Circular Quay Tours

Circular Quay featuring general coastal views, modern architecture and a city
The Rocks featuring a river or creek, a city and night scenes
Circular Quay showing street scenes and heritage elements
Circular Quay featuring a bay or harbor, a city and modern architecture
Circular Quay showing heritage elements and street scenes

Flanked by the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney’s transportation hub is one of the prettiest terminals in the world.

Circular Quay is situated in the small inlet of Sydney Cove, the official landing site of the First Fleet. Scottish political reformer Thomas Muir once had a cottage here, and for decades it was the city’s main shipping port. Today, it’s best known as the place to catch one of Sydney's iconic ferries, which travel all over the harbor. It’s also a great spot to take in incredible views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.Circular Quayis Sydney’s outdoor answer to New York City’s bustling Grand Central Station. As well as the ferry terminal, it has one of Sydney's busiest train stations and a bus interchange. The central location and views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge ensure that this hub is always buzzing with commuters and tourists. It’s also a focal point on New Year’s Eve, when crowds pack the area to watch the annual fireworks display. The area is home to Sydney’s Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) and the Customs House. Art buffs will love the MCA, which underwent a major refurbishment in 2012. It’s open daily and entry is free some touring exhibitions may attract a fee.At the Customs House and explore the library and exhibitions, or relax with a coffee. Don’t miss the grand atrium and staircase, and the impressive scale model of Sydney, displayed under the glass floor on the ground level. Keep an eye out for the ghost of convict David O’Connor, who was hanged on the site in 1790. Rumor has it, he walks the halls of the building offering rum to unsuspecting visitors!Harbor cruises operate regularly out of Circular Quay’s cruise terminal. For something romantic, book a sunset dinner cruise from jetty number 6. One of the most inexpensive ways to see the harbor is to catch the Manly Ferry, an unforgettable 60-minute round trip.Located just north of downtown on Sydney Cove, Circular Quay is best accessed via public transport or on foot.

Plan a trip to see Circular Quay

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Crowne Plaza Sydney Macquarie Park by IHG

Crowne Plaza Sydney Macquarie Park by IHG

4 out of 5
Macquarie Park
per person
Oct 6 - Oct 11
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Dallas (DFW) to Sydney (SYD)
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,004 reviews)
Good stay. Best value

Reviewed on Jul 28, 2025

Veriu Macquarie Park

Veriu Macquarie Park

5 out of 5
Macquarie Park
per person
Oct 6 - Oct 11
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Dallas (DFW) to Sydney (SYD)
8.8/10 Excellent! (46 reviews)
Extremely generous with space. Pay a little more for the bigger well appointed room. Very comfortable. Everything is in new condition. Lovely views from higher levels. There is nowhere in the area which comes close to what this hotel offers. Staff are terrific. Internet fantastic. Close to metro 1 station. Suitable for seniors for metro and hotel. I am on walking stick and easily managed from CBD to hotel. Foyer/Lobby area is outstanding. Ideal for work or play. Very functional with work desks. Suitable for tourists thanks to the Metro. Airport to Central Station then down the escalators to platform 26 for metro. Every 5 mins. So take it easy. Have a beer in the foyer. Prices reasonable. You won't feel screwed like other hotels. I do not give many reviews .

Reviewed on Jul 16, 2025

Apartment in Iconic Fingerwharf

Apartment in Iconic Fingerwharf

2 out of 5
Woolloomooloo
per person
Oct 6 - Oct 11
found 12 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Dallas (DFW) to Sydney (SYD)
No reviews

Browse tours and tickets to explore Circular Quay

Tours & day trips

See all 228 activities
Blue Mountains Adventure: Scenic World, Zoo & Koala Photo

Blue Mountains Adventure: Scenic World, Zoo & Koala Photo

Activity duration is 10 hours and 30 minutes
8.8 out of 10 with 14 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $141 per adult
Blue Mountains Adventure: Scenic World, Zoo & Koala PhotoOpens in new tab

History & culture

See all 73 activities
Sydney: Blue Mountains National Park Tour with River Cruise

Sydney: Blue Mountains National Park Tour with River Cruise

Activity duration is 10 hours and 30 minutes
10.0 out of 10 with 4 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $64 per adult
Sydney: Blue Mountains National Park Tour with River CruiseOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 63 activities
Private Luxury Half Day Sydney City Tour

Private Luxury Half Day Sydney City Tour

Activity duration is 4 hours and 30 minutes
Free cancellation available
Price is $87 per adult*
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Water activities

See all 39 activities
Sydney: Morning or Afternoon Harbour Sightseeing Cruise

Sydney: Morning or Afternoon Harbour Sightseeing Cruise

Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
9.6 out of 10 with 8 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $35 per adult
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Attractions

See all 18 activities
Sydney Explorer Pass - 2 to 7 Activities including Sydney Opera House

Sydney Explorer Pass - 2 to 7 Activities including Sydney Opera House

Activity duration is 30 days
9.2 out of 10 with 37 reviews
Price is $71 per adult
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Popular places to visit

Museum of Contemporary Art which includes signage and street scenes as well as a couple

Museum of Contemporary Art

The MCA proudly displays the work of living artists and this grand building on the edge of Sydney Harbour is the pride and joy of Sydney’s art community.

Museum of Contemporary Art
#VIVIDSydney. Sydney's wintery light festival. This is an interactive display and people cue for hours to have their chance to create their own images and art through movement. Crowds of people come to Circular Quay to see this event. The VIVID event is getting bigger and bigger each year and more and more places around town are joining in the event. Don't miss VIVID from late May to June long weekend.

Cadman’s Cottage

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Cadman’s Cottage in Sydney. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the shops in the area.

