ICC Sydney, Sydney - a very tall building next to a very tall building
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ICC Sydney Sydney

4.5
·6k reviews·Sydney, Australia

A premier entertainment and convention center in Sydney's vibrant Darling Harbour, hosting world-class events and exhibitions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, ideal for events

CrowdLow
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ICC Sydney, Sydney - a very tall building next to a very tall building

ICC Sydney Sydney

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, ideal for events

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A premier entertainment and convention center in Sydney's vibrant Darling Harbour, hosting world-class events and exhibitions.

4.5
(6k reviews)

"Excellent venue with great transport links, though seating advice for the theatre is worth noting."

Vertical photo
TIP

💳 Tap & Go Transport

Use your bank card or Opal card for seamless travel on Sydney's public transport. Refunds on Opal cards are tricky .

🎟️ Book Event Tickets Online

Save time and skip the lines by purchasing event tickets in advance .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Darling Harbour Theatre

Darling Harbour Theatre

ICC Sydney

Experience world-class performances with stunning views and acoustics in this state-of-the-art theatre.

Exhibitions & Conventions

Exhibitions & Conventions

ICC Sydney

Explore diverse trade shows and conventions, from food festivals to fitness expos, offering unique experiences and products.

Waterfront Promenade

Waterfront Promenade

Darling Harbour

Enjoy a scenic stroll along the harbor, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and city skyline views.

Planning Your Visit

Navigating Sydney's Public Transport

Getting to and around ICC Sydney is easy with their excellent public transport system. Consider using an Opal card or contactless payment for trains, buses, and ferries. Avoid buying single-use cards as refunds are difficult to obtain.TikTok

Event Ticketing & Entry

For popular events at ICC Sydney, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to avoid long queues. Check event-specific details for door opening times and merchandise sales to ensure a smooth entry.InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, ideal for events
Crowd
Low
When
Event evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere for shows
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Top Sydney Travel Tip 💵 🇦🇺 They dont make it easy here and most of us living in Sydney just tap on & off with our bank cards so chances of someone buying it from you is so slim! If you find cards l...
@mizzdeereioustravels
2.2K likes • 117K views

💳 Tap & Go Transport

Use your bank card or Opal card for seamless travel on Sydney's public transport. Refunds on Opal cards are tricky.TikTok

🎟️ Book Event Tickets Online

Save time and skip the lines by purchasing event tickets in advance.Instagram

Save this for your next trip to Sydney, Australia! 🇦🇺🐨 - Do you need a car to get around Sydney? You can rent one! But they also have incredible public transportation to get around without it! — The...
@marissameizz
2K likes • 47.7K views
✨ Fine Food Australia is back at the ICC Sydney ✨ With cuisines and products from all over the world, there’s so much to explore 🙌🙌 One spot you have to check out is the Taiwan Select Pavilion 🇹🇼, s...
foodiesofsyd
112 likes • 9.2K views

☕ Nearby Breakfast Spots

Grab a bite at Edition Roasters or Kurtosh for great coffee and pastries near ICC Sydney.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Harbour Walks

Enjoy a pleasant walk along Darling Harbour, especially on sunny days.Reddit

What a vibe Sydney, day 1 has been incredible so far 💪✨ Get down here for an epic afternoon, we’re open till 5pm! If you’re planning on a weekend visit, grab your tickets online to beat the queues. ...
ausfitnessexpo
307 likes • 19.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

💳 Tap & Go Transport

Use your bank card or Opal card for seamless travel on Sydney's public transport. Refunds on Opal cards are tricky.TikTok

🎟️ Book Event Tickets Online

Save time and skip the lines by purchasing event tickets in advance.Instagram

☕ Nearby Breakfast Spots

Grab a bite at Edition Roasters or Kurtosh for great coffee and pastries near ICC Sydney.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Harbour Walks

Enjoy a pleasant walk along Darling Harbour, especially on sunny days.Reddit

📍 Seating Advice

For the best concert experience, avoid sections 4, 5, 6 at Darling Harbour Theatre.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

ICC Sydney is a modern, well-equipped venue praised for its diverse range of events and convenient location in Darling Harbour. Visitors appreciate the accessibility via public transport and the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding area. However, some attendees note that seating in certain theatre sections can be suboptimal, and event-specific information regarding entry and merchandise can sometimes be unclear.

