Perth might feel like it's in a world of its own, but anyone who's been there will tell you it's absolutely worth the trip (which is a little over four hours by plane from Sydney or Melbourne).
Once solely known for its pristine beaches and perfect weather, Perth’s booming restaurant and culture scenes, and its trendy sister city Fremantle (located just half an hour from Perth) have put Western Australia’s capital city on the international radar. Our local writers have collated this mega guide on the best things to do during your stay in Perth. Happy exploring!
What is it? Located atop a multi-storey carpark in Northbridge, Rooftop Movies screens films of all genres nightly from October to March.
Why go? Round up your mates for a movie night at the cinema with the best views in town. Rooftop Movies plays a diverse line-up of films, with everything from Oscar-winning flicks and throwbacks to blockbuster hits and new releases. Of course, there’s also a candy bar slinging buttery popcorn, local ice creams, juicy burgers and refreshing cocktails.
What is it? Perth’s most beautiful, white-sand beach, perfect for sunset dips and romantic strolls.
Why go? When it comes to beaches in Perth, we are definitely spoiled for choice. But for the most photogenic seaside destinations in WA, Cottesloe Beach is easily among the top hot spots. With its shady Norfolk pines, pristine sand and abundance of watering holes, there’s just something about Cott that makes it the ideal spot for any occasion. Swimming, snorkelling, surfing or sipping the evening away, this picturesque beach is a WA icon.
What is it? One of the largest inner-city parks in the world.
Why go? Boasting uninterrupted views of Perth City and showcasing a collection of native WA flora and fauna, it’s pretty easy to get lost in the moment at Kings Park. But there’s more to this 400-plus hectare park than meets the eye. With cultivated gardens, untamed bushland, various walking trails and plenty of lush green grass to throw down a picnic rug, it’s no surprise this popular tourist spot is visited by millions of people each year. And in the summer, there’s even more reason to visit with the pop-up movies by Moonlight Cinema.
What is it? A buzzing market on Fremantle’s South Terrace that has been operating for over a century.
Why go? With more than 150 stalls, the Fremantle Markets are a weekend must-visit for locals and tourists in Perth. Whether you’re a regular market-goer or a first-timer, there is something to eat and marvel at for just about everyone. Wander the aisles filled with weird, wacky and wonderful products, then make your way to the yard where you’ll be seriously overwhelmed with the food options on offer. After you’ve eaten your body weight in fried chicken, banh mi, souvlaki and eggy brioche sambos, grab some fresh local produce and a Levi’s hot doughnut for the road.
What is it? A 90-minute after-dark guided tour of the notorious convict jail that opened in the 1850s.
Why go? A ‘torchlight’ turn about the grounds, which finally closed in 1991 after housing some of WA’s most notorious criminals, is like a Halloween-inspired Groundhog Day. The tour is scary but compelling and pretty much does what it says on the can: “The prison walls echo with stories of loneliness, pain and suffering, of executions gone wrong, of the innocent unjustly punished and the guilty punished.”
What is it? A charming Cottesloe bakery famous for its mega-sized cinnamon scrolls.
Why go? We’ve been told many times that North Street Store’s cinny scrolls are the best in the country – and we dare you to find out for yourself. Warm and flaky, they’re drizzled with just the right amount of icing that you won’t feel sick eating one or two for brekkie. If you’re more of a savoury slinger, you can instead fill up on French-style filled baguettes, stone-baked pizzas and classic savoury pastries.
What is it? An A-class nature reserve boasting 63 white-as-snow beaches perfect for snorkelling, diving, surfing off the back breaks and snapping selfies with quokkas.
Why go? It’s just an hour’s ferry ride from the mainland to Rotto, where you can spend a day lapping up the sun and meeting the island’s cutest inhabitants: quokkas. The marsupials are native to Rottnest and are heavily protected, yet love to investigate and mingle with new visitors, especially those who have visited Rottnest Bakery – be warned, your cinny scroll will not be safe. They are the main patrons of Hotel Rottnest’s beer garden and the extra luxe Samphire Rottnest, so if you are lucky, expect to get up close and personal with the furry critters. Remember to always approach with caution when leaning in for a selfie.
What is it? A top-tier list of the best drinking holes in Perth, where epic cocktails meet even more epic skyline views.
Why go? It really doesn’t get much better than sipping on an Aperol spritz or two while gazing out across the sparkling Swan River at sunset. Or maybe you prefer the vivacious chatter of friends while perched among the bright lights of the city skyline. Find your next happy hour spot using our list of Perth’s best rooftop bars, including the tiny but mighty Mechanics Institute, Mediterranean-inspired boozer The Standard, and the newly opened Stories Rooftop.
