The Opera House from the arch

About this experience

BridgeClimb has been taking people over the Harbour Bridge arch since 1998, from its base at 3 Cumberland Street in The Rocks. The daytime Summit climb takes about 3 hours in all, preparation included: you change into a climb suit, get your harness, pass a breath test (blood alcohol under 0.05) and do a practice climb before you head out with a Climb Leader in a group of up to 14.

The route goes up the outer arch to the summit and back down the same side. It does not cross to the north shore, which surprises some people. Along the way the Climb Leader covers the bridge's history (it opened on 19 March 1932) and points out the Opera House, Darling Harbour and the skyline. You can't carry a camera or phone, so the photos come from the guide, and a printed group photo and a BridgeClimb cap are included.

The rules: climbers must be 8 or older and at least 1.2 m tall, children aged 8 to 15 need an adult (three children per adult at most), and anyone 75 or over needs a certificate of fitness from a GP dated within 3 months. Wear closed shoes and bring photo ID. It runs in almost all weather. BridgeClimb also sells shorter and longer routes, and the Pylon Lookout, about 200 steps up the south-east pylon, is a cheaper view. None of it gets you into the Opera House, which is why we list it as an extra.

• The summit of the Harbour Bridge, 134 m above the water
• The best view down onto the Opera House sails
• Groups of up to 14 with a Climb Leader
• A printed group photo and a cap to take home
• Runs from morning to late afternoon

How the day runs

1. 15 min beforeCheck in at 3 Cumberland St

   Bring photo ID. Lockers take everything you are carrying.

2. About 45 minSuit up and breath test

   Climb suit, harness and headset on, a breath test, then a practice climb.

3. About 2 hoursUp the arch

   Catwalks and ladders to the start of the arch, then up the steps to the summit and back.

4. At the endPhotos and cap

   Collect your printed group photo and cap, and buy extra shots if you want them.

What's included

Who it suits

What guests say

Tips before you book

• Skip the drinks the night before. Everyone is breathalysed, and the limit is 0.05.
• Book a late-afternoon slot for golden light on the sails.
• Over 75? Get the GP certificate before you fly; it must be dated within 3 months.
• Pregnant or with a health condition? Read BridgeClimb's health rules first; a GP note may be needed.
• Book the Opera House tour the same day. The Rocks is a 15 to 20 minute walk from the Welcome Centre.

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• Is it worth it?
• Is it free?

Frequently asked questions

Compare with

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