Kings Park View, Perth Western Australia (1)
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95 Things To Do In Perth: The ONLY List You’ll Ever Need!

Perth is Western Australia’s capital city, and it’s absolutely impossible to get bored there.

There are just so many things to do in Perth – surfing or snorkelling at idyllic beaches, exploring King’s Park, going wine-tasting at Swan Valley, visiting the museums…

There’s plenty to do for any traveller or family, regardless of the budget.

The wildlife here is unique as well. You can watch dolphins, whales, quokkas, kangaroos, and penguins in the wild (and maybe even on the same day!).

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a history buff, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city!

Here are 95 things to do in Perth – which ones are you going to add to your itinerary?

9 Things you absolutely MUST do in Perth

If you’re visiting for 2-3 days, here are the bare minimum things that should be in your itinerary:

Kings Park View, Perth Western Australia (1)
View of Perth Skyline from Kings Park, Western Australia

1) King’s Park and Botanic Garden

This massive park sits beside the Swan River, near Perth city centre. We recommend spending at least half a day exploring it.

The views of the city skyline and Swan River are unparalleled. You’ll walk among exotic plants and beautiful landscaped gardens.

There are so many things to do, it has its own section further down!

🤩 Explore King’s Park with a tour guide with this 2.5-hour tour “Kings Park Botanicals And Beyond”

2) Elizabeth Quay

Located along the scenic Swan River, Elizabeth Quay is a vibrant waterfront hub with delicious restaurants, lively bars, and exciting entertainment options.

Make sure to walk through Elizabeth Quay Pedestrian Bridge.

This is an impressive suspension bridge that offers breathtaking views of the Perth skyline on one side and the Swan River and South Perth on the other.

🤩 Get to know Elizabeth Quay and other highlights of Perth in this 3-hour walking tour: Perth: Art, History, and Culture

3) Rottnest Island (and its quokkas)

Rottnest Island is a protected nature reserve, boasting remarkable beaches and charming quokkas

The island is easily accessible by ferry from Perth, Fremantle, or Northport, making it a perfect day trip destination.

Try visiting in the early morning or evening, as this is the time when quokkas are the most active. They usually eat around shady areas, so keep your eyes peeled for them!

Rottnest Island is also famous for its amazing marine life, including tropical fish, fur seals, dolphins, manta rays, and even whales.

Once on the island, you can go swimming, snorkelling, hike the Wadjemup Bidi, and do one of the many tours and cruises available!

🤩 This full-day, budget-friendly tour includes the ferry to Rottnest Island, sightseeing from a bus, and free time to explore before returning to Perth/Fremantle: Discover Rottnest with Ferry & Bus Tour

Fremantle markets

No visit to Perth is complete without visiting Freo (Fremantle).

The Fremantle Markets are home to dozens of stalls offering delicious food, unique gifts, and handmade trinkets.

They’re right in the centre of this quaint town, which is a 20-minute drive south of Perth City centre! Here’s the location.

5) Fremantle Prison

This is the only World Heritage-listed building in Western Australia, making it one of the biggest attractions in Perth.

You need to book a tour to enter, it’s 100% worth it. You’ll learn about its history, notorious inmates, and punting through subterranean tunnels. It’s located here.

🤩 True crime lovers will LOVE this tour: True crime Fremantle Prison tour.

Walking along the Swan River, Perth Western Australia. One of the best things to do in Perth, Western Australia
The view looking back a Perth City. The swan river is stunning to explore, with plenty of walking and biking tracks.

6) Walk along the Swan River

This is the huge river that goes all the way through Perth. No matter where you are on the riverbank, you’ll easily find beautiful spots to walk, explore, and even sit for a picnic.

It’s an incredible place to walk along, especially at sunset. Plus, it’s less windy than the beach.

There are cruise tours that take you along the river, too. It’s an excellent activity for people of all ages, as the views are amazing and there’s a chance to see dolphins in the wild!

🤩 Sail through the Swan River and enjoy the views with this 2.5-hour tour: Swan River: Round-Trip Cruise from Perth or Fremantle

7) Cottesloe Beach

If you can only visit one of the many beaches in Perth, make it this one. You can easily spend a day out with the family here!

The swimming, snorkelling, and surfing are superb.

There’s lots of marine life (including the endangered leafy seadragon), and the waves are excellent for beginners and pros alike.

There are great shops and restaurants all down there, too, including the iconic Indiana House. The beach is also safe for children and even has a nice playground!

And if you visit in March, you can check out the Sculpture By The Sea festival. Cottesloe Beach is here.

Drone footage walking through the Pinnacles north of Perth, Western Australia
Walking through The Pinnacles at sunset.

8) The Pinnacles Desert

The Pinnacles is a unique attraction in Western Australia, at a 2-hour drive from Perth. It’s a desert with massive limestone pillars which are made out of layered sea shells.

You have to see it to believe it.

There are plenty of things to do in The Pinnacles – it even has a driving trail and a hiking trail to explore them!

If you have a car (or plan on renting one), it’s 100% worth the drive to check this place out.

But if you don’t, no worries. Lots of visitors just book a full-day tour, as dozens of incredible operators take you there from Perth.

🤩 We recommend this full-day tour to The Pinnacles. It takes you stargazing to the desert! You’ll visit Lancelin Sand Dunes on the way and have a delicious BBQ dinner.

Wildflower season in Western Australia

9) Wildflowers In Perth Hills

Wildflower season in Perth is from July-August to November. It’s an absolute spectacle everyone should enjoy if visiting during those months!

