Perth is a sun-drenched, laid-back capital city defined by its pristine coastline, expansive river views, and a burgeoning culinary scene. It is best visited between September and April to take full advantage of the Mediterranean climate and outdoor lifestyle.
Top Things to Do in Perth
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Getting Around Perth
From the Airport
Train. The Transperth Airport Line connects the airport to the CBD in about 20 minutes for a standard fare. Rideshare. Uber and DiDi are the primary rideshare services operating at Perth Airport with designated pick-up zones.
Once You're There
Train. The Transperth rail network is efficient for traveling between Perth city, Fremantle, and suburban hubs. Walking. The Perth city center is very compact and highly walkable, especially around the riverfront and shopping malls. Rideshare. Uber is the standard app for getting around when public transit is not convenient or for late-night travel.
Where to Stay in Perth
Hotel picks for Perth are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Perth
Balthazar★ 4.6 (1,594)6 The Esplanade, Perth WA 6000, AustraliaA sophisticated, intimate dining room perfect for a high-end dinner paired with an exceptional selection of Western Australian wines.
Wildflower★ 4.5 (1,085)COMO The Treasury Level 4, 1 Cathedral Ave, Perth WA 6000, AustraliaLocated on the rooftop of COMO The Treasury, this fine-dining spot offers a sophisticated menu based on the six seasons of the Indigenous Noongar calendar.
Petition Kitchen★ 4.4 (2,301)St Georges Tce &, State Buildings, Barrack St, Perth WA 6000, AustraliaThis lively spot in the State Buildings is a favorite for its seasonal, produce-forward menu and excellent coffee.
Sauma★ 4.4 (1,538)200/206 William St, Northbridge WA 6003, AustraliaAn innovative Indian restaurant in Northbridge that elevates traditional street food with modern techniques and local ingredients.
The Old Synagogue★ 4.4 (733)92 South Terrace, Fremantle WA 6160, AustraliaThis multi-venue precinct in Fremantle offers everything from high-end dining to casual drinks in a stunningly converted historic landmark.
Bread in Common★ 4.3 (2,486)43 Pakenham St, Fremantle WA 6160, AustraliaHoused in a rustic industrial space in Fremantle, it is famous for its house-baked sourdough and shared plates featuring fresh local produce.
Canteen Pizza★ 4.2 (1,088)32 Ardross St, Applecross WA 6153, AustraliaA must-visit beachside spot in Cottesloe known for its wood-fired pizzas and stunning sunset views over the Indian Ocean.
Long Chim★ 4.1 (1,259)Corner of Barrack street &, St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000, AustraliaTucked away in the basement of the State Buildings, this restaurant serves high-energy, authentic Thai street food in a cool, edgy setting.
Garum★ 4.1 (894)level 5/480 Hay St, Perth WA 6000, AustraliaChef Guy Grossi’s Roman-style eatery offers a refined take on Italian classics within a beautifully restored heritage building.
Tours & Activities
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3 Days in Perth
Riverside Icons & City Culture
Morning. Start your Perth adventure by heading straight to Kings Park and Botanic Garden, where you can take in the panoramic views of the city skyline and the Swan River. Spend about two hours wandering through the Fraser Avenue precinct and the Lotterywest Federation Walkway, which offers a stunning treetop canopy view. Afterward, walk down the stairs toward the city center to reach the Art Gallery of Western Australia in the Perth Cultural Centre. It is a fantastic place to spend the late morning exploring contemporary Indigenous art and local history. Make sure to arrive early to beat the midday heat and enjoy the park's cooler morning air.
Afternoon. After grabbing a quick bite, head toward the waterfront to explore the modern development of Elizabeth Quay. Admire the architecture of the Spanda sculpture and walk across the pedestrian bridge for the best photo opportunities of the city. From there, it is a short walk to The Bell Tower, one of the world's largest musical instruments, where you can even try your hand at bell ringing. Spend the rest of the afternoon strolling along the riverbank path, watching the ferries cross to South Perth. It is a relaxing way to get your bearings in the heart of the city.
Evening. As the sun begins to set, head into the historic State Buildings for an upscale dinner experience. This beautifully restored precinct is the social heart of Perth, featuring high-end restaurants and bars tucked into old government offices. Finish your evening with a cocktail at a nearby rooftop bar, such as the one at the QT Perth, to see the city lights flicker to life. It is the perfect way to wrap up your first day in the city. The area is highly walkable, so you can easily explore the surrounding laneways after your meal.
Island Escapes & Coastal Views
Morning. Wake up early and head to the Barrack Street Jetty to catch the morning ferry to Rottnest Island. This car-free island is the home of the famous quokka, and the ferry ride itself offers beautiful views of the Perth coastline. Once you arrive, rent a bicycle from the rental shop near the main settlement to explore the island at your own pace. Cycle toward The Basin for a refreshing morning swim in some of the clearest turquoise water you will ever see. Remember to bring plenty of sunscreen and water, as the island sun can be quite intense even in the morning.
Afternoon. Spend your afternoon cycling to the more remote beaches like Pinky Beach or Little Salmon Bay to enjoy the solitude and natural beauty. Keep your camera ready for a 'quokka selfie,' but remember to maintain a respectful distance from the wildlife. Before catching the afternoon ferry back to the mainland, grab a casual lunch at the settlement to refuel. The ferry journey back provides a different perspective of the city as you approach the harbor. It is a full day of adventure, so keep your schedule flexible enough to enjoy the coastal breeze.
Evening. Upon returning to the mainland, head straight to Cottesloe Beach for the quintessential Western Australian sunset. This iconic beach is lined with Norfolk pines and features the historic Indiana Tea House building as a backdrop. Find a spot at a nearby restaurant to enjoy dinner while watching the sun dip into the Indian Ocean. The atmosphere here is incredibly relaxed, making it the perfect end to an active day. It is widely considered the best sunset spot in the entire state.
Historic Fremantle & Maritime Charm
Morning. Take the train from Perth Station to Fremantle, a historic port city that feels worlds apart from the modern glass towers of the CBD. Start your morning at the famous Fremantle Markets, which have been operating since 1897 and are packed with local crafts, fresh produce, and quirky boutiques. Spend an hour or two navigating the crowded aisles and sampling local honey or fresh juices. Afterward, walk a few blocks over to the Round House, the oldest public building in Western Australia, for a quick history lesson and great views of the Bathers Beach area.
Afternoon. For lunch, head toward the Fishing Boat Harbour to enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many lively venues overlooking the water. After lunch, visit the WA Maritime Museum to learn about the region's deep connection to the Indian Ocean and the famous Batavia shipwreck. If you have extra time, walk over to the Fremantle Prison, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a guided tour of the cells and tunnels. The architecture of the prison is striking and provides a sobering look at the colonial history of the area. It is a fascinating afternoon for any history buff.
Evening. Wrap up your trip by spending the evening in the West End of Fremantle, known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture and vibrant nightlife. Grab dinner at a local favorite, like a converted warehouse restaurant, and enjoy the laid-back, creative energy of the town. If you still have energy, duck into one of the many small bars that line High Street for a final local craft beer. It is the perfect, low-key conclusion to a three-day tour of Perth and its surrounding gems. The train ride back to Perth is simple and safe for late-night travelers.