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Basking by the silky indigo waters of the Swan River and blessed with an idyllic turquoise coastline, the natural beauty around Perth is unquestionable.
However, the Western Australia capital isn’t simply resting on its river- and ocean-front laurels. There’s been a strong push in recent years to bring quality entertainment, top notch dining, and cultural kudos to the city. The result is an engaging mix of urban experiences and a revitalised CBD that has oodles to offer visitors. You’ll also discover a strong commitment to recognising and celebrating local Aboriginal heritage.
This Perth city guide is packed with ideas for things to see and do. Enjoy your visit.
Watch our video of ten top things to do in Perth:
10 Great Things to Do in PERTH, Western Australia, 2024 | Ultimate Perth Travel Guide & Tips
In this episode of our online travel series, we bring you tips for ten top things to do in Perth.
Top ten things to do in Perth
- WA Museum Boola Bardip
- Art Gallery of Western Australia
- Kings Park and Federation Walkway treetop walk
- Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
- Swan River Sightseeing Cruise
- Laneways and Arcades Walking Tour
- Fremantle
- Rottnest Island Day Tour
- Swan Valley Food and Wine Tour
- Scarborough Beach
Top cultural activities in Perth
Perth’s diverse cultural scene encompasses everything from traditional fine art to popping street murals and public sculpture.
Start by delving into the collection at the fabulous Art Gallery of Western Australia in the Cultural Centre precinct in Northbridge. The gallery is particularly well known for its holding of Western Australian Indigenous art and Australian early to mid 20th century modernist works.
The Cultural Centre is also home to the State Library of Western Australia and the brand new, architecturally stunning WA Museum Boola Bardip. Boola Bardip means ‘many stories’ in the Noongar First People’s language and is true to its name. The expansive collection is broadly categorised in three key themes, and then broken down into smaller exhibitions. It’s well worth a visit.
A striking piece of public sculpture dominates the completed redevelopment of the precinct linking the Cultural Centre with the CBD — Yagan Square. While this new community space and dining hub is named after the tenacious leader of the Noongar people in the 1830s, the soaring statue of an Indigenous warrior is not Yagan himself. Titled Wirin, the sculpture was created by Tjyllyungoo Lance Chadd, Trish Robinson and Stuart Green, and represents the Aboriginal community’s continuing spirit and creative power. Yagan Square’s earthy tones, native plants and babbling water feature bring a sense of the bush into the city.
On the opposite side of the CBD, the Elizabeth Quay redevelopment by the Swan River was unveiled to the public in early 2016, and has added a whole new dimension to city life. The swirling metallic footbridge is the centrepiece of the precinct and links the promenades, Elizabeth Quay Island, and the ferry terminal. The project sought to reconnect Perthites with the Swan through the expansion of waterfront entertainment and dining options, and it has certainly succeeded in doing so. There are pieces of public sculpture on display throughout the precinct, including First Contact by Noongar artist Laurel Nannup.
The importance of the Perth riverfront to the Noongar is explained during the fascinating 90-minute walking tour of Elizabeth Quay offered by Go Cultural Aboriginal Tours. Guests learn about the six Indigenous-recognised seasons and how they influenced the day to day lives of the Noongar, along with key aspects of local culture prior to European settlement. Go Cultural Aboriginal Tours also offers a guided walk through Kings Park.
Perth’s inner city network of arcades, laneways and back alleys has become a hub for amazing street art. If you walk around for long enough, you’ll begin to recognise murals by the same artists in the most unexpected of places. In particular, keep an eye out for the bold and colourful work of local artist Anya Brock and the distinct marine animals by Amok Island. Don’t miss the kaleidoscopic mural by Brooklyn-based artist Maya Hayuk in Wolf Lane. It’s one of the city’s most Instagrammed locations. A guided walking tour with Oh Hey WA will reveal more amazing street art-scapes.
Perth for history lovers
The Perth CBD is an intriguing mosaic of the old and the new, and historic and contemporary buildings sit comfortably side by side.