"The ICC Sydney at Darling Harbour is an absolute triumph, a genuinely world-class venue that elevates any event it hosts. There are many entrances to get in, very easy, & plenty of way-finding signage to find your way around. Its striking modern architecture seamlessly blends with the vibrant Darling Harbour precinct, offering stunning waterfront views that instantly impress. Inside, the design is equally thoughtful, with expansive, flexible spaces that cater to a vast array of conventions, exhibitions, and entertainment.
Beyond the aesthetics, the ICC Sydney truly shines in its functionality and commitment to visitor experience. The state-of-the-art technology is evident throughout, ensuring smooth operations and immersive presentations. Accessibility is clearly a priority, with step-free access, accessible seating, and a range of facilities catering to diverse needs, making it welcoming for everyone. Its prime location means easy access via public transport – light rail, train, bus, and ferry all connect seamlessly – and a short walk to Sydney's central attractions. It's more than just a venue; it's a dynamic hub that enhances Sydney's global reputation."

jason turpin

"This is the one of the best places that holds lots of different events and such. Today partner and I attended the 2025 Good Food and Good Wine Show (first time for me and first time for him) - it was fun, spacious, vibrant, lots of people, food and drinks. Would always return for lots of different things to do and see"

MJ Xuan-An Le

"ICC Sydney is not only a modern convention center but also a lively hangout spot for young people. In front of its unique long LED wall, you’ll often see groups gathering to dance, perform, and socialize. It creates a vibrant and youthful vibe, making it a fun stop when exploring Darling Harbour."

Wong Alex

What People Like

Modern facilities
Prime Darling Harbour location
Excellent public transport access

What People Dislike

Suboptimal theatre seating
Event-specific entry confusion

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

ICC Sydney is easily accessible via public transport. Trains to Town Hall or Wynyard stations, followed by a short walk, are common. Ferries to Darling Harbour also offer a scenic route. For those driving, parking is available at the Harbourside Car Park.TikTok

Yes, Sydney has an excellent public transportation network. You can use an Opal card or a contactless credit/debit card to tap on and off trains, buses, ferries, and light rail. International visitors often find this system very convenient.TikTok+1

Absolutely! You can use your contactless credit or debit card to tap on and off, just like an Opal card. This is often the easiest method for visitors.TikTok

Yes, taxis and rideshare services like Uber are readily available in the Darling Harbour area and can take you to and from ICC Sydney.

The walk from Town Hall station to ICC Sydney is about 15-20 minutes and is quite pleasant, especially if you enjoy exploring the city. It's a good option if you want to stretch your legs and see more of Darling Harbour.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are typically purchased directly through the event organizer's website or authorized ticketing platforms. For some events, on-site ticket sales might be available, but booking in advance is always recommended.Instagram

Discounts often depend on the specific event. Keep an eye on event websites or subscribe to newsletters for potential early bird offers or group discounts.

ICC Sydney itself doesn't have fixed public opening hours as it hosts various events. Opening hours are specific to each event, exhibition, or convention. Always check the event schedule for exact timings.Instagram

Refund policies are determined by the individual event organizer. Generally, tickets are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled or significantly rescheduled.

A 'Fan Experience' ticket often refers to a special package for concerts or shows that may include early entry, merchandise access, or premium seating. Check the specific event details for what's included.Reddit

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

ICC Sydney hosts a wide range of events, including major conventions, exhibitions (like Fine Food Australia), concerts, conferences, and banquets. It's a versatile venue for both business and entertainment.Instagram+1

While premium seats offer the best views and sound, even mid-range seats can provide a good experience. Redditors advise against sections 4, 5, and 6 due to their separated location on an upper level.Reddit

Complimentary Wi-Fi is generally available throughout ICC Sydney for visitors. Check with event organizers for specific network details.

ICC Sydney offers a variety of facilities including restaurants, cafes, bars, restrooms, cloakrooms, and accessibility services to ensure a comfortable experience for all attendees.

