HomeToursSydney Opera House Backstage Tour
Sydney Opera House Backstage Tour
20% off standard tour

Sydney Opera House Backstage Tour

4.9(3250 reviews)
Sydney Opera House

About Sydney Opera House Backstage Tour

Experience the Sydney Opera House like never before with this exclusive backstage tour that takes you behind the curtain of one of the world's most iconic performance venues. This rare opportunity allows you to explore areas normally off-limits to the public and discover the inner workings of this architectural masterpiece. Your 2-hour guided tour begins early in the morning before the venue opens to regular visitors, giving you unprecedented access to the Opera House without the crowds. Led by an expert guide with intimate knowledge of the building's history and operations, you'll journey through the restricted backstage areas of the multiple performance venues housed within the Opera House. Step onto the stages where world-famous performers have stood, visit the dressing rooms of international stars, and explore the orchestra pits and rehearsal spaces. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the building's controversial construction, the challenges of its revolutionary design, and entertaining anecdotes about the celebrities and performances that have graced this UNESCO World Heritage site. You'll learn about the technical aspects of staging world-class productions, from lighting and sound to set changes and acoustics. Discover the secrets and superstitions of performers, hear about backstage mishaps and triumphs, and gain insight into what happens behind the scenes before the curtain rises. The tour concludes with a delicious breakfast in the Green Room, the exclusive dining area for performers and staff, where you might even spot artists rehearsing or preparing for upcoming shows. With your Sydney Super Pass, you'll receive a 20% discount on this extraordinary backstage tour (normally priced at $175), making this once-in-a-lifetime experience more accessible. Photography is permitted in most areas, giving you the chance to capture unique memories from perspectives few visitors ever see.

Highlights

Access to multiple performance venues
Visit star dressing rooms
Stand on the Concert Hall stage
Explore orchestra pits and rehearsal spaces
Breakfast in the performers' Green Room
Learn about the building's controversial history
Hear insider stories and theatrical superstitions

Tour Details

Duration: 2 hours
Early morning start (7:00 AM)
Maximum 10 people per group
Moderate walking involved
Suitable for ages 12+
Breakfast included

Restrictions & Requirements

Minimum age: 12 years
Not suitable for those with limited mobility (many stairs)
Subject to cancellation if venues are in use for performances or rehearsals
Photography restrictions in some areas
Security screening required

Gallery

Sydney Opera House Backstage Tour - Image 1
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Amenities & Features

Small group sizes (maximum 10 people)
Expert guide with insider knowledge
Breakfast in the Green Room included
Access to restricted areas
Photo opportunities on stage
Souvenir tour booklet

Location & Directions

Map location of Sydney Opera House Backstage Tour

Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000

The tour meets at the Stage Door entrance on the ground level of the Sydney Opera House. Look for the 'Stage Door' sign and your guide wearing an Opera House uniform.

Getting There:

  • Train to Circular Quay Station (5-10 min walk)
  • Ferry to Circular Quay (5 min walk)
  • Bus to Circular Quay (5-10 min walk)
  • Parking available at Sydney Opera House Car Park (fees apply)

Reviews

R

Richard M.

2024-03-05

Absolutely worth the early morning start! This backstage tour was the highlight of our Sydney trip. Our guide Kate was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the Opera House. Standing on the main stage of the Concert Hall was a spine-tingling moment. The 20% discount with our Super Pass made this special experience more affordable. The breakfast in the Green Room was delicious too!

E

Elena K.

2024-02-18

A truly unique experience that gives you a completely different perspective of the Opera House. Our guide shared fascinating stories about the building's history and the famous performers who have appeared here. We got to see areas that regular visitors never access, including dressing rooms and backstage areas. The small group size (only 8 people) made it feel very exclusive. Highly recommend using your Super Pass discount for this tour!

Standard Price

AUD 175 per adult

Price range: AUD 175 - AUD 195

20% off standard tour
Tour Times
mondayTours at 7:00 AM
tuesdayTours at 7:00 AM
wednesdayTours at 7:00 AM
thursdayTours at 7:00 AM
fridayTours at 7:00 AM
saturdayTours at 7:00 AM
sundayTours at 7:00 AM

Planning Your Tour

Early Morning Start

The tour begins at 7:00 AM sharp. Arrive 15 minutes early for security screening. The early start is necessary to access backstage areas before the venue becomes busy with performers and staff.

Photography

Photography is permitted in most areas, but flash photography is prohibited. Some areas may have photography restrictions due to copyright or security reasons. Your guide will advise when photos are not allowed.

Performance Schedule

Tour routes may vary depending on performance and rehearsal schedules. While every tour visits backstage areas, specific venues accessed may change daily based on availability.

Group Size

Tours are limited to 10 people to ensure an intimate experience and access to restricted areas. Booking well in advance is highly recommended as these exclusive tours often sell out.

Super Pass Tip: Book your discounted backstage tour at least 2-3 weeks in advance by showing your Sydney Super Pass when booking online or by phone. Mention any accessibility requirements when booking.