Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House is both a world class entertainment venue and one of the world's most recognized and renowned landmarks
As one of the world's most renowned buildings the Sydney Opera House needs little introduction. It should certainly make your must see list. By must see, we mean up close, as you really do need to see it up close to appreciate the immense size and amazing design.
Prominently located on the tip of Bennelong Point, the striking modern expressionist design of the Sydney Opera House is visible from many vantage points. The structure sits on top of 588 concrete piers and has a footprint of 4.4 acres.
Construction of Sydney Opera House in Sydney took over 14 years to complete. In 1957 a design by Danish Architect Jorn Utzon won the design competition for the new venue. Construction began in 1959 and was pushed forward by political pressures before proper engineering and drawings had been completed. This and other unexpected complications caused numerous setbacks in time and money. In 1965 Utzon had a falling out with the newly elected Premier and his Minister of Public Works (who were unsympathetic towards the project) over procedures and the refusal to pay his fees ultimately resulting in his resignation and leaving the country in 1966. In 1999 the Sydney Opera House Trust had reached out to Utzon and appointed him a design consultant for future work inside the Opera House. The Utzon room which was completely redesigned by Utzon was named in his honour.
The Sydney Opera House is far more than just its namesake. It actually contains at total of 7 venues - 2 large and 5 smaller. The largest is the Concert Hall which seats an audience of 2679 and is home to the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Next is the Opera Theatre - a 1507 seat proscenium style that is home to Opera Australia and the Australia Ballet. Smaller venues include the 544 seat Drama Theatre, the 398 seat Playhouse and the Studio with a capacity of 400. There are 2 other multipurpose venues.
If you are unable to take in a concert or show at the Opera House you can still enjoy one of the numerous restaurants or bars, check out the souvenier shop or go on a guided tour. Otherwise you can just enjoy seeing the architectural details and impressive design from up close while enjoying the outstanding views from the grounds. You will also want to see the neighbouring Government House and Royal Botanic Gardens that are immediately south.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Free to explore the grounds. Admission charges apply to tours and performances. Earlybird tours are available at a reduced price if you book them online. See website for details.Address: Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Phone: 1300 764 849
Official Website: Sydney Opera House
Sydney Opera House Reviews
Rated out of 5
We visited the Sydney Opera House and it was an amazing experience. The architecture is stunning, with those iconic sails that look even more impressive in person. The views of Sydney Harbor and the Harbor Bridge from the steps are spectacular, especially from the ferry we took from Parramatta — such a scenic approach!
On top of that, we got to watch symphony orchestra show inside, which made the visit even more memorable. The acoustics and interior design are incredible, and the atmosphere of being in such a world-famous venue while listening to live music is something you won’t forget.
Overall, it’s a must-see spot in Sydney — whether you’re there for the architecture, the harbor views, or a performance, it really delivers on all fronts.
Nikita Kale - a week ago
Sydney Opera House really leans into that whole “world-famous icon” thing, but once you stand in front of it you cannot unsee the truth. It looks exactly like a giant rack to dry dishes. A premium, waterfront, government-funded dish rack. Someone clearly put the budget on the wrong Pinterest board.
It still looks good, no denying that. The patterns on the tiles are gorgeous, the shape is wild, the whole structure owns the harbor like it pays rent for the sun. But the moment the dish-rack comparison hits your brain, it is over. Those shiny white shells become plates waiting to drip dry.
And the big question: was it worth the time and money? Honestly, maybe. It is one of those bucket list things you check off because it is famous, not because it changes your life. You go there, you stare at it, you laugh at how much it looks like kitchen equipment, you take the photos, and you move on.
Iconic, yes. Beautiful, sure. Worth the hype? Debatable. But unforgettable as the world’s fanciest dish rack.
Wade Wilson - 2 weeks ago
The structure is amazing… just like the pictures you see in Internet. Easy to move around. Handicap friendly. Many spots for snacks and even for lunch or dinner. Inside is big enough to run several events at the same time. We saw The Shiralee… excellent play presentation. Buster really run the show. The terrace around the Opera offers great spots for pictures and opportunities to crash on weddings… many diverse weddings. If you have time, you can visit the Botanical Garden nearby. You can’t miss it, if you are in Sydney!
Yolanda Gonzalez - a month ago
Architecture that captivates your heart! I didn't get a chance to go inside, but honestly, the outside view is stunning enough on its own, it has its power to grab everyone's attention.
Top Tip: If you want the best possible view, take a ferry from Circular Quay after sunset. Seeing the Opera House from the water at night is an unmissable experience.
Kishan Naidu - 2 weeks ago
Directions
| Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| L2, T2, T3, T8 or Ferry | Circular Quay | 10 minutes |
How to get to Sydney Opera House by
By Train or Ferry: Exit at Circular Quay Station and proceed straight east and then north along the harbourfront.
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Photo Gallery
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Inside the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall cc licensed photo by TheGirlsNY -
Photo Credit: Janne Räkköläinen - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Steven Penton - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Steven Penton - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Rmonty119 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Rmonty119 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Steven Penton - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: pjluk - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: filipecastilhos - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Steven Penton - cc license via Flickr