Perth Hills is the most popular place to see them near Perth. The Bibbulmun Track and John Forrest National Park are musts – the explosion of colours there is unmatched.

🤩 Visit Perth Hills even if it’s not wildflower season. This private, full-day tour takes you through all the highlights! Perth Hills Explorer Full-Day Tour

Things to do in King’s Park

This is a MASSIVE park on Mount Elizabeth, which overlooks Perth CBD and the Swan River.

It’s free to enter and it’s impossible to get bored. See, it’s the second biggest park in all of Australia, meaning there are LOTS of things to do in King’s Park:

🤩 Want to cover the massiveness of King’s Park while saving energy for the rest of your trip? Check out this 90-minute segway tour!

Swam Brewery in Perth, Western Australia. Photo from a drone.
Swan Brewery from the air.

10) Old Swan Brewery

The Old Swan Brewery is a historic building that was originally constructed in 1838. It was a brewery until the mid-20th century, but nowadays it’s an apartment complex.

The building itself is beautiful, but the views are mindblowing! There’s also a nice restaurant there, where you can dine while enjoying the river views.

Old Swan Brewery is located here.

The blue boat house in Perth, Western Australia. A popular photography spot in Perth and a great instagram spot.
The famous Blue Bost House, located on the Swan River. A popular photography spot.

11) Blue Boat House

The Crawley Edge Boatshed is mostly known as the Blue Boat House. It was built in the 1930s, and it has become an iconic symbol of Perth.

Make sure to take a picture here during your visit! It’s located here.

12) Lotterywest Federation Walkway

This is a beautiful bridge with stunning views of King’s Park, the city, and the river. It’s really high – you’ll walk over the top of the trees.

This walkway offers a truly special perspective of the area, don’t miss it! It’s located here.

13) State War Memorial

This monument is dedicated to the memory of Western Australians who served in wars.

There’s a cenotaph, a flame that’s always burning to symbolize eternal life, a reflecting pool, walls inscribed with the names of those who served, and sculptures.

It’s a place to commemorate events like ANZAC Day (Apr, 25) and Remembrance Day (Nov, 11). It’s located here.

14) DNA Tower

This 15-metre-high staircase has the shape of a DNA molecule (hence the name) and it’s the highest viewpoint in King’s Park.

Climbing the 100 stairs may be challenging, but the views are 100% worth it! It’s located here.

Giant Boab Tree over looking Perth City at Kings Park Botanical Gardens. Great thing to do and see at Kings Park, Perth, Western Australia
Giant Boab Tree over looking Perth City at Kings Park Botanical Gardens.

15) Gija Jumulu (Giant Boab)

This 18-metre, 750-year-old tree was transplanted from the Kimberley Region into this park in 2008.

It was part of a conservation effort to preserve the tree, as the area where it was originally was undergoing development.

These trees have a cultural and historical significance to the Indigenous people of the Kimberley region, so it was imperative to preserve them! It’s located here.

16) Floral clock

This is a large, functioning clock made up of colourful plants and flowers.

It’s designed to showcase the diversity of Western Australian flora – the arrangement of the floral displays changes to reflect the seasons! It’s located here.

Beaches to visit

The beaches in Perth are idyllic, with crystal clear blue water and powdery soft sand. There are many to choose from, all of them at a short driving distance from Perth city centre:

Scarborough Beach, Perth, Western Australia. Stunning blue beach with restaurants and bars along foreshore. Great thing to do in Perth
During summer Scarborough Beach is a must visit! Huge white sand beach with great bars.

17) Scarborough beach

Scarborough Beach is very similar to Cottesloe Beach, just on the northern side of the coast.

It’s also a day out in itself. The beach itself is beautiful, but there are some cool add-ons, too:

  • A huge playground for kids
  • A skate park
  • A pool next to the ocean
  • Bouldering rock climbing
  • Basketball courts
  • An esplanade with lots of bars and restaurants
  • The Scarborough Markets
  • The Scarborough Hill

There are LOTS to do for kids and adults, day or night. Don’t miss this spot! It’s located here.

Sunset City Beach, Perth, Western Australia
Sunsets at City Beach are hard to beat. You nearly guaranteed a great sunset every night.

18) City Beach 

This beach is a 15-minute drive from CBD. It’s known for its consistent surf breaks, which are great for surfers of all skill levels. It has grassy areas for picnics and BBQs, as well as cafes and restaurants with ocean views.

Try visiting during the sunset, it’s breathtaking! It’s located here.

19) Trigg Beach

Another excellent surfing spot, Trigg Beach also has picnic areas, BBQs, cafes, and restaurants.

It’s famous for hosting the Summer X Salt markets, and for having a beautiful coastal walk. There’s also an incredible snorkelling spot here – Mettams Pool.

That’s why Trigg Beach is definitely a spot you don’t want to miss. Plus, it’s a quick 17-minute drive from CBD! It’s located here.

20) Port Beach 

This large, white sand beach is just above Fremantle port. You can see Rottnest Island from there!

The swimming and snorkelling are great, although it can get windy at times (which is perfect for windsurfers). It’s a 20-minute drive from Perth CBD, it’s located here.

21) Coogee Beach

This must-stop is considered one of the best 15 beaches in Australia. You’ll love the white sandy coastline combined with the turquoise waters.

But the snorkelling will absolutely blow your mind. It has a specific snorkelling/diving route where you can see underwater sculptures, art installations, and the famous Omeo wreck.

