Craving sun, sand, and a laid-back city vibe? Head to Perth! Nestled on Australia’s west coast, Perth blends golden beaches, sprawling parklands, and urban culture in one sunny package. Whether you're exploring art galleries, sipping wine in nearby valleys, or spotting quokkas on Rottnest Island, Perth promises adventure and relaxation in equal measure.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Perth is during spring and autumn (September–November and March–May). These shoulder seasons offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and blooming wildflowers. Summer (December–February) is hot and ideal for beach lovers, while winter is cooler and quieter.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by air: Perth Airport (PER) is the primary gateway, with direct flights from major Australian cities, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
- By Train: The Indian Pacific offers a luxury rail journey across the country from Sydney to Perth.
- By Car: Road trips to Perth from other cities are scenic but long—ideal for those with time to explore Australia’s vast landscapes.
Where to Stay
- The Ritz-Carlton Perth – Luxury hotel with sweeping views of Elizabeth Quay and the Swan River.
- Alex Hotel – A chic boutique hotel in the heart of the cultural district near museums and nightlife.
- Tribe Perth – Affordable and modern hotel near Kings Park with minimalist design and convenience.
Top Attractions
⮕ Kings Park and Botanic Gardens
Explore scenic trails and admire native plants with panoramic city views.
© gb27photo/stock.adobe.com
Kings Park and Botanic Gardens has sweeping views of the Perth skyline and the Swan and Canning Rivers. It is home to the Botanic Gardens which houses more than 3000 species of Western Australia's unique flora. Two-thirds of the park is protected bushland. The park brings together Aboriginal, European and contemporary culture through scheduled events and exhibitions. Photography, walking and cycling are popular activities. Children will enjoy the playground and discovery center. A café on the premises provides refreshments and plants and memorabilia can be purchased at the gallery shop. The park is open all year round and entrance is free.
Fraser Avenue, Kings Park WA 6005, Phone: +61-8-94-80-36-00
⮕ Cottesloe Beach
Relax on sandy shores and enjoy stunning sunset views.
© beau/stock.adobe.com
For more than a century Cottesloe Beach has been a favorite destination for residents and visitors alike. It is on the Indian Ocean coast, halfway between Perth and Fremantle and is on a bus route. The beach has been divided into three areas, suitable for swimming, snorkeling and surfing, respectively. There are several restaurants along the beachfront. The beach faces west and the sunsets make for romantic dinners and great photo opportunities. Hotels and seafront apartments offer overnight accommodation, a short walk from the sea.
⮕ Optus Stadium
Experience thrilling sports events and admire impressive stadium architecture.
© David/stock.adobe.com
The state-of-the-art state-owned Optus Stadium was completed in 2018. It received several awards for its design, construction, use of technology, tourism potential and collaboration. It is situated east of the central business district of Perth and has sweeping views of the Swan River. It is a multipurpose stadium with seating capacity for 60000, suitable for many sports events and music concerts. Around the stadium there are barbecues, picnic spots and displays of public art. There are two dining areas and a range of fast food options available in the stands. Private suites and boxes are leased per event or per season.
333 Victoria Park Drive, Burswood Western Australia
Romantic Activities and Attractions:
⮕ Rottnest Island
Discover secluded beaches and snap a selfie with a friendly quokka.
© beau/stock.adobe.com
It is thought that Rottnest Island and the chain of small islands nearby were once part of the mainland. The island is made of limestone with a thin layer of sand. Fauna and flora have had to adapt to the poor soil and sea conditions. The most prolific animal is the quokka which looked like a rat (rott) to an early Dutch sailor and that is how the island got its name. There are coral reefs offshore and 13 ships have been wrecked nearby. Until 1903 there was a pilot service offered from the island. There is plenty to see and do on Rottnest so dinner and a stay over might be warranted.
Rottnest Island, 6161, Phone: +61-8-94-32-91-11
⮕ The Perth Mint
Explore gold exhibits and witness a live gold pour.
© Adwo/stock.adobe.com
The Perth Mint was opened in 1899, in response to the gold rush in Western Australia. It is still operating out of the same building and supplies 18 billion AUD in coins, bars and medallions to more than 100 countries, annually. High tech vaults protect the precious metals that customers store on the premises. The Mint is also a tourist destination. The Mine to Mint tour will take a whole day. The history and the mint's role in producing legal tender and bullion for the British Empire is told in the Gold Exhibition. The shop sells coins, including novelties such as Barbie and Star Trek collectibles.
310 Hay Street, East Perth, Western Australia, 6004, Phone: +61-8-94-21-73-76
⮕ The Bell Tower
Admire city views and explore Perth’s iconic bell-ringing tower.
© Andreas Edelmann/stock.adobe.com
The Bell Tower was one of Perth's Millennium projects. It is said to be the world's largest musical instrument and to have the second largest set of changing ringing bells. Twelve of the eighteen bells were made in the 14th century for St Martin in the Fields church in London. The building is a design and engineering feat. The bells weigh 9 tonnes and when rung exert pressure on the structure. There are 5 levels in the bell tower, including a viewing platform to view the bell ringers and an open air observation deck.
