If we’re looking for a city that mixes lively urban energy with peaceful natural beauty, Perth is a top choice. As the capital of Western Australia, it’s known for its sunny weather, riverfront views, and laid-back lifestyle.
From exploring vibrant neighborhoods to relaxing on golden beaches, Perth offers plenty to keep us busy and relaxed at the same time.
Getting to Perth and Getting Around
Flying into Perth Airport is the easiest way to start our journey. The airport is just a 20-minute drive from downtown. Once here, we can use:
- Transperth buses and trains for most city travel.
- Free CAT buses in the city center, which are perfect for short trips.
- Rental bikes and scooters are popular for riverside rides and short distances.
- A SmartRider card costs about $7 USD (around $10 AUD) and saves money on all public transport.
Top Places to Visit in Perth
Let’s check out some of the city’s best spots:
- Kings Park and Botanic Garden: A huge green space with walking trails and stunning city views. Open every day, and admission is free.
- Elizabeth Quay: The newest waterfront development, filled with cafes, playgrounds, and public art installations. We can take a ferry ride or just enjoy the river views.
- Fremantle: A lively port town with historic buildings, a weekend market, and amazing seafood restaurants. The Fremantle Prison tour costs around $15–$22 USD ($20–$30 AUD).
- Cottesloe Beach: A perfect place for swimming and catching spectacular sunsets. It’s free to visit and has plenty of parking and cafes nearby.
- Perth Cultural Centre: Home to the Western Australian Museum and Art Gallery. Most exhibits are free, but special shows may have small fees $7–$11 USD ($11–$17 AUD).
Best Time to Visit Perth
We recommend visiting between September and November or March and May for comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Summers can be hot with temperatures often above 95°F (35°C), so it’s great if we love the beach. Winters are mild but wetter.
Where to Stay in Perth
Options for every budget include:
- Luxury hotels like COMO The Treasury with rooms starting at around $240 USD per night ($350 AUD).
- Mid-range options such as Novotel Perth Langley from about $85 USD per night ($120 AUD).
- Budget hostels like The Billabong Hostel, with dorm beds starting at $21 USD per night ($30 AUD).
- Airbnb also offers a variety of apartments and homes for rent, typically ranging from $35 to $100 USD ($54–$153 AUD) per night.
Local Tips for Visiting Perth
- Sunscreen is essential all year round.
- Use the Transperth app for easy navigation of public transport.
- Book tickets early for Rottnest Island ferry rides (about $35–$50 USD ($54–$77AUD) round trip).
- Try local food markets, especially Fremantle Markets on weekends.
- Take advantage of free walking tours to explore hidden parts of the city.
Ready to Discover Perth?
Perth invites us to slow down, breathe fresh air, and enjoy a city where nature and culture exist in harmony. We can spend our days relaxing on beautiful beaches, exploring vast parks, or savoring the unique flavors of local cuisine. Have you visited Perth before, or are you planning a trip soon? Share your travel tips and stories with us—we’d love to hear from you!
