Sydney Harbour Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the incredible port. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best guided tours available right now:

• Blue Mountains Day Tour Including Parramatta River Cruise
• 30-Minute Sydney Harbour Jet Boat Ride on Thunder Twist
• Sydney Harbour Scenic Helicopter Flight
• 30-Minute Sydney Harbour Jet Boat Thrill Ride
• Sydney Whale-Watching by Speed Boat

Sydney Harbour tickets aren’t required to walk around the waterfront, but there are plenty of Sydney Harbour tours and activities you can book to enhance your experience. Harbour cruises often include a meal and drinks—and sunset views, if you time it right—and range from around US$35 to US$115, depending on what is included.

Spotting the Harbour Bridge and Opera House is an immediate giveaway that you’re in the famous harbour, but there is more to this iconic location. You can explore hidden beaches, walks, and islands all within the harbor. Plus, it’s easily connected to the rest of Sydney by ferry, bus, or train.

Yes, it is safe to swim in Sydney Harbour, as long as you wait about three days after rainfall. There are annual organized swimming races that go under the bridge, and you can visit several beaches in the harbor where it is safe to go for a swim. Pay attention to the surf conditions as rip currents can be dangerous for even the strongest swimmers.

Some top attractions near Sydney Harbour are the Royal Botanic Gardens, Taronga Zoo, Darling Harbour, Luna Park Sydney, Cockatoo Island, Circular Quay, and, of course, the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. There is plenty to keep you busy at Sydney Harbour, so plan to spread your visit over a few days.

Some of the best walks around Sydney Harbour are the Spit Bridge to Manly Walk, the North Head Walk from Shelly Beach, and the Watson’s Bay Walk. For a lesser known—but beautiful—walk, try the Hermitage Foreshore Walk from Rose Bay to Nielsen Park, about 1.2 miles (1.8 kilometers).

Yes, you can kayak in Sydney Harbour. Bring your own kayak or join a private or group kayaking tour with a guide. To rent independently, check out the rental place near the Spit Bridge, and then head out to explore the fingers of the harbor at a leisurely, peaceful pace.

Yes, a visit to Sydney Harbour is worth it. This huge, beautiful harbor has rugged nature to experience, hidden coves, and views of the iconic Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Check out museums in Circular Quay, the Taronga Zoo, or ride the yellow ferry to explore different ports.