It’s a 30-minute drive from Perth CBD, it’s located here.

22) Go surfing/kitesurfing (or take your first lesson)

Most of these beaches are excellent for surfing, with waves for all levels (including absolute beginners!).

If you haven’t surfed yet, there are heaps of surf schools scattered along the coast. They have expert instructors who’ll have you riding a wave in no time. These are some of the most popular:

Markets

Perth hosts several markets throughout the year. Some are in the mornings, others at night, but all of them are great!

Most open between October-November to March-April (the rest of the year is too cold and/or rainy for that!).

It’s an excellent opportunity to mingle with the locals. Here are some of the most popular markets in Perth:

23) Scarborough Markets

These are food and artisan markets on Scarborough Beach. They’re seasonal, opening between November and April, on Thursday evenings.

The food is excellent, there’s live music, and good vibes all around. Check out their website for more details and info about the vendors!

24) Trigg Markets (Summer X Salt Markets)

These are quirky surf markets in Trigg Beach, opening every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month, in the mornings, from November to March.

You’ll find a wide variety of stalls, offering food, drinks, live music, outdoor wellness sessions, and more! Here’s their website for more details.

25) Point Walter Markets (Dinner At Dusk)

Another awesome evening market, operating every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month, from October until March.

There are excellent food trucks here and live music. It’s an awesome plan to do with the family. It’s located here.

And if you’re there during low tide, make sure to walk along the Point Walter Sandbar!

26) Twilight Hawkers Market

These evening food markets are right in the heart of Perth CBD, at a short walking distance from Elizabeth Quay. Go there any Friday afternoon from December to March!

The stalls offer a wide array of international cuisines, so grab a bite of pretty much anything your heart desires! It’s located here.

27) Kalamunda Markets

Kalamunda is a town in Perth Hills, a 30-minute drive from Perth CBD.

There are a few markets there, but our favourites are the night markets, held the last Friday of the month, between October to April. Great food, live music, and awesome people! It’s located here.

28) Subi Night Markets

These are located in Subiaco, a 7-minute drive from Perth CBD. They open every Saturday evening, from November to April.

There’s food, vintage clothes, live music, and more! It’s located here.

29) Peel Produce Market

If you’re going to visit Mandurah (or not!) stop by these markets.

A 1-hour drive south from the city centre, these markets are open from December to August, every Saturday morning. It’s located here.

30) Toodyay Farmers Markets

These markets are in Toodyay, a 1-hour drive inland from Perth. They open every 3rd Saturday of the month, in the mornings, all year round.

It’s the place to be if you want a traditional farmers market! It’s located here.

Parks

Perth has 16 major parkland areas and dozens of small parks. Apart from King’s Park, these are the most popular ones:

31) Queen’s Gardens

This picturesque park is dubbed an “urban oasis” by Perth locals. It’s filled with beautiful flowers, trees, and shrubs.

Opened in 1898 in honour of Queen Victoria, the gardens feature a stunning lake, large viewing pavilions, and bridges. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, here’s the location.

32) Supreme Court Gardens

These 100-year-old gardens sit next to the Bell Tower, in the centre of Perth. They are absolutely beautiful, with lots of space to walk around.

As the name suggests, the Supreme Court is there, as well as the oldest building in Perth – the Court House. Here’s the location.

33) Hyde Park

This park is also near the city centre. It has some beautiful old trees and a big lake in the centre. It’s great to get a coffee and walk around.

There’s also a water playground for the kids – perfect during the summer! It’s located here.

34) Whiteman Park

This massive park is a 25-minute drive from Perth. There are awesome walking trails, plus trains and trams to make the exploring more accessible.

It’s excellent for watching wildlife, as there are lots of animals, guided tours, and even a wildlife park with unique native animals. It’s located here.

35) John Forrest National Park

This hidden gem is just a quick 30-minute drive from the city centre. It’s a stunning area with great views, several walking and bicycle trails, and two waterfalls.

There are lots of wildlife here too, as well as stunning flora – the whole area is set within a beautiful Jarrah forest that blossoms in colour during wildflower season.

Here’s the beautiful Eagle View Walk Trail, offering unique views of the city. It’s a hotspot during the wildflower season, too.

Keep in mind that entry fees apply ($17 per vehicle) and no dogs are allowed. It’s located here.

Wildlife

This town has lots of opportunities to get in touch with wildlife – kangaroos, dolphins, even penguins! Here are the must-see ones:

Note: The quokkas are mentioned above, click here to go there.

36) Kangaroos on Heirisson Island

Heirisson Island is a kangaroo sanctuary in the heart of Perth. Here, you can get up close and personal with these iconic Australian animals in their natural environment.

In 1998, the western grey kangaroos were introduced to the island, and today, at least five or six can be spotted during the day. Plus, it’s free to enter! It’s located here.

37) Check out Penguin Island

Penguin Island is home to a colony of over 1,000 little penguins! As well as other marine life, like bottlenose dolphins and Australian sea lions.

It’s accessible by ferry, which departs from Shoalwater (a town 45 minutes south of Perth). There, you can get up close to these beautiful animals, snorkel the crystal-clear waters, or take a guided tour.

🤩 Wanna get up and close with penguins and seals? Then book this kayak tour: Penguin and Seal Islands Sea Kayaking Experience

38) Watch dolphins in the wild

Between September and May, you can witness the playful dolphins in the wild!

From the banks of the Swan River to the waters surrounding Penguin Island, the Perth region is home to a thriving population of these friendly marine mammals.

