Why Go to Perth
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Perth is one of the most isolated big cities on Earth, closer to Indonesia than to Sydney, and it might be one of Australia's best-kept secrets. Western Australia's capital, home to around 2 million people, grew during the gold rush of the 1800s and again after World War II, and today it's thriving, with a laid-back lifestyle, beautiful beaches, great coffee and lots of green space.
Stroll the huge Kings Park, one of the largest city parks in the world, with views over the Swan River and the skyline. Spend days at Cottesloe and Scarborough beaches, and explore the lively neighborhoods and waterfront at Elizabeth Quay. Just down the river, the port city of Fremantle charms with its markets, heritage buildings and the historic Fremantle Prison, a reminder of Australia's convict past. Take a ferry to Rottnest Island to see the famously smiling quokkas and swim in clear turquoise bays, and taste wines in the Swan Valley or the famous Margaret River region to the south.
Perth is a long trip, but well worth it. I'll plan your stay and connect Perth with the rest of Australia or a stopover on the way to Asia.
BEST FOR
Foodies, urban explorers, beach lovers and nature enthusiasts
BEST MONTHS
September–November and March–May
EXPLORE
Perth CBD includes shopping and cultural venues; Elizabeth Quay fronts the Swan River; Northbridge is known for dining; Fremantle and Cottesloe are popular nearby outings.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Perth
Oceania › Australasia › Australia › Western Australia
Sunny riverfront city life and Western Australian coastlines
Coastal & Harbor
Beach
Parks
Wine
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Allow a full separate day for Rottnest Island and arrange return ferry connections in advance.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Visit during daylight and wear sun protection.
Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Take in city and Swan River views amid native plant displays and walking paths.
Pair with a Swan River ferry outing.
Elizabeth Quay
Stroll a waterfront precinct with public art and river views.
Do not feed quokkas and book ferry transport ahead.
Rottnest Island
Take a ferry to an island known for quokkas, beaches and cycling.
Check market trading days.
Fremantle Historic Center
Explore heritage streets, museums, markets and cafés near the working port.
Watch surf conditions and swim between flags.
Cottesloe Beach
Enjoy a popular Indian Ocean beach known for clear water and sunsets.
An upscale heritage hotel in the State Buildings, close to central dining and shopping.
COMO The Treasury
Perth CBD
Hotel Tags
A luxury waterfront hotel overlooking the Swan River and the Elizabeth Quay precinct.
The Ritz-Carlton, Perth
Elizabeth Quay
Hotel Tags
A contemporary city-center hotel convenient for shopping and cultural venues.
The Westin Perth
Perth CBD
Hotel Tags
A stylish design-focused hotel near Murray Street Mall and city restaurants.
QT Perth
Perth CBD
Hotel Tags
A luxury resort-style hotel in the Crown Perth complex across the river from downtown.
Crown Towers Perth
Burswood
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Perth
High 80°F · Low 57°F · Rain 0.9 in
Warm days and beach season begin.
Spring and autumn are comfortable for sightseeing; summers can be hot and dry.
Best Times to Visit Perth
WHEN TO GO
06
Rental Cars and Regional Travel
A car helps with wineries and beaches outside rail corridors. Distances in Western Australia can be substantial.
05
Rottnest Ferries
Rottnest Island ferries leave from different terminals. Reserve the correct departure and check bike arrangements.
04
Fremantle Connections
Rail is a practical connection between Perth and Fremantle, with additional local transit for beaches.
03
Buses and CAT Services
Transperth buses and central area CAT routes cover selected corridors. Check route coverage and fare zones.
02
Transperth Trains
Urban rail routes connect many districts and include airport rail access. Check operating times and station connections.
01
Perth Airport
Perth Airport serves domestic and international flights; verify the terminal because facilities are spread across the airport precinct.
Transperth trains, buses and ferries serve the metropolitan area; walking is convenient in the CBD, while a car helps with farther coastal day trips.
Getting Around Perth