Circular Quay

Circular Quay showing general coastal views, a skyscraper and street scenes
Circular Quay
Circular Quay
Circular Quay
Circular Quay


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.
YEHS Hotel Sydney CBD
Ovolo Woolloomooloo
InterContinental Sydney Double Bay by IHG

Tours & day trips

See all 220 activities

History & culture

See all 71 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 63 activities

Water activities

See all 40 activities

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Shangri-La Sydney

Shangri-La Sydney

5 out of 5
176 Cumberland Street, The Rocks, NSW
Shangri-La Sydney
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

5 out of 5
199 George St., Sydney, NSW
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
Hyatt Regency Sydney

Hyatt Regency Sydney

5 out of 5
161 Sussex Street, Sydney, NSW
Hyatt Regency Sydney
The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

5 out of 5
1 Martin Place, Sydney, NSW
The Fullerton Hotel Sydney
Sydney Harbour Hotel

Sydney Harbour Hotel

4 out of 5
55 George Street, The Rocks, NSW
Sydney Harbour Hotel
InterContinental Sydney by IHG

InterContinental Sydney by IHG

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

Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney

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

Circular Quay offers a vibrant mix of activities, from catching a performance at the iconic Sydney Opera House to indulging in shopping and entertainment options. Don't miss out on minute heritage tours and immersive heritage experiences that showcase the rich history of the area, making your visit truly memorable. Explore the stunning waterfront while enjoying the lively atmosphere that this picturesque location has to offer.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Circular Quay, visit Martin Place, just 311m away, offering a vibrant atmosphere. The Rocks Markets, 124m away, provide a charming local vibe. Centrepoint, located 373m away, combines city and family-friendly shopping.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at the Sydney Cricket Ground, where you can enjoy a range of sports events. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the entertainment vibes at the Metro Theatre, hosting live music performances that uplift the spirit.

Adventure

The Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk, 2.5km from Circular Quay, offers breathtaking ocean views and invigorating hiking trails. Experience the family-friendly McElhone Stairs, located 621m away, or dive into adventure at Ben Buckler Point, 3.1km distant, renowned for its thrilling underwater sports.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Theatre Royal, just 311m from Circular Quay, offering a mix of entertainment and culture. For a unique outing, visit Sydney Observatory, 186m away, where family fun meets stargazing. Don't miss State Theatre, located 435m away, for a romantic evening of performances.

Find the best attractions near Circular Quay

Circular Quay offers a vibrant mix of urban parks, historic civic buildings, and bustling streets, perfect for travellers seeking culture and outdoor experiences. With easy access to Sydney's top attractions, this area is ideal for exploring. Consider staying at a nearby star hotel to enhance your visit and make the most of your time in this iconic location.

  • Sydney Opera House: An iconic symbol of Australia, this architectural masterpiece offers guided tours that delve into its rich cultural significance. Enjoy a performance or simply admire its stunning façade from the waters of Sydney Harbour.
  • Sydney Harbour Bridge: A historic marvel, you can walk or climb the bridge for panoramic views of the city. The nearby guided tours provide insights into its fascinating history and the engineering behind this stunning structure.
  • Hyde Park: A serene urban oasis, Hyde Park is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Stroll through its lush gardens, enjoy a picnic, or explore the various monuments and fountains that reflect the city’s vibrant culture.

Best time to go to Circular Quay

The best time to visit Circular Quay is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
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 on your trip to Circular Quay, consider visiting in the cheaper months of May, July, or October, and book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates. Mondays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to compare prices and refine your search for budget-friendly accommodations. Look for last-minute deals and consider package options that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Don’t forget to check for free cancellation policies and great rates to secure the best value for your stay.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Circular Quay are May, 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: Booking a hotel around Circular Quay about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • 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: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and the type of hotel that suits you best. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Circular Quay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.