The best viewpoints in Perth City are Matilda Bay Reserve and Narrows Bridge!

🤩 Want to swim with dolphins? Then this tour is a must: Swim with Wild Dolphins Day Tour

39) Go whale-watching

Two whale species swim through the Indian Ocean, along Perth’s waters during their migration:

  • Blue whales, in March and April

  • Humpback whales, from September to early December

A good spot for whale-watching from the shore is the Sardine Jetty, but we recommend doing a whale-watching tour if you can.

It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience that shouldn’t be missed if you visit Perth during whale season.

Plus, you’ll also see other marine life like seals, dolphins, heaps of seabirds, and more!

🤩 This is the whale-watching tour we recommend: 2-Hour Luxury Whale-Watching Cruise from Fremantle

40) Caversham Wildlife Park

This wildlife park is in Whiteman Park, and is home to +2000 animals native to Australia, including:

  • Kangaroos

  • Koalas

  • Wombats

  • Tasmanian devils

  • Emus

You can easily spend the day exploring the park’s diverse habitats, learning about the unique species that call Australia home, and enjoying interactive experiences and shows!

Snorkelling

Snorkelling in Perth is absolutely epic. There are reefs, natural pools, and even shipwrecks to explore! Most of them really close to the shore.

So, if you love the underwater world, make sure to add these spots to your itinerary:

41) Omeo Wreck

This unique shipwreck is the highlight of the Coogee Maritime Trail, an epic snorkelling trail just a 30-minute drive south of Perth.

The shipwreck is very close to the shore and the beach is patrolled, making it extremely safe for a snorkelling day with the family. It’s located here.

42) Mettams Pool

Mettams Pool is one of the most popular snorkelling spots in Perth. It’s a natural rock pool with a reef in Trigg Beach.

It’s known for its calm and sheltered waters, making it perfect for kids and people of all levels. You can easily access the pool from the shore! It’s located here.

43) Boyinaboat Reef

This sanctuary zone is in Hillary’s Harbour, a 30-minute drive north of Perth city centre. It’s a 6-metre-deep reef, with heaps of beautiful marine life.

We recommend it to people with some snorkelling experience, as you need to swim a bit to get here (around 75-100 metres). It’s located here.

44) Point Peron

This incredible snorkelling spot is part of the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, in Rockingham. It’s a 45-minute drive south of Perth.

There’s another great snorkelling spot nearby – Mushroom Rock. Both are incredible, with hundreds of colourful fishes hiding in the crevices of the surrounding limestone.

There are rock pools near the shore for kids, too. It’s located here.

🤩 This tour is perfect to finish a life-changing day of snorkelling: Point Peron Sunset & Sparkling Hike

45) Parker Point

Parker Point is one of the many awesome snorkelling spots in Rottnest Island!

This one is a snorkel trail with plaques attached to the ocean floor, so you can learn more about the history, flora, and fauna of the area.

It’s a bit deep, so it may be best for confident snorkelers. It’s located here.

🤩 Book this tour to check the best snorkelling spots on the island: Rottnest Island Guided Snorkel Boat Experience.

46) Burns Beach

This spot is a 30-minute drive north of Perth, and has a beautiful sheltered reef. It’s located here.

There’s an epic scuba-diving spot nearby, too – Burns Beach Rocks. You can only get there by boat though, as it’s 1.5km off the coast.

With kids

There are plenty of things to do in Perth with kids, but these are musts:

47) Optus stadium

This is a new stadium – it officially opened in 2018! The structure itself is impressive, and the views from it are top-notch.

During your visit, try catching an AFL game or go check out the Perth Scorchers (our local cricket team)!

🤩 Little ones and adults alike will love this backstage tour of the stadium: The Optus Stadium Tour

48) Hillary’s Boat Harbour

This is a big, beautiful harbour that is a 25-minute drive north of Perth.

There’s an awesome water park there, Island Aqua Park. The area also has lots of family restaurants and a few beaches nearby, making for an awesome day for the whole family.

49) Hillary’s aquarium

This massive aquarium, AQWA, is right next to Hillary’s Boat Harbour.

It has an epic underwater tunnel and an interactive touch pool! Plus several back-stage experiences, like snorkelling with sharks or dining beneath the sea.

50) Zero latency

Zero latency is a virtual-reality gaming experience, with a variety of experiences to choose from and options for all ages.

They also have arcades and other non-VR stuff if you want something more traditional. It’s right in the centre of Perth. Make sure to book ahead to save your spot!

51) BHP Water Park

This is a water park in Elizabeth Quay, in the centre of Perth. It’s 100% free to enter, so kids can have fun splashing around in the jets during a hot summer day.

It’s great to visit at night too – there’s a light show with the water, looking like a kaleidoscope of colours.

52) Escape rooms

There are a few escape rooms in Perth and Fremantle. If you like them, they’re pretty good fun for everyone!

We recommend Escape This in Perth city centre, and Escape Hunt in Fremantle.

53) Rio Tinto Naturescape King’s Park

This is an adventure park within King’s Park and it’s free to enter!

It has winding paths, treetop walkways, and waterholes for kids to play around. It’s a must-stop for families, it’s located here.

Walks and hikes

If you haven’t noticed yet, the capital of Western Australia offers lots of outdoor activities! For those who want more, these are the best walks and hikes around Perth:

Note: If you visit during the wildflower season (July-August to November), try doing at least one of these hikes!

