Sydney Opera House Official Guided Walking Tour

Sydney , Australia

Sydney Opera House Official Guided Walking Tour

Active

(3594 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover insider secrets and stories of the Opera House artists and performances, and step inside the iconic theatres and foyers that bring to life over 1800 performances each year. Explore the building with our knowledgeable guides, and learn about how Jørn Utzon’s vision came into existence against impossible odds.

Please note that as we are a busy performing arts centre, venues and theatres are subject to availability at the time of your tour.

Option: Tour & Dine at Opera Bar, House Canteen or Midden by Mark Olive:
Make the most of a day out at the Opera House by going on our 1-hour tour followed by a lunch or an early dinner at your choice of harbourside restaurants. Redeem your ticket at Opera Bar or House Canteen between 11.30am - 6pm, or Midden by Mark Olive between 11.30am-2.30pm, or 5-6pm

Option: Language Tour and Language Tour & Meal + Drink options.
Choose French, German, or Spanish Tour, to experience the tour with one of our language-speaking guides.

Available options

French Guided Tour

French Speakers Only: 1 Hour Guided Tour with a French Speaking Tour Guide (not in English)

French Tour & Meal + Drink

French Speakers Only: One Hour guided tour with French-speaking guide plus main meal and beverage from a selection at Opera Bar or House Canteen

German Guided Tour

German Speakers Only: 1 Hour Guided Tour with a German Speaking Tour Guide (not in English)

Tour + Main Meal & Drink

English Fluency Required: Enjoy our one hour tour followed by a main meal and beverage, from a selection, at either Opera Bar or House Canteen

Spanish Guided Tour

Spanish Speakers Only: 1 Hour Guided Tour with a Spanish Speaking Tour Guide (not in English)

Spanish Tour & Meal + Drink

Spanish Speakers Only: One Hour guided tour with Spanish-speaking guide plus main meal and beverage from a selection at Opera Bar or House Canteen

English Guided Tour

English Fluency Required: 1 Hour Guided Tour with a English Speaking Tour Guide

Architectural Tour

A 75-minute tour experience aimed at those who are interested in finding out more about the way the Opera House was built.

German Tour + Meal & Drink

German Speakers Only: One Hour guided tour with German-speaking guide plus main meal and beverage from a selection at Opera Bar or House Canteen

What's included

Local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your tour of the Sydney Opera House allows you to step beneath the sails of one of the world’s most iconic performance venues, where more than 1,800 concerts, plays, musicals and ballets are staged every year. Explore it with an insider guide, who shares stories and fun facts about the opera house’s history, performances and architecture throughout your 1-hour tour.

Walk through the elegant foyers, visit one of the largest pillar-free chambers in the world, sit down in a custom-made white birch chair and look up at the vaulted ceiling. Check out areas that are off-limits to the general public, learn about the distinctive exterior design made up of ‘shell’ tiles, and hear about opera house’s Danish architect, including his inspiration and building challenges.

What's not included

No Hotel pickup and drop-off

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

2,486 reviews

5★

2024

4★

318

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

1,108 reviews

5★

886

4★

142

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note the standard guided tour contains approx. 300 stairs - Low Impact. If you have limited mobility there are daily mobility access tours available on request pre-booking is required please contact the supplier directly.

Tours do not operate Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, or New Year's Day before 1pm, subject to change

Tour + Main Meal & Drink: Redeem your ticket stub at either of our harbourside dining venues on day of your tour booking. Includes main meal and a beverage from a selection.

One Hour Tour including Tour & Dine please check in at the Welcome Centre on the lower concourse level ten minutes prior to your tour time

Redeem tour & dine at House Canteen or Opera Bar between 11.30am-6pm on the day of the tour.

Redeem tour & dine at Midden by Mark Olive between 11.30am-2.30pm, or 5-6pm on the day of the tour.

Please check you have selected the correct language tour for the tour you want to experience the language in

Venue access is subject to availability at the time of your tour and can change up until tour departure time.

Infants under 5 are permitted on the 1 hour tour free of charge, however still require a ticket to be booked

Important notes

To check-in for the tour, please arrive to the Welcome Centre on the Lower-Concourse of the Sydney Opera House precinct for the 1-hour Guided Tour and exchange this voucher for your tour ticket. It is recommended to arrive approximately 10 min prior to your scheduled departure time.

