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 every bit as spectacular as you'd imagine. Seeing this iconic landmark in person is a truly special experience. The architecture is breathtaking from every angle, and the location on Sydney Harbour makes it one of the most beautiful places in the city.
Take your time to walk all around the Opera House and along the waterfront. The views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay, and the harbour are incredible, especially around sunset. Whether you're interested in architecture, photography, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, this is a place you'll remember long after your visit.
For first time visitors, wear comfortable walking shoes as there is quite a bit of walking around the harbour. If possible, book a guided tour or catch a performance to experience the Opera House from the inside. There are plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby if you'd like to relax and enjoy the harbour views.
If you're driving, parking near the Opera House can be expensive, so public transport is often the easiest option. Circular Quay station and the ferry terminal are just a short walk away.
The Sydney Opera House is much more than a famous building. It's an unforgettable experience and an absolute must visit for anyone travelling to Sydney.
Valine Lopes - 2 months ago
It was a great experience to visit the Opera House during the vivid Sydney time. The place is a nice place to meet and greet. I enjoyed seeing it from different angles while taking a complete walk around it from the bridge, near to it, sitting next to it having food. Simply amazing. Even you can relax while sitting there and enjoying the view. I liked it during both morning and evening, night walks.
ARNAB CHAKRABORTY - 2 months ago
The theater is stunning—undoubtedly one of the most beautiful architectural designs in Australia and the world. Although the auditoriums are not particularly large, their size is more than sufficient. Additionally, with multiple performance spaces, several shows can take place simultaneously without any interference. Between acts, you can enjoy a glass of champagne while taking in a wonderful view of the bridge.
watila990 - 3 weeks ago
One of the most iconic places in Sydney, and definitely worth seeing beyond just taking the usual photos from the forecourt.
What I personally recommend is taking a ferry from Circular Quay to Manly. The views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Sydney CBD from the water are completely different from what you get on land. As the ferry moves further into the harbour, the perspective constantly changes and you get some fantastic wide-angle views of the entire skyline.
The best part, in my opinion, is taking the ferry back around blue hour. Watching the sky gradually turn deep blue while the Opera House and Harbour Bridge begin to light up is absolutely beautiful. The combination of the illuminated sails, harbour reflections and city skyline makes the Opera House feel even more impressive than during the daytime.
If you have enough time, I would highly recommend combining the Opera House with a ferry trip to Manly rather than visiting the Opera House as a standalone stop. It is one of those Sydney experiences where the journey itself is just as memorable as the destination.
Yanzuo Wu - a month ago
Watching the kids see the Sydney Opera House for the very first time was such a special moment 🧡
One of those places you grow up seeing in photos, but nothing compares to standing there in person. The kids were so excited seeing the “big shells” up close and taking in the harbour views.
Such an iconic piece of Australia and definitely one of our favourite memories from our Sydney trip ✨
Kirsty D - 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: 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 -
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Photo Credit: filipecastilhos - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Travels with Kathleen - cc license via Flickr
