. Booking one month in advance or checking Expedia’s last-minute deals can yield significant discounts. Mondays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Utilise Expedia’s search tools to find eco-friendly accommodations and filter by budget. Additionally, consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities in a package deal for further savings. Lastly, make use of Sydney's efficient public transport system to explore the city affordably.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Sydney Opera House 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Sydney Opera House is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Sydney Opera House is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Sydney Opera House is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay near the Sydney Opera House with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.