Looking for free things to do in Sydney? Discover Sydney’s best free guided tours and walking tours, including the Opera House precinct, historic buildings, and some less visited spots that even locals may not have seen! Updated for 2025 with current times and booking details.
Discover Sydney’s rich history, stunning architecture, and hidden gems through the eyes of passionate local guides – all without spending a cent. From colonial landmarks to contemporary cultural institutions, these carefully selected free tours offer authentic experiences that even many Sydneysiders haven’t discovered.
- Learn from knowledgeable volunteers who love sharing their city
- Access areas usually closed to the public
- Hear fascinating stories behind Sydney’s iconic buildings
- Perfect for both first-time visitors and locals
- Save money while experiencing premium attractions
Whether you’re interested in colonial history, Australian art, parliamentary democracy, or botanical wonders, these tours provide insider access to some of Sydney’s most significant sites. They’re an excellent way to orient yourself in the city while saving your budget for special experiences like the Bridge Climb or an Opera House performance.
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Book a Personal Tour with a Sydney Greeter
Want to explore Sydney with a passionate local? Sydney Greeters, part of the International Greeter Association, connects visitors with volunteer locals who share their insider knowledge of the city. These personalized, one-on-one walking tours (called ‘greets’) offer an authentic perspective of Sydney beyond the tourist trails.
What Makes Greeter Tours Special
- Free, personal walking tours with local volunteers
- Customized to your interests (history, architecture, local life)
- Available in multiple languages
- Perfect for first-time visitors
- Authentic local experiences away from tourist crowds
As one of the founders of Sydney Greeters, this organisation is very close Want to explore Sydney with a passionate local?
How to request to meet a greeter:
- Submit your request online (at least 3-4 weeks in advance)
- Provide several date options for flexibility
- Share your interests and any special requirements
- Wait for a local greeter to accept your request
- Coordinate directly with your matched greeter
What happens on a greet?
Most greets will run for about 3-4 hours, although they can be longer if both parties agree. If you have a specific amount of time available, let your greeter know so they can plan around your schedule.
Important Notes:
- Remember greeters are volunteers, not professional guides
- Each experience is unique and personal
- While free, sharing a coffee break or snack is a nice gesture
- Requestiong early increases chances of matching
Check out the Facebook page to get an idea of what these experiences are like.
Join a free tour at the Art Gallery of NSW
Discover one of Australia’s leading cultural institutions with free guided tours of the Art Gallery of NSW. Following a $344 million transformation, the gallery now spans two magnificent buildings: the historic Naala Nura (south building) and the new Naala Badu (north building). Knowledgeable volunteer guides offer several tours daily, perfect for both art enthusiasts and casual visitors.
Daily Free Tours Gallery Highlights
Join passionate volunteer guides for an exploration of the Gallery’s new north building, Naala Badu or south building, Naala Nura.
These tours showcase the building’s innovative architecture and selected artworks from the collection. Perfect for first-time visitors wanting to discover the Gallery’s highlights.
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Collection
Explore one of the world’s most significant collections of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. Learn about Indigenous storytelling through art and the cultural significance of works in the Yiribana Gallery.
Along with the general tours there are weekly tours in Japanese, Korean, Mandarin and Cantonese.
The galleries access program also offers Auslan, Tactile and sensory tours, and tours for people living with dementia and their carers. See the full range of access tours here.
Visit the Art Gallery website for the current times and any special exhibition programs.
When: several tours are offered each day – 11am, 1pm, 3pmWhere: Art Gallery of NSW, Art Gallery Road Woolloomooloo
When: Daily Highlights Tour: 11am, 1pm & 3pm (30 mins) – Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Tour: 11am daily
Where: Art Gallery of NSW, Art Gallery Road Woolloomooloo
Australian Museum Highlights Tour
Explore Australia’s first museum on a free guided tour of this newly renovated cultural institution. The Australian Museum, established in 1827, houses more than 21 million scientific specimens and cultural objects across its heritage galleries and contemporary exhibition spaces.
Why Visit: Join knowledgeable guides for fascinating insights into the museum’s most significant exhibitions, including First Nations galleries, the Wild Planet gallery showcasing Earth’s biodiversity, and the newly restored heritage spaces. Perfect for understanding the highlights of this vast museum and planning where to spend more time during your visit.
Tour Highlights:
- First Nations galleries and cultural collections
- Prehistoric creatures and dinosaur specimens
- Pacific Island cultural heritage
- Minerals and precious gems
- Australian megafauna
Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday morning when the museum is quietest. After your tour, head to the rooftop restaurant for spectacular views over Hyde Park and St Mary’s Cathedral.
