Perth Travel Guide Western Australia- The Best Informative Guide 2023

Despite being one of the most isolated cities in the world, the Perth region has so much to offer its visitors. The sunny climate allows the city to show off its world-class pristine white beaches, outdoor dining, hiking trails, and water activities.

Perth is regularly listed in the Top 10 most liveable cities in the world and is the gateway to Western Australia.

Arriving into Perth

Perth Airport is the fourth busiest airport in the country and a major gateway for international visitors to the state.

Upon arrival, visitors are welcomed by modern facilities and friendly staff, making the entry process a breeze. The airport is well-connected to the city center, with a range of transportation options available including taxis, car rentals, private transfers, and public transport.

The Best Time to Visit Perth

Perth is a beautiful destination that can be enjoyed all year round, with its Mediterranean climate and sunny weather making it a popular choice for visitors from around the world. However, there are certain times of the year that are particularly recommended for those looking to make the most out of their trip.

The best time to visit Perth in my opinion is during the spring and autumn months, from September to November and from March to May. During these times, the temperatures are mild, the crowds are fewer, and the city’s natural beauty is at its best. This is also the ideal time to explore Perth’s many outdoor attractions, such as its national parks and vineyards.

If you’re looking for a summer vacation, December to February is the peak season in Perth, with hot temperatures, blue skies, and plenty of outdoor events and festivals. The beaches are the main attraction during summer and are popular with both locals and tourists alike. However, it’s worth noting that this is the busiest time of the year, and accommodation prices can be higher than at other times.

How Long to Stay in Perth

Deciding how long to stay in Perth will depend on several factors such as your interests, budget, and travel goals. Perth offers a diverse range of experiences, from its stunning beaches to its thriving food and wine scene, cultural attractions, and natural wonders. For travelers looking to explore the city’s major attractions and soak up its lively atmosphere, a stay of at least three to four days is recommended (although you can see the highlights of the city in one day).

If you want to go beyond the city and explore the surrounding areas, such as the beautiful Margaret River wine region, stunning Rottnest Island, or the rugged coastline of Western Australia, you will need to add more days to your itinerary. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, a week or more in Perth will allow you to immerse yourself in the city’s laid-back lifestyle and explore its hidden gems at your leisure.

Best Places to Stay in Perth

We regularly have staycations in the city and have narrowed down our favourite Perth city hotels.

If you want to splurge on a Perth luxury hotel, choose Como The Treasury or the Ritz Carlton.

If these are out of your budget, my mid-range choice would be Quay Perth which represents fantastic value for money and is still close to the city.

I use Booking.Com to book most of our accommodation as the prices are usually the same, if not cheaper than direct, plus they mainly offer free cancellation, which is a must with the uncertainty of travel at the moment. They also have a reward system where you can earn discounts the more you book with them.

Hotel	Stars	TripAdvisor Rating	Distance from Elizabeth Quay	Price	Pool	Book
Ritz Carlton Perth	5	4	0.1 miles	$$$	Y	Book Here
Como The Treasury	5	5	0.3 miles	$$$	Y	Book Here
Crown Towers Perth	5	4	2.2 miles	$$$	Y	Book Here
Pan Pacific Perth	5	4	0.7 miles	$$$	Y	Book Here
Adina Apartment Hotel Perth	4	4	0.3 miles	$$	Y	Book Here
Quay Perth	3	4.5	0.1 miles	$$	N	Book Here

Things to do in Perth

Kings Park is the most popular tourist attraction in Western Australia with scenic views across the river to the city and beyond to the Darling range. While in the city, visit Elizabeth Quay, and maybe take a cruise along the Swan River to Fremantle or the Swan Valley. From Elizabeth Quay, you can catch the ferry to South Perth and visit Perth Zoo or hop on a free CAT bus to explore East Perth.

There’s plenty of things to do and see in Perth’s city, including the vibrant street art.

Perth metro boasts 19 stunning beaches and no visit is complete without a scenic drive along the coast.

Make sure you set aside some time to visit Fremantle, where you can shop in the boutiques, browse the markets, explore the historic buildings, take a Fremantle Prison tour, have a coffee in one of the cafes along the Cappuccino strip or dine alongside the fishing boat harbour. There’s always lots of things to do in Fremantle.

If you’re short on time, the Explorer Hop On Hop Off Bus is a god option as you can cover a lot of attractions in a short amount of time. You can find out more in this Perth Hop On Hop Off Bus review.

Head out of the city on a day tour to Rottnest Island, the Swan Valley, Perth Hills, the Avon Valley or the Peel region.

Top 10 Bucket List Perth

• Perth City & Kings Park
• Swan River Cruise
• East Perth & Perth Mint
• Elizabeth Quay & Bell Tower
• Perth Museums
• Fremantle
• Rottnest Island
• Perth’s beaches
• Swan Valley
• Mandurah

Best Day Trips from Perth

Perth is a vibrant city, but there’s also plenty to explore in the surrounding areas. From stunning natural landscapes to historic towns, there are countless day trips you can take from Perth.

