Captivating Circular Quay: The Heart of Sydney
Explore Circular Quay, Sydney’s vibrant waterfront hub, rich with iconic landmarks, culinary delights, and breathtaking harbor views.
Circular Quay is a vibrant waterfront hub in Sydney, offering breathtaking views of the harbor, iconic landmarks, and a wealth of cultural experiences. This bustling area serves as a gateway to Sydney’s best attractions, from the Sydney Opera House to the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Enjoy diverse dining options, scenic walks, and ferry rides, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
A brief summary to Circular Quay
- New South Wales, AU
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for stunning sunrises and fewer crowds.
- Check the ferry schedule in advance to plan your excursions effectively.
- Take advantage of the free walking tours available to learn more about the area.
- Bring a camera; the views are spectacular, especially at sunset.
- Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and artisanal products.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to Circular Quay, start by navigating to the Sydney city center. Use your GPS or map app and set the destination to Circular Quay, New South Wales (Latitude: -33.8584426, Longitude: 151.2116479). Depending on your starting point, you may need to take major roads like the M1 or M5. Once you arrive, look for signs directing you to Circular Quay. There are several parking options available nearby, such as the Secure Parking at 7-11 Macquarie St or the Wilson Parking on 40-50 George St. Expect to pay around AUD 7-10 per hour, and be aware that parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
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Train
To reach Circular Quay by train, head to your nearest train station and catch a train on the T2 (Inner West & Leppington Line), T3 (Bankstown Line), T4 (Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra Line), T8 (Airport & South Line), or T6 (Carlingford Line). Ensure you get off at Circular Quay Station. The station is located just a short walk from the waterfront and offers stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. A standard adult ticket from most Central Sydney stations costs around AUD 4-8, depending on your starting location.
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Bus
If you prefer to travel by bus, find the nearest bus stop and catch one of the buses that head towards Circular Quay. Look for routes 333, 380, or 431, which are frequent and direct. Buses will drop you off at the Circular Quay bus stop, a short walk from the main waterfront area. Keep in mind that you'll need an Opal card or a contactless payment method to pay for your fare, which will typically cost around AUD 2-5 depending on your starting location.
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Ferry
For a unique experience, consider taking a ferry to Circular Quay. Ferries depart from various locations like Manly, Darling Harbour, and Balmain. If you're in Darling Harbour, head to the ferry terminal near the Australian National Maritime Museum and catch a ferry to Circular Quay. The ferry ride offers beautiful views of the harbour and is a popular choice among tourists. A one-way adult fare from Darling Harbour to Circular Quay is approximately AUD 7.70.
Discover more about Circular Quay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sydney Harbour Boat Tours
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The Rocks Square
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The Beacon
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BridgeClimb Sydney
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Sydney Opera House
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Experience the iconic Sydney Opera House, a cultural landmark featuring stunning architecture, captivating performances, and breathtaking harbor views.
Man O'War Steps
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Sydney Harbour
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Site of the First Flag
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Customs House Sydney visitor information centre
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Customs House
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Susannah Place
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Bridge Stairs
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Pylon Lookout
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Sirius Cannon
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Edge of the Trees
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Unmissable attractions to see
Overseas Passenger Terminal
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Rotunda Observation Deck
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Quay Restaurant
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Experience exquisite fine dining at Quay Restaurant, where innovative cuisine meets stunning views of Sydney Harbour.
Sydney Princess Cruises
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Explore Sydney Harbour in style with Sydney Princess Cruises, offering unforgettable boat tours and private charters for every occasion.
Eastern Pontoon Circular Quay
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Experience the breathtaking views and vibrant atmosphere of Eastern Pontoon Circular Quay, the heart of Sydney's iconic waterfront.
Thunder Jet Boat
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Thunder Jet Boat offers exhilarating speed and stunning views of Sydney's iconic landmarks, perfect for thrill-seekers and adventure lovers.
Writers Walk
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Explore Sydney's Writers Walk, a scenic tribute to literary legends with stunning harbor views and inspiring quotes along the promenade.
Oz Jet Boating
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Experience the thrill of high-speed jet boating on Sydney Harbour with Oz Jet Boating, a must-visit adventure for every tourist.
Oz Whale Watching
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Opera Bar
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Commissioner’s Steps Circular Quay
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The Rocks Ghost Tours
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Cadmans Cottage
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Ocean Extreme
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Sydney The Rocks Self-Guided Walking Tour
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Essential places to dine
Aria Restaurant Sydney
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The Squire's Landing
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Daintree Sydney
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The Playfair Terrace Restaurant
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Q Dining
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Luna Lu
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Ploós Restaurant The Rocks
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Pony Dining The Rocks
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6HEAD Sydney
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Experience fine dining at 6HEAD Sydney, where exceptional seafood meets stunning harbour views in The Rocks.
Tayim Restaurant and Bar
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The Dining Room by James Viles
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Saké Restaurant & Bar The Rocks
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Cafe Sydney
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Mode Kitchen & Bar
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Altitude
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gifts at the Quay
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Nutky
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Convenience Souvenir
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MCA Store Australia
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Spirit Gallery- Aboriginal Art & Didgeridoos
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Sydney Opera House Gift Shop
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Sydney Opera House Gift Shops
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Accessories At The Rocks
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Gifts At The Rocks
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Souvenirs And Gifts Hub
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Hunting Hue
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Sydney Gifts & Souvenirs
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T Galleria By DFS, Sydney
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Australia the Gift
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Souvenir Gallery
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cruise Bar
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The Doss House
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Frank Mac's
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Orient Hotel
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Bar Lulu
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Hyde Hacienda Sydney Bar + Lounge
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Mrs Jones
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Munich Brauhaus Sydney
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Fortune of War
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Fortune of War - Sydney's Oldest Pub
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The Push
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The Glenmore Hotel
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Bar 1880
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Grain Bar
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Maybe Sammy
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