Perth Travel Guide (Western Australia/Australia/Oceania)

Introduction to Perth

Perth, the capital city of Western Australia, is often overlooked by travelers in favor of Australia’s more well-known cities like Sydney and Melbourne. However, this beautiful city has plenty to offer visitors in terms of culture, natural attractions, outdoor adventures, and more. Boasting endless sunshine, pristine beaches, and the stunning Swan River, Perth is a city that truly has it all.

List of Places to Visit in Perth

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re looking for a taste of history, head to the following museums and historical sites:

The Western Australian Museum: With collections spanning from natural history to cultural heritage, the museum is a great place to learn about the history of Western Australia.
The Perth Mint: One of Western Australia’s oldest heritage sites, the Perth Mint is home to an impressive collection of gold bars and coins.
Fremantle Prison: A former maximum-security prison that is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, Fremantle Prison offers visitors a chance to explore the history of Australia’s convict past.
The Art Gallery of Western Australia: The gallery’s collection includes both contemporary and historical works from around the world.

Natural Attractions of Perth: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Perth is known for its stunning natural beauty, and these are just a few of the many outdoor attractions you can visit:

Kings Park and Botanic Garden: The park offers stunning views of the city, as well as walking trails and a variety of plants and wildlife.
Rottnest Island: A short ferry ride from Perth, Rottnest Island is home to beautiful beaches, snorkeling spots, and adorable quokkas.
Cottesloe Beach: One of the most popular beaches in Perth, Cottesloe Beach has crystal clear water and a lively atmosphere.
Swan River: Take a scenic river cruise or rent a kayak to explore the picturesque Swan River.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Perth

Perth offers many great hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to check out:

The Bibbulmun Track: This 1000-kilometer hiking trail stretches from Kalamunda to Albany and takes you through Western Australia’s stunning forests, coastlines, and national parks.
The Munda Biddi Trail: This off-road cycling trail spans over 1000 kilometers and takes you through beautiful forests, mountains, and vineyards.
The Coastal Walk: Starting in Fremantle and ending in Hillarys Boat Harbour, this 40-kilometer coastal walk offers stunning ocean views and plenty of opportunities to stop for a swim or a bite to eat.

Best Things to Do in Perth: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of exciting things to see and do in Perth, no matter what your interests are. Here are some of our top recommendations:

Take a hot air balloon ride at dawn to see the city from above.
Visit the Perth Zoo to see exotic animals like Tasmanian devils and giant pandas.
Hire a bike and ride around the city to explore Perth’s many parks and attractions.
Join a wine tasting tour in the picturesque Margaret River region.
Attend a performance at the Perth Concert Hall, a world-renowned venue for classical music.

Week-Long Itinerary for Perth

If you’re planning a trip to Perth, here’s a week-long itinerary to help you make the most of your stay:

Day	Activity
Day 1	Explore the city sights, such as Kings Park and Botanic Garden, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, and the Perth Mint.
Day 2	Visit the historical sites, such as Fremantle Prison and the Western Australian Maritime Museum.
Day 3	Take a scenic drive to the Swan Valley wine region for some wine tasting and lunch.
Day 4	Spend the day at Rottnest Island, where you can snorkel, bike, and relax on the beaches.
Day 5	Take a day trip to the Pinnacles Desert, a stunning natural wonder located in Nambung National Park.
Day 6	Head to one of Perth’s beautiful beaches, such as Cottesloe Beach or Scarborough Beach.
Day 7	Spend your last day in Perth exploring the city’s vibrant food and drink scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Perth

When it comes to food and drink, Perth has plenty to offer. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Fish and chips: For a classic British-Australian dish, head to one of Perth’s many seafood restaurants or takeaways for some delicious fish and chips.
Kangaroo steak: Sample some of Australia’s native cuisine by trying a kangaroo steak at a local restaurant.
Meat pies: A staple of Australian cuisine, the meat pie is a delicious snack that can be found at most bakeries and cafes.

Local Beverages

Swan Valley wines: Head to the Swan Valley wine region to try some delicious local wines, such as Shiraz and Chardonnay.
Little Creatures beer: This Fremantle-based brewery produces some of the best craft beers in Australia.
Flat white coffee: A popular coffee drink in Australia and New Zealand, the flat white is a must-try for coffee lovers.