Here are some of the best day trips you can plan to make the most of your time in Western Australia.

1. Rottnest Island

Just a short ferry ride from Perth, Rottnest Island is a beautiful and unique destination. Famous for its adorable quokkas, the island is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Western Australia. Rent a bike and explore the island’s rugged coastline, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.

2. Fremantle

Located just 30 minutes from Perth, Fremantle is a charming port town with a rich history. Wander through the streets, visit the Fremantle Markets, and take a tour of the Fremantle Prison. You can also relax at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the area.

3. Swan Valley

If you’re a foodie, you won’t want to miss a day trip to the Swan Valley. Just a short drive from Perth, this region is known for its wineries, breweries, and artisan food producers. Sample some of the best wine and food in Western Australia, and take in the beautiful countryside.

4. Pinnacles

The Pinnacles Desert is a natural wonder that’s just a few hours’ drive from Perth. The desert is home to thousands of limestone pillars, which make for an otherworldly landscape. Take a guided tour of the area, or explore on your own.

5. Yanchep National Park

Yanchep National Park is a great place to get out into nature without leaving the Perth area. The park is home to kangaroos, koalas, and a variety of birdlife, as well as caves and walking trails. Pack a picnic and spend the day exploring this beautiful park.

No matter what your interests are, there’s a day trip from Perth that’s perfect for you. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore Western Australia’s natural beauty, or immerse yourself in history and culture, these destinations are all within easy reach of the city.

Best Beaches in Perth

Perth is blessed with some of the most stunning beaches in the world, with crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and breathtaking views.

Cottesloe Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with its vibrant atmosphere and picture-perfect sunsets.

Scarborough Beach is another favourite, known for its great surf, excellent facilities, and bustling promenade.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly beach, then City Beach is a perfect choice, with its shallow waters and playground facilities.

Lastly, Trigg Beach is a great spot for those who love water sports, with excellent surf conditions and an inviting atmosphere. These are just a few examples of Perth’s best beaches that are worth a visit.

Best Restaurants and Places to Eat & Drink in Perth

Perth restaurants often win awards, making this city a great place for people who enjoy good food with fresh ingredients in an attractive environment. There’s a wide variety of eateries including fine dining, food trucks, health cafés, tapas, family restaurants, and take away options. Locally caught seafood features often on the menu.

The Crown complex features restaurants including Nobu, Rockpool Bar & Grill, Bistro Guillaume and the Atrium buffet.

The State Buildings, a collection of three heritage buildings, includes a luxury hotel, restaurants, and bars where you will find a variety of top dining options like Wildflower, Long Chim, Post and Petition Kitchen.

Northbridge is known for its nightlife but you will also find numerous restaurants, including the Asian eateries in Chinatown.

One of my favourite places to eat in Perth is along the coast. There’s nothing better than watching the sunset while enjoying your meal with a glass of locally produced wine.

Perth now has a growing small bar scene with cute, trendy bars lining the lanes.

Best Road Trips from Perth

Western Australia road trips from Perth offer a perfect opportunity to explore the state’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes. One of the most popular road trips from Perth is to Margaret River, renowned for its world-class wineries and stunning beaches. Along the way, you can stop off at quaint towns like Busselton and Dunsborough and indulge in delicious local produce.

Another great road trip option is a drive up to the Coral Coast, where you can witness the famous Pinnacles Desert, snorkel with whale sharks, and visit historic towns like Geraldton and Kalbarri. The long stretches of road and vast expanses of scenery make for an unforgettable road trip experience in Western Australia.

Perth Travel Costs

Perth, Western Australia is a popular destination that offers a wide range of experiences and activities for travellers. However, it’s important to budget for your trip accordingly, as the cost of travel can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, accommodation, and the type of activities you choose.

Accommodation in Perth ranges from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, and prices can vary depending on the location and time of year. It’s important to book early and compare prices to find the best deals. Food and drink costs in Perth can also vary depending on your preferences, but there are many affordable options available, from local street food to casual dining restaurants.

Perth has a well-connected public transport system, including buses and trains, which are affordable and easy to use. Taxis and car rentals are also available, but can be more expensive. If you want to explore the city’s attractions, there are plenty of free or low-cost options, such as the beautiful beaches, walking along the Swan River, or exploring the many parks and gardens. Overall, with careful planning and budgeting, it’s possible to enjoy Perth without breaking the bank, making it an accessible and attractive destination for travellers on a range of budgets.

Western Australia Travel Guide

If you found this guide to Perth helpful, please consider booking through one of our links. It won’t cost you anything but will help towards the cost of running this site. Thank you.