Perth Travel Guide, Australia

People searching for things to do in Perth are usually looking for beaches, parks and a relaxed capital with plenty of sun. Perth is the capital and largest city of Western Australia and the fourth most populous city in Australia, with a population of about 2.3 million in Greater Perth as of 2023. It sits on the Swan Coastal Plain between the Indian Ocean and the Darling Scarp.

It is among the world’s most isolated major cities. The nearest city with more than 100,000 people, Adelaide, is about 2,120 km away, across the Nullarbor Plain. Despite the isolation, the city is surprisingly vibrant and cosmopolitan, with plenty of activities for visitors.

The city grew from British settlements on the Swan River, where its central business district and the port of Fremantle sit, and it stands on the traditional lands of the Whadjuk Noongar people. Expect a spread-out city with a compact centre, river views, long beaches and a strong outdoor culture.

Walk Kings Park and Botanic Garden

This large park above the city has bushland, gardens and some of the best views over the skyline and the river. Allow two to three hours. Tip: spring brings wildflowers, and the park is free to enter, though some attractions charge.

Explore Fremantle

The historic port city has heritage buildings, markets, cafes and a working harbour. Allow half a day to a full day. Tip: reach it by train from the city, and check market days before you go.

Take a ferry to Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island is a car-free island with sheltered bays, snorkelling and quokkas. Allow a full day. Tip: hire a bike on the island, book ferries ahead in summer, and do not feed or touch wildlife.

Swim at Cottesloe Beach

Perth’s most famous city beach has white sand and clear water on the Indian Ocean. Allow half a day. Tip: swim between the flags, and use sun protection, as the summer sun is strong.

Walk the Swan River foreshore

Paths along the river and the Elizabeth Quay waterfront give easy walks and views. Allow one to two hours. Tip: it works well at sunrise or sunset.

Visit museums and galleries

The cultural precinct has museums and galleries on the state’s history, nature and art. Allow two hours. Tip: check hours and any current exhibitions before you go.

Learn about Noongar culture

The region is Whadjuk Noongar land, and cultural experiences offer perspective on its long history. Allow two hours. Tip: choose Aboriginal-owned or led experiences where possible.

Perth has a Mediterranean-style climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Beaches and island trips are at their best in the warmer months, while spring brings wildflowers.

Check forecasts, as heatwaves can occur in summer, and plan outdoor activities for the morning or evening then.

Perth Airport serves the city, with domestic flights from other Australian cities and some international routes. Because the city is so far from others, most visitors fly. Flights from the east coast take several hours, so plan accordingly.

Long-distance travel by road or rail is possible but covers huge distances, so it suits only a dedicated journey. Check current options.

In the city, trains, buses and ferries form the public transport network, and the central area is compact. Trains link Perth with Fremantle and the suburbs. A car is useful for beaches, wine regions and the wider state, but you do not need one for the centre. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are available.

The central business district and the waterfront around Elizabeth Quay suit first-time visitors and short stays, with easy access to transport, restaurants and the river. It is quieter in the evening than in other capitals.

Fremantle suits travellers who want historic character, cafes and a relaxed port feel, with train links to the city. It is a good base for several nights.

The coastal suburbs, such as Cottesloe and Scarborough, suit beach lovers and families, though you will rely on buses, trains or a car to reach the centre. Book ahead for summer and school holidays, and check the distance to transport before choosing.

Three days covers the city, Kings Park, a beach and Fremantle, and four days lets you add Rottnest Island at a comfortable pace. If you plan to explore the wider state, wine regions or coast, add several more days.

1. Day 1: Walk Kings Park, the river foreshore and Elizabeth Quay.
2. Day 2: Take the train to Fremantle, visit its markets and heritage sites, and finish at a beach.
3. Day 3: Take a ferry to Rottnest Island for swimming and cycling.

Book the ferry in advance in summer, and bring sun protection every day.

Rottnest Island

A car-free island with beaches and quokkas, reached by ferry from the city or Fremantle. Allow a full day. Tip: book ahead and bring water and sun protection.

Fremantle

The historic port can be a half-day or a full-day trip, reached by train. Tip: plan around market days.

Swan Valley

This wine and food region lies northeast of the city, and suits a relaxed day. Allow half a day or more. Tip: if you taste wine, arrange a driver or tour.

Margaret River region

This southwest region is known for wine, beaches and forests, and is a long drive from the city. Allow an overnight stay. Tip: check driving times before you commit.