Top Sydney Monuments and Memorials in 2026

Sydney Opera House has launched its first ever Architectural Tour, revealing the story behind the creation of Utzon’s masterpiece. You will hear how visionaries, idealists, architects, engineers, pragmatists and artists together built this architectural and engineering masterpiece form our most experience and knowledgeable guides.

Enjoy breathtaking views of Sydney and its surroundings from the tallest structure in the city, the Sydney Tower Eye. Standing on the Observation Deck, perched 250 meters (820 feet) above the ground, soak up 360-degree panoramic views across Sydney Harbour, the skyline and the Pacific Ocean. Complimentary use of high-powered binoculars and multilingual state-of-the-art touchscreens enhances your view with an interactive introduction to the city's top sights.

Be amazed and take a journey of discovery through SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium’s themed zones including the Penguin Expedition. Experience the sub-Antarctic during and interactive exhibit to meet spectacular King and Gentoo penguins. Come face-to-fin with more than 4,000 animals from 300 different species including majestic dugongs, grey nurse sharks, jellyfish, and an array of tropical fish.

Located on the shoreline of Sydney Harbour, Sydney Taronga Zoo is home to thousands of fascinating animals, including Australian natives such as the koala, kangaroo, and platypus. Check the schedule for daily keeper presentations, or book an animal encounter or guided tour (own expense) for a more in-depth experience.

Be sure to put a performance by Opera Australia at the iconic Sydney Opera House on your Sydney itinerary. See classic operas by composers like Massenet and Verdi, as well as iconic Broadway musicals, depending on the season. Take in stunning views of Sydney Harbour while enjoying drinks or a meal (own expense) at one of the Opera House's fine dining venues before or after the performance to top off this unforgettable experience.

Popular exhibitions and dock access at the Australian National Maritime Museum can be limited on busy days, especially during school holidays. Booking your ticket in advance secures entry on your chosen date and lets you plan your visit with confidence. Choose between access to special exhibitions only or select the Big Ticket, which also includes the outdoor docks and historic vessels moored at Darling Harbour.

Seeing the Sydney Opera House from the outside is impressive—but most visitors never glimpse what happens behind the scenes. This backstage tour takes you through the Stage Door and into areas normally reserved for performers and staff, including rehearsal spaces and dressing rooms. Hear insider stories about the productions that bring the venue to life, then finish the experience with breakfast in the Green Room.

With around 6,000 animals, WILD LIFE Sydney hosts a large variety of Australian animals under one roof, offering an authentic Australian wildlife experience in the heart of Sydney's Darling Harbour. Make your way through nine different habitats, and see iconic wildlife including kangaroos, koalas, butterflies, birds, crocodiles, and much more.

Sport holds an important place in Australian culture and you can get an insight into this national obsession on this guided walking tour. Visit Sydney's home of sport where sporting heroes play cricket, rugby, soccer, and Australian rules football, run down the tunnel, admire trophies, and learn all about its colorful history.

Evening shows at the Sydney Opera House draw big crowds, making it hard to explore the landmark itself before performances begin. This skip-the-line experience gives you early access with an exclusive guided tour to learn about the building’s design and history. Afterwards, settle in for a two-course dinner with wine at either Bennelong or Midden restaurant.

Meet your favorite celebrities and sports heroes from around the world at Madame Tussauds Sydney. Start with your red carpet entrance and feel like a star in the immersive experiences and more than 10 different zones. Pose with your favorite superheroes, step on set with your favorite TV and film stars, go on stage with leading musicians, and much more.

Discover Sydney in comfort on a private highlights tour designed around your group. This experience is ideal for travellers wanting to see the city’s best-known sights without the rigid schedule of a large coach tour. Travel with a local operator in a premium air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy a relaxed route that can include Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge viewpoints, The Rocks, Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, Bondi Beach, Watsons Bay, and other key city and coastal locations depending on timing. Because this is a private experience, the day feels easier, more personal, and more flexible. You can enjoy photo stops, short walks, scenic viewpoints, and time to take in the city properly rather than rushing from stop to stop. This tour is a strong option for first-time Sydney visitors, cruise passengers, families, and anyone wanting a private overview of the city in a comfortable and well-paced format.