54) Trigg coastal walk

This is a local secret! It’s an absolutely stunning walk from Trigg Beach to Hillary’s. It’s 6 km long (a 1.5-hour walk) on top of the hills, as you walk overlooking the beach.

You don’t have to walk the whole thing, but it’s a great way to explore this stretch of coast. There are a couple of cafes along the way, too. Here’s the route.

55) Hike through Perth Hills

The scenic Perth Hills is a 40-minute drive from the city centre. It’s a hilly region east of Perth, with lots of nature walks, picturesque views, and even wineries.

There are trails of different lengths and for all skill levels. One of the most renowned is the Bibbulmun Track, which starts there and takes you 1000 km down to Albany.

While exploring the Perth Hills, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the John Forrest National Park, a stunning area set within a beautiful Jarrah forest!

🤩 Love a good hike but don’t know which walks to do? Don’t miss this tour (includes lunch, too!): Hidden Gems of Perth Hiking Experience

56) Eagle View Walk Trail

This 15-km circuit is one of the most stunning walks in John Forrest National Park. After driving 35 minutes from Perth and paying the entry fee ($17/vehicle), you’ll be in for a treat.

There are waterfalls, rapids, and unique views of Perth city. But the wildflower season is when this place truly blossoms – the whole area explodes with colour, it’s beautiful! Here’s a map of the trail.

🤩 Explore this and other highlights of John Forrest National Park with this 10km guided hike: Tunnels, Falls & Eagle Views Hiking Experience

57) Wadjemup Bidi

Found in Rottnest Island, this is a 45 km-long network of 5 walking trails that thread their way around the island, offering mesmerising views and unique wildlife.

It’s one of the best ways to explore the island, as it takes you to some places only accessible by foot.

There are several bus stops along the way too, so if you get tired at any point, just hop on one to return to the town centre.

Bring a backpack with snorkelling equipment to enjoy the different underwater spots you’ll find, and keep your eyes peeled for quokkas!

S&C Travel Tip

58) Kitty’s Gorge

This 14km loop is in Serpentine National Park, a 50-minute drive from Perth CBD. The hike is beautiful, mostly in winter in spring, as the rivers will be flowing. The starting point is here.

There are forests, gorges, and wildflowers when in season. And the midpoint of the hike? Serpentine Falls!

It’s a moderately difficult hike though, as there are loose stones and uneven ground. Bring comfortable and sturdy shoes.

59) Bibbulmun Track

The famous Bibbulmun Track is one of the longest trails in the world. It stretches 1000 kilometres along Western Australia’s South West, from Kalamunda in the Perth Hills down to Albany.

The entire track can take 6-8 weeks (mad props to those who attempt it!), but most of us mortals choose to do shorter sections.

Check out the official website for more details, like choosing which section(s) to hike, planning, things to know, etc.

🤩 Book this full-day tour to hike the first 18km of the Bibbulmun Track with an experienced guide: The Bibbulmun Hiking Experience From Kalamunda

60) Numbat Trail

This grade-3, 12km trail is in the Paruna Wildlife Sanctuary, a 50-minute drive from the city centre.

There are lots of lookouts overlooking the gorgeous Avon River Valley, as well as heaps of wildlife and birdlife.

The park closes from November to April and you have to book ahead. There’s a small entry fee to fund the conservation of the area. Book your spot and pay the fee here.

🤩 Hike the Numbat Trail without the hassle! This tour includes entry fees and a guide, just show up at the meeting point: Numbat Trail Hiking Experience

61) Rocky Pool Walk Trail

This 5 km loop is in Kalamunda National Park (on Perth Hills), a 40-minute drive from the CBD.

It takes you to Rocky Pool, a natural swimming pool. The path is steep and can be challenging in some places, so it’s best for experienced hikers.

That said, the views of the valley are unparalleled. The park is free to enter and the starting point of the walk is here.

Museums and culture

These are the most popular museums in Perth:

62) Perth Mint

This historical facility is known for producing coins and bars of high-quality gold, silver, and platinum. It’s one of the few mints in the world that still refines these metals on-site.

It’s in the centre of town, here, and you can enter the shop and overall grounds for free. There’s a great exhibition about the history of WA’s gold industry and the coin-minting process, too.

🤩 Check out the historical exhibition and watch a traditional gold pour on this tour: The Perth Mint Gold Tour

63) The Bell Tower

The Bell Tower is another popular attraction in the heart of Perth, at a short walking distance from Perth Mint. It’s located here.

It was custom-built and completed in 2000, to house twelve 14th-century bells, brought from Saint Martin-in-the-Fields Church (a famous church in London).

It has attracted thousands of tourists since then. You can enter the tower and ascend to enjoy panoramic views of Perth on its observation deck.

🤩 This guided tour lets you ascend the Bell Tower and even have a go at chiming the bells yourself: Perth Bell Tower Experience

64) WA Museum Boola Bardip

Boola Bardip” means “Many Stories” in Nyoongar, the language spoken by the traditional owners of this land.

It’s in the city centre as well, it’s located here, and has permanent exhibitions on the cultural history of Western Australia. It’s fascinating, we recommend visiting at least once.

The general admission ticket costs $15 and you can get them online, here. They also do an impressive digital projection on the walls of the museum for everyone to enjoy for free, starting at 6 pm.

This beautiful gallery contains +18,000 works of art and incredible pieces by both local and international artists.

It’s in the city centre and the entry is free, but they ask for a voluntary donation. It’s located here.

