Perth is one of the planet's most isolated
capital cities, yet this sun-soaked capital of Western Australia defies
its remote location by boldly flaunting its riches - and there are
many, both natural and material. A gorgeous setting astride the winding
Swan River, with a string of pearly beaches nearby, provides the perfect
playground for outdoor adventures. Sailing, swimming, fishing, and
boating are all popular things to do, and in the center of the city,
beautiful Kings Park brims with natural bushland and panoramic views.
Like Melbourne, Perth frequently ranks as one of the world's most
liveable cities, and despite its sprouting skyscrapers, fueled by a
mining boom, the city exudes a refreshingly relaxed vibe. But you'll
still find plenty of big-city tourist attractions and activities. You
can dine at fine restaurants, shop at stylish boutiques, browse art
galleries and museums, or see some of the country's top talent at its
lively entertainment venues.
Not far from the city, idyllic Rottnest Island is a popular day trip
destination, as is Fremantle, at the mouth of the Swan River. This
historic port is the namesake of the famous Fremantle Doctor, a cool sea
breeze that blasts the summertime heat from this effervescent,
affluent, and gregarious city.
1 Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Kings Park and Botanic Garden
With beautiful views of the Swan River and Darling Range, Kings Park and
Botanic Garden is an oasis of peace near the heart of the city and one
of the largest inner-city parks in the world. Almost two-thirds of this
1,000-acre park is natural bush, with a diversity of native plants and
birds. Dedicated to conservation, the botanic garden spotlights plants
from Western Australia and other Mediterranean climates such as South
Africa and California. Highlights include an acacia garden, the peaceful
Place of Reflection, and a water garden that recreates a Darling Range
creek.
Atop Mount Eliza, with stunning views over the city, the Kings Park War
Memorial is a poignant tribute to servicemen from Western Australia.
Walking trails weave through the park, and you can even wander through
the treetops at the Lotterywest Federation Walkway, suspended in a
canopy of eucalyptus trees. Other park features include ponds, play
areas, and panoramic viewpoints. After a stroll through the park, pop
into Aspect of Kings Park, a retail precinct of gift shops and galleries
highlighting local artists. Fraser Avenue Lookout dishes up delicious
views of the city, and, at night, the park is the perfect spot for a
romantic stroll with twinkling views of the city lights.
Address: Fraser Avenue, West Perth
2 Swan River
Swan River
Local Aboriginals believe the rainbow serpent, "Waugal," created this
winding river. To Perth locals and tourists alike, it's the perfect
setting for outdoor fun. You can picnic in the riverside parks, bike or
hike along the many trails, cast a fishing line, sail, swim, or kayak.
To see some of the posh houses of the riverfront suburbs, hop aboard a
relaxing river cruise between Perth and the historic port of Fremantle.
Another popular day trip is a cruise upriver to the fertile shores of
the Swan Valley, Western Australia's oldest grape-growing region. Here,
foodies can sample fresh local produce and scrumptious artisan foods at
the highly acclaimed restaurants. Most ferries and river cruises depart
from Barrack Square Jetty.
3 Beaches
Cottesloe Beach
Sun lovers can choose from a bevy of beautiful beaches in and around
Perth. Less than a 15-minute drive from the city center, pine-fringed
Cottesloe is one of Perth's most popular beaches, with its clear waters
and thriving café culture. Port Beach is also a favorite, and City Beach
has a children's playground and plenty of picnic nooks.
For families, the sheltered inlets on the snaking Swan River, such as
Como, Crawley, and Point Walter are top choices, as well as Rockingham
Beach and the sheltered shore at Hillarys Boat Harbour. Trigg Point has
one of Perth's best and most reliable surf breaks, and Scarborough is
another top spot to ride the waves. Farther afield, the shores of
Rottnest Island and Penguin Island offer excellent snorkeling and are
great for fun family day trips.
4 The Perth Mint
The Perth Mint
Popular with adults and children, the Perth Mint offers a fascinating
glimpse into the history of gold in Western Australia. The Gold
Exhibition displays the world's largest coin, weighing a whopping
one-tonne, as well as gold nuggets and bullion. In the 1899 melting
house, you can watch pure gold being poured to form a solid bar, and you
can also ogle the largest collection of gold nuggets in the Southern
Hemisphere. Hourly guided talks provide fascinating insight into the
discovery of gold in the state and the history of the Perth mint, and
the tours include a short film. You can even find out your weight's
worth in gold. After your visit, stop by the gift shop for unusual
souvenirs or enjoy a Devonshire Tea at the cafe.
