Sydney Customs House
Sydney Customs House is an architectural landmark with a rich heritage
Whether you just want to admire the beautiful architecture, enjoy some fine dining with a stunning view, or check out one of the temporary exhibits, Customs House is a great place to visit. Admission is free and access is easy due to its location at one of Sydney's major transportation hubs.
Featuring beautiful Georgian architecture and sandstone block construction that is very common in this region, the Customs House was first completed in 1845 and consisted of two stories. Its many expensive windows providing an expansive view of shipping activities in the harbour made Customs House an ideal location for headquarters of Australian Customs in Sydney. Customs was responsible for controlling the importing of goods and immigration of people into Australia and for the taxation of trade. Customs house was used for this purpose right up until 1990.
In 1887 the Customs House was expanded to three stories followed by several more additions over the years. After ownership was transferred from the Australian Government to the City of Sydney in 1994 it underwent one more major restoration in 2003.
Today this major historic landmark welcomes visitors. It is now home to a branch of the Sydney public library. Inside you will find a spectacular circular staircase and also a magnificent 1:500 scale model of Sydney's Central Business District, which is viewed from above through a glass floor. There are also rotating exhibitions on various subjects throughout the year.
Customs House is a great place to come for a meal or refreshments. On the main level and Customs Square you can enjoy a relaxing meal, drink or coffee in the Parisian style bistro called Quay Bar, or in Young Alfred Restaurant. On the rooftop the Sydney Cafe, one of Sydney's finest restaurants offers fabulous views from its sunny outside terrace to go along with their fine cuisine.
If you are visiting Sydney during the last week in May or the first weeks of June, you simply must check out the VIVID SYDNEY display on the facade of the Customs House (Click on the 'Photos and Video' Tab to see a video of this event).
Nearby attractions: Justice and Police Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art, Museum of Sydney, Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney Opera House, Government House and The Rocks.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoSydney Customs House Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: 31 Alfred St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Phone: (02) 9265 9779
Official Website: Sydney Customs House
Sydney Customs House Reviews
Rated out of 5
A beautifully maintained historic building located just a short walk from Circular Quay Station. While it may not be as famous as some of Sydney's other landmarks, it's a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply looking for a quiet place to explore.
The interior is warm, elegant, and inviting. Upon entering, you'll find a small art gallery showcasing rotating exhibits, as well as a comfortable seating area where travelers can take a short break from sightseeing.
One of the building's most interesting features is the large three-dimensional scale model of Sydney displayed beneath a glass floor. Being able to walk over it while examining the city's layout from above is a surprisingly engaging experience and offers a unique perspective of Sydney's urban landscape.
I didn't have the chance to explore the upper floors during my visit, but even the ground level alone made the stop worthwhile.
A charming heritage building that blends history, art, and architecture into a relaxing experience right in the heart of the city.
TIMOTHY LOI SOSMENA - a month ago
If you’re down by the harbor step inside the Customs house for a quick treat. It’s a stunning historical building with artwork and an absolutely CRAZY clear floor with downtown Sydney build underneath it. I tried to capture an image but you have to see it with your own eyes. There are tons of food options across the street OR Cafe Sydney is above and you can take a lift from the ground floor of the Customs House right up to the restaurant. And it’s a five star winner!!!
Scott Berry (MarketCrest LLC) - 4 months ago
We visited Customs House just to see the scale model of Sydney. This ever changing model is updated regularly as Sydney continues to evolve.
Located on the ground floor and can be viewed literally under your feet as the glass floor becomes your birds eye view of this clever masterpiece.
Janelle T - a month ago
A beautifully maintained historic building in the heart of the city, Customs House offers a perfect blend of heritage architecture and modern public space.
The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, with spacious interiors, a great reading room, and excellent areas to sit and relax. The location is ideal, right near Circular Quay, making it a great stop whether you’re a local or a visitor.
Staff are friendly and the overall environment feels very well cared for. Definitely worth a visit if you appreciate history, architecture, or just a peaceful place to unwind in the city.
Amin - 2 months ago
It was fine, I enjoyed it, especially the walk through the botanical garden later, it's beautiful down there
Peter Mckenzie - a month ago
Directions
| Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| L2, T2, T3, T8 or Ferry | Circular Quay | 1 minute |
How to get to Sydney Customs House by
Exit and train or ferry at Circular Quay and cross the street.
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Accommodations near Sydney Customs House:
Photo Gallery
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Visitors check out the spectacular model of Sydney under the glass floor inside the Customs House cc licensed photo by zayzayem -
Spectacular spiral staircase inside Customs House cc licensed photo by Wikipedia User Jason7825 -
Photo Credit: Dushan Hanuska - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Phillie Casablanca - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Phillie Casablanca - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Dushan Hanuska - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: mertie. - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: mertie. - cc license via Flickr