66) Scitech

Scitech is an interactive science museum in the centre, here. It houses Australia’s largest Planetarium, among other cool things. There are science exhibitions, shows, and activities for the whole family.

The entrance fee gives you access to the entire museum, including the planetarium. Prices vary depending on the age, with special prices for families. Check fees and book tickets here!

67) Fremantle Arts Centre

This impressive building is a short walk from the Fremantle Prison and the markets.

It has exhibitions, live music, and a nice cafe. If you’re not into art, at least check out the building – it’s pretty imposing and was built by convicts.

Food, coffee, and pubs

Perth is truly exceptional when it comes to the variety of culinary choices! Here are our favourite spots:

68) Get your inner foodie loose in Swan Valley

Perth is the gateway to the renowned Swan Valley, the oldest and most renowned wine region in Western Australia (closely followed by Margaret River).

It’s home to +30 vineyards, breweries, and wineries, each one offering a diverse selection of culinary delights.

For wine lovers, the most popular wineries are:

Beer lovers can’t miss these breweries:

Spend at least one day here exploring and soaking in the vibes, just have a designated driver for your return to Perth!

There are dozens of Swan Valley tours that can take you hopping through various wineries or breweries! Most include pick up and drop-off from Perth, so don’t worry about driving.

🤩 This budget-friendly, all-inclusive tour of Swan Valley takes you wine-hopping and includes pretty much everything (including transport): Ultimate Swan Valley Food and Wine Day Trip from Perth

69) Tucking the fish and chips on the beach

For those who want a truly local experience, get some fish and chips on the beach while enjoying the sunset! Extra points if you combine that with a cold beer.

These are some of the best fish and chips spots in town:

70) Restaurants

If you want to splurge on a meal or two, you can’t go wrong with any of these restaurants:

You can also grab an excellent meal without breaking the bank, though! The cheap but good restaurants tend to be Vietnamese, Thai, Chinese, and Indian.

🤩 Explore Perth while getting to know the best of its culinary scene with this private food tour: The 10 Tastings of Perth With Locals

71) Coffee shops

Confession time: we can’t start our morning with a nice cup of coffee. That means we’ve gotten pretty good at finding the best brews in town! These are our recommendations:

72) Pubs to check out

Pub-hopping is one of the best ways to mingle with the locals. These spots are our favourites:

🤩 Go pub-hopping and explore Perth’s night scene with this small-group walking tour: Perth Bar + Street Art Tour

More epic things to do

These are things that we didn’t know in which category to put, but you should absolutely do them:

73) Watch the sunset at Scarborough Hill

This is a massive, beautiful hill in front of Scarborough Beach where you can sit and watch the sunset. Bring food and/or drinks and enjoy the views! It’s located here.

74) Fremantle Roundhouse

The Fremantle Roundhouse was a prison built in 1831, making it the oldest public building in all Western Australia.

It’s free to enter, so you can wander inside and check out the old cells. Try scheduling your visit at 1 pm – they fire a cannon at that time! It’s located here.

75) Saint Mary’s Cathedral

This famous cathedral has been standing tall in Perth since the mid-1800s.

No need to be religious to enjoy it, as it is a beautiful building in itself, with gorgeous stained glass windows and towering spires.

It’s free to enter and it’s located here. There are tours available, but they can’t be booked online at the time of writing. Learn more about the tours and times here.

76) Walk through Point Walter sandbar

This is a sandbar that only shows itself during low tide, extending from the Point Walter reserve into the Swan River.

You can see a range of stunning birds that use the sandbar as a feeding ground, resting place, and nesting site. It’s located here.

77) Serpentine Falls

This natural swimming pool with a waterfall is a bit outside of Perth, at a 50-minute drive (located here). But it’s THE place to be if you want to escape the Aussie heat.

The place is beautiful with lots of wildlife. It’s also the mid-point of the Kitty’s Gorge hike, so you can rest in the falls and lunch at one of the many picnic tables before going back to the trail!

78) Matagarup Bridge

This bridge connects the east and west sides of Perth, i.e. the CBD and the Optus Stadium. It has a contemporary design and lights up at night (which looks epic btw). It’s located here.

You can walk across it or, if you’re feeling adventurous, zip over the river for a bird’s eye view of the city, and even abseil down!

🤩 Zip over the river from Matagarup Bridge with this family-friendly tour: Matagarup Bridge Climb and Zipline in Perth

79) Mountain Quarry for abseiling and rock climbing

After a short 30-minute drive from Perth, you’ll get to this hotspot for abseiling and rock-climbing enthusiasts. It’s located here.

There’s something for everyone, from beginners to hardcore climbers, and the views from the top are spectacular! Rock climbing and abseiling must be booked in advance, more info here.

80) Explore Perth with a scavenger hunt

If you want to explore Perth in a different way, go on a scavenger hunt!

Instead of just walking around, you’ll follow clues sent to your phone, leading you to hidden spots and interesting landmarks. It’s a unique way to get to know the town, its history, and quirky details you might miss otherwise!

The guys at City Days create the most interesting scavenger hunts in Perth. They craft them carefully, so you have fun exploring and solving the puzzles, plus know where to stop in between to grab a bite or have a drink.

And they’re always adding new hunts – they’re currently working on one at King’s Park! Click here to check the City Day’s scavenger hunts available.

81) Watch the Ballet at the Quarry Amphitheatre

The Quarry Amphitheatre is a great place to enjoy some live music and shows, but nothing compares to watching the ballet there, under the stars.