Address: 310 Hay St, East Perth
5 Perth Zoo
Perth Zoo
About three kilometers from the city center, Perth Zoo has been
delighting animal lovers since 1898. International visitors can
experience some of the country's unique wildlife in the Australian
Bushwalk and Wetlands exhibits. All the favorites are here: kangaroos,
koalas, wallabies, wombats, and Tasmanian devils. Other exhibits take
you around the world to different ecosystems - feed giraffes at the
African Savannah, ogle orangutans in the Asian Rainforest, enjoy an
elephant show, or peer at a pygmy marmoset in the South American primate
exhibit. The zoo is easily accessible by bus, car, train, and bike, and
you can also hop aboard a ferry from Barrack Street jetty.
Address: 20 Labouchere Rd, Perth
6 Hillarys Boat Harbour
Hillarys Boat Harbour
Hillarys Boat Harbour badjonni / photo modified
About 20 kilometers northwest of central Perth, Hillarys Boat Harbour is
an expansive marina with restaurants, shops, and family-friendly
attractions. The Aquarium of Western Australia is a top tourist draw
here. You can stroll through a glass underwater tunnel and observe more
than 200 species of marine animals, including stingrays, manta rays,
dolphins, and sharks. Bike paths, walkways, parks, and sheltered beaches
make this a favorite spot for a fun family day out. Ferries to Rottnest
Island also depart from here.
Address: 86 Southside Drive, Hillarys
7 Art Gallery of Western Australia
Art Gallery of Western Australia
In the Perth Cultural Centre, a one-minute-walk from the nearest train
station, the Art Gallery of Western Australia houses a collection of
both international and Australian art from 1829 to the present day.
Special emphasis lies on works from Australia and the Indian Ocean Rim.
As well as an extensive collection of traditional and contemporary
indigenous art, the gallery displays works by eminent artists such as
Hans Heysen and Frederick McCubbin.
Address: James Street Mall, Perth Cultural Centre, Perth
8 The Bell Tower
The Bell Tower
Looking a little like an alien spaceship or rocket, the Bell Tower in
Barrack Square is one of the world's largest musical instruments.
Despite it's space-age appearance, housed within are the original
14th-century bells from Saint Martin in the Fields Church, the parish
church of London's Buckingham Palace. Entry tickets include an
interactive demonstration on the ancient art of bell ringing, as well as
interesting exhibits on the history of the bells. While you're here,
make sure you take time to enjoy the 360-degree views of the city and
Swan River from the open-air observation deck on the 6th floor. For an
extra fee, lovestruck couples can purchase a personalized "love lock" to
add to a chain-link fence. It's easy to visit the Bell Tower. You can
walk here in about five minutes from the CBD.
Nearby is Elizabeth Quay, a new riverfront precinct, with restaurants, shops, cafes, and entertainment venues.
Address: Barrack Square Riverside Drive, Perth
9 Scitech
If you have wiggly kids in tow, Scitech makes a great addition to your
sightseeing itinerary. This engaging, family-friendly museum encourages
kids to explore science and technology, engineering, and math through
imaginative and interactive exhibits. Discoverland is specially designed
for three to seven year olds, with displays on air, water, gravity,
electricity, and magnets. The construction zone here is great for
budding builders, and kids can even dress up as sea creatures and crawl
into a tunnel at the small aquarium exhibit or spy on mom and dad
through a periscope. Waterlandia explores the water cycle, and older
kids will enjoy the planetarium movies and science shows. A puppet
theater and special themed exhibitions round out all the fun.
Address: City West Center, Corner of Sutherland Street & Railway Street, West Perth
10 St. Mary's Cathedral
St. Mary's Cathedral
Constructed over three centuries, St. Mary's Cathedral is a grand
neo-Gothic church consecrated in 1865 and renovated extensively over the
years. The site for the cathedral was included in the first plan of
Perth in 1838. Evocatively lit at night, the cathedral is a soothing
spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Interested tourists
can join a tour of the building every Tuesday at 10:30am. Tickets are
available at the Church Office across the road.
Address: 17 Victoria Square, Perth
11 Aviation Heritage Museum
Aviation Heritage Museum
Aviation Heritage Museum Ken Hodge / photo modified
Even if you're not interested in aircraft, you might be surprised by the
fascinating displays at the Aviation Heritage Museum, about 15
kilometers south of Perth. Exhibits of more than 30 aircraft and
thousands of artifacts cover civilian and military aviation and trace
the evolution of aircraft from two-winged WWI planes to present-day
passenger jets. For an extra fee, you can also book a personal tour of a
Lancaster bomber or a Dakota C-47 and Spitfire Mark XXII.
