Perth blends laid-back coastal living with a growing arts and dining scene. You can enjoy beaches, riverside parks, and a compact city centre that feels relaxed yet lively.
Discover Perth
Discover Perth
Why visit Perth?
What to expect
Expect wide open skies, sunny days, and easy access to nature, from city beaches to riverside trails. Distinct neighbourhoods offer galleries, small bars, and waterside promenades that are simple to explore on foot.
Plan your trip
Perth is an ideal base for exploring Western Australia, from nearby wine regions to coastal road trips. Build in time for both city highlights and day trips to islands, national parks, and countryside towns.
Top sights in Perth
Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Walk among native bushland and landscaped gardens, and take in sweeping views of the Perth skyline and Swan River from one of the world’s largest inner-city parks.
Cottesloe Beach
Swim in clear waters, stroll along the foreshore, or watch a classic West Australian sunset from the sand at this much-loved city beach.
Elizabeth Quay
Explore the waterfront promenade with its public art, playgrounds, and river views, and use it as a jumping-off point for cruises on the Swan River.
Fremantle Historic Precinct
Wander streets lined with heritage buildings, visit maritime and social history museums, and soak up the port city’s lively atmosphere.
Rottnest Island
Take a short ferry ride to this car-free island for cycling, snorkelling in sheltered bays, and the chance to see quokkas in their natural habitat.
Swan Valley
Spend a day visiting wineries, artisan producers, and art studios in this nearby food and wine region, easily reached on a short drive from the city.
Perth Cultural Centre
Discover Western Australia’s art, history, and performance scene with galleries, museums, and theatres clustered around a pedestrian-friendly precinct.
Experience Perth’s everyday rhythm
Getting around
Trains and buses link the city centre with major suburbs, beaches, and Fremantle, while free city loop buses make it easy to move between central sights. For a scenic perspective, take a ferry on the Swan River, then use walking paths or rideshare for the final stretch.
Local life & culture
Daily life in Perth often revolves around the outdoors, with locals meeting in riverside parks, neighbourhood cafes, and beachside promenades. Cultural hotspots around the city centre and Fremantle showcase galleries, live music, and small venues that come alive in the evenings and at weekends.
Where to unwind
Find quiet corners in Kings Park, along the South Perth foreshore, or on the calmer beaches north and south of the city. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for walking, cycling, or simply sitting by the water as the light changes over the river and ocean.
A taste of Perth
Street food & local specialties
Food truck parks, weekend markets, and casual eateries showcase everything from classic fish and chips to modern Australian dishes with local seafood and produce. Look to Fremantle, Northbridge, and riverside spots for lively, informal dining.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Inner-city laneways and mixed-use precincts host cafes, bistros, and contemporary restaurants influenced by European and Asian flavours. Shared plates and flexible menus make it easy to try a variety of dishes over one relaxed meal.
Signature & scenic dining
For memorable meals, choose venues overlooking the Swan River, the ocean, or the city skyline, particularly around Elizabeth Quay and hilltop vantage points. Sunset dinners and long lunches pair local wines with sweeping views.
Retail therapy in Perth
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Central shopping centres and nearby precincts gather international brands, Australian labels, and lifestyle stores under one roof, often alongside cinemas and dining. They double as social spaces where you can browse, meet friends, and linger over coffee.
Markets & local crafts
Weekend and seasonal markets highlight handmade goods, artwork, and small-batch products. Areas such as Fremantle, the city centre, and some inner suburbs are good places to look for local designers and artisan stalls.
Evening retail scene
After dark, selected shopping streets and entertainment districts remain active with late-opening boutiques, bars, and eateries. Public transport and rideshare options make it straightforward to reach these areas and return to your accommodation at night.
Best time to visit Perth
Perth has a Mediterranean-style climate with warm to hot summers and mild, wetter winters. Peak season: December to February, when average temperatures range from 18°C to 31°C (64°F to 88°F), skies are mostly clear, and beaches are at their most appealing. Shoulder season: March to May and September to November, with comfortable days around 14°C to 27°C (57°F to 81°F), fewer crowds, and good conditions for outdoor activities and day trips. Low season: June to August, when temperatures sit between about 8°C and 19°C (46°F to 66°F), rainfall is more frequent, and you can enjoy quieter attractions and cosy indoor experiences.