Perth Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Perth pairs a modern city centre with beaches, parks and islands just minutes away.

• Kings Park and Botanic Garden — One of the world’s largest inner-city parks, with bushland, native plants and city views.
• Rottnest Island — A car-free island reached by ferry, known for its beaches, cycling and friendly quokkas.
• Fremantle — A historic port town with markets, heritage streets and the UNESCO-listed Fremantle Prison.
• Cottesloe Beach — Perth’s best-known beach, famous for its Indian Ocean sunsets.
• Elizabeth Quay — A waterfront precinct on the Swan River with restaurants and walkways.
• Swan Valley — Wineries, breweries and local produce, a short drive north-east of the city.
• The Pinnacles — Thousands of limestone spires in Nambung National Park, a popular day trip north of Perth.

Perth has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, with seasons opposite to the Northern Hemisphere. Spring (September to November) is especially lovely, as wildflowers bloom across Western Australia, and autumn (March to May) brings warm, settled days ideal for the beach.

Summer, from December to February, is hot and sunny, with a cooling afternoon sea breeze locally known as the Fremantle Doctor. Winter, from June to August, is mild but wetter, and a quieter time for sightseeing.

Perth Airport lies about 12 km east of the city centre, with separate terminal areas for different airlines. A railway line links the airport with Perth’s city centre and wider train network, providing an easy way into town.

Taxis, ride-hailing services and shuttle buses are available outside the terminals, and car hire is popular for exploring Western Australia’s vast distances. Check which terminal your flight uses before travelling.

Perth is spread out, so choose a base that suits your plans for beaches or city life.

• CBD and Elizabeth Quay — Central, with hotels, shopping and riverside dining; ideal for first-time visitors.
• Northbridge — Just north of the centre, known for museums, bars and nightlife.
• Fremantle — Historic and relaxed, with markets, cafés and ferries to Rottnest Island.
• Cottesloe and Scarborough — Beachside suburbs suited to sun and surf lovers.

• Money: Cards and contactless payments are accepted almost everywhere; tipping is optional.
• Getting around: Trains, buses and ferries share one transport system; a car is useful for exploring further afield.
• Sun: UV levels are very high, so wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and drink plenty of water.
• Beaches: Swim between the red and yellow flags on patrolled beaches, and follow local safety signs.
• Wildlife: Do not touch or feed quokkas on Rottnest Island; it is against local rules.