Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens are situated in one of Sydney's most beautiful locations

Flowers at the Royal Botanic Gardens frame the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge
Flowers at the Royal Botanic Gardens frame the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge cc licensed photo by Rê mineira

The 75 acre Royal Botanic Gardens are located on ground overlooking Farm Cove just south and east of the Sydney Opera House. These beautiful gardens are the culmination of nearly two centuries of hard work dedicated to the science of botany in Australia. The gardens are indeed the main centre for botanical sciences in Australia. Come and discover the amazing collection of plants, both native to Australia and from around the world in this magnificent setting.

The Gardens occupy the site of Australia's first farm which was started in 1788. Interestingly, due to poor soil and growing conditions, the farm was not a success, however the land continued to be cultivated. In 1816 Governor Macquarie founded the gardens as part of the Governor's domain, which later became the location of Government House. He appointed a botanist from the Colony to oversee research and develop the gardens.

The great majority of development that you see today took place under the direction of Charles Moore, a botanist from Scotland, between the years 1848 and 1896. During World War 1 and through the Great Depression, cut backs caused the gardens to regress some, however in 1959 after the gardens where designated as "Royal" they began once again to receive the attention and enhancements they deserved.

While you are welcome to explore the gardens on your own, there is a free guided walking tour every day at 10:30am and also on Monday to Friday from March through November at 1pm. These start from the information booth located just outside the garden shop at the Palm Grove Centre. You can also expect to see lots of colourful birds and wildlife in the gardens. The gardens are also a superb spot to just come and relax; a beautiful oasis from the surrounding city.

Nearby attractions: Government House, Sydney Opera House, Art Gallery of NSW, Customs House, Justice and Police Museum, and Museum of Sydney.

Facts For Your Visit

Fee: No

Royal Botanic Gardens Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Thursday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Friday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Saturday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Sunday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Address: Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Phone: (02) 9231 8111

Official Website: Royal Botanic Gardens

Royal Botanic Gardens Reviews

Rated 4.7 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating I visited the Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney for the first time recently, and let me tell you, it was a total game-changer! I picked a spot right by the Opera House, so I had the most amazing view of the harbor bridge. The trees provided the perfect shade, and I swear, the birds there are so used to humans, they're practically posing for photos! It felt so peaceful and natural, even in the heart of a busy city. I saw people enjoying picnics, couples getting cozy, and everyone just taking in the beautiful scenery. As the sun set, the city lights turned on, and the whole place looked magical. If you ever find yourself in Sydney, you absolutely have to check this place out. You won't regret it!
4. นุชนาฎ สายชมภู - a month ago

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5 Star Rating Lovely botanical garden: detailed review with dozens of photos. This is a really large botanical gardens that reminds me more of a huge Central Park than simply a Botanical Gardens. Of course, there are beautiful plantings here, but there’s also a lot of green space and open space. People were meditating, picnicking, practicing yoga…there’s a great deal of open green area. We arrived in the spring, and so much was in bloom, but I’m certain that the garden has surprises in every season. Excellent walking paths and clean public restrooms as well. There are little cafés scattered around, but you can also bring a picnic. The pathways are well-marked and will direct you to areas of interest in the gardens. Be sure to explore the gardens that are populated with plants that showcase many of the first attempts at growing fruits and vegetables by European Settlers in Sydney. The garden also abuts the harbor, and so you can enjoy that element as well. Amazing views of the opera house and beyond. We spent several hours here and only left because we were starting to crave dinner.
Lockie Hunter - a month ago

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5 Star Rating Stunning gardens, well kept. Popular for families, with wide paths and many different types of plant gardens. Succulent garden particularly nice. Bring lots of water and sun protection on hot days. Governor's house absolutely worth a visit.
Cobus F. Potgieter - a month ago

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5 Star Rating Special thanks to Robert, the park ranger, whose kindness and assistance made our visit truly unforgettable. I visited on two separate days and had an unforgettable experience each time. On one day, I explored the garden in the morning under perfect weather, marveling at the breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and well-maintained gardens. Every corner was picture-perfect, and it felt like walking through a peaceful oasis. On another visit, I stayed to enjoy the sunset at Mrs. Macquarie’s Point, which was stunning beyond words. Watching the day transition into night while admiring the city lights was a magical experience. I also want to express my gratitude to Robert, one of the park rangers who went out of his way to assist us when we were unsure of how to exit the garden late in the evening. His kindness and helpful guidance made a lasting impression. This garden is not only a feast for the eyes but also a place where the staff truly care about visitors. Highly recommend it to anyone visiting Sydney!
ᄋᄋᄋ - 3 weeks ago

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Directions

Line Nearest Station Walking Time
L2, T2, T3 or FerryCircular Quay7 minutes
T4Martin Place3 minutes

How to get to Royal Botanic Gardens by

By Train or Ferry: exit at Circular Quay Station and proceed west on Alfred Street then left on Albert Street and right on Macquarie Street. Enter the Gardens by the horse and rider statue at Bridge Street.

By Train: exit at Martin Place and walk east through the plaza to Macquarie Street; cross over and enter the narrow walkway just to the right of the Sydney Hospital Entrance. Continue east on the walkway the the pathway into the Garden.

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