10 Best Places to Visit in Perth and Where to Stay Nearby

These iconic attractions will make you fall in love with Western Australia’s sunniest city! Discover the best places to visit in Perth and the best vacation districts nearby.

Welcome to ‘Westralia’

Often outshined by its big-city siblings, Sydney and Melbourne, Perth nonetheless holds its own noteworthy hotspots. With an enchanting mix of vibrant city life, laid-back beach culture, and verdant parklands, all the best places to visit in Perth will make you keep coming back to the Land Down Under.

Here’s an interesting trivia: did you know that Perth is the sunniest capital city in Australia, boasting an impressive average of 8.8 hours of sunshine per day? That alone may be reason enough to fly out to this sun-drenched paradise!

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the best places to visit in Perth and the most convenient places to stay based on location, attractions, and facilities. 

10 Best Places to Visit in Perth, Australia

Of course, this city has plenty of attractions, and naming only 10 of the best places to visit in Perth feels like doing it a disservice. However, we made a point of making this curated list short so you can capture the different facets of the city even if you’re only visiting briefly.

Get ready to discover diverse experiences, from tranquil botanical gardens to sun-kissed beaches, engaging cultural landmarks, and more:

1. KINGS PARK AND BOTANIC GARDEN 

Fraser Avenue, West Perth, Western Australia

Be prepared to lose yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of Kings Park and Botanic Garden. With panoramic views of the Swan River and Darling Range, this inner-city sanctuary is perfect for leisurely strolls amidst lush greenery. Embrace the thrill of walking high amidst the eucalyptus canopy on the Lotterywest Federation Walkway and witness Perth’s urban landscape from a unique perspective.

2. SWAN RIVER 

Swan River, Perth, Western Australia

Take a serene cruise along the Swan River and experience a unique blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. As you glide past the opulent riverfront villas, your destination could be the historic port of Fremantle or the lush Swan Valley, home to Western Australia’s oldest vineyards.

3. PERTH’S BEACHES 

Cottesloe Beach, Perth, Western Australia

Perth’s stunning coastline offers a variety of picturesque beaches. Whether it’s the popular Cottesloe with its clear waters and café culture, or the family-friendly Hillarys Boat Harbour, there’s a slice of paradise for every beach lover looking for the best places to visit in Perth.

4. ELIZABETH QUAY 

Elizabeth Quay, Perth, Western Australia

Right at the heart of Perth’s CBD, Elizabeth Quay is a bustling waterfront zone offering a plethora of entertainment options. From gourmet dining to interactive art installations, this modern hotspot is perfect for a memorable night out in Perth.

5. THE PERTH MINT 

310 Hay Street, East Perth, Western Australia

The Perth Mint offers an intriguing peek into the golden history of Western Australia. Here, you can watch a live gold pour, explore an array of gold nuggets and bullion, and even discover your weight’s worth in gold! 

6. HILLARYS BOAT HARBOUR 

86 Southside Drive, Hillarys, Western Australia

Hillarys Boat Harbour, located northwest of central Perth, is an expansive marina offering numerous family-friendly attractions, hotels, and resorts. It’s home to the Aquarium of Western Australia, where you can see over 200 species of marine animals.

7. SCITECH 

City West Center, Corner of Sutherland Street & Railway Street, West Perth, Western Australia

Among the best places to visit in Perth, Scitech is a perfect fit for families with small kids. This interactive science museum fosters curiosity in STEM subjects, inspiring and delighting young explorers with exhibits about water, electricity, magnets, and more.

8. PERTH ZOO 

20 Labouchere Road, South Perth, Western Australia

Just a short distance from the city center, Perth Zoo offers an exciting opportunity to meet Australia’s unique wildlife. From kangaroos to Tasmanian devils, a day at the zoo provides fun for all ages. It is a solid recommendation for animal lovers in town. 

9. ART GALLERY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA 

James Street Mall, Perth Cultural Centre, Perth, Western Australia

This premier gallery houses an extensive international and Australian art collection, emphasizing works from Australia and the Indian Ocean Rim. A visit here will surely enrich your cultural understanding of broader Australia.

