Discover Sydney at your own pace aboard the iconic Sydney Explorer—the city’s original hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus. This open-top tour is a perfect way to explore Sydney’s world-famous landmarks, from the Opera House to Darling Harbour, with the flexibility to jump off and explore whenever you like.
Explore 27 Top Sydney Attractions
The Red Sydney Explorer route visits 27 of the city’s must-see destinations, including:
- Sydney Opera House
- Royal Botanic Gardens
- Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
- Kings Cross
- The Rocks
- Darling Harbour
- And many more
This is the only scheduled sightseeing bus that crosses the Sydney Harbour Bridge, offering a unique and scenic tour that includes the city’s northern highlights.
Onboard Experience
All Sydney Explorer buses are:
- Air-conditioned for your comfort
- Equipped with on-board audio commentary that shares local stories, cultural facts, and historical highlights throughout your journey
You can board at any stop on the route. Stay onboard for the full tour or hop off at any attraction and rejoin a later bus—buses operate approximately every 20 minutes.
A full loop takes around 2 hours to complete.
Ticket Options & Prices
Your Explorer ticket gives you unlimited travel on both the Sydney Explorer and Bondi Explorer routes, plus access to regular Sydney Buses in the Blue TravelPass zone. It’s valid until 4:00 AM the following day.
| Ticket Type | Adult | Child (4–15) | Family (2 adults + children) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Day Explorer Pass | $39.00 | $19.00 | $97.00 |
| 2-Day Explorer Pass | $68.00 | $34.00 | $170.00 |
Note:
- Children under 4 travel free
- Two-day tickets can be used on any two days within an 8-day period
- Prices valid until 31 March 2009 (AUD)
Your ticket also includes exclusive discounts at selected attractions along the route.
Timetable & Stops
Sydney Explorer services run every 20 minutes, with buses identified by distinctive red Explorer signs at stops.
- First departure from Circular Quay: 8:40 AM
- Last departure: 5:20 PM
- Final return to Circular Quay: 7:20 PM
To download the latest timetable, visit the Transport Info Timetables page and search for Route 111 for your travel date.
Where to Buy Tickets
While in Sydney
No need to book in advance—just board the bus and purchase your ticket directly from the driver. You can also visit any TransitShop or these locations:
- Sydney Ferries ticket offices (Circular Quay, Manly Wharf)
- CityRail and AirportLink station ticket offices
- Travel agents and information kiosks displaying “SydneyPass sold here”
From Interstate or Overseas
Ask your travel agent or booking service to include a Sydney Explorer voucher.
Voucher Redemption Points:
- On board Sydney and Bondi Explorer buses
- TransitShops
- Sydney Ferries ticket offices
- AirportLink ticket offices at the International and Domestic Terminals