Vivid Sydney experiences under $100

For less than $50 per person, you can score front-row seats to Vivid Sydney’s dazzling light displays aboard a 10.5-metre catamaran. With only 25 passengers on board, it’s an intimate and relaxed way to take in the Harbour’s iconic landmarks—without the hustle of the crowds. You’ll be welcomed with a non-alcoholic drink and light refreshments, keeping both your eyes and appetite satisfied as the city glows around you. And the best part? It’s also BYO drinks! So, grab your favourite drink, settle in and toast to a beautiful evening during Vivid Sydney.

Want to level up your Vivid Sydney cruise? For just $30 more, hop on board a tall ship and you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner with unbeatable views of Luna Park, Sydney Harbour, and the iconic Sydney Opera House—all while gliding through the heart of the festival. It’s the ultimate way to tick off dinner and sightseeing in one seamless, budget-friendly experience. Hot tip: Feeling adventurous? You’re welcome to step up and help the captain steer the ship for a truly hands-on Vivid moment!

Looking for a one-of-a-kind way to experience Vivid Sydney? Why not try your hand at night photography! Grab a few mates and learn how to capture the festival’s dazzling light displays like a pro. Led by an award-winning photographer, this hands-on workshop takes you into the heart of the city, where you’ll master camera settings and techniques to snap incredible shots of Sydney’s glowing skyline. With a small class size and plenty of expert guidance, it’s a fun and creative way to see Vivid Sydney through a whole new lens—literally!

Think you’ve done it all? Some of Sydney’s past residents might just prove you wrong. Take a ghost tour in The Rocks, and you’ll not only will you soak up incredible views of the glowing city, but you’ll also uncover Sydney’s eerie past, packed with chilling history and real-life paranormal encounters. It’s frighteningly fun and the perfect way to mix a little mystery with your night of lights. Who knows? You might leave with more than just great photos…

If you need more of a thrill, look no further. Buckle up and hop on a 30-minute Vivid Sydney jet boat ride, where you’ll speed through the hHarbour with front-row views of Luna Park, Blues Point, Barangaroo, and Circular Quay—all while feeling the rush of thrilling spins and turns. Don’t worry, though—this ride is dialeddialled down just enough so you won’t end up drenched (because soggy socks and city exploring don’t mix). It’s the perfect way to add some high-speed fun to your Vivid Sydney night!

And there you have it—our curation of the best budget-friendly Vivid Sydney experiencestexperiences! Whether you're after front-row views, high-speed thrills, or something totally unique, these experiences prove you don’t need to splurge to enjoy the magic of Vivid Sydney. Keen for more? We’ve got even more fun experiences starting from just $38—so your next fun evening is just a click away!