Everyone knows the iconic image: the Sydney Opera House with its white sails on the waterfront. But did you know you can also visit the inside of this world-famous building? During a guided tour, you see how impressive the halls are, hear stories about the construction (spoiler: the architect never saw it completed) and get a unique look behind the scenes. Also a spoiler: we were not allowed to take photos of the main hall because artists were rehearsing. We did a tour ourselves and share what it was like.
Contents
Can you visit the inside of the Sydney Opera House?
Yes! Tourists are allowed inside, but only via an official Opera House tour or when you have a ticket for a performance. During the guided tour, you visit places you normally cannot access as a regular visitor. We had already been to the Sydney Opera House once before, when we had a day in Sydney on our way back from New Zealand. Back then, we did not go inside. But then you end up at the Sydney Opera House again because our road trip through Australia finished in Sydney… at some point you just have to go in! It is not exactly around the corner from home.
Our experience inside the Opera House
Late in the morning, we walked from the Botanic Gardens to the Opera House. Early in the afternoon, our tour was scheduled. Right at the entrance you feel how grand this building is: those famous shells are already impressive from the outside, but inside is where it becomes truly special. You know the iconic photos… but not from the inside!
Our guide told us stories about the construction and the remarkable design by architect Jørn Utzon, a Dane who once won the international design competition. Yet there is an almost sad history behind it. The project completely got out of hand: it took years longer than planned, the money ran out and the political pressure became so great that Utzon eventually quit and left Australia. The bizarre part is that he never saw the completed building with his own eyes when it was finished in 1973. Only much later, after his death, did he receive recognition and was he honoured as the spiritual father of this global icon.
After that, we were allowed into the halls. In the largest concert hall, members of the orchestra were rehearsing. We sat quietly for a while, listening to a Russian pianist who, according to our guide, is currently one of the best in the world. Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take any photos here, but it was still very cool to experience. There is no sound amplification in the hall because all the materials have been precisely tuned for live performances. Our guide even quizzed us with fun questions about it!
We then continued to the hall where all the operas and ballet performances are held. The red velvet interior, the height of the hall and the acoustics: a remarkable theatre!
Was it worth visiting the Opera House inside?
Yes, absolutely! From the outside, it is already a symbol of Sydney, but inside you really experience how unique this building is. The tour only takes about an hour, it is very well organised and you can easily book it in advance. I also did not find it very expensive. You will be able to say that when the building appears on the news, you have actually been there!
How can you visit the Sydney Opera House?
- Book an official tour via GetYourGuide or the official website.
- Tours last around an hour and are offered in several languages (you can choose German or English).
- Prices start at around 40 AUD per adult.
- Keep in mind that you are sometimes not allowed to take photos during rehearsals.
- You get a headset, simply to hear the guide better.
Tip: if you want something truly special, there is also a Backstage Tour, where you go behind the scenes, visit the artists’ spaces and sometimes even get to stand on stage.
The special (and slightly tragic) history of the Sydney Opera House
Before the iconic shells of the Opera House appeared on the harbour, there used to be something very different on Bennelong Point: a tram depot. This was a large building where Sydney’s trams were parked and maintained. Not exactly a place you would put on a postcard.
In the 1950s, it was decided that this would be the location for a national opera house. The depot was demolished to make way for Utzon’s futuristic design. In hindsight, this turned out to be a brilliant choice, because the location (right on the water with views of the Harbour Bridge) is probably the most beautiful in the entire city.
The Sydney Opera House is now the symbol of Australia, but the road to get there was anything but smooth. The design came from Danish architect Jørn Utzon, who won an international competition in 1957. His shell-shaped roofs became world-famous even before a single stone was laid. Another remarkable detail: they had no idea what the interior would look like when the design was chosen. There was still a lot to rework and redesign.
There is also a European touch linked to the architect: many of the materials came all the way from Europe. For example, the more than one million white tiles on the roofs come from Sweden, while parts of the technology and interior were shipped from various countries. An Australian icon, yes, but with a strong hint of European influence.
Can you also attend a performance at the Sydney Opera House as a tourist?
Yes! You definitely do not have to be a local to catch a show at the Opera House. Tourists can simply buy tickets for all kinds of performances: from classical concerts to ballet, from contemporary dance to cabaret and even comedy. On the official website, you will find the schedule with current shows.
It is extra special not just to see the halls during a tour, but also to actually experience a performance there. That is when you really notice how good the acoustics are and how impressive the atmosphere becomes when the hall is full. Tip: book your tickets in advance because popular shows (especially in summer) can sell out quickly. Also, some shows last several hours and have a smart casual or formal dress code.
For us, such a performance, unfortunately, was not an option. But if you want an even more in-depth experience than a backstage tour, you should definitely consider attending one!
The Opera House is not only beautiful to photograph from the outside; the inside is an experience in itself. Enjoy your time in Sydney!
South Australia & Tasmania in Google Maps
We make your road trip easy by sharing 300+ sights from Tasmania and South Australia (from Adelaide to Sydney) with you via Google Maps. Save the map and create your own route!
€ 2.95
