When you hear Perth, you might imagine an isolated city lost somewhere at the end of the world. And I’ll tell you right away that you’re right – Perth truly is one of the most isolated major cities on the planet. But that’s precisely its charm.
Instead of tourist crowds, you’ll find beaches with crystal-clear water, vast parks full of exotic plants, and an atmosphere that will immediately captivate you. Perth is the capital of Western Australia and home to over two million people who enjoy more than 300 sunny days a year. Just imagine a city where skyscrapers alternate with eucalyptus parks, where you can surf in the morning and go wine tasting in nearby vineyards in the afternoon.
In this guide, I will share with you Perth, Australia: 18 Best Things to Do and See, so you can make the most of your visit to this incredible city.
TL;DR
- Perth offers over 80 kilometers of beautiful beaches with crystal-clear water, ideal for surfing, swimming, and relaxing on white sand.
- Kings Park is one of the largest urban parks in the world, with a botanical garden, city views, and unforgettable sunsets.
- Rottnest Island, with its adorable quokka kangaroos, is just a 40-minute ferry ride from the city, and you’ll be in paradise.
- The best time to visit is from September to May, when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is minimal.
- Choose accommodation in the city center or near the beaches – Perth has excellent public transport, including free CAT buses.
When to Visit Perth
Perth welcomes you with sunny weather almost all year round, but each season has its specifics. The best time to visit is definitely from September to May, when you can expect warm and dry weather with minimal rainfall.
- Summer (December to February) is the warmest period, with average temperatures around 27-32°C. It’s an ideal time for swimming and water sports, but be prepared for occasional hot days. It’s in summer that the city truly comes alive – beaches fill with locals enjoying their holidays.
- Autumn (March to May) offers pleasant temperatures between 15-25°C and is considered the most beautiful time of year. The sun is still warm but not as intense. It’s the perfect time to explore the wine regions around the city or take long walks in Kings Park.
- Winter (June to August) is mild, with temperatures of 9-18°C and occasional rain. Even in winter, you can expect many sunny days, just pack warmer clothes for the evenings.
- Spring (September to November) is the time when wildflowers bloom, for which Western Australia is famous. Temperatures rise from 15°C to a pleasant 25°C, and nature around the city awakens.
Perth: where to Stay
It’s best to stay near the city center. I recommend:
Perth or Sydney?
If you’re asking whether to choose Perth or Sydney, they are, in truth, two completely different cities. Sydney is a metropolis with iconic landmarks like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, while Perth offers a calmer pace of life and closer contact with nature.
Perth has several advantages: fewer tourists, cleaner beaches, lower prices, and easier access to nature. While in Sydney you can expect many people, the hustle and bustle of a big city, and crowded beaches. In Perth, you often feel like you have the whole ocean to yourself.
On the other hand, Sydney offers more cultural activities, world-famous landmarks, and a more diverse ethnic community. The decision depends on whether you prefer a bustling metropolis or a quieter ocean-side environment.
If it has to be one or the other, I would definitely choose Sydney. Perth was more boring. 😆 But it’s also a great starting point for road trips in Western Australia.
Read also: 31 tips on what to see in Sydney
Perth, Australia: 18 Best Things to Do and See
I’ve put together 18 tips on what to see and do in Perth for you.
Kings Park
Kings Park is truly the heart of Perth and one of the largest urban parks in the world. Covering over 400 hectares, you’ll find a combination of wild eucalyptus forests and meticulously maintained botanical gardens. The park is located on Mount Eliza, which guarantees magnificent views of the entire city and the Swan River.
The Botanical Garden in Kings Park is home to thousands of plant species typical of Western Australia. Don’t forget to visit the Federation Walkway – a glass bridge among the treetops that offers a bird’s-eye view of the city.
In the park, you’ll also find the State War Memorial, a monument dedicated to Australian soldiers, from where some of the most beautiful views of Perth open up. At sunset, the city stretches out in golden light all the way to the ocean.
Beaches in Perth
Perth boasts over 80 kilometers of coastal beaches, each with its own character. The Indian Ocean water is so clear that you can see the bottom even in deeper areas. The beaches are ideal for both surfers and families with children.
City Beach is popular among young people and offers excellent conditions for water sports. On the beach, you’ll find surfboard rentals and beach volleyball options. Scarborough Beach has undergone extensive renovation in recent years and now offers a modern promenade with restaurants and bars.