Join one of the City of Perth’s free guided walking tours (there are six options to choose from) and take in heritage highlights like the medieval-inspired Barracks Arch, Perth Town Hall (the only town hall in Australia built by convicts), His Majesty’s Theatre (the only Edwardian theatre in Australia still standing), The Perth Mint, and The Cloisters (the first secondary school built in Western Australia).
Located adjacent to Elizabeth Quay, The Bell Tower is a contemporary structure — but what you’ll find inside dates back to the 14thcentury. The twelve bells from St Martin-in-the-Fields church in London were recast several times over the centuries, before being gifted to Western Australia in 1988 to celebrate the country’s bicentenary. Visitors can take part in the interactive Bell Tower Experience — a behind-the-scenes tour of the bell ringing chamber with a knowledgeable guide. It includes the opportunity to ring a bell yourself.
Museums dedicated to cities are not uncommon (the Museum of London sets the gold standard), but they’re a bit of a rarity in Australia. Brisbane has one, and so does Perth. The Museum of Perth is located at 410 Murray Street in the CBD and offers a changing schedule of specially curated presentations on various aspects of the capital’s past.
The history lesson continues in the port city of Fremantle, which is situated 30 minutes’ drive south of Perth (and is also easily accessible by train or on a river cruise). Visit the Round House — the oldest public building in the state, and Fremantle Prison — home to many notorious criminals over a century and a half, including bushranger Moondyne Joe.
Beautiful Rottnest Island is one of the region’s premier tourist destinations (thanks largely to the quokka-selfie phenomenon), but it has a grim history. From 1838, thousands of Indigenous men were imprisoned here, and their labour was used to construct most of the buildings on the island. Five of the 3,700 prisoners are believed to have been hanged, while hundreds perished from disease or malnutrition. Today the island is a haven for holidaymakers and can be reached by ferry from Perth or Fremantle.
Great places to eat in Perth
For top-notch dining in the CBD, make your way to the Victorian-era State Buildings.
They’re home to a luxury hotel and several superb eateries. Down in the shadowy catacomb-like basement you’ll find Long Chim — the Thai-style eatery by celebrated Aussie chef David Thompson. It serves up sensational street food-inspired fare fashioned from the freshest local produce and spices brought in from Thailand.
More than a century ago, petitioners looking to bring about much needed social reform in Victorian Perth would march down St Georges Terrace to the Treasury on Barrack Street to publicly make their demands. The Barrack Street side of the State Buildings is now occupied by Petition. Comprised of an eatery, beerhall and wine bar, it’s worth spending time in all three to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the distinctive flavours on offer. Rustic, robust and roundly satisfying, Petition Kitchen is a must-try. Go the Arkady lamb rump, reared with low stress practices in Western Australia’s idyllic South West.
Situated on the rooftop of the State Buildings, Wildflower is undoubtedly one of the most culturally significant eateries in Australia. Based on the six Indigenous-recognised local seasons, the menu of native modern Australian makes use of both cultivated and foraged ingredients, and combines them into edible works of art. Highlights include the emu smoked over jarrah embers with black truffle and charcoal crisps, and the finely balanced southwest marron with preserved pumpkin, finger lime, brown butter and black rice crisps. If you can’t decide what to try, order the five-course tasting menu.
Over in Northbridge — the city’s entertainment precinct — casual dining and a party atmosphere prevail. Settle in at The Standard — a standout for its innovative menu, lengthy drinks list, and secret garden setting.
Cafe culture is booming in the Western Australia capital and the following options are well worth seeking out during your visit.
