Review: Feel like a tourist in your own city at Sydney’s Opera House Tours
Sydney’s harbour wouldn’t be complete without it, but the history and interiors of the Sydney Opera House aren’t as well known - which is where the Sydney Opera House Tours and Sunset at the House tours come in.
Throughout June, Sunset at the House gives you a chance to explore and witness the stunning harbour views during the golden hour.
Image: Author
The tour is limited to a maximum of 30 people, making for an intimate experience as you make your way from the steps outside all the way to the Joan Sutherland Theatre near the building’s peak, then back down again to the Western Foyers and Colonnade, taking in the history of the Opera House along the way.
But before you step inside, the tour’s first stop is on the steps outside, where you can view the iconic sails and the Aztec-inspired stairs designed to represent stepping away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and into something more spiritual (at least, that’s what our tour guide said).
Once inside, you’ll be treated to an immersive digital experience projected onto the ceiling above you, showcasing some of the highlights of the Concert Hall’s past performances.
The tour couldn’t be any more timely either, with the Concert Hall preparing to open its doors in July after being closed for two years of renewal works.
If art, architecture, history, or even acoustics technology intrigues you, you’ll be sure to find the tour to be a fascinating insight into the Opera House’s story and the work that goes into putting on its calendar of shows and performances, made all the more compelling by the engaging tour guides.
Image: Author
Rounding out the tour with some nibbles and a glass of bubbles next to Portside Sydney, one of the Opera House’s harbourside eateries, is a nice touch that gives you the chance to enjoy views of the Harbour Bridge and its surrounds as day turns to night.
Though tickets for Sunset at the House have already sold out, the Opera House will be running daily tours - without the canapes and sunset drinks - at 11.30am, 12pm, 1.30pm, 2pm, 3pm and 3.30pm until August 31.
From September, tours will depart at 10.30am, 12pm and 2pm Sunday to Friday, with three tours on Saturdays at 9am, 10.30am and 12.30pm.
The hour-long tours are free for children under five, with adult tickets costing $43 and $33 for conession holders.
To book your tickets, head to the Opera House website.
Image: Sydney Opera House