The idea for the Sydney Harbour Bridge dates back to 1815, but work didn’t start until 1923. Famous for its distinctive arch and enormous pylons, the bridge was completed in 1932. This was the world’s widest long span bridge until 2012, and Sydney’s tallest structure until 1967. It contains over 6 million hand-driven rivets and, for each repainting, requires 7,925 gallons (30,000 liters) of paint.
Today, the car, train and pedestrian bridge is an iconic piece of Sydney’s skyline. It’s the centerpiece of New Year’s Eve celebrations in the city, with its fireworks display snaring headlines across the globe. The view of the Opera House, Sydney Harbour and surrounds from the bridge make it a magnet for photographers.
Take a 30-minute stroll across the pedestrian path on the east side of the bridge, easily accessed from Milsons Point. Cyclists can ride across using the cycleway on the west side. Those wanting to get above the traffic should book the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb.
Offering panoramic views of the city, the BridgeClimb experience is very popular, so bookings are required in advance. Climbs are available in various languages and express climbs are an option for those wanting to maximize their time in the city. The classic BridgeClimb, which runs for 3.5 hours, is the most popular option. You’ll ascend more than 1,000 steps to walk along the bridge’s outer arch on the Sydney Opera House side. Soak up 360-degree views, and pose for photos with your group at the bridge’s peak.
For a less strenuous climb, visit the southeast pylon that’s accessible by the pedestrian path. Learn some of the bridge’s history on your way up the 200 steps to the Pylon Lookout. Three floors of exhibits give details about the design and construction. There’s an admission fee to enter the Pylon Lookout, which is open daily, except Christmas Day.
Access to the bridge from the downtown side is via the Bridge Stairs on Cumberland Street in The Rocks area. It’s a short walk to The Rocks from Circular Quay, the major public transport hub. Metered parking is available in the area, but spaces are limited.
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Reviews of Sydney Harbour Bridge
4/5 - Good
Take your time to view the bridge from many angles.
5/5 - Excellent
My friend and I decided to go to Luna Park, and we were staying near the Rocks at the time. We decided to walk there, and we had to cross over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It's truly a beautiful walk, and there is one lookout with a couple of benches along the way. You are able to have a great view of the Sydney Opera House, and it's not too long of a walk either. I definitely recommend walking across one day to enjoy a nice stroll and good views. Unfortunately, I did not participate on climbing the bridge on the top so I don't have much input on that.Otherwise, I recommend walking across the bridge!
5/5 - Excellent
Definitely go on the Bridge Climb tour- it was amazing!
4/5 - Good
Be selective about your tours. The cruise I chose was poorly done.
5/5 - Excellent
Do the bridge walk!
5/5 - Excellent
The bridge climb is well worth booking. Great views of the city.
Popular places to visit
Pylon Lookout
Pylon Lookout 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.
Campbell’s Storehouses
Find out about the history of Sydney when you take a trip to Campbell’s Storehouses. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene and fascinating museums.
Overseas Passenger Terminal
Explore the waterfront in Sydney with a trip to Overseas Passenger Terminal. Visit the area's shops or amble around its beautiful beaches.
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.
Sydney Opera House
One of the world’s most famous buildings is surprisingly accessible; take in a show or just take a stroll to admire this astonishing building.
Luna Park Sydney
This wonderfully preserved 1930s amusement park serves up rides from a bygone era, and Sydney’s biggest smile!
Best Lodging Options Near Sydney Harbour Bridge
Check availability on hotels close to Sydney Harbour Bridge
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
Shangri-La Sydney
Pier One Sydney Harbour, Marriott Autograph Collection
Sydney Harbour Hotel
Paradox Sydney
InterContinental Sydney by IHG
Park Hyatt Sydney
Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay
View Sydney
Best time to go to Sydney Harbour Bridge
The best time to visit Sydney Harbour Bridge is dependent 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 slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
 Calendar Month |  Temperature |  Precipitation |  Cloudiness |  Occupancy |  Pricing |
| January | 73.4°F (23.0°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny | Average | Average |
| February | 72.7°F (22.6°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny | Average | Slightly High |
| March | 70.9°F (21.6°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny | Slightly High | Slightly High |
| April | 66.4°F (19.1°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny | Slightly High | Average |
| May | 61.2°F (16.2°C) | No Rain | Mostly Sunny | Average | Slightly Low |
| June | 57.2°F (14.0°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny | Average | Slightly Low |
| July | 55.9°F (13.3°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny | Slightly Low | Slightly Low |
| August | 57.2°F (14.0°C) | No Rain | Mostly Sunny | Slightly Low | Average |
| September | 61.2°F (16.2°C) | No Rain | Mostly Sunny | Slightly High | Average |
| October | 64.6°F (18.1°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny | Slightly Low | Average |
| November | 67.6°F (19.8°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny | Average | Average |
| December | 70.3°F (21.3°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny | Average | Slightly High |
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