Cadman’s Cottage
On a cold and very windy day

Customs House

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Customs House in Sydney. Experience the area's acclaimed art scene and fascinating museums.

Customs House
#VIVIDSydney. Sydney's wintery light festival. This is an interactive display and people cue for hours to have their chance to create their own images and art through movement. Crowds of people come to Circular Quay to see this event. The VIVID event is getting bigger and bigger each year and more and more places around town are joining in the event. Don't miss VIVID from late May to June long weekend.

Cadmans Cottage Historic Site

Explore the great outdoors at Cadmans Cottage Historic Site, a lovely green space in Sydney. Stroll along the waterfront in this romantic area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

Cadmans Cottage Historic Site
#VIVIDSydney. Sydney's wintery light festival. This is not to be missed if you visit the Vivid Festival. *Helpful hint - take a picnic rug to lay on the road to watch the light and sound show. Crowds of people come to Circular Quay to see this event. The VIVID event is getting bigger and bigger each year and more and more places around town are joining in the event. Don't miss VIVID from late May to June long weekend.

Argyle Cut

You can find out about the history of Sydney when you stop by Argyle Cut. Visit the area's shops or amble around its waterfront.

Argyle Cut

Tank Stream Fountain

Tank Stream Fountain is just one of the places to see in Sydney, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Visit the area's shops or amble around its waterfront.

Tank Stream Fountain

Best Lodging Options Near Circular Quay

Shangri-La Sydney

Shangri-La Sydney

5 out of 5
176 Cumberland Street, The Rocks, NSW
Shangri-La Sydney
Hyatt Regency Sydney

Hyatt Regency Sydney

5 out of 5
161 Sussex Street, Sydney, NSW
Hyatt Regency Sydney
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

5 out of 5
199 George St., Sydney, NSW
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
InterContinental Sydney by IHG

InterContinental Sydney by IHG

5 out of 5
16 Phillip Street, Sydney, NSW
InterContinental Sydney by IHG
Sydney Harbour Hotel

Sydney Harbour Hotel

4 out of 5
55 George Street, The Rocks, NSW
Sydney Harbour Hotel
Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney

Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney

5 out of 5
11 Jamison Street, Sydney, NSW
Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney
The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

5 out of 5
1 Martin Place, Sydney, NSW
The Fullerton Hotel Sydney
Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay

Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay

5 out of 5
30 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW
Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay
YEHS Hotel Sydney Harbour Suites

YEHS Hotel Sydney Harbour Suites

4 out of 5
252 Sussex Street, Sydney, NSW
YEHS Hotel Sydney Harbour Suites
See all 4,950 properties in Circular Quay
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Circular Quay

At Circular Quay, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including quiet strolls along the waterfront, taking in scenic views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The area offers vibrant shopping options and opportunities for entertainment, such as movie nights and immersive experiences. Whether you're looking to relax or engage with the local culture, Circular Quay is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Circular Quay, explore Martin Place, a vibrant shopping center just 0.5 miles away, and The Rocks Markets, a charming market only 0.2 miles from the quay. For more options, World Square Shopping Centre is 1 mile away, offering a variety of family-friendly shops.

Recreation

At the Sydney Cricket Ground, immerse yourself in the vibrant sports atmosphere while enjoying wellness events. The Metro Theatre offers a lively entertainment vibe, perfect for a night of relaxation and music. For outdoor family fun, Bondi Icebergs provides a refreshing pool experience with stunning coastal views.

Adventure

Experience the stunning Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk, a scenic hike about 4 miles from Circular Quay, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For family fun, navigate the McElhone Stairs maze, located 1 mile away. If you're seeking adventure, dive into underwater sports at Ben Buckler Point, 5 miles distant.

Nightlife

Experience the magic of Circular Quay at the Sydney Observatory for a family-friendly night under the stars, or enjoy a romantic evening at the Theatre Royal and State Theatre, both showcasing vibrant culture and entertainment just a short stroll away.

Find the best attractions near Circular Quay

When visiting Circular Quay in Sydney, you'll find a vibrant mix of urban parks, historic government buildings, and lively streets. This area is perfect for travelers seeking cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Explore the stunning views of Sydney city and enjoy the lively atmosphere while discovering local attractions. Circular Quay truly offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination during your Australian vacation.

  • Sydney Opera House: This iconic landmark is renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Just 0.4 miles from Circular Quay, you can enjoy world-class performances or simply marvel at its unique design while taking in the picturesque harbor views.
  • Sydney Harbour Bridge: A historic bridge located 0.5 miles from Circular Quay, this engineering marvel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and harbor. Walk or cycle across for an unforgettable experience, or join a guided climb to the top for a truly exhilarating adventure.
  • Hyde Park: Situated 0.8 miles from Circular Quay, this urban park is a lush green oasis perfect for family outings and relaxation. Stroll among beautiful gardens, enjoy picnics, or participate in outdoor activities while soaking up the vibrant city atmosphere.

Best time to go to Circular Quay

Visitor numbers around Circular Quay is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Circular Quay can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Circular Quay falls in January, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Circular Quay falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February72.7°F (22.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March70.9°F (21.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
April66.4°F (19.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May61.2°F (16.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
June57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
July55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August57.2°F (14.0°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September61.2°F (16.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
October64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November67.6°F (19.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December70.3°F (21.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Circular Quay

To save money during your visit to Circular Quay, consider traveling in the cheaper months of June to July or October, and avoid peak times like December and March. Book hotels about a month in advance for better rates, and look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Mondays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Saturdays are the most costly. Utilize Expedia's search tool to filter options by price and sustainability, and consider booking packages that combine flights and accommodations for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Circular Quay are June to July and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Circular Quay is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Circular Quay is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Circular Quay is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to tailor your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel category. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase available sustainable and eco-friendly accommodations. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Circular Quay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.