For a quieter rest, seek out Leighton Beach with its incredibly white sand, or head to Port Beach, where you can watch ships arrive at Fremantle Harbour.
Hyde Park
If you want to escape the city bustle, Hyde Park is the ideal place. Located just a few minutes from Perth city center, it offers vast grassy areas, trees providing pleasant shade, two lakes with waterfowl, and several children’s playgrounds. Locals come here for picnics, dog walks, or to jog along the circular path around the water.
Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island, which locals simply call “Rotto”, is a magical island just a 40-minute ferry ride from Perth. The island is famous for its quokka kangaroos, small kangaroos found only here, who are so friendly that they’ll happily take a selfie with you.
Cars are not allowed on the island, so you get around on foot or by bike (which can be rented on-site). The island offers over 60 beaches and coves with crystal-clear water, ideal for snorkeling. The Basin is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia.
Rottnest also has a rich history – it served as a prison for Aboriginal people and later as a recreation spot for wealthy Perth residents. Today, you can visit a museum or take a tour of the former prison.
Swan Valley
Swan Valley is Western Australia’s oldest wine region, located just a 25-minute drive from Perth city center. The area is home to over 40 wineries where you can taste excellent local wines, especially Shiraz, for which the region is famous.
The best way to experience Swan Valley is to rent a car or join an organized wine tour. Among the most famous wineries is Sandalford Wines, where you can not only taste wine but also enjoy lunch with vineyard views.
The area also offers other gastronomic experiences. Visit a local chocolate factory, brewery, or farm with fresh produce. Swan Valley is also home to several art galleries where you’ll find works by local artists inspired by the beauty of Western Australian nature.
Fremantle
Fremantle is a historic port city located a 30-minute drive from Perth city center. It has retained its 19th-century atmosphere with well-preserved Victorian buildings and narrow streets full of cafes and galleries.
The main attraction is Fremantle Prison, a former prison from 1850, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can book a tour of the underground tunnels or even get locked in a cell for a night.
Fremantle Markets are an ideal place to buy souvenirs and taste local specialties. The market has been operating since 1897, and you’ll find everything from fresh fruit to handmade goods by local artists. In the nearby West End area, you’ll discover atmospheric cafes and restaurants in historic buildings.
Heirisson Island
Heirisson Island is a small island on the Swan River that has become home to Western Grey Kangaroos. It’s one of the few places where you can observe wild kangaroos in close proximity to a major city center. The island is connected to the mainland by bridges and is easily accessible on foot.
In addition to kangaroos, you’ll find beautiful picnic areas and jogging trails here. The island also offers magnificent views of the city center, especially at sunset when Perth’s skyscrapers are reflected in the calm waters of the river.
Various cultural events are held on the island, and it’s a popular spot for wedding photos thanks to the combination of the city skyline and wild animals.
Elizabeth Quay
Elizabeth Quay is a modern waterfront precinct that has become a new hub for social life in Perth. Opened in 2016, it offers a combination of luxury hotels, restaurants, and cultural spaces.
The dominant feature of the area is an artificial island with a public park and fountains. From here, boats also depart for scenic cruises on the Swan River.
During the summer months, outdoor concerts and film screenings are held here. The promenade is popular with runners and cyclists, and with views of the river and city, it’s an ideal spot for romantic strolls.
The Perth Mint
The Perth Mint is the oldest operating mint in Australia. It was founded in 1899 during the gold rush, and you can still watch the gold melting process here today.
During the tour, you’ll see the largest gold nugget found in Western Australia and be able to hold a gold bar worth several hundred thousand dollars. Gold melting demonstrations take place several times a day.
The museum offers interactive exhibits on the history of the gold rush in Western Australia, and you can also buy jewelry and coins made from local gold.
Perth Zoo
Perth Zoo is one of the best zoos in Australia and home to over 1,200 animals from all continents. The zoo focuses on conserving endangered species and educating the public about nature conservation.
Among the main attractions are the Australian animal section, where you can see kangaroos, koalas, dingoes, and wombats. The African savanna is home to elephants, giraffes, and lions, while the Asian section offers encounters with orangutans and tigers.
The zoo is located just three kilometers from the city center and is easily accessible by bus or ferry along the Swan River. It’s an ideal place for a full-day trip for families with children.
St George Cathedral
St. George’s Cathedral is the oldest Anglican cathedral in Perth and a significant architectural landmark of the city. It was built in the Victorian Neo-Gothic style at the end of the 19th century, and its spires are visible from many parts of the city.
