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
The Sydney Opera House is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed performing arts centre and one of the most iconic buildings of the 20th century. Located on Bennelong Point in Sydney Harbour, it was designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon and officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II on 20 October 1973. The building is famous for its distinctive white sail-like roof "shells," which are covered in over one million Swedish-made ceramic tiles.
While the exterior is free to admire, a guided tour is required to see the internal performance spaces unless you have a ticket to a show.
The precinct offers a range of dining experiences, from casual bars to world-class fine dining.
You can do pre wedding and post wedding photoshoot event here. Very good place to go with family and friends.
Mamunur Rashid - 2 weeks ago
An Unforgettable Global Icon
You simply cannot visit Australia without spending time at the Sydney Opera House. Even after seeing it in photos for years, seeing it in person is a truly breathtaking experience that words struggle to capture. It is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful and iconic structures ever built.
Why It’s a 5-Star Experience:
* Mind-Blowing Architecture: Jørn Utzon’s design is a masterpiece of 20th-century creativity. Whether you are looking at the "sails" from a distance or standing right next to the 1,056,006 ceramic tiles that cover them, the amazing architecture reveals new details from every angle.
* Cultural Hub: It’s not just a monument; it’s a living, breathing venue. With over 1,800 performances a year across seven different stages—ranging from world-class opera and symphony to contemporary rock concerts and talks—there are many events to suit every taste.
* World-Class Tours: For those who want to go deeper, the tours are exceptional. I was impressed to find they are available in many languages (including English, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, French, and German), making the history and "behind-the-scenes" secrets accessible to everyone.
* The Perfect Outdoor Spot: The location on Bennelong Point is spectacular. The wide, paved promenades make it a nice area for jogging or walking. You can start at Circular Quay, loop around the Opera House sails, and continue directly into the Royal Botanic Gardens for one of the most scenic exercise routes in the world.
Whether you’re catching a show, taking a guided tour, or just enjoying a sunset walk with a view of the Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House is a bucket-list destination that actually lives up to the hype.
Michi T - 2 months ago
By far the main reason to come to Sydney, this globally known exquisite piece of architecture is the highlight of a visit to NSW. In my opinion, it far surpasses the Harbor Bridge, Darling Harbor or any of the Beaches. It's an absolute beautiful thing to see and I am glad it is free to go as close as to touch it from at least the outside. If you are in Sydney it is no doubt that this is worth walking right to it and feeling overwhelmed by it's architectural beauty.
Aryan Patel - 3 weeks ago
The Sydney Opera House is an Iconic structure of Australia opened 1973. A true landmark signifying the glory of Australia features an uncommon structure. It only 10 mins walking distance from thr circular array, and you can observe the great Sydney Harbour Bridge from this place.
You gotta buy tickets to get inside.
Its a must visit place in Sydney.
Jaidul Karim Iram - a month 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 - 4 months 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: Steven Penton - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Rmonty119 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Steven Penton - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: Steven Penton - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Bernard Spragg - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Rmonty119 - cc license via Flickr
