Top experiences at the stunning Sydney Opera House

Since its opening on October 20, 1973, the world-renowned Sydney Opera House has stood proudly on Sydney Harbour, attracting millions of visitors annually.

But this iconic Australian landmark offers more than just its striking exterior – there’s much more to discover.

From its fascinating architectural journey to its popular bars and eateries, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is packed with surprises.

Before your visit, dive into its rich history and learn about the best experiences to enjoy while you're there:

Creativity and challenges

Perched on Bennelong Point in Circular Quay, the Sydney Opera House was always envisioned as a national symbol, as outlined in the global design competition that led to its creation.

'In the 20th century, Sydney was often seen as a 'Manchester by the Sea,' a city considered somewhat behind on the international stage,' says Bruce Barnett, a guide at the Sydney Opera House, in an interview with Dinogo Travel.

'It was crucial for this building to symbolize a new, progressive Australia, one that looked outward toward the future.'

Out of 233 submissions, a design by the relatively unknown Danish architect Utzon captured the judges’ imagination.

Instead of the typical boxy structures of the time, Utzon’s groundbreaking design featured flowing curves and an innovative silhouette – a series of soaring, shell-like forms or sails caught in the wind.

As stunning as the design was, it presented immense challenges in execution – nothing like it had ever been attempted before.

Due to delays, escalating costs, and a breakdown in the relationship between Utzon and the engineers, Utzon was forced to step down mid-construction.

He never returned to Australia to see the finished building, but in 2003, Utzon was awarded the prestigious Pritzker Prize in recognition of his remarkable achievements. He also developed a conservation plan for the Opera House.

'The building was so groundbreaking, it was called a symbol that transformed a nation,' says Barnett.

'Suddenly, Australia was on the world stage. We weren’t just about pies, surfing, and beer – we had culture too.'

Now that you're familiar with some history, here are a few things you can do:

Catch a live performance

Though it’s called the Sydney Opera House, it hosts over 2,000 performances each year, with only around 15% being opera.

Expect a diverse range of events including stand-up comedy, indie rock concerts, orchestras, ballet, art talks, theater, dance, and international performances.

'When it comes to rock and pop, we lean towards the indie scene – we’ve carved out a unique space for that style of music,' says Barnett.

'For international performances, you’ll need to plan well in advance and book far ahead.'

Take a backstage tour

Once you step inside, the vast scale of the space becomes immediately clear. With six indoor venues (plus one outdoor), over 1,000 rooms, and six restaurants, it’s a truly monumental complex.

To fully experience the Opera House before rehearsals begin, join a 2.5-hour backstage tour, offered every morning at 7 a.m.

The tour takes you through the stages, dressing rooms, orchestra pits, and rehearsal areas, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the operations that bring performances to life.

'From the audience’s point of view, it’s all glitz and glamour with makeup, costumes, and props. But backstage, it’s all about machinery, cables, and motors – it’s a highly mechanical environment,' says Barnett.

The tour concludes with a gourmet breakfast in the Green Room, a space typically reserved for the stars of the show.

Say hello to the Sydney seal

The Sydney Opera House isn’t just a hotspot for tourists.

Throughout the year, a New Zealand fur seal named Benny can often be spotted either playing in the water or soaking up the sun along the Opera House’s Northern Broadwalk.

An unofficial mascot of the site, Benny comes and goes as he pleases, making appearances whenever he chooses.

In 2016, a second seal – believed to be a young pup – briefly joined Benny in the sun but hasn’t been seen again this year.

Catch the sunset

If you ask most visitors about the Opera House’s color, they’d likely say it’s white or beige.

But in reality, over 1 million Swedish roof tiles cover the structure – and they shift in color throughout the day, reflecting the changing sky.

As the evening sets in, the Opera House appears to absorb the pinks and oranges of the sunset, transforming with the colors of the sky.

'Many people assume the rooftop is made of cement, but in fact, it’s covered in reflective tiles,' says Barnett. 'At night, it almost seems to glow – it’s truly stunning.'

Sip drinks by the water

For the most breathtaking sunset views, visitors should head to the Opera Bar.

Popular with both locals and visitors, the Opera Bar offers a relaxed atmosphere, waterfront views, delicious charcuterie boards, an excellent wine selection, and live music almost every evening.

'The Opera Bar and Opera Kitchen have really become go-to spots for Sydneysiders after work,' says Barnett.

'On weekends, it’s packed, but it’s always a great time,' adds Barnett.

To secure a prime spot for sunset, Barnett recommends arriving before 5 p.m. on weekdays, as that’s when people start winding down from work and heading out for drinks.

While the Opera Bar is best known for its lively evenings, it’s also a fantastic choice for breakfast or brunch.

Dine like a celebrity

Located inside one of the Opera House’s sails, the fine-dining restaurant Bennelong takes its name from Woollarawarre Bennelong, an Aboriginal elder who acted as a mediator and translator during the British settlement of Australia in the 18th century. The Opera House stands on the land where he once lived.

Under the guidance of award-winning chef Peter Gilmore, Bennelong offers an unforgettable dining experience with its dramatic ribbed ceilings, stunning harbor views, and a menu showcasing Australian delicacies such as Tasmanian truffles and suckling pig from the Macleay Valley, north of Sydney.

Perfect for a pre- or post-show meal, Bennelong offers several tasting menus, as well as a la carte options for those looking for a more laid-back dining experience.

'Bennelong celebrates Australian produce and wine, with a menu that showcases the best of the country’s flavors,' says Barnett.

'Don’t miss the incredible dessert – a pavlova shaped like the Opera House itself,' Barnett recommends.

Best time to visit

Around 1,200 people visit the Sydney Opera House each day for tours, some exploring independently while others join larger group tours.

Barnett recommends visiting early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds, though most tours are designed to ensure a smooth flow of visitors.

'I think 9 a.m. on a Sunday is the perfect time to visit,' says Barnett. 'It’s peaceful, we have excellent access to all the theaters, and it’s just a really calm time to explore.'

Certain times of the year – such as school holidays in January, scorching summer days, or rainy afternoons – tend to draw larger crowds to the Opera House.

'We don’t get much rain, but when it does come, it’s often heavy and pours down,' says Barnett. 'A sudden rainy afternoon makes people think the Opera House is the perfect place to spend the day.'