The Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the most recognisable attractions in Australia. It is not only the most prominent steel arch bridge in the world, but it also crosses one of the best natural harbours on the planet. Locals commonly refer to it as ‘the Coathanger’. You can walk, bike or even climb to the top to take in the amazing view.
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Sydney Harbour Bridge: How to reach?
By air: The Sydney Airport is the closest airport to the Sydney Harbour Bridge, located at a distance of just 12.1 km.
By rail: The Sydney Harbour Bridge is located just 4.1 km from the Circular Quay Station. The City Circle, North Shore and Eastern Suburbs lines all stop at the Circular Quay station.
By car: There are various routes you can take to reach the Sydney Harbour Bridge by car. You can exit the Cahill Motorway at the Harbour Bridge if you’re travelling from the north or south. You can take the Western Distributor and get off at King Street if you’re travelling from the West. However, bear in mind that parking in the city might be difficult, particularly during rush hour.
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Sydney Harbour Bridge: Facts
With a length of 503 m and height of 134 m above sea level, the bridge was created by engineer JJC Bradfield. Construction of the bridge began in 1923 and lasted nine years. Six million hand-driven rivets and 53,000 tonne of steel went into its construction. On August 19, 1930, at 10 PM, the two steel parts of the imposing arch came together in the centre of the span.
Sydney Harbour Bridge: Things to do
On the eastern side is the bridge walkway. On Cumberland Street, start at the crosswalk next to the Australian Heritage Hotel, and proceed up the stairs. Along the route, you’ll pass the Pylon Lookout in the southeast, which is part of the trek.
On the opposite side of the bridge lies the cycleway. The Sydney Observatory, a renowned structure with telescopes for astronomy, is accessible nearby. In the city, you may rent bicycles or sign up for a guided trip.
BridgeClimb Sydney will take you to the top for panoramic views of Sydney and beyond. The location of BridgeClimb is on Cumberland Street, close to where stairs go down to a colonial artillery battery at Dawes Point (Ta-Ra) Park and the road curves beneath the bridge.
You can take a ferry from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo, Manly or Watsons Bay, passing the bridge and Sydney Opera House. Or travel to places like Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, Cockatoo Island and Parramatta by sailing beneath the bridge. Another alternative is booking a harbour cruise. You can also fly in an aircraft from Rose Bay or a helicopter from Mascot to get a bird’s-eye view of the bridge.
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Sydney Harbour Bridge: Nearby dining options
The bridge enjoys a prime location in The Rocks, and features a large number of pubs. On Cumberland Street, you’ll find the Australian Heritage Hotel, The Glenmore and the Harbour View Hotel, all of which not only serve as luxurious accommodation options but also offer remarkable fine dining venues. You can also enjoy a meal at one of the neighbouring eateries in Walsh Bay or The Rocks, including The Gantry at Pier One Sydney Harbour.
If you want to enjoy the view of the bridge while you eat, take a ferry to the north side of the harbour and visit Sails on Lavender Bay. You can also visit the Altitude Restaurant at the Shangri-La Hotel Sydney or the rooftop bar Aster at the InterContinental Sydney for truly breathtaking views.
Quay, Aria and Bennelong are three fine dining establishments that are quite popular among locals and also enjoy views of the bridge. The Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House are visible from Cafe Sydney, which is located on the roof of the Customs House.
FAQs
When was the Sydney Harbour Bridge constructed?
The Sydney Harbour Bridge construction started in 1923 and was finished in 1932.
Can one climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge?
With a guided tour, it is possible to ascend the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Before beginning the climb, climbers are given safety gear and a briefing. The ascent lasts roughly 3.5 hours.
Does the Sydney Harbour Bridge have a toll?
Both driving and walking across the Sydney Harbour Bridge are free of charge. The bridge can only be climbed as part of a guided excursion, which costs money.
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