Circular Quay and The Rocks are the historic waterfront heart of Sydney, located about 14 km from the airport. The Airport Link train reaches Circular Quay station in approximately 20 minutes with a change at Central or Town Hall.

About Circular Quay / The Rocks

Circular Quay is where Sydney began in 1788 and remains the city's most vibrant gathering point. The Sydney Opera House rises magnificently on Bennelong Point to the east, the Sydney Harbour Bridge arches overhead to the west, and ferries depart from the wharves to Manly, Taronga Zoo, and dozens of harbor destinations. The Quay itself is lined with restaurants, buskers, and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

The Rocks, immediately west of Circular Quay, is Sydney's oldest neighborhood, where convict-hewn sandstone buildings now house weekend markets, artisan shops, and historic pubs like the Fortune of War (1828). Narrow laneways reveal hidden bars, and the Rocks Discovery Museum tells the story of the area's transformation from colonial settlement to tourist precinct. On weekends, the market stalls stretch under white canopies along George Street.

Nearby Landmarks

Sydney Opera House Harbour Bridge The Rocks Markets Museum of Contemporary Art

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost A$50-70
Time 25-35 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Take the Airport Link T8 train from the terminal. 2. Ride to Central Station (13 min) and stay on toward City Circle. 3. Exit at Circular Quay station (approximately 20 min total). 4. Walk out to the waterfront with views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi A$50-70 25-35 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Airport Link trains run until midnight, reaching Circular Quay by about 12:15 AM. After hours, taxis and rideshare operate continuously. A late-night taxi to Circular Quay costs AUD $40-55 with airport surcharge.

Luggage Tips

Airport Link trains have luggage space. At Circular Quay, the station exits directly to the waterfront, and flat sidewalks make rolling suitcases easy. The Rocks area has some cobblestone sections and steep steps on side streets.

Accessibility

Circular Quay station has lift access. The waterfront promenade is fully accessible. The Opera House has wheelchair access on all levels. Some streets in The Rocks have steep grades and cobblestones—stick to George Street and the main paths for wheelchair accessibility.