It’s a 15-minute drive from Perth, located here. As it’s completely outdoors, it only offers shows between November and April, check what’s on here.

82) Outdoor cinema in the summer

Another awesome thing to do in Perth in the summer is to watch a movie in one of the many outdoor cinemas. These are some of our favourites:

83) Karrinyup Shopping Centre

If you want to do some shopping (or just have a good time) this is the place to go! Located here, a 15-minute drive from the centre, it has great stores, lots of places to eat (bars, restaurants), a good movie theatre, and even a mini-golf course.

84) Learn about Perth’s Aboriginal culture

The Traditional Owners of Perth’s area are the Nyoongar people. They’ve lived on these lands for +40,000 years!

Theirs is the world’s oldest living culture. You can learn more about it through guided tours and cultural experiences offered by operators like Go Cultural and Nyungar Tours.

These knowledgeable guides will share the significance of locations such as King’s Park, Elizabeth Quay, and Rottnest Island in their culture, their deep connection to the land, and ancient customs.

By learning about Perth’s Aboriginal culture, you’ll gain a richer appreciation for the region’s history and the people who have shaped it.

5 Top attractions within a drive

Western Australia is famous for its beautiful and remote landscapes – beaches, woods, pink lakes, and even sci-fi destinations like The Pinnacles!

Popular destinations here include:

This state is famous for its vastness, too – it’s the biggest state in the country! So, to visit most of those attractions, you have to either hop on a 1-2 hour plane, or drive +6 hours.

Which may not be possible if you’re in town just for a few days, or are travelling Perth on a budget.

However, these are other INCREDIBLE attractions that are less than a 3-hour drive from the city centre! They’re perfect for a day trip:

🤩 If you need to rent a car, we 100% recommend RentalCars. They find the cheapest deals for you and there are dozens of pick-up and drop-off spots in the city: Book your car rental with RentalCars here.

85) Lancelin Sand dunes (1.5 hr drive north)

This massive stretch of sand dunes is just a 1.5-hour drive north of Perth! You’ll feel like you’re in a mini desert, but with views of the Indian Ocean – it’s breathtaking.

People flock here for sandboarding and quad-biking. Whether you’re a pro or a first-timer, you’ll have a good time. Plus, it’s free to enter! It’s located here.

🤩 Ride the dunes with this half-day tour: Sandboard and Quad Bike Adventure in Lancelin

86) Jurien Bay (<2.5 hr drive north)

If you like snorkelling, you’ll love this place. It’s located here.

Jurien Bay has a limestone reef running parallel to the pristine shore, filled with colourful corals and thousands of tropical fish swimming around.

Apart from snorkelling and diving, you can also go fishing, kayaking, canoeing, boating, and more.

It also has the only breeding area for Australian sea lions in the state. These are the rarest sea lions in the world, and some tours (like this one) take you to them!

87) Mandurah (50-min drive south)

This quirky town is less than a 1-hour drive south of Perth. What makes it so unique? It has water canals all around!

You can bring your boat or hire one and go bar-hopping along the canals. Or even better – hire a boathouse and stay overnight (highly recommend doing that if you can).

Plus, dolphins are permanent residents. They’re always flipping around the waterways, it’s incredible. Mandurah is located here.

🤩 This tour will take you cruising along the Mandurah canals in a unique way – on a pirate ship! Check it out: Pirate Ship Cruise with lunch

88) Bunbury (<2 hr drive south)

Bunbury is the second biggest city in Western Australia, famous for its dolphin encounters in Koombana Bay, and laid-back beaches with top-notch surfing. It’s located here.

The city is also sort of an open-air gallery, with beautiful painted murals all around.

There are lots of things to do in Bunbury, so it would be ideal if you could spend a day or two here (a full day is enough to see the main things, though)!

89) Busselton (<2.5 hr drive south)

Busselton is another coastal haven, less than a 2.5-hour drive south of Perth city centre (located here). It’s the gateway to the beautiful Geographe Bay and Western Australia’s southwest.

Snorkelling the Busselton Jetty is a MUST during your visit, as its piles create Australia’s greatest artificial reef, with underwater sculptures and everything.

And if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, check out the Tuart Forest National Park. Go for a hike there or zipline through it!

🤩 This guided snorkelling tour of the Busselton Jetty is also family-friendly! Check it out: Busselton Jetty Snorkelling Tour

Tours

For those who want a more guided experience, tours are your best bet. Here are the best ones:

90) Very Best of Perth Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION:  7 hours | ✅ Book it here!

This is the PERFECT tour to do on your first day in Perth! It’s jam-packed with the city’s highlights.

Your guide will take you to King’s Park and Caversham Wildlife Park, then continue for a wine-tasting experience in Swan Valley, and finish in Scarborough Beach for the best sunset.

It’s a general view of popular places to visit in Perth. The best way to kickstart your trip!

This was a really good tour. Picked up promptly by a friendly Tim. He was very knowledgeable about the wild life park and the wines especially. Beautiful lunch. Would certainly recommend (…)

-Tripadvisor Reviewer

91) Rottnest Island Tandem Skydive

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | 📍 LOCATION: Rottnest Island | ✅ Book it here!

See Rottnest Island from a unique vantage point – from the sky! After a safety briefing, you and your small group will head for the clouds.

After a minute of a heart-pounding freefall, you’ll parachute with your instructor for a few minutes. Take in the mindblowing views before landing on the beach.

This skydiving tour is an absolute MUST for thrill-seekers!

