Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney, Australia | Timings. Ticket Prices

Royal Botanical Gardens, Sydney Overview

Located next to the iconic Sydney Harbour, the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney are a massive green space found close to the hustle and bustle of the city’s CBD. Spanning about 30 hectares, these gardens provide a tranquil setting to enjoy a picnic and some fresh air as you are treated to scenic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House and the Harbour.

The Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney was established in 1816, thus making it the oldest botanic garden in Australia. Within the gardens, you will find around 5000 unique plant species, both native and international which serve as a home to the fascinating wildlife of the country, including colourful birds and energetic flying foxes that prance around, among other fascinating residents of the garden. Being among the oldest botanical and scientific institutions of the country, there are multiple education programs run throughout the year, ensuring that a visit to these magnificent gardens will leave you with a greater sense of appreciation and understanding towards the ecology of New South Wales and Australia.

Apart from the flora and fauna, you can also embark on a cultural trail to discover the area’s rich Aboriginal history, or take one of the guided tours to make the most of your trip. Take in the sights of the surrounding area as you walk through the exquisite greenery of the garden, and head on over to the Calyx, the premier event venue at the heart of the garden, constantly abuzz with activities, flower displays, workshops, and if you’re lucky, some open-air entertainment to keep your spirits lifted throughout your visit here.

Free Guided Walks at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

Timings:
Monday - Friday: 10:30 AM, 1:00 PM,
Saturday, Sunday: 1:00 PM,
The Royal Botanic Gardens offers daily free guided walks,to visitors, where you will be able to explore the biodiversity of the area and discover the ancient heritage and history associated with the garden. You can avail these guided walks at the specified times from the Information Centre near the Garden Shop.

Tours at the Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney

Apart from the free guided walks, the Royal Botanic Gardens presents other methods of understanding and experiencing the various attractions and mysteries present here.

1. Aboriginal Heritage Tour
Timings: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM,
Cost: AUD 41,
Discover the interesting heritage and Aboriginal history of the garden associated with the Cadigal people as you embark upon a trail with a knowledgeable guide who will tell you all about their culture and the plant uses employed by these ancient people.

2. Aboriginal Bush Food Experience
Timings: 18th May, 5th June: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM,
Cost: AUD 75 - AUD 85,
Experience life as an ancient native as you partake in the identification and gathering of traditional fruits, berries, vegetable and other plants, and use them to make some exotic traditional dishes, or experiment to craft your own delicacy, made with Australia’s finest.

3. Behind the Scenes Sensory Tour
Timings: Tuesday, Friday: 11:00 AM,
Cost: AUD 41 Onwards,
Treat your senses with the exciting range of sights, smells, and feelings as you get up close with the finest specimens of the Royal Botanic Gardens. On this 1.5 hour tour, you’ll discover some of the most fascinating insights to the garden and its residents. At the end of the tour, be sure to get out your cameras as you are given some of the best views of the nearby harbour, as well as landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Things to Do at the Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney

Whether you want to explore the greenery or just relax and enjoy the impressive views, there’s a something for everyone to do at the Royal Botanic Gardens.
1. Visit the Themed Gardens: With a size of 30 hectares, the Royal Botanic Gardens have about 10 uniquely themed gardens, following themes like Rainforest, Australian, Tropical.
2. Go on a free Guided Walk: There are free daily guided walks held at the Royal Botanic Gardens, which are the perfect way to explore the place and understand Australia’s foliage.
3. Learn more about Aboriginal Culture: Whether you are going on a heritage walk or understanding how to craft traditional recipes from native berries, there’s tons of ways to understand Aboriginal Culture at the Royal Botanic Gardens.
4. Visit the Calyx: The Calyx is your one-stop shop for exhibitions and workshops within the Royal Botanic Gardens, while also serving as an occasional concert venue.
5. Hop-on hop-off train ride: Ride the Choo Choo Express and visit the main attractions of the garden as you are taken through the expansive area on this delightful toy train

Restaurants at Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney

There are two main restaurants at the Royal Botanic Gardens, namely the Botanic Garden Restaurant and the Pavilion Restaurant. If you’re looking for a light snack or a refreshing beverage, you can head on over to the Pavilion Kiosk, or visit the charming cafes here like the Botanic Garden Cafe or Piccolo Me. For those attending an exhibition or workshop at the Calyx, grab a bite or a coffee at the Calyx Cafe before you leave.

How to Reach Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney

The Royal Botanic Gardens is located on Mrs Macquarie Road in Sydney, found next to the Circular Quay, Sydney’s primary harbour. Located in a chief part of the city, there are many ways to reach the Royal Botanic Gardens.
By Train: Trains T1, T2, T3, T7 and T8 will take you to the Circular Quay Station, a short walk from the Gardens. You can also take trains T4 and SCO to the Martin Place Station, a 10-minute walk to the southern end of the Royal Botanic Gardens.
By Bus: Bus number 200 will take you directly to the Royal Botanic Garden Bus Stop.