10. THE BELL TOWER 

Barrack Square Riverside Drive, Perth, Western Australia

Visit the Bell Tower to experience one of the world’s largest musical instruments. Inside this custom-built architectural marvel are 14th-century bells from London’s Buckingham Palace parish church. When you’ve had your fill of the art of bell ringing, you can cool down at the sixth-floor observation deck, which promises impressive skyline views.

Where to Stay in Perth, Australia

Once you’ve checked out the best places to visit in Perth, you will need an excellent place to rest and recharge. From the bustling city center to the tranquil riverside, Perth boasts an array of accommodation options suitable for every type of traveler. 

Here are five districts that are not only close to the best places to visit in Perth but also offer remarkable sights and activities of their own:

1. NORTHBRIDGE

Northbridge is a cultural hotspot, home to the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts, and The Blue Room Theatre. Foodies will also enjoy its eclectic mix of dining options, from the exquisite Japanese delicacies at Bonsai Restaurant & Cafe Lounge to the flavorful Vietnamese dishes at Viet Hoa. To make the most of your visit, be sure to time your stay with any of the events and festivals held at the Perth Cultural Centre.

2. FREMANTLE

Steeped in maritime history and buzzing with an energetic arts scene, Fremantle serves up a charming mixture of past and present. The famous Fremantle Market houses over 150 stalls featuring local crafts, fresh produce, and unique street food. It’s also the starting point for Swan River cruises. Don’t forget to explore one of the best places to visit in Perth, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Fremantle Prison.

3. SCARBOROUGH

Famed for its relaxed atmosphere, Scarborough is a haven for beach lovers and surf enthusiasts. Close to Perth’s top surfing spots like Trigg Point and Scarborough Beach, this district offers a fun-filled stay. Kickstart your day at the famous Wild Fig café and unwind in the evening at The Sandbar, a lively hangout for locals and visitors alike.

4. WEST PERTH

Adjacent to Kings Park and Botanic Garden, West Perth presents a tranquil retreat within the city’s hustle and bustle. The district is dotted with quaint coffee shops like the Gordon Street Garage and fine dining establishments like Julio’s Italian Restaurant. The Old Observatory and Perth’s Parliament House add to the district’s appeal, making it a great choice for visitors.

5. EAST PERTH

Sitting along the Swan River, East Perth marries the serenity of waterside living with urban convenience. The district is home to The Perth Mint and offers diverse dining options, including Toast East Perth and Bistro Bellavista. Notable attractions like the picturesque Queens Gardens and the WACA Ground, a renowned cricket venue, are also in East Perth.

Plan Your Adventures With Rent By Owner

Planning the perfect trip to Australia could be as exciting as the vacation itself! And now that you know all the best places to visit in Perth, you’re nearly set for a sunny getaway in the Land Down Under. 

Let Rent By Owner take care of the rest! We list a myriad of vacation rentals in Perth, all of which provide excellent amenities that suit your needs and allow you to experience more of Australia. From sun-soaked beachfront houses to premier city homes, every detail of your stay can be tailored to your desires. 

Start browsing, and let Rent By Owner be your gateway to a memorable Perth adventure!

TLDR

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve unveiled the best places to visit in Perth, Australia, including vibrant Fremantle with its lively markets and music scene, the beachside suburb of Scarborough known for its surf culture, the historic district of Subiaco, the shopping and nightlife hub Northbridge, and the stunning natural beauty of Cottesloe. We’ve also highlighted where to stay when you’re in Perth, Australia, offering suggestions from the heart of the city to areas rich in local character. From exploring museums, shopping centers, and beaches to dining at premium restaurants, each location provides a unique experience for first-time visitors. Plan your next trip with Rent By Owner, where we list millions of vacation rentals worldwide and helpful content to inspire your travel decisions. This guide is the key to an unforgettable journey in Perth.

Feature Image Photo Credit: Urlaubstracker