Opera House & Circular Quay★★★
The Sydney Opera House is not only Australia's most famous building but also one of the most iconic structures of the 20th century — and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007. The white, sail-shaped roof shells of Danish architect Jørn Utzon crown the Bennelong Point peninsula and reflect in the harbor water — a sight that never gets old.
From the outside, the Opera House is a masterpiece of architecture, from the inside a vibrant cultural center with over 1,500 events per year — opera, ballet, concerts, theater. Even if you don't attend a performance, a guided tour (42 AUD, 1 hour) is worthwhile, taking you behind the scenes and telling the dramatic construction history: 16 years of construction instead of the planned 4, 102 million AUD instead of 7 million budget, and the architect left Australia in dispute and never saw his completed work.
Circular Quay is the ferry terminal right next to the Opera House and the perfect starting point for any Sydney visit. From here, ferries depart to Manly, Taronga Zoo, and Watsons Bay. The promenade between the Opera House and Harbour Bridge offers the best walk in the city — especially at sunset when the sails glow golden.
At the foot of the Opera House lies the Opera Bar — an outdoor bar with arguably the most spectacular view in the world: the illuminated Opera House behind you, the Harbour Bridge in front of you, plus live music and Australian wines. A drink at sunset (wine from 14 AUD, cocktails from 22 AUD) is a must.
💡 Tipp
The cheapest way to experience the Opera House: Book a concert at the Forecourt (open-air stage) in summer — tickets from 40 AUD, and you sit with the illuminated Opera House as a backdrop under the starry sky. Alternatively: The Opera Bar is the cheapest place with the best view.