Getting around this bustling metropolis and tourist paradise, you’re likely to cross paths with Circular Quay at some point during your travels. Located between two of the city’s most unmistakable landmarks, the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, the quay is easy to find, even for first-time visitors.
Located in the inlet dubbed Sydney Cove, Circular Quay is the official landing site of the First Fleet that set sail for Australia from England back in 1787. Even today, it retains a naval theme, with Circular Quay being the best place in Sydney to catch a ferry to many other spectacular locations. Its location also makes it an excellent place to enjoy some spectacular views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House and it is always buzzing with life as visitors and commuters go about their daily business.
Circular Quay is also home to a busy railway station and bus station. The range of transport options on offer, combined with its attractive, central location mean you have plenty of choice when it comes to ways of getting around Sydney’s many great sights. Sydney residents are a welcoming bunch, so if you get lost or stuck somewhere for any reason, there will always be a friendly face willing to help you out.
This wonderful location is more than just a transport hub—Sydney is one of the first places in the world to welcome in the New Year, and the spectacular firework display celebrating this draws some of Sydney’s biggest crowds. Circular Quay is also right next to the recently refurbished Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA), a real honeypot for culture seekers and it’s also free to get in!
For lovers of architecture, Customs House is also located in the Circular Quay area. This impressive structure is one of Sydney’s heritage buildings, and houses numerous interesting exhibitions as well as an extensive library. Customs House has a spectacular grand atrium and distinctive Helix staircase, along with striking and contemporary interior decor. Feast your eyes on the giant model of the city displayed in a glass case on the ground floor of the development.
Being adjacent to the harbour, Circular Quay is the perfect place to catch a boat, whether you’re looking for a romantic sunset dinner cruise, or a fun tour of the harbour for all the family, Circular Quay has something to offer.
Circular Quay
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Tours & day trips
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Reviews of Circular Quay
3/5 - Okay
There is a lot of construction going on in the area and it is always busy so this made it worse.
5/5 - Excellent
Take the ferry to Parramatta, takes an hour and you get to see a different side to Sydney.
5/5 - Excellent
Opera bar was amazing, slightly overpriced but worth it for the views!
Popular places to visit
Museum of Contemporary Art
You can spend time studying the exhibits at Museum of Contemporary Art during your trip to Sydney. Experience the area's acclaimed art galleries and fascinating museums.
Cadman’s Cottage
You can spend time exploring the galleries in Cadman’s Cottage during your travels in Sydney. Stroll along the waterfront or visit the shops in the area.
Customs House
You can enjoy some culture when you stop by Customs House in Sydney. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the shops in the area.
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 visit its top-notch restaurants.
Argyle Cut
You can find out about the history of Sydney with a visit to Argyle Cut. Visit the area's shops or amble around its waterfront.
Tank Stream Fountain
Find out about the history of Sydney when you spend time at Tank Stream Fountain. Discover the area's acclaimed theatre scene and shops.
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