Address: Air Force Memorial Estate, Bull Creek Dr, Bull Creek
Where to Stay in Perth for Sightseeing
For first-time visitors to Perth, one of the best places to stay is the
city center, near the sparkling Swan River - especially for those
planning to use public transport. Fantastic shopping and dining are
within walking distance, and top attractions such as the Art Gallery of
Western Australia, the Western Australian Museum, St. Mary's Cathedral,
and Kings Park are also close by. Free CAT buses loop around the city,
stopping at the top sites. Here are some highly-rated hotels in this
central location:
Luxury Hotels: In a lovingly restored mid-19th-century state
building, steps away from fabulous shopping and St. Mary's Cathedral,
COMO The Treasury blends contemporary styling in its oversized rooms
with ornate architectural features. Its modern amenities include an
indoor pool, gym, library, and holistic spa. Another heritage building
with contemporary touches is the BEST WESTERN PREMIER, Terrace Hotel,
within walking distance of the main shopping streets, the waterfront,
and Kings Park. Pan Pacific Perth is a larger property in the city
center that sits steps away from the Perth Mint and an easy stroll to
the shops and restaurants of Elizabeth Quay and the city center.
Mid-Range Hotels: Guests love the buffet breakfasts and quaint
European charm of Miss Maud Swedish Hotel, a short hop from shops,
restaurants, and St. Mary's Cathedral. A great option for longer stays
is All Suites Perth, an easy stroll the Swan River, Murray Street Mall,
and city buses. Its spacious rooms come with kitchenettes and laundry
facilities. Known for its friendly service, the Novotel Perth Langley is
another popular mid-range option, less than 10 minutes' walk from St.
Mary's Cathedral and only two blocks from the riverfront.
Budget Hotels: Offering excellent value for money, the Comfort Hotel
Perth City offers large, clean rooms within walking distance to the
city center, the waterfront, and the free CAT bus. Other budget options
in the CBD, near restaurants and shopping, are City Waters, two blocks
from the river, and the family-owned and run Comfort Inn Wentworth
Plaza, less than ten minutes' walk from the Perth Convention and
Exhibition Center.
Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Perth
An organized tour is a convenient way to see the sights around this
vibrant city without the hassle of planning your trip, driving vast
distances, or organizing boat trips. Experienced guides share
fascinating details about the attractions, and many of these tours
include admission fees and pickup and drop-off at your hotel, saving you
time and money. Below are some fun city sightseeing tours and day trips
that guarantee the lowest price:
See the City Sights: For maximum flexibility with your sightseeing
plans, purchase a ticket for the Perth Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. With an
informative commentary, this double-decker bus takes you to all the
city's top tourist attractions, including the Swan River waterfront,
Kings Park, and the Art Gallery of Western Australia. You can choose
between a 24- or 48-hour pass and hop on and off the bus at any one of
the 11 stops. Upgrades include extras like a round-trip river cruise to
Fremantle and a tram tour.
Escape to Rottnest Island: On the Rottnest Island Tour from Perth or
Fremantle including Wildlife Cruise, you can explore one of Perth's
most popular weekend getaways from both the water and land. Travel by
high-speed ferry to the island and board a 90-minute wildlife cruise to
spot fur seals, birds, and dolphins, then enjoy free time to explore the
island by bike or on foot. This full-day tour includes a professional
guide; the Rottnest Island Authority Fee; and lunch, if you select this
option.
Explore the Desert: If you're seeking a rugged wildlife adventure,
the Pinnacles Desert, Koalas and Sandboarding 4WD Day Tour from Perth is
an excellent option. This full-day excursion takes you to Caversham
Wildlife Park to see koalas, kangaroos, and other native animals, then
to the seaside town of Cervantes. Bump along the dunes in the 4WD
vehicle or sandboard down the grainy slopes at Pinnacles Desert in
Nambung National Park and enjoy a guided tour of its lunar-like
landscapes. The tour includes snacks, a picnic lunch, entrance fees, and
pickup and drop-off from your hotel.
Learn about Aboriginal Culture: Impressive rock formations, sacred
aboriginal sites, and quaint country towns are the highlights of the
Wave Rock, York, Wildflowers, and Aboriginal Cultural Tour from Perth.
Learn about aboriginal history and Dreamtime stories at the sacred
Gnamma Holes, explore an old pioneer town, and see fascinating
geological formations such as 15-meter-high Wave Rock on this
action-packed full-day tour. From September through November, you might
also see stunning displays of spring wildflowers. Included in the tour
are hotel pickup and drop-off, transport via air-conditioned coach with a
live commentary, entrance fees, and a hearty country-style lunch.
More Must-See Places near Perth
Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is the most isolated city in
Australia; it lies more than 2,200 kilometers from the tropical tourist
town of Broome, where you'll also find one of Australia's top beaches,
and about 720 kilometers from Esperance, the gateway to spectacular Cape
Le Grand National Park. But you'll find plenty of appealing day trips
on its doorstep - the Cape to Cape track in the Margaret River, about a
three-hour drive south of the city, is one of the best hikes in
Australia. A short flight from Perth, Exmouth is home to World
Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef, as well as some of Australia's best
fishing opportunities, and the Horizontal Falls in the state's Kimberley
Region is one of Australia's top outdoor adventures. If you need help
planning your Aussie travels, see our article on the top itineraries in
Australia.
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