La Veen Coffee
Popular La Veen Coffee is located at the northern end of King Street — Perth’s destination for high-end fashion like Louis Vuitton, Bally, Miu Miu and Chanel, and local favourites Zomp, Cult Status and Alpha 60. The cafe serves Five Senses coffee, along with an impressive array of baked goods and more substantial fare. The combination of exposed brick and sleek tongue and groove timber give a nod to this cafe’s historic location. 79 King Street, Perth
Toastface Grillah
Tucked away in street-art emblazoned Wolf Lane (and with a smaller venue in Northbridge), Toastface Grillah is renowned for killer toasted sandwiches and coffee to match. Don’t miss the chance to kick back at this Perth institution and enjoy sanger fillings like you’ve never seen (or tasted!) before. 7/329 Murray St, Perth
DuoTone
The bright yellow stools at DuoTone act as a beacon for those in need of a good coffee. DuoTone deftly delivers 7 Seeds coffee to its communal tables. There’s also a window nook where you can curl up with a few of the modern upholstered throw pillows, sip your latte and dream that this is actually your kitchen. Try the minimalist menu of well thought out breakfasts on offer, along with other gourmet delights like locally produced Bahen & Co chocolates. 313 Hay Street, East Perth
Mary Street Bakery
Walking into Mary Street Bakery at Highgate is like entering the warehouse apartment you’ve always dreamed of owning. Hipster waitstaff serve up coffees made with beans from local artisan roaster Pound. If it’s busy (which often happens on weekends), queue up along the bakery case. You’re sure to spot (and probably buy) a legendary salted caramel doughnut. 507 Beaufort Street, Highgate (and three other locations)
Cafe reviews: Gayann Walker
Where to shop in Perth
Not content with the usual single CBD pedestrian shopping mall, Perth has two: the Hay Street and Murray Street Malls.
The usual range of retail suspects are split between the two. If that’s not sufficient to satisfy your retail cravings, very conveniently, there’s a train staton (Joondalup) right at the entrance to Lakeside Joondalup — Western Australia’s largest shopping centre. It’s home to more than 300 retailers, including department stores, specialty shops, food outlets and more.
For high-end fashion, the aforementioned King Street is the place to be. It’s lined with restored shopfronts from the early 20th century that now house a variety of luxury labels.
Those in the market for some serious bling have come to the right part of the world (well, 2,200 kilometres south of the right part, but in the same state at least). Broome-based Willie Creek Pearls farms the famous Australian South Sea pearl and visitors to Perth can attend a Pearl Masterclass at the company’s new showroom in Elizabeth Quay. Learn more about the pearling process, witness the birth of a pearl, taste pearl meat and wash it down with a glass of bubbles. The ticketed class is offered daily.
For a more casual retail ambience, head for the famous Fremantle Markets. Be tempted by the farm-fresh produce and tasty treats, fashion and accessories, Indigenous art, and souvenirs and trinkets on sale from the many indoor stalls. Wind down after your market shopping spree with a cold beer and a bite to eat on the balcony of the Sail and Anchor pub. Buskers often perform on the street below.
Ways to relax in Perth
No Perth travel guide would be complete without mention of the city’s spectacular beaches.
Cottesloe Beach is probably the most popular, but there are plenty of others to choose from — including Scarborough Beach, Sorrento Beach, and City Beach.
Closer to the city centre, a riot of colour from wildflowers in bloom enhances a leisurely stroll through Kings Park. It’s one of the biggest inner-city parks in the world (eclipsing even Central Park in New York City). The expansive green space is made up of lush gardens, manicured lawns, and scrubland bush, and is home to lots of native flora and fauna. Wander the extensive network of nature trails and honour our fallen service personnel at the State War Memorial. You can also climb the spiralling DNA tower and follow the popular Federation Walkway treetop walk for amazing views of the city skyline.
Often overshadowed by uber famous Margaret River, the Swan Valley is actually Western Australia’s oldest wine-producing region. It’s located 25 minutes’ drive from Perth’s city centre and just a ten-minute drive from the airport. The region is compact and follows a winding loop, along which you’ll find myriad award-winning wineries, restaurants, breweries, and distilleries. Book a wine tour from the city and let someone else take care of the driving.