The interior of the cathedral is remarkable for its stained-glass windows and wooden furnishings. Classical music concerts are regularly held here, and the cathedral is popular for wedding ceremonies.
Cottesloe Beach
Cottesloe Beach is probably Perth’s most famous beach and has even been awarded as one of the best family beaches in the world.
The beach is lined with Norfolk Pine trees, which provide pleasant shade during hot summer days. Nearby, you’ll find numerous cafes and restaurants, including the iconic il Lido restaurant right on the beach.
Cottesloe is also a great place to watch sunsets.
Trigg Beach
Trigg Beach is a surfer’s paradise located north of Cottesloe. The beach offers excellent surfing conditions all year round and is home to several surf schools.
Even if you don’t surf, Trigg Beach is worth a visit for its wild character and fewer visitors than more popular beaches. The sand dunes behind the beach are ideal for a picnic or stargazing.
Around the beach, you’ll also find interesting rockpools – natural pools among the rocks.
Pinnaroo Point
Pinnaroo Point is a lesser-known viewpoint that offers spectacular coastal views and is popular among locals. It is located south of City Beach and is ideal for watching sunrises and sunsets.
The area around Pinnaroo Point is also excellent for observing local fauna. You can spot various bird species here and, with a bit of luck, even dolphins in the water below the cliffs.
Mettams Pool
Mettams Pool is a protected lagoon ideal for snorkeling and observing marine life. It is located north of Trigg Beach.
The lagoon is protected by a barrier reef, creating ideal conditions for beginner divers. Here you can see colorful fish, seaweed, and with a bit of luck, even sea turtles.
Mettams Pool is also a great place for swimming; the water here is warmer than on open beaches and almost without waves.
Secret Harbour Golf Links
Secret Harbour Golf Links is one of the most beautiful golf courses in Australia. Located south of Perth, it offers breathtaking ocean views from almost every hole.
The course was designed to utilize natural landscape features – sand dunes, coastal vegetation, and rocky outcrops. Even if you don’t play golf, it’s worth coming here for beautiful coastal walks.
Coogee Beach
Coogee Beach is a quiet beach south of Perth, popular with locals. The beach is surrounded by Coogee Beach Coastal Park, where you’ll find barbecue areas and picnic tables.
Around Coogee Beach, you’ll also find interesting walking trails along the coast, offering beautiful views and the chance to observe local flora and fauna.
Road Trip through Western Australia
As mentioned, Perth is a great starting point for a road trip through Western Australia. This part of the country is wild, vast, and often overlooked, but that’s precisely what makes it so magical.
You can head north to the Coral Coast with postcard-perfect beaches, whale watch near Exmouth, snorkel at Ningaloo Reef, or discover the red canyons in Kalbarri.
If you prefer greener landscapes and wine, head south to Margaret River. Or, like us, go to the famous Esperance with its white beaches and kangaroos (via Bunbury, Margaret River, Bremer Bay, Denmark, Albany, and Augusta). It’s worth it.
The journeys are long, but the views constantly change – from sand dunes to eucalyptus forests to coastal cliffs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a stay in Perth be?
For a thorough exploration of Perth, I recommend at least 5-7 days. This will allow you to visit the main city attractions, spend time on the beaches, take a trip to Rottnest Island, and discover the Swan Valley wine regions. If you plan a longer stay, you can also explore more distant areas of Western Australia.
Is Perth an expensive city?
Perth is more expensive than Czech cities, but slightly cheaper than Sydney or Melbourne. Accommodation in the city center costs from 100 to 300 AUD per night, and a meal in a restaurant costs between 25-50 AUD for a main course. Public transport is accessible, and there are also free CAT buses in the city center.
How to get from the airport to the city?
You can get from Perth Airport to the city center in several ways. The most convenient is the train, which runs every 15 minutes and takes about 40 minutes. The bus is a cheaper but slower option. A taxi or Uber costs around 50-70 AUD.
Do I need a car in Perth?
While a car isn’t strictly necessary in Perth, it will significantly ease your travels. The city has good public transport, but for visiting beaches, Swan Valley, or more distant locations, a car is practical. Car rental starts from 40 AUD per day.
Are there dangerous animals in Perth?
Perth is a relatively safe city when it comes to animals. On the beaches, watch out for stingrays and, during the summer months, for venomous jellyfish. In nature, you might encounter snakes, but they are mostly shy. Always follow basic safety rules and ask locals for advice.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