“The people with us kept us calm and when I began having doubts due to fear after seeing my daughter exit the plane I was at the door and out the plane luckily as it was an amazing experience which was over too quickly. A big Thank you to everyone involved 🥰”

-Susan F

92) Perth Jet Ski Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars |📍 LOCATION: Rockingham | ✅ Book it here!

Imagine driving a jet ski, under the bluest sky, with dolphins swimming alongside you…

This is possible with this jet ski tour, just a quick 40-minute drive south of Perth!

Your guides will take you cruising around Cockburn Sound and Garden Island, beautiful marine reserves with heaps of marine life – dolphins, sea lions, and more.

“The guides were amazing. Lots of fun. Would totally do it again. We had the best time 🙂 Felt safe and comfortable”

-Kaylie L

93) Ballooning in the Avon Valley

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | 📍 LOCATION: Burswood | ✅ Book it here!

This early morning tour will kick off your day with the ultimate sunrise view – floating in a hot air balloon above the stunning Avon Valley.

Then, enjoy a nice breakfast after landing. There’s no better way to start your day! Plus, the tour includes pick-up and drop off from Burswood.

Enjoyed every part of the experience, from pick up in Perth to the actual breakfast after flight. Our driver Thor and our pilot Dan were incredible. Highly recommend.

-Deanne R

94) Wave Rock and Aboriginal Cultural Day Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ DURATION:  12 hours | ✅ Book it here!

In this full-day tour, your guide will take you on a journey through Western Australia’s wheat belt, hitting up gems like York, Wave Rock, Hippo’s Yawn, and Mulka’s Cave.

It includes an Aussie-style lunch, as well as pick up and drop off.

This tour is an absolute must if you visit during wildflower season (July-August to November). The entire area blossoms with colour, it’s stunning!

“Everything about this tour was excellent. From pick up to drop off. Glenn our tour guide was the best. It was a long trip to the wave rock, but made enjoyable by regular stops and Glenn’s commentary. We kept on schedule and was back at our hotel around 8 pm. A long day but we had a great day. Would definitely recommend.

-Debbie P

95) Abrolhos Island: Snorkelling Adventure

⏳ DURATION:  8 hours |📍 LOCATION: Jandakot | ✅ Book it here!

The Abrolhos Islands are a bucket-list destination for snorkellers and history buffs (the Batavia Shipwreck was here!).

And this tour takes you to a full day there! Your tour starts and ends at Jandakot Airport, just a breezy 20-minute drive from the heart of Perth.

Start with a scenic flight, as you go to the islands, followed by snorkel time. Dive into the crystal-clear waters around the Abrolhos Islands, explore, and enjoy the marine life.

How to get to Perth?

Perth is a bit isolated, so the easiest way to get there is by plane.

The airport is well-connected, receiving frequent flights from most Australian cities. Once you land, it’s a quick 20-minute ride to Perth CBD.

We usually book our trips with Trip.com because they find the best deals out there, check it here!

Road tripping is a legit option too! We 100% recommend this if you want to explore other parts of Western Australia and have a week or two available.

Where to stay in Perth?

There are literally hundreds of accommodation options in Perth, for any type of traveller and budget! Here are some of our favourites:

Best stays in the CBD

Best stays for families and groups

Best budget-friendly stays

Travelling Perth on a budget? Do this

Most of the things mentioned above are free or very cheap! There are even a few budget-friendly tours you can do.

Public transport in Perth is really affordable too, moreso if you have a SmartRider card (more on that here)

That said, what will set you back the most is eating out. One meal can easily be around $30/per person, so it adds up quick.

If you want to make the most out of Perth without breaking the bank, definitely check out our article on how to travel Perth on a budget!

Top Tips

The public transport in Perth is pretty good, but we recommend renting a car if possible. This will give you the freedom to explore the entire city and its surroundings at your own pace!

Thankfully there are LOTS of budget-friendly car rentals in Perth, with dozens of pick-up and drop-off points for your convenience.

We love using RentalCars for this, because they quickly scan all the offers available and give you the cheapest ones!

Try out Rental Cars here:

Did you know?

Perth is also called “The City of Light” because of an event in 1962.

That year, the Friendship 7 spacecraft was going to pass overhead while orbiting the Earth. The city residents decided to turn on their house lights to make Perth visible from outer space, and it worked!

FAQs

When is the best time to visit Perth?

The best time to visit Perth is in the spring, between September and November. The weather is good and the prices are not sky-high.

Winter in Perth (June-August) is very chilly and rainy, so it may not be a good time to visit. However, accommodation prices are the lowest during this season.

Is 3 days enough in Perth?

Yes, 3 days are enough in Perth to explore Perth’s top attractions – Kings Park, hit a few beaches, grab a drink at Elizabeth Quay…

But the sweet spot is between 5-7 days, as this will allow you to spend a day in Rottnest Island, go wine tasting in Swan Valley, and try other activities.

Are there family-friendly activities in Perth?

Yes, there are plenty of family-friendly activities in Perth! Like visiting the Caversham Wildlife Park, exploring Kings Park, and splashing around at Elizabeth Quay’s BHP Water Park.

The bottom line

It’s impossible to get bored in Perth. There are activities for every taste – outdoor enthusiasts, animal lovers, history buffs, foodies, families, and more.

Perth embodies the meaning of a truly diverse city, with unforgettable experiences for all ages. From iconic attractions like Kings Park and Rottnest Island to the bustling food scene, there’s never a dull moment!

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