Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens are situated in one of Sydney's most beautiful locations
The 75 acre Royal Botanic Gardens are located on ground overlooking Farm Cove just south and east of the Sydney Opera House. These beautiful gardens are the culmination of nearly two centuries of hard work dedicated to the science of botany in Australia. The gardens are indeed the main centre for botanical sciences in Australia. Come and discover the amazing collection of plants, both native to Australia and from around the world in this magnificent setting.
The Gardens occupy the site of Australia's first farm which was started in 1788. Interestingly, due to poor soil and growing conditions, the farm was not a success, however the land continued to be cultivated. In 1816 Governor Macquarie founded the gardens as part of the Governor's domain, which later became the location of Government House. He appointed a botanist from the Colony to oversee research and develop the gardens.
The great majority of development that you see today took place under the direction of Charles Moore, a botanist from Scotland, between the years 1848 and 1896. During World War 1 and through the Great Depression, cut backs caused the gardens to regress some, however in 1959 after the gardens where designated as "Royal" they began once again to receive the attention and enhancements they deserved.
While you are welcome to explore the gardens on your own, there is a free guided walking tour every day at 10:30am and also on Monday to Friday from March through November at 1pm. These start from the information booth located just outside the garden shop at the Palm Grove Centre. You can also expect to see lots of colourful birds and wildlife in the gardens. The gardens are also a superb spot to just come and relax; a beautiful oasis from the surrounding city.
Nearby attractions: Government House, Sydney Opera House, Art Gallery of NSW, Customs House, Justice and Police Museum, and Museum of Sydney.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoRoyal Botanic Gardens Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Phone: (02) 9231 8111
Official Website: Royal Botanic Gardens
Royal Botanic Gardens Reviews
Rated out of 5![]()
I’ve visited the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney for a few consecutive years now, and it’s always been such a lovely experience. My first visit was in 2022 when I had some time before my flight back to Singapore — it was really chill and gave me space to reflect on my trip.
In 2023, I went back alone and did the walk through to the Opera House, which was both fun and relaxing. Then in 2024, I brought my family along, and we managed to snap some truly amazing photos together.
Overall, it’s a great place to take a walk, enjoy the scenery, and even burn a few calories. The air feels fresh, the views are beautiful, and its location near the Opera House makes it perfect for a stroll after a meal. It can get a little crowded near the evening, but the atmosphere is still enjoyable.
For tourists, I’d say this is definitely a must-visit spot in Sydney. Here are some photos from my visits over the years 🌿📸. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Edwin Jayden Goh - 2 weeks ago
Really big botanic garden, with a myriad of plants and animals to be seen here. It’s a great place for a relaxing walk or even a picnic with friends. You’ll find plenty of open green spaces, shaded areas, and nice spots to just sit and enjoy the scenery. I also spotted quite a few birds while wandering around. Highly recommend if you want to take a break from the city and spend some peaceful time in nature!
Benjamin Wang - in the last week
What a stunning place to be on an early Sunday morning. Right in the city, but overlooking the Sydney Harbour and in amongst the most beautiful greenery. Lots of little stops to sit and absorb nature. I traveled a bit of a distance to get here, but it is now on my list of "go-to" places when i need to decompress. Highly recommended.
Rob Steyn - 2 weeks ago
Coming from Vancouver, Canada, where we’re used to the lush greenery of Stanley Park, I was so impressed by the Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney. It’s similar in the way it brings nature into the heart of the city, but with its own unique charm. The garden is a peaceful oasis right by the harbour, and it offers incredible views of the Opera House, especially when you’re winding through its winding paths — it’s like playing a game of hide-and-seek with iconic Sydney landmarks!
What really stood out to me was how beautifully the birds and nature seem to live in harmony with the visitors. There’s a sense of calm here that makes you feel completely at ease, as if the space was designed for relaxation and connection with the environment. From the Palm Grove with its towering palms to the vibrant seasonal displays at The Calyx, each section of the garden offers something special. I also loved the Rose Garden during spring — it was simply breathtaking.
The Bennelong Precinct, with its gorgeous views of the harbour, is another highlight. This place is a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll, a picnic, or just a moment of reflection. It reminds me a bit of Central Park in New York, where the city’s energy mixes beautifully with the surrounding nature.
What’s even better is that it’s free to enter, making it accessible to everyone. If you're in Sydney, don’t miss the Royal Botanic Garden — it’s an unforgettable experience that perfectly blends nature, history, and some of the best views in the city.
Julio Yanes - 5 months ago
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Directions
| Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| L2, T2, T3 or Ferry | Circular Quay | 7 minutes |
| T4 | Martin Place | 3 minutes |
How to get to Royal Botanic Gardens by
By Train or Ferry: exit at Circular Quay Station and proceed west on Alfred Street then left on Albert Street and right on Macquarie Street. Enter the Gardens by the horse and rider statue at Bridge Street.
By Train: exit at Martin Place and walk east through the plaza to Macquarie Street; cross over and enter the narrow walkway just to the right of the Sydney Hospital Entrance. Continue east on the walkway the the pathway into the Garden.
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Photo Gallery
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Pyramid Glass House and Tropical Centre in the Royal Botanic Gardens cc licensed photo by Hector Garcia -
Blazing Tulips in the Royal Botanic Gardens cc licensed photo by Richard Gifford -
Photo Credit: stu7009 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: wyncliffe - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: wyncliffe - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: wyncliffe - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: VirtualWolf - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: (Imagine) 2.0 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: VirtualWolf - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Sydney Heritage - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: VirtualWolf - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: jimbowen0306 - cc license via Flickr

