Perth blends a relaxed coastal lifestyle with a vibrant city centre, framed by wide skies and the Swan River. You will find pristine beaches, green spaces, and a growing arts and dining scene.
Discover Perth
Discover Perth
Why visit Perth?
What to expect
Expect sun-filled days, easy-going neighbourhoods, and plenty of outdoor living, from riverside walks to oceanfront sunsets. The city is compact, friendly, and simple to navigate, with most attractions a short ride apart.
Plan your trip
Perth is a rewarding base for exploring Western Australia, from wine regions to rugged coastlines and desert landscapes. Plan a few extra days to venture beyond the city into the wider state.
Top sights in Perth
Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Stroll elevated walkways and bushland trails with sweeping views over the Swan River and Perth skyline, especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
Cottesloe Beach
Swim, surf, or simply unwind on soft sand at this iconic city beach, then stay to watch one of Perth’s famous Indian Ocean sunsets.
Rottnest Island
Take a ferry to this car-free island for cycling, snorkelling in clear bays, and the chance to see friendly quokkas in their natural habitat.
Fremantle
Explore this historic port city’s heritage architecture, waterfront promenades, and creative spaces, all just a short train ride from central Perth.
Elizabeth Quay
Wander along the redeveloped riverfront with public art, dining spots, and city views, and join a river cruise or ferry from the quay.
Swan Valley
Head to Perth’s nearby wine and produce region for cellar doors, gourmet tastings, and gentle countryside scenery within an easy day trip.
Perth Cultural Centre
Visit museums, galleries, and performance venues clustered around Northbridge, showcasing Western Australian art, history, and creative life.
Experience Perth’s everyday rhythm
Getting around
Use Transperth trains and buses to move easily between the city, Fremantle, and nearby suburbs, with ferries adding a scenic option across the Swan River. Walking or short ride-hailing trips work well for the last stretch between stations and beaches or attractions.
Local life & culture
Life in Perth revolves around the outdoors, from early-morning exercise along the river to relaxed evenings in neighbourhood bars and cultural spaces. Creative districts such as Northbridge and Fremantle showcase local design, live music, and a steadily evolving arts scene.
Where to unwind
Slow down with a picnic in Kings Park, a riverfront stroll along South Perth foreshore, or a quiet morning swim at one of the city’s calmer beaches. Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and cooler temperatures for enjoying Perth’s open spaces.
A taste of Perth
Street food & local specialties
Sample Western Australian seafood, modern takes on classic Australian dishes, and global street food at markets and casual eateries in Fremantle, Northbridge, and along the waterfront. Look out for local produce such as fresh fish, prawns, and seasonal fruit.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Discover easygoing dining in city laneways, riverside precincts, and beachside strips where cafes, small bars, and bistros sit side by side. Menus often feature share plates and smaller portions, so you can try several styles and flavours in one sitting.
Signature & scenic dining
Treat yourself to meals with river or ocean views, from elevated city restaurants overlooking the skyline to coastal venues facing the Indian Ocean. For a memorable evening, time your reservation to coincide with sunset over the water.
Retail therapy in Perth
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Browse international brands and local designers in central malls around Murray and Hay Street, as well as larger suburban centres. These complexes often combine fashion, dining, and entertainment, making them easy places to spend a relaxed afternoon.
Markets & local crafts
Seek out handmade pieces, boutique labels, and local art at markets and small shops around Fremantle, Northbridge, and Leederville. These neighbourhoods are ideal for finding souvenirs that reflect Western Australia’s coastal and creative character.
Evening retail scene
As evening falls, selected city streets, waterfront precincts, and market areas stay lively with late trading, dining, and events, especially on designated late-night shopping days. Trains and buses run frequently, keeping these areas simple to reach after dark.
Best time to visit Perth
Summer (December to February, peak season) brings hot, dry weather, with daytime temperatures often around 29–33°C (84–91°F) and plenty of sunshine for beach visits. Spring (September to November, shoulder season) offers mild days around 20–26°C (68–79°F), ideal for outdoor activities and wildflower displays. Winter (June to August, low season) is cooler and wetter, with temperatures usually 13–19°C (55–66°F), fewer crowds, and softer light along the river and coast.