When: 60 minute tours are offered daily at 11:30am
Where: Australian Muesum, College Street Sydney
Bookings are not required – meet at the welcome desk on level 2
Try a Free Walking Tour
Discover Sydney’s fascinating history and hidden laneways with professional guides who bring the city’s stories to life. Several companies offer “pay-what-you-wish” walking tours, perfect for first-time visitors wanting to get oriented or history buffs keen to dive deep into Sydney’s past.
Like all free tours, these guides are not paid and work for tips, tip what you can afford and what you think the tour is worth. The average tip is $10 per person.
I’m Free Walking Tours, the original free walking tour company in Sydney offers two tours:
Sydney Sights Tour
Highlights: Hyde Park, The Rocks, Circular Quay, Opera House views that is perfect for first time visitors.
Explore Sydney’s most iconic landmarks on this comprehensive walking tour, where you’ll discover how a convict settlement transformed into one of the world’s most beautiful cities while taking in spectacular harbour views and learning about contemporary life in Sydney.
Pro Tip: Take the morning tour on your first day in Sydney to get oriented and ask your guide for local restaurant recommendations.
When: Daily at 10:30am and 2:30pm
Duration: 3 hours
Meeting Point: Town Hall Square (near Sydney Town Hall)
The Rocks History Tour
Highlights: Colonial history, convict stories, historic pubs that is perfect for history lovers.
Explore Sydney’s historic birthplace and discover fascinating stories of the city’s convict past. This tour winds through the cobblestone streets of The Rocks, revealing tales of gangs, ghosts, and the colonial era while visiting historic pubs and heritage buildings.
When: Daily at 6:00pm
Duration: 1.5 hours
Meeting Point: Cadmans Cottage, 110 George Street
When you finish the offical tour it’s time to give our self guided pub tour a run
Free Tours Government House
Step into the official residence of the Governor of New South Wales, a magnificent Gothic Revival mansion overlooking Sydney Harbour. Built in 1845, Government House stands as one of Australia’s finest examples of colonial architecture, its rooms still furnished with many original pieces from the Victorian era.
Inside this living museum, you’ll discover the State’s ceremonial home, where governors have welcomed royalty, dignitaries, and celebrated Australians for over 175 years. The house remains a working residence, hosting investitures, receptions, and community events throughout the year.
Why Visit: Wander through grand reception rooms and state chambers, each telling stories of Sydney’s colonial past and modern ceremonial life. Expert guides share fascinating insights about the building’s architecture, its priceless collection of artworks and furniture, and the role of the Governor in modern Australia.
The tour includes the formal gardens, designed in the picturesque Victorian style, offering spectacular views of Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge.
Pro Tip: Visit on Sunday mornings when the gardens are at their quietest, or time your visit to see the changing of the guard ceremony. Check the official websitefor special exhibition dates and closures.
For security reasons, you will need to show a photo ID when you collect your free tickets from the Gatehouse. Check the website for further details.
When: Every half hour between 10:30am & 3:00pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays
Duration: 45 minutes – bookings not required
Meeting Point: Government House Gatehouse Macquarie Street (opposite the Sydney Conservatorium of Music)
Tour the Royal Botanic Gardens
Discover Australia’s oldest scientific institution on a free guided walk through Sydney’s living museum. The Royal Botanic Gardens, established in 1816, offers a fascinating blend of colonial history, native flora, and stunning harbour views. Expert volunteer guides share their passion for both the gardens’ heritage and its vital role in plant conservation.
Wander through 30 hectares of themed gardens, from the Palace Rose Garden to the Australian Rainforest Garden, while learning about indigenous plant use, colonial farming attempts, and the gardens’ scientific significance. The walk follows easy paths with plenty of shade and seating, making it perfect for visitors of all ages.
Why Visit: These 90-minute walks offer the perfect introduction to Sydney’s green heart. Your guide will help you discover hidden corners of the gardens you might otherwise miss, explain the significance of key plantings, and share fascinating stories about the gardens’ role in Sydney’s development from colonial settlement to modern day.
Important Notes:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and a hat
- Bring water and sunscreen
- Wheelchair accessible routes available
- Tours run in light rain (umbrellas available)
If you are mobility impaired, there is also a little train you can ride around the garden on. Get more details about the free gardens tours and other paid options like the indigenous heritage tour on the Botanic Gardens tours page.
When: Daily at 10:30am
Duration: 90 minutes
Meeting Point: Information Booth outside the Garden Shop at the Palm Grove Centre
Bookings: Required via the Botanic Gardens website
Self-guided walking trail maps available from the visitors centre if you miss out booking.
Heritage Tour of the GPO at Martin Place
Step inside one of Sydney’s most magnificent Victorian-era buildings, designed to rival London’s Houses of Parliament and Paris’s Eiffel Tower as a symbol of the city. The former General Post Office (GPO), now home to The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, stands as a testament to colonial Sydney’s ambition and architectural brilliance.