Where to Stay in Perth: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Perth offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit any budget or travel style. Some of our top picks include:

The Ritz-Carlton Perth: A luxury hotel located in the heart of the city, with stunning views of the Swan River.
Hostel G Perth: A budget-friendly hostel located in the city center, with comfortable beds and a fun, social atmosphere.
The Old Swan Barracks: A historic guesthouse located in Northbridge, offering budget-friendly dorms and private rooms.

What to Buy in Perth: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for some unique souvenirs to take home from your trip to Perth, consider picking up:

Aboriginal art: Western Australia is home to many talented Aboriginal artists, and their work can be found in galleries and markets throughout Perth.
Sandalwood products: Western Australia is one of the world’s largest producers of sandalwood, and you can find a variety of sandalwood-based products at local shops and markets.
Local wines and gourmet products: Take home a taste of Western Australia by buying some local wines, chocolates, or olive oils.

Local Culture and Customs of Perth

Like the rest of Australia, Perth has a laid-back, friendly culture that welcomes visitors from all over the world. Here are a few things to keep in mind when visiting:

Australians tend to use a lot of slang and colloquialisms, so don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if you don’t understand something.
Tipping is not customary in Australia, but if you receive exceptional service, it is appreciated.
Australians are generally very health-conscious and active, so don’t be surprised to see locals jogging or cycling around the city.

Best Time to Visit Perth

Perth enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers. The best time to visit depends on your preference for weather and activities. If you want to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities, visit during the summer months (December to February). If you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, visit during the shoulder seasons of autumn (March to May) or spring (September to November).

Do’s and Don’ts of Perth

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Perth:

Do:

Do try some local wines and beers. Western Australia has some of the best wineries and breweries in the world.
Do take some time to explore Perth’s many parks and beaches. They are some of the best in Australia.
Do take advantage of the public transportation system. Perth has a great network of trains, buses, and ferries that can take you anywhere in the city.

Don’t:

Don’t forget to use sunscreen. Perth gets a lot of sun, and the UV index can be high, even on cloudy days.
Don’t expect 24/7 shopping and dining. Many shops and restaurants close early in the evening and on Sundays.
Don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle. Perth has excellent tap water, and carrying a reusable bottle will save you money and reduce waste.

Safety and Health

Perth is generally a safe and healthy city to visit. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in Perth

Perth has a low crime rate, but it’s still important to take normal precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding dark, isolated areas at night.
Be aware of the dangers of sun exposure and always wear sunscreen and protective clothing when spending time outdoors.
If you plan to hike or camp, be sure to research the area beforehand and let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return.

Health in Perth

Australia has universal healthcare, and Perth has a range of public and private hospitals and clinics.
If you plan to spend time outdoors, be aware of the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and sunburn.
If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or allergies, be sure to bring any necessary medications with you.

Getting to Perth: Transportation Options and Logistics

Perth is located on the west coast of Australia and is easily accessible by air, road, and sea.

Airports Near Perth

Perth Airport: The main airport serving Perth, located about 10 kilometers from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Perth

Transperth Bus Station: The central bus station in Perth, located at the Perth Train Station.

Other Options

Train: The Indian Pacific train service runs from Sydney and Adelaide to Perth, offering a scenic and comfortable way to travel.
Ferry: Ferries run from Fremantle to Rottnest Island and also run along the Swan River, offering a scenic way to see the city.

How to Get Around in Perth

Perth has an extensive public transportation network, including buses, trains, and ferries. The Transperth system is easy to use and covers most of the city and surrounding areas. Taxis and rideshare services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Perth: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore more of Western Australia, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

Margaret River: A scenic region located a few hours south of Perth, famous for its wineries and natural beauty.
The Pinnacles Desert: Located about 2 hours north of Perth, the Pinnacles Desert is a must-see natural wonder with unique rock formations.
Kalbarri National Park: A popular destination for hiking and camping, Kalbarri National Park offers stunning river gorges and rugged coastline.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or simply soaking up the sun, Perth has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your trip to this beautiful city, and we can’t wait for you to experience all that Perth has to offer!