Things to Do in Perth, Australia: A Complete Guide

Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends urban sophistication with natural beauty. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Perth offers a plethora of activities and attractions to suit every interest. From stunning beaches and lush parks to cultural landmarks and vibrant nightlife, here are the top things to do in Perth.

 

1. Explore Kings Park and Botanic Garden

 

 

Kings Park and Botanic Garden is one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, offering stunning views of the Perth skyline and the Swan River. It’s a perfect spot for picnics, walks, and relaxation.

 

Highlights

 

• War Memorials: Visit the State War Memorial for panoramic views and historical insights.
• Botanic Garden: Explore native Australian flora, including the iconic boab trees.
• Lotterywest Federation Walkway: Enjoy a walk among the treetops on this elevated walkway.

 

2. Relax at Perth’s Beautiful Beaches

 

 

Perth boasts some of the best beaches in Australia, with crystal-clear waters and pristine sands. Whether you’re into surfing, swimming, or simply sunbathing, there’s a beach for you.

 

Top Beaches

 

• Cottesloe Beach: Known for its golden sands and vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for swimming and picnicking.
• Scarborough Beach: A surfer’s paradise with excellent facilities, including cafes and skate parks.
• City Beach: Ideal for families, with calm waters and plenty of amenities.

 

3. Discover Fremantle

Fremantle, located just a short drive from Perth, is a historic port city known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and vibrant arts scene.

 

Highlights

 

• Fremantle Markets: A bustling market offering everything from fresh produce to unique crafts.
• Fremantle Prison: A UNESCO World Heritage site offering guided tours of its history and architecture.
• Maritime Museum: Explore Western Australia’s rich maritime history, including the famous America’s Cup yacht, Australia II.

 

4. Visit Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island is a short ferry ride from Perth and is famous for its stunning scenery and friendly quokkas, often referred to as the world’s happiest animals.

 

Activities

 

• Cycling: Rent a bike and explore the island at your own pace.
• Snorkelling: Discover the vibrant marine life in the island’s crystal-clear waters.
• Quokka Selfies: Don’t miss the chance to take a selfie with a quokka, a unique marsupial native to the island.

 

5. Explore Perth Cultural Centre

 

Located in the heart of the city, the Perth Cultural Centre is home to several of Perth’s top cultural attractions, making it a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.

 

Highlights

 

• Art Gallery of Western Australia: Features an impressive collection of Indigenous and contemporary art.
• Western Australian Museum: Offers fascinating exhibits on natural history, culture, and science.
• State Library of Western Australia: A great place to relax, read, or explore local history.

 

6. Enjoy Swan Valley

Swan Valley, just a 30-minute drive from Perth, is Western Australia’s oldest wine region. It offers a delightful escape with its vineyards, breweries, and gourmet food.

 

Highlights

 

• Wine Tasting: Visit some of the region’s top wineries for tastings and tours.
• Swan Valley Food and Wine Trail: A 32-kilometre loop showcasing the best of the region’s produce.
• Caversham Wildlife Park: Get up close with native Australian animals, including kangaroos and koalas.

 

7. Stroll Through Elizabeth Quay

Elizabeth Quay is a vibrant waterfront precinct that has quickly become one of Perth’s most popular attractions. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, dining, and entertainment.

 

Highlights

 

• The Bell Tower: One of Perth’s most unique landmarks, offering panoramic views of the city and river.
• Spanda: A striking public art piece that serves as a perfect photo spot.
• Dining and Entertainment: Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes, or take a river cruise.

 

8. Experience the Nightlife

 

Perth’s nightlife is diverse and dynamic, offering something for everyone, from sophisticated bars to lively nightclubs.

 

Highlights

 

• Northbridge: Known for its bustling nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants.
• Leederville: A trendy neighbourhood with hip bars, cafes, and live music venues.
• Crown Perth: A world-class entertainment complex featuring a casino, restaurants, bars, and a theatre.

 

9. Visit the Perth Zoo

The Perth Zoo, located just minutes from the city centre, is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world, with a strong focus on conservation and education.

Highlights

 

• Australian Bushwalk: Encounter native Australian wildlife, including kangaroos and koalas.
• African Savannah: See lions, giraffes, and rhinos in a naturalistic setting.
• Asian Rainforest: Meet elephants, tigers, and orangutans.

10. Take a River Cruise

A river cruise on the Swan River offers a unique perspective of Perth and its surrounding areas. It’s a relaxing way to see the city’s landmarks and natural beauty.

 

Options

 

• Swan River Cruises: Various operators offer sightseeing cruises, lunch and dinner cruises, and wine tours.
• Ferry to South Perth: Take a short ferry ride to South Perth and enjoy the views back to the city skyline.

11. Visit the Perth Mosque

For Muslim travellers, visiting local mosques offers a unique cultural experience and a sense of community. The Perth Mosque, one of the oldest in Australia, is a must-visit.

 

Contribution by Nurul from Explore to Makan

“As Muslim travellers, it is heartwarming to meet local Muslim communities and see how unique their mosques are. We once visited Perth Mosque for Friday prayers and were greeted with friendly faces, bread, and tea after the prayers. It’s touching to know that even though our cultures are different, we practice our religion the same way and are all part of one global community. Additionally, there are usually many halal cafes and restaurants in close proximity to the mosque, so our tummies are happy too!”

 

Perth is a city of endless possibilities, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to all interests and budgets. From its beautiful beaches and lush parks to its vibrant cultural scene and dynamic nightlife, there’s always something to see and do. Whether you’re exploring historic Fremantle, taking a selfie with a quokka on Rottnest Island, or enjoying a glass of wine in the Swan Valley, Perth promises an unforgettable adventure.

 

For a comfortable and affordable stay, book your accommodation with Holiday Swap. Enjoy your visit to Perth, and make the most of everything this incredible city has to offer!