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Three Sisters, AustraliaAttraction in Katoomba, Australia

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Sydney Convicts, History & The Rocks 2.5-Hour Walking Tour

Top rated
4.927273 out of 5 stars
4.9
4.927273 out of 5 stars
165 reviews
Sydney Convicts, History & The Rocks 2.5-Hour Walking Tour
Top rated
4.927273 out of 5 stars
4.9
4.927273 out of 5 stars
165 reviews

A colony of thieves, a currency of rum — Sydney’s colonial birthplace certainly makes for a good story. Retracing the lives of prisoners, soldiers & sailors who once washed ashore on this ancient land

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 2.5 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

K
Katrina – Australia

Very informative and entertaining with a few laughs along the way. We loved it!! Well done Max.

P
Peter – Australia

The tour was expertly led and the pace was just right. Alex was most informative and obviously knowledgeable

Select participants and date

Participants

Itinerary

  • Timeline stop icon

    Starting location:

    Customs House Library

  • Timeline stop icon

    Customs House, Sydney

    Guided tour, Sightseeing, Walk (15 minutes)

  • Timeline stop icon

    Circular Quay

    Guided tour, Sightseeing, Walk (25 minutes)

  • Timeline stop icon

    Macquarie Place Park

    Guided tour, Sightseeing, Walk (20 minutes)

  • Timeline stop icon

    The Rocks

    Guided tour, Sightseeing, Walk (75 minutes)

  • Finish at:

    Argyle Cut

Main stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Embark on a journey through time and space to discover the secrets of Sydney
  • Wind through cobblestone alleyways
  • Learn about Sydney's most notorious rum dealers and street gangs
  • Discover the inner workings of heritage buildings & unknown stories behind them
  • Unique sandstone structures, hidden ruins & the story of the infamous convict

Full description

Join this tour for an immersive exploration of Sydney’s notorious heritage as you uncover the stories, sights and secrets of its hidden convict origins in The Rocks. As you navigate your way past the forgotten relics and ruins of this historic quarter, your guide will unpack the process of criminal transportation to Australia and its immediate effect on Sydney’s indigenous population at the turn of the 19th century.

You'll discover the curious case of the convict architect and the ambitious Governor who wanted to decorate the prison settlement, and you’ll retrace the steps of the teenage girl who rose from chains to riches by conquering Sydney’s economy. Expect unique examples of Georgian and Victorian architecture, hidden corridors, convict cut sandstone, abandoned slums and enormous cellars for spirits and stores. Get lost in charm of The Rocks as its past is brought back to life by your expert history guide, and develop a d great understanding about how early Sydney came to be.

Crafted to suit both locals and visitors, this tour will keep your eyes wide open, your ears pricked and your imagination ignited.

Includes

  • 2-hours of time traveling with a local historian through the Rocks
  • Entrance into the historic buildings such as the Argyle Stores and Customs House
  • An insider's guide to local historic pubs, heritage architecture and discovery museums

Not suitable for

  • People with mobility impairments

Meeting point

Meet your guide in front of the Customs House building, on the right hand side if facing building (outside).

Open in Google Maps

Important information

Not allowed

  • Luggage or large bags
  • Pets (assistance dogs allowed)
  • Baby strollers

Know before you go

  • This tour is most suitable for persons older than 14 years of age, as it involves adult themes and concepts
  • Due to the layout of The Rocks, some stairs are unavoidable at certain points along the way
  • Anyone needing special assistance must make contact with the local tour operator in advance
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are advised that this tour may include the names and images of people who are now deceased
  • Wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing a bottle of water is encouraged
  • In the case of wet or wild weather, the tour will continue. You are kindly asked to be prepared with an umbrella or raincoat to ensure you can handle all weather conditions

From $34 per person

Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today
Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.9 /5

based on 165 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.9/5
  • Value for money
    4.9/5

Customer photos

+3
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K
Katrina – AustraliaApril 29, 2025 – Verified booking
Very informative and entertaining with a few laughs along the way. We loved it!! Well done Max.
P
Peter – AustraliaMarch 12, 2025 – Verified booking
The tour was expertly led and the pace was just right. Alex was most informative and obviously knowledgeable
G
Graeme – AustraliaMarch 4, 2025 – Verified booking
Great history tour. Max was extremely knowledgeable, and made it very interesting right throughout the 3 hrs

Product ID: 117168

Activity provider:Journey Walks
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