In short
- Walking around the outdoor precinct and Monumental Steps is completely free.
- Adult tickets for a standard 1-hour guided tour cost A$50 in advance.
- Prices for opera, ballet, and theatre performances vary widely by event.
In this article
Understanding Sydney Opera House tickets and prices helps you plan your visit and budget properly. You do not need a ticket to take photos outside or walk up the grand stairs. If you want to see the performance halls or go backstage, you must book a paid tour or buy a show ticket.
What parts of the Sydney Opera House are free?
The outdoor precinct and the Monumental Steps are free to visit.
You can walk around the entire exterior of the building without a ticket. This includes the large Forecourt and the areas right next to the harbour. You can take photos of the 1,056,006 ceramic roof tiles from these public spaces. Access to the outdoor bars and dining areas is also free, though you pay for your food and drinks.
Sydney Opera House tickets and prices
Standard guided tours cost A$50 for adults, while performance prices vary by event.
Tour prices are fixed, but they cost slightly more if you buy them on the day of your visit. Booking online in advance secures the lower rate and ensures you get your preferred time slot. Performance tickets have a wide price range depending on the specific show and seat location. Prices from online travel agencies change frequently.
| Ticket Type | Advance Price (AUD) | On-the-Day Price (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Tour (Adult) | $50 | $55 |
| Standard Tour (Child) | $30 | $35 |
| Performance Ticket | Varies | Varies |
Can you go inside the Sydney Opera House for free?
No, you cannot enter the performance venues for free.
You need a valid ticket to go past the main public foyers. You can choose a guided daytime tour to learn about the building's history and architecture. Alternatively, you can buy a ticket to watch one of the 2,000 shows hosted there annually. Bag checks apply before entering any indoor venue.
Are there combo tickets with food?
Yes, you can book a tour that includes a meal.
A popular option is the Tour & Dine package. This bundles the 1-hour guided tour with lunch or dinner. You eat at one of the on-site restaurants, such as Opera Bar or House Canteen. Tour prices on third-party sites start from $64 AUD and can change. This is often cheaper than buying a tour and a meal separately.
How much does a backstage tour cost?
Backstage tours are premium experiences that start from around $140 AUD.
This 2-hour and 15-minute tour gives you access to private dressing rooms and the orchestra pit. The ticket price also includes a cooked breakfast in the Green Room. You must book this tour well in advance because group sizes are small. Prices change depending on the booking platform.
How do you pay for things inside?
The entire Sydney Opera House precinct is cashless.
You must bring a credit or debit card. Cash is not accepted at the box office, cloakrooms, bars, or restaurants. Mobile tickets on your smartphone are accepted for all tours and performances. Ensure your phone is fully charged before you arrive so you can display your tickets.
Questions travellers ask
Do children get a discount on tours?
Yes. Children's tickets for the standard 1-hour guided tour cost $30 AUD in advance. If you purchase the ticket on the day, it costs $35 AUD. Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Do I need to print my ticket?
No. You can use mobile tickets on your smartphone. Valid printed tickets are also accepted if you prefer to carry a paper copy.
How much does it cost to build the Sydney Opera House?
The original estimated cost was $7 million AUD. The actual construction cost reached $102 million AUD by the time it opened in 1973.