Constructed in two stages from 1866, under the guidance of colonial architect James Barnet, the GPO became Sydney’s first major civic building. When it opened on September 1, 1874, it mesmerized the city with its grandeur. The iconic clock tower, completed in 1891, would become Sydney’s timekeeper, its bells marking the rhythm of city life.
Why Visit: During your tour, you’ll explore original features including the grand postal halls and mysterious basement vaults, while hearing fascinating stories of Sydney’s early postal service.
This tour is perfect for history and architecture enthusiasts wanting to experience one of Australia’s most significant Victorian-era buildings.
Tour Highlights:
- Original sandstone carvings and colonial details
- Stories of Sydney’s early postal service
- Hidden underground spaces and service tunnels
Important Notes: Some areas require climbing stairs
Meeting Point: The Fullerton Hotel Sydney – Concierge1 Martin Place, Sydney
When: Tuesday to Saturday: 11:45am
Duration: 90 minutes – bookings essential
There are also two private tours for in house guests. Find out more about how to book here.
Find out more about how to book here.
The Rocks Discovery Museum Tour
Uncover the stories of Sydney’s oldest neighborhood in this free museum housed in a restored 1850s sandstone warehouse. The Rocks Discovery Museum brings to life the history of the area from pre-European settlement to the present day across four fascinating floors.
Why Visit: Expert guides share tales of the area’s First Nations people, convict history, and maritime heritage. The museum’s interactive displays and archaeological artifacts provide unique insights into the lives of the people who shaped this historic precinct, from the Gadigal people to colonial settlers and maritime workers.
Tour Highlights:
- Colonial gallery featuring convict artifacts
- Maritime history and port life exhibits
- Archaeological discoveries from The Rocks
- Interactive digital displays and children’s activities
Pro Tip: Combine your museum visit with our free self guided history walk for a comprehensive understanding of the area’s fascinating past.
When: Free guided tours: Daily at 11am and 2pm
Duration: 45 minutes
Meeting Point:The Rocks Discovery MuseumKendall Lane, The Rocks (Enter via Argyle Street)
NSW Parliament House Tours
Step inside Australia’s oldest parliament house, a magnificent colonial building that began its life as part of Sydney’s Rum Hospital. Since 1829, this historic Macquarie Street landmark has been the heart of democracy in New South Wales, its corridors echoing with nearly two centuries of political debate and decision-making.
Tour Highlights: Your guided tour takes you through the grand Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council chambers, where you’ll discover the fascinating stories behind NSW’s parliamentary democracy.
You’ll explore the historic Jubilee Room, admire the contemporary Australian artworks in the Fountain Court, and see the beautifully preserved Parkes Room with its stunning colonial architecture.
Why Visit: The 60-minute tour offers a unique glimpse into both the historical and contemporary aspects of Australian democracy. Expert guides share stories of significant moments in NSW political history while leading you through rooms normally closed to the public.
Make a Day of It: On Fridays, combine your 1:30pm tour with the famous Parliament House High Tea in the Strangers’ Restaurant. Served from 12pm to 3pm (last seating 2pm), it’s a popular way to experience a piece of parliamentary tradition. Bookings for High Tea are essential.
Important Note: you will need to go through secruity sceening to enter and a photo id may be required.
Meeting Point: Parliament House Reception 6 Macquarie Street, Sydney (Enter via front steps on Macquarie Street)
When: Mondays and Fridays at 1:30pm
Duration: 60 minutes
State Library of NSW Tours
Step into Australia’s oldest library, where over 6 million items tell the story of our nation’s history and culture. The State Library of NSW, with its stunning heritage reading rooms and contemporary galleries, offers fascinating free guided tours that showcase both the building’s architecture and its remarkable collections.
Why Visit: Discover treasures like Captain Cook’s original journals, First Fleet logs, and iconic Australian artworks. The tours take you behind the scenes of this historic institution, from the grand Mitchell Library Reading Room to the contemporary galleries hosting changing exhibitions. You’ll learn about the library’s vital role in collecting and preserving Australia’s stories since 1826.
Tour Options:
- Welcome to the Library Tour: Perfect introduction to the collections and services
- Special Collections Tour: Focus on rare books and manuscripts
- Exhibition Insights: Curator-led tours of current exhibitions (check website for schedule)
Pro Tip: Combine your visit with the library’s free exhibitions and stay for lunch at the library café overlooking the Domain.
When: Monday to Friday: 11:30am
Duration: 60 minutes – no booking required for groups under 10
Meeting Point: Information Desk, Macquarie Street entranceState Library of NSW, Sydney
Have you tried any of these tours? Do you know of any we have missed? Please share your thoughts in the comments
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