Rising 309 metres above the Sydney CBD, the Sydney Tower Eye is the city’s tallest building and one of Australia’s premier observation points. Whether you’re planning your first visit or revisiting this iconic landmark, this complete guide will help you make the most of your sky-high experience with up-to-date information for 2025.
📍 What Is the Sydney Tower Eye?
Located directly above Westfield Sydney on Market Street, the Sydney Tower Eye offers more than just a view. It’s a comprehensive experience starting with an immersive 4D cinema show that introduces you to the city’s sights, sounds, and spirit. From there, a high-speed lift whisks you to the fully enclosed Observation Deck, offering breathtaking, panoramic views of the city, Sydney Harbour, and beyond. For the thrill-seekers, the open-air Skywalk experience takes the adventure to a whole new level.
🕒 Opening Hours (2025)
The Sydney Tower Eye is open most days of the year, but hours can vary. It’s always best to check the official website for the most current information.
- Daily: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (last entry at 8:00 PM)
- Closed on: Christmas Day
- Important: Timings can be extended during school holidays and peak periods. Always book a specific time slot in advance to guarantee entry, especially on weekends.
🎟 Ticket Information
Booking your tickets online is the best way to secure your preferred time and save money compared to on-the-day prices.
🔭 What to Expect
- 360° Views: From the observation deck at 250 metres high, you can spot all of Sydney’s most famous landmarks. Look east to see the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, north towards Manly and the coastline, and west for the stunning Blue Mountains on a clear day.
- Skywalk: This is Sydney’s highest outdoor adventure. You’ll be suited up in a protective jumpsuit and harnessed securely to the external walkway, stepping out onto a glass-floored platform 268m above the ground. The fully guided, 60-minute tour provides a thrilling perspective on the city with expert guides sharing stories and pointing out landmarks.
- Interactive Experience: Use the high-powered digital binoculars to zoom in on specific sights or the multilingual touchscreens to learn fascinating facts about the city.
- VR Zone & Shop: Don’t miss the VR experience, which offers a virtual reality ride high above the city. Afterwards, a souvenir shop is available for you to purchase professional Skywalk photos or gifts.
🚗 Getting There
The Sydney Tower Eye is conveniently located in the heart of the CBD and is easily accessible by various modes of transport.
- By Car: The easiest parking is at the Westfield Sydney car park (enter from King Street or Pitt Street). Booking your parking online in advance can often save you money.
- By Train: Town Hall Station or St James Station are both just a 5-minute walk away.
- By Bus/Light Rail: Numerous bus routes stop along Elizabeth Street and George Street. The nearest light rail stop is QVB (Queen Victoria Building).
- Flying in? Hire a car at Sydney Airport with Alpha Car Hire and explore the city at your own pace. With a convenient free shuttle from the terminal to their nearby depot, it’s a great way to start your journey.
📸 Best Time to Visit
- Late Afternoon: A popular choice for a reason. Arrive about an hour before sunset to see the city bathed in golden light, then watch as the city’s lights come on below you.
- Weekdays: Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends, especially in the mornings, allowing you to enjoy the views with fewer crowds.
- Check the Weather: Visibility can be affected by fog or rain. Check the weather forecast before you go for the clearest views.
🧒 Family & Accessibility Info
- The Sydney Tower Eye is fully accessible for prams and wheelchairs. Lifts are available to and from the observation deck.
- Kids under 3 years old enter free.
- Family-friendly activities are often available during school holidays.
🗺 Nearby Attractions to Combine With
- Queen Victoria Building (QVB): A stunning historic building with beautiful architecture and boutique shops, just a 2-minute walk away.
- Hyde Park: A serene green space perfect for a relaxing stroll, located a 5-minute walk from the tower.
- Darling Harbour: A vibrant precinct with waterfront dining and entertainment, approximately a 10-minute walk.
- SEA LIFE Aquarium & Madame Tussauds: Located in Darling Harbour, these are perfect for combining with your Sydney Tower Eye visit using a combo pass.
🛏 Tip for Travellers
If you’re planning to explore more of New South Wales after your time in Sydney, a rental car is a game-changer. It gives you the freedom and flexibility to discover some of the state’s most beautiful destinations.
- Blue Mountains: A 1.5-hour drive west for stunning scenery, bushwalks, and quaint mountain villages.
- Hunter Valley: A 2-hour drive north for world-class wineries and gourmet food.
- South Coast beaches: A 2-3 hour drive south to discover some of NSW’s most pristine and secluded beaches.
- Canberra: A 3-hour drive south to visit Australia’s capital.
Book your car with Alpha Car Hire’s Sydney team for competitive rates and a wide range of vehicles to suit your trip.