What is it? The state’s leading art gallery with the largest rooftop bar in Perth.
Why go? A glittering gem at the heart of Perth’s Cultural Centre, this gallery is where you can spend a woozy weekend lost in the throes of art appreciation. Housing the official state collection, accrued since the establishment first opened way back in 1895, there are ridiculous wonders on offer. That includes Balancing Act – a space devoted to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. Time your visit so you can watch the sunset from AGWA’s groovy rooftop bar, complete with an open-air sculpture walk, an illuminating 34-metre artwork by Christopher Pease and 360-degree views of Perth’s city skyline.
What is it? Standing at 82.5 metres, Perth City’s landmark pride and joy features 18 bells, most of which are from Saint Martin-in-the-Fields Church in London.
Why go? The 14th-century bells are impressive in their own right, but together, they form one of the largest musical instruments in the world. The Bell Tower isn’t just visually intriguing either – a tour of the structure’s innards offers up-close perspectives of the bell-ringing in action, as well as the opportunity to try your hand at some good old-fashioned tintinnabulation (bell-ringing). Not to mention divine sixth-level vistas across the mighty Swan River – it’s the whole package.
What is it? A sunny, seaside bar in South Fremantle with sustainable seafood and an ever-changing wine list.
Why go? Hook, line and sinker, Madalenas is easily one of the best bars in Western Australia right now. The sun-filled boteco sources the freshest sustainably caught seafood from local suppliers at Fins Seafood and pairs it with seasonal goodness from their thriving kitchen garden. Wind down on the weekend with a chardonnay off Madalena’s white marble bar or settle in post-swim for dinner and drinks upstairs.
What is it? One of Perth’s best day walks in the beautiful Serpentine National Park.
Why go? Lace up for this impressive 17.5km return trail, just under an hour’s drive from Perth CBD. Kitty’s Gorge Trail traces the Serpentine River and Gooralong Brook, with remarkable granite outcrops, blooming wildflowers and waterfall views. The trail has loose sections, short steep hills, uneven ground and steps – lots of them, so it’s not for the faint of heart. Don’t forget to pack your swimmers for a refreshing dip in Serpentine Falls.
What is it? A leisurely 10.5km loop, perfect for those who enjoy exploring the city on two wheels.
Why go? To cyclists, Perth may be considered the Scandinavia of the south – the city is home to hundreds of kilometres of bike paths safely tucked away from busy roads. Set aside about one hour for the popular Swan River Loop Cycle Trail that winds around the South Perth foreshore. Call into the Millpoint Caffe Bookshop for an energising coffee or juice and then continue over the Causeway Bridge taking in views of Heirisson Island Kangaroo Sanctuary below.
What is it? A larger-than-life outdoor exhibition featuring five enormous wooden giants.
Why go? WA’s largest regional city, Mandurah, located less than an hour south of Perth, has transformed into the ultimate outdoor playground for internationally renowned Danish recycle artist Thomas Dambo’s magical Giants of Mandurah exhibition. Bring the whole family along to play, as you collect clues to discover the final secret giant hiding in the wetlands. The free, interactive exhibition launched in November 2022, but the Giants are here to stay for at least three more years.
What is it? Perth’s top secret speakeasy rum bar with entry via password only.
Why go? If you don’t mind a good rum, Sneaky Tony's has your name written all over it. A hop, skip or stumble down an alleyway in Chinatown and you’ll find yourself at the alluring door of Sneaky Tony’s. If you wish to enter, you’ll have to proclaim the daily password, which may or may not be found on Facebook. With shelves boasting an impressive collection of more than 300 rums from all four corners of the globe, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Or go hard on the cocktails. For those after hard liquor, the expert mixologists will pinpoint the perfect drink for you.
What is it? An easy five-kilometre hiking trail in Bold Park, City Beach, located just 14 minutes from Perth’s CBD.
Why go? Get some exercise while immersing yourself in the beauty of nature on this very achievable 1.5-hour loop. The Zamia Trail is home to more than 300 species of plants and wildlife, including birds, mammals and reptiles – so keep your eyes peeled. Bring your furry friend and enjoy the lovely contrast of both city and ocean views. The Zamia Trail is sprinkled with park benches, perfect to perch and enjoy morning tea or lunch.
What is it? A picturesque landscape of WA’s oldest wine region with plenty to eat, drink and do.
Why go? If you like all things wine, cheese, chocolate and nature, then you’ll love the Swan Valley. In less than 30 minutes you can drive from Perth’s CBD and into one of the Valley's many charming wineries. But if wine isn’t your thing, there’s plenty of nature to explore via foot, bike or horse – for those brave enough. If you’ve got the time, the best way to explore the Swan Valley is on one of the eight themed trails that range from wine to art, seasonal produce and even a bush tucker experience.