Please note, the tour can contain approximately 300 stairs and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Please ensure you have selected the correct language option for the tour you want to experience. If you can not understand the language of the tour, you may be refused entry to that tour time. You can contact the Sydney Opera House reservations team to discuss further.

If you are undertaking the Tour & Dine experience, you will receive a printed ticket on check-in at the Welcome Centre which can be redeemed for your main meal and drink at one of the harbour facing restaurants.

Please Note: This voucher can be redeemed at one of the following restaurants during select times on the day of your tour:
• House Canteen (Asian-inspired) – 11:30 AM - 6:00 PM
• Opera Bar (Modern Australian) – 11:30 AM - 6:00 PM
• Midden by Mark Olive (Indigenous Australian dining) – 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM or 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Redemption Information: House Canteen & Opera Bar – Proceed directly to the Bar to redeem your voucher and place your order. Midden by Mark Olive – Present your ticket to the waitstaff before being seated and ordering.

Seating availability may be limited during peak lunch periods. Three venue options are available to accommodate customers.

About Sydney

Sydney, Australia's most iconic city, is renowned for its stunning harbour, vibrant cultural scene, and diverse neighborhoods. With its blend of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and modern attractions, Sydney offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Top Attractions

Sydney Opera House

An iconic landmark and UNESCO World Heritage site, the Sydney Opera House is a masterpiece of modern architecture and a hub for performing arts.

Architecture/Cultural 1-2 hours for a tour, longer for a performance AUD 42-100 (tour prices vary)

Sydney Harbour Bridge

One of the world's most famous bridges, offering spectacular views and the thrill of the BridgeClimb or BridgeWalk.

Architecture/Adventure 2-3 hours (depending on activity) AUD 174-468 (BridgeClimb prices vary)

Bondi Beach

Australia's most famous beach, known for its golden sand, surfing, and vibrant atmosphere.

Beach/Entertainment Half day to full day Free (surfboard rentals and lessons cost extra)

The Rocks

A historic area with cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and a vibrant market scene.

Historical/Cultural 2-3 hours Free (market and museum entry fees apply)

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

A beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, offering stunning views of the harbour and Opera House.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Avo on Toast

A simple yet iconic dish featuring avocado on toast, often topped with poached eggs, feta, or smoked salmon.

Breakfast Vegetarian (check for specific toppings)

Barramundi

A popular Australian fish, often grilled or pan-fried and served with seasonal vegetables and a sauce.

Dinner Gluten-free (check for specific sauces and sides)

Tim Tams

A beloved Australian chocolate biscuit, often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.

Snack Contains gluten and dairy

Flat White

A popular Australian coffee, similar to a latte but with a stronger coffee flavor and velvety microfoam.

Drink Contains dairy (non-dairy options available)

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Blue Mountains Surfing at Bondi Beach BridgeClimb or BridgeWalk at Sydney Harbour Bridge Kayaking in Sydney Harbour Scuba diving in Jervis Bay Beach lounging at Bondi Beach Picnicking in the Royal Botanic Garden Spa day at a luxury hotel

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Sydney, with long, sunny days perfect for beach activities and outdoor events. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

20-26°C 68-79°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Mandarin, Arabic, Cantonese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (GMT+10) or AEDT (GMT+11) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sydney is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services to avoid overcharging.
• Purchase tickets from official sources or authorized sellers.

Getting there

By air

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center

By train

Central Station, Sydney Terminal

By bus

Central Station, Sydney Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Sydney's train network is efficient and covers most of the city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Rocks Bondi Surry Hills Newtown Barangaroo

Day trips

Blue Mountains

80 km (50 miles) from Sydney • Full day

A stunning national park known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails.

Hunter Valley

120 km (75 miles) from Sydney • Full day

Australia's oldest wine region, offering beautiful vineyards, wine tasting, and gourmet dining.

Royal National Park

30 km (19 miles) from Sydney • Half day to full day

Australia's oldest national park, offering beautiful coastal scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife spotting.

Festivals

Sydney Festival • January Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras • February/March Sydney Writers' Festival • May

Pro tips

Use an Opal card for convenient and discounted public transport fares.
Visit iconic attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Explore Sydney's diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique character and attractions.
Take a ferry to explore the city's stunning harbour and waterfront areas.
Try local specialties like seafood, Asian cuisine, and Australian wines.