Photography policies vary by event. For most conventions and exhibitions, personal photography is allowed, but professional recording or flash photography might be restricted. Always check event guidelines.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, several options are within a 10-minute walk. Edition Roasters is praised for its coffee, Kurtosh offers pastries and seating, and Auvers at Darling Square is another popular choice.Reddit

ICC Sydney features several dining venues, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants, offering a range of cuisines. Many events also have food and beverage stalls.Instagram

Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside ICC Sydney, especially for ticketed events. There are ample dining options available within the venue.

Most dining outlets at ICC Sydney offer a variety of options, including vegetarian and vegan choices. It's advisable to check menus in advance or ask staff for recommendations.

Tipping is not mandatory or expected in Australia, unlike in some other countries. While appreciated for exceptional service, it's not a standard part of the dining culture.TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The waterfront promenade in Darling Harbour offers fantastic views of the Sydney skyline and the iconic bridges. The architecture of ICC Sydney itself also makes for striking photos.Instagram

Photography policies for concerts vary. Many venues prohibit professional cameras and flash photography to avoid distracting performers and other audience members. Check the specific event's rules.

Yes, the Darling Harbour area provides beautiful sunset views over the water, with the city lights starting to twinkle. The promenade is ideal for capturing these moments.Instagram

For general event photography, a versatile zoom lens is useful. If you're aiming for low-light shots, a camera with good low-light performance and a fast aperture lens would be beneficial.

Drone usage is strictly regulated in urban areas like Darling Harbour due to safety and privacy concerns. It is highly unlikely that drones are permitted for photography near ICC Sydney without special permits.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

ICC Sydney and the surrounding Darling Harbour area are very family-friendly. Many events held at the ICC are suitable for all ages, and the waterfront promenade offers space for children to explore. Consider visiting the nearby SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium or WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo. When using public transport, ensure children are supervised, and be aware of any specific ticketing requirements for younger travelers. Pack snacks and drinks, as outside food policies may apply within the venue.

✈️ International Visitors

Navigating Sydney as an international visitor is made easier by its efficient public transport system. Using your contactless bank card for travel is a straightforward option.TikTok Familiarize yourself with local customs, such as the lack of tipping culture.TikTok Many events at ICC Sydney cater to international audiences, offering diverse experiences from global trade shows to cultural performances. Always check event details for specific entry requirements and timings to make the most of your visit.

🎤 Concert & Performance Goers

For the best concert experience at the Darling Harbour Theatre, consider your seating carefully. While premium seats are ideal, even mid-tier options can be good. Redditors suggest avoiding specific upper-level sections for better views and sound.Reddit Arrive with enough time to navigate security and find your seats, especially if you plan to purchase merchandise, as queues can form early.Reddit Check the venue's bag policy beforehand to ensure a smooth entry.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Getting Around Sydney: Beyond the ICC

While ICC Sydney is a hub for events, exploring the wider city is a must. Sydney boasts an efficient public transport system, making it easy to navigate without a car.TikTok The Opal card is your key to trains, buses, ferries, and light rail. For visitors, using a contactless credit or debit card for tap-on/tap-off is often the most convenient method, as refunds on Opal cards can be complicated.TikTok Consider a scenic ferry ride for stunning harbor views – a quintessential Sydney experience.

Beyond the immediate Darling Harbour precinct, areas like Newtown offer a vibrant, bohemian atmosphere with unique shops and eateries.TikTok For those interested in food, the Fish Market is a popular spot for fresh seafood.Instagram Remember that seatbelt laws are strictly enforced, and car seats are mandatory for children.TikTok Tipping is not a cultural norm in Australia, so don't feel obligated unless you receive truly exceptional service.TikTok

Experiencing Events at ICC Sydney

ICC Sydney is a premier venue for a diverse array of events, from large-scale international conventions and trade shows to intimate concerts and banquets. The Darling Harbour Theatre is renowned for its excellent acoustics and sightlines, making it a sought-after location for performances.Reddit Visitors attending concerts should be aware that seating in certain sections, like 4, 5, and 6, might offer a less optimal experience due to their elevated and separated position.Reddit

Exhibitions like Fine Food Australia showcase a vast array of culinary products and trends, offering opportunities for tasting and networking.Instagram+1 For attendees of conventions or fan experiences, it's crucial to check event-specific timings for entry and merchandise sales to ensure you don't miss out.Reddit Planning your arrival and understanding the venue's layout can significantly enhance your overall experience.

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