What is it? A seafood institution located on the water’s edge in Fremantle.
Why go? Make the most of the warmer weather (year-round) and head to Bathers Beach, just a short stroll from Fremantle's town centre. While most tourists love the sunset vista over Cottesloe, Freo’s local haunt is less crowded than the western suburbs and the seafood is fresher than the ‘Fremantle Doctor’ (afternoon sea breeze). Grab local prawns or tempura squid from Cicerellos just before dusk for one of the best al fresco experiences in Perth.
What is it? A quirky gelateria and espresso bar making delicious flavours from scratch, on-site, daily.
Why go? Sometimes all you need in life is a good scoop of gelato. And at Chicho Gelato that’s exactly what you’ll get. Having studied at gelato university in Italy (yes, that is a thing), founders Carly and Cesare De Bartolo have perfected the art of a smooth, creamy gelato that bursts with flavour in every lick. The pair did their time lugging around their gelato carts before opening up shops in Northbridge and Fremantle, where they serve drool-worthy gelato by the scoop, tub and even in a brioche bun. If the colourful interior isn’t enough to suck you in, flavours like lavender honeycomb, malted milk cornflake cookie and salted caramel crack certainly will.
What is it? The new kid on the (arts precinct) block.
Why go? While the Perth Cultural Centre may ooze charm from its red brick and old-timey buildings, the WA Museum Boola Bardip was meant to stand out with its edgy modern architecture that interconnects and wraps around its older neighbours. Opening in 2020, Boola Bardip means “many stories” in the language of the Nyoongar people native to the area. The museum houses eight galleries, each with its own distinct area to explore. While many of these are reserved for showcasing Western Australia’s rich history, incredible flora and fauna and Aboriginal Culture, the museum also plays host to a whole heap of travelling exhibitions like antiques from the Netherlands or relics from Ancient Egypt.
What is it? A gondola ride offering a fancy way to explore the Swan River.
Why go? Because not everyone can make it over to Italy, Gondolas on the Swan are bringing a bit of Venice to Elizabeth Quay. Sit tight in the hand-crafted wooden gondola, which was designed and built in Perth, while your gondolier gently steers you past Perth City with Italian music gently playing in the background. The cruises range from 15 minutes to half an hour and carry up to eight passengers, so you can bring your nonna along too.
From concerts and cabaret to drama and dance, His Majesty’s Theatre is one of Perth’s premier destinations for a night on the town. This 120-year-old gem sits in good company on Perth’s bustling Hay Street, surrounded by some of the city’s finest restaurants. Before the curtains rise, share snacks and Sangria at the adjacent Spanish tapas bar, Heno and Rey. Then, sink into the plush red seats as first-class acts from near and far light up the stage. And hey, why rush home when one of Perth’s only five-star hotels, the InterContinental, is just next door?
What is it? An excuse to get all dolled up and explore Perth’s oh-so-sophisticated high tea scene.
Why go? Scones with jam and cream, crisp cucumber sandwiches and dainty decorated cakes – honestly, what more could you want? From a Parisian bistro to a sky-high restaurant and even a darts bar, here’s our roundup of Perth’s best high teas that are sure to make you feel fancy and festive.
What is it? Australia’s first and only video game museum with more than 100 consoles.
Why go? Ever reminisced about Space Invaders on the Atari 2600, Crash Bandicoot on PS1, or wanted to throw it right back with a round of Pong? Make a beeline for Australia’s only interactive video game console museum, where you can go behind the scenes and read up on the history of the consoles before hitting the controllers. The Nostalgia Box houses more than 100 consoles, hailing all the way from the 1970s through to the 2000s. And they're not just for show – in the interactive games arena, you can actually try your hand on the controllers and see if muscle memory is enough to get you over the line on your old-school favourites.
What is it? A permanent floating bar, eatery and events space.
Why go? This 445-square-metre party barge dropped anchor in the Swan River in 2020, five years after the idea was originally floated. Taking in views of Perth’s CBD, Elizabeth Quay and Kings Park, the sleek, spacious and fully buoyant boat can only be accessed via The Raft’s private tender vessel from the Barrack Street jetty. Once on board, you can enjoy an Aussie wine and taps list, with shared bites and sweet treats to keep you going late into the night.
What is it? Perth’s epic Moonlight Cinema typically runs from early December to the end of March, featuring a rotating mix of Hollywood classics and the latest blockbuster releases.
Why go? In the summertime, a date under the stars is the perfect choice. It’s just like a night at the cinemas, but better. And there’s no better location than the renowned Kings Park and Botanic Garden. Grab a bean bag and picnic, and snuggle up to your lover in front of the big screen, while you soak in the natural surroundings.
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