Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is the building everyone recognises but few actually get inside, and that's exactly what a guided tour fixes. Step past the famous shell tiles and into theatres, rehearsal spaces and even the Green Room, with a guide unpacking the history behind Jorn Utzon's UNESCO World Heritage listed design along the way. Here's every way to explore this Sydney icon from the inside.

1 Hour Sydney Opera House Tour

The 1 Hour Sydney Opera House Tour is the classic way in, a guided walk through theatres and foyers usually off limits to the public, with insider stories on the building's architectural and entertainment history. Take a seat in the custom made white birch timber chairs and gaze up at one of the world's biggest pillar free chambers.

Sydney Opera House Backstage Tour

The Sydney Opera House Backstage Tour takes a small group of just 12 behind the curtain, through rehearsal spaces not open on the standard tour, finishing with breakfast in the Green Room, the exclusive domain of the cast and crew.

Sydney Opera House Architecture Group Tour

The Sydney Opera House Architecture Group Tour zeroes in on how the building actually came together, the visionaries, architects and engineers who overcame huge challenges to construct one of the world's most striking buildings, all covered in a focused 1 hour English guided tour.

Frequently asked questions

Which Sydney Opera House tour goes behind the scenes the most?

The Backstage Tour goes furthest, taking small groups through rehearsal spaces and the Green Room that aren't included on the standard 1 hour tour.

How many stairs are involved in a Sydney Opera House tour?

The 1 hour tour and the Backstage Tour both involve over 300 stairs throughout the building, so comfortable enclosed footwear is recommended.

What is the difference between the 1 Hour Tour and the Architecture Group Tour?

The 1 hour tour covers the building's architectural and entertainment history broadly, while the Architecture Group Tour focuses specifically on the design and construction story behind the iconic structure.

Is breakfast included on any Sydney Opera House tour?

Yes, the Backstage Tour includes breakfast in the Green Room, with a choice of dishes like smashed avocado on toast or eggs benedict.

Who designed the Sydney Opera House?

Danish architect Jorn Utzon designed the Sydney Opera House, a UNESCO World Heritage listed site that opened in 1973.

Local tip: book the Backstage Tour for its early morning slot if you want a quieter building and a proper breakfast to go with the insider access, otherwise the standard 1 hour tour runs at more convenient times throughout the day.

Sort your Sydney Opera House tour above, whether that's the classic 1 hour guided tour, an intimate Backstage Tour with breakfast in the Green Room, or a focused Architecture Group Tour on the building's design and construction. All good days are waiting.