Barrack Square Riverside Drive, Perth Western, Phone: 08-62-10-04-44
If you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Scitech
Enjoy interactive science exhibits and fun educational activities for kids.
© Scitech
Scitech
is an award-winning science and education center in the heart of Perth. Thematic exhibitions, an interactive discovery zone and a planetarium provide engaging ways for children and adults to learn. There are programs for early childhood, primary and secondary school children as well as enrichment events for professionals. Live shows include the Science Theatre and a puppet theatre for 3-7 year olds. The traveling exhibit can be hired for appearances at schools, libraries, malls and playgroups. The Discovery Shop stocks educational books, toys and models. The Center is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
City West Centre, Corner Railway Str & Sutherland Str, West Perth, Phone:08-92-15-07-00
⮕ The Aquarium of Western Australia
Explore vibrant marine life and walk through underwater tunnels.
© beeboys/stock.adobe.com
The Aquarium of Western Australia offers something for everyone. There are free school holiday activities and adults-only evenings. Children can have fun on the floating ship, with mermaids and pirates. Adults can enjoy a three course meal for two under the sea. There are shark sleepovers and behind the scenes tours, scuba diving lessons and a chance to get in the water with sharks. Special events are planned throughout the year and bookings are welcome for private functions. The aquarium is situated on the Hillary's Boat Harbor, next to the yacht basin and is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm.
91 Southside Drive, Hillarys 6025, Phone: 08-94-47-75-00
⮕ Adventure World
Enjoy exciting rides and cool off in thrilling water attractions.
© Adventure World
They have some of the most heart-stopping, stomach-churning, hair-raising rides in Australia at Adventure World. The Funnel ride is the longest in the world. The rollercoaster, named Abyss, reaches speeds of 85 km per hour. The Inferno launches you into the air at 4.5G force and then comes the free fall. Dragons feature prominently for the younger children, with a Dragon Safari, the Dragon Flyer and the Dragon Express. Standard, vegetarian and gluten-free items are on the menu at the eatery. Whole or part of the park can be booked for functions. The theme park is closed over winter for maintenance and opening hours change seasonally.
351 Progress Drive, Bibra Lake, Perth, Western Australia, 6163, Phone +61-8-94-17-96-66
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Fremantle – Explore this historic port city full of artisan markets, breweries, and colonial-era charm.
- Art Gallery of Western Australia – Browse Aboriginal art and contemporary exhibits in the Perth Cultural Centre.
- Swan River – Kayak, cruise, or cycle along this scenic waterway that winds through the city.
Where to Eat
- Wildflower – Fine dining on a rooftop with native Australian ingredients and sweeping views.
- Little Creatures Brewery – Enjoy craft beer and hearty fare in a lively warehouse space in Fremantle.
- Jamie’s Italian – Casual spot in the city center offering comforting pasta and pizzas with Aussie twists.
If you are interested in local events:
- Perth Festival (February–March) – Western Australia’s premier arts festival featuring theatre, music, dance, and visual art.
- Sculpture by the Sea (March) – Stroll Cottesloe Beach while admiring large-scale outdoor art installations.
- Fremantle International Street Arts Festival (April) – Enjoy world-class street performers during this family-friendly Easter weekend event.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Perth, Australia:
- Fremantle (30 min) – Sip coffee at heritage cafés, visit Fremantle Prison, or shop at the famous markets.
- Swan Valley (25–30 min) – Western Australia’s oldest wine region, ideal for vineyard tours, chocolate tastings, and gourmet meals.
- Cottesloe Beach (20–25 min) – Iconic beach with soft sand, clear water, and stunning sunsets over the Indian Ocean.
- Perth Hills (30 min) – Go hiking, visit orchards, or explore quaint towns like Kalamunda.
- Lake Monger (10–15 min) – Scenic spot for birdwatching and a peaceful lakeside walk near the city.
FAQ:
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Where is Perth located?
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Perth is the capital of Western Australia.
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It is the largest and most sparsely populated state of Australia.
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The city is situated on the Swan River coastal plain, inland from the port of Fremantle.
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What are some geographical features of Perth?
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Perth is located at the edge of a shallow coastal shelf.
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A string of islands can be found along this shelf.
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What is the history behind Perth's name?
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Perth was founded in 1829.
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It was named after Perth in Scotland.
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What role did convicts play in Perth’s history?
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In the 1850s, Perth became a center for convicts brought over from England.
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These convicts were used as cheap labor.
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How did the gold rush affect Perth?
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Perth's population swelled considerably in the late 1800s.
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This growth was due to the discovery of gold in Western Australia.
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What is Perth's modern economic significance?
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The city remains the main service center for the mining industry in the state.
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