Other amazing day trip destinations that are within easy reach of the Western Australian capital include the coastal enclave of Mandurah, Nambung National Park and the fascinating Pinnacles Desert, and the picturesque Perth Hills — home to a plethora of hiking and biking trails.
Need a place to stay?
Crown Towers
A stay at Perth’s fabulous Crown Towers is like opening a giant box of chocolates and climbing right on in. Every detail is sumptuously presented, richly coloured and oh so deliciously sweet. The Crown mega complex (consisting of three hotels and a casino) is located in Burswood at the eastern end of Perth proper, but on the far side of the Swan River. That presents some challenges for those wanting to spend their time in the CBD. The newly opened Matagarup Bridge links Perth Stadium with the city, but the walk from Crown will still take you about 45 minutes. Taxis and Ubers are, or course, plentiful. And while it’s renowned for being an expensive indulgence, limo hire in Perth is actually surprisingly affordable. This might just be the time to live it up!
However, many who come to stay at Crown Towers just won’t want to leave! Despite the fact that this is the largest hotel in Perth (with 500 guest rooms and sets of expectations to manage), Crown Towers impresses at every turn. From the epic city views from many rooms, to the stylish interiors, incredible bathrooms, tablet-controlled technology (including automatic curtains — just in case you’re wondering where the cord is to draw them), acclaimed restaurants and bars, and a mind-blowing resort-style pool, this hotel experience is probably unparalleled anywhere in Australia.
Treat yourself to the lunchtime buffet (a la Las Vegas and Dubai) at in-house eatery Epicurean at least once during your stay. If you have Crystal Club lounge privileges, you can segregate yourself from the hoi polloi for breakfast and sunset canapes.
Tribe Perth
Over in West Perth (opposite Kings Park), Tribe Perth has reinvented what a hotel stay means to most of us. There’s a touch of the Austin Powers about this hip haven. And while it’s targeted squarely at today’s young urban traveller, any age group will enjoy the experience.
Upstairs, each modular-sized guest room comes complete with the supremely comfortable signature Tribe bed (if you love the throw, you can pick one up at the front desk), contemporary finishes, glass-walled bathrooms, smart TVs, and free Wi-Fi.
Downstairs, there’s a large communal space complete with a lounge area, a small library, work zones, and the Tribe bar and dining room. Order from the modest a la carte menu of well executed mains (try the delicious fish and potato pie), or choose from a selection of readymade meals and salads. The breakfast package of baked eggs, French-style pastries, and freshly squeezed OJ is totes da bomb.
This post was published thanks to Limousine Royalty.
Top Oz Tours travelled as a guest of Crown Towers and Tribe Perth.
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Cover image: Tourism Western Australia. Additional images: Bigstock
About the writer
Tania Connolly is a freelance writer living in Perth. She loves travelling with her husband and young children, and the family regularly heads to beautiful Coral Bay on the Ningaloo Coast. They have also spent time exploring WA’s South West region, including Margaret River, Dunsborough, Busselton and Bunbury.
About the writer
Camha Pham is a freelance writer and editor who has recently swapped the cosmopolitan laneways of Melbourne for the sunny beaches of Perth. Struck with the wanderlust bug from an early age, she has travelled extensively through Asia, Europe and parts of North America. When she isn’t travelling, Camha is planning her next adventure and loves nothing more than the thrill of exploring new destinations and learning about other cultures. Travel highlights to date include chasing waterfalls in enchanting Iceland, hot-air ballooning over the lunar-like landscape of Cappadocia and accepting a surprise marriage proposal from her now fiancé at the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto.
About the writer
Adam Ford is editor of Top Oz Tours & Travel Ideas, and a travel TV presenter, writer, blogger, and photographer. He has travelled extensively through Europe, Asia, North America, Africa, and the Middle East. Adam worked as a travel consultant for a number of years with Flight Centre before taking up the opportunity to travel the world himself as host of the TV series Tour the World on Network Ten. He loves to experience everything a new destination has to offer and is equally at home in a five-star Palazzo in Pisa or a home-stay in Hanoi.
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