Perth Guide: The Best Things to do in Perth, Australia
Last Updated on March 2, 2023
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This Guide to Perth guest post is written by Claire from Forever Chasing Wanderlust
Welcome to the most isolated city in the world Perth, Western Australia!
Although remote, this amazing city is full of fun things to do from hiking epic trails to meeting animals not seen anywhere else.
This guide to Perth will show you what to do in Perth, teach you fun facts about Perth, an hopefully inspire you to visit!
Come and experience all Perth has to offer including some of the country’s best beaches, amazing wine region, bustling nightlife, inner-city parks and plenty of great food to fuel your adventures.
🧳 MUST-HAVE: Before you head out on your trip, make sure you have travel insurance. I recommend either SafetyWing or World Nomads.
Where to Eat in Perth
It wouldn’t be a guide to Perth without mentioning food because one of the best things about Perth is the amazing food on offer!
If you are looking for somewhere to eat on a budget wander over to Northbridge which is located directly adjacent to the central business district.
In fact, exploring different cuisines in Nightbridge is one of the best things to do around Perth, Australia, especially for foodies!
Here you will find a wonderful assortment of Asian cuisine, arguably the best in Perth, at a very reasonable price.
One of my all-time favourite places to eat is Viet Hoa, they serve traditional Vietnamese food and it’s absolutely amazing.
My favourite dish on the menu is the Braised Beef and Lemongrass Rice Vermicelli (approx. $13), try it you won’t be disappointed.
A few other best restaurants in Perth:
- Mother: vegan restaurant
- BamBamBoo: best Chinese food in Perth
- Wildflower: fine dining with foraged foods
- Ischia Restaurant: Amazing Italian restaurant & pizzeria
Best Things to do in Perth, WA
Visit Rottnest Island
One of the things I would highly recommend doing while visiting Perth is to catch a ferry to Rottnest Island, located 19 miles off the coast of Freemantle.
Ferry’s run daily and I would suggest catching the earliest one to make the most of your day on the island.
Accommodation is available on the island if you wish to stay longer however it is rather pricy, especially during the summer.
While on the island be sure to check out the amazing beaches, say hi to the local Quokkas, an animal indigenous to the island and grab a beer at the Quokka Arms Pub.
Seeing the Quokkas is undeniably one of the best things to do around Perth, and it’s well worth the trip over to meet these guys.
📸 PRO TIP: My go-to camera for all my travels is the Sony A7iii – I highly recommend it!
What can you do in Perth Australia (other than Rottnest Island)?
While seeing the Quokkas is the number one must do in Perth, it of course isn’t the only thing to do. After all, Perth is huge!
And this wouldn’t be a guide to Perth if I didn’t let you in on some of the top must do things in Perth and the surrounding area.
So, here are what I consider to be the 10 best things to do in Perth after getting cute photos with Quokkas:
- Visit the stunning Perth beaches
- Spend an afternoon at Kings Park and Botanic Garden
- Learn some local history at Fremantle Prison
- Go exploring in John Forrest National Park
- Spot some penguins at Shoalwater Islands Marine Park
- Go shopping & grab a bit to eat at Elizabeth Quay
- Admire some at The Art Gallery of Western Australia
- Go birdwatching in Bold Park
- Enjoy the ocean views while hiking at Cape Peron
- Marvel at the restored Saint Mary’s Cathedral
What not to do in Perth
Ignore Beach Warnings: Perth has some of the most amazing beaches in the world, however, you must always be vigilant when swimming. When possible, swim between the lifeguard flags and always be sure to quickly get out of the water when the shark sirens sound.
Forget your manners: The locals are extremely friendly in Perth but do not forget your manners. Tipping is not a custom here, therefore it’s always very important to remember your manners when you receive great service.
Drive over the speed limit: Perth police have a heavy focus on speeding and drink driving. If you are renting a car be sure to obey all posted speed limits otherwise you are guaranteed to get a fine.
💡PACKING TIP: Make sure you bring a good snorkel, water shoes and a fast-drying towel for all of the beach-going you’re about to do!
3 facts about Perth, Australia
1. If you need help People in Perth are extremely friendly: if you find yourself lost or in need of help feel free to ask anyone you see, they will be sure to stop and assist.
2. Fringe World Festival: if you are lucky enough to visit Perth in February be sure to check out the Fringe Festival which is the largest annual performance platform in Western Australia (not to be missed).
3. Sunniest City in the World: With an average of 8 hours per day of sunshine, 365 days of the year, Perth is the sunniest city in the world. Be sure to apply lots of sunscreen during your visit as the UV is extremely high. This is one of the most important facts about Perth, Australia to remember!
Where to stay in Perth
It would be remiss for a guide to Perth to not mention that the city in general is very expensive, so be prepared to spend money while you are here.
That being said, there are plenty of ways to save money including staying in one of the many Hostels located in the inner-city.
For anyone visiting Perth for the first time I always recommend staying in the heart of the city for convenience and access to public transport.
Kangaroo Inn – Centrally-located hostel where beds start at $45 per night.
Miss Maud Hotel – If hostels aren’t your thing then try Miss Mauds, the rooms are clean and basic and the Swedish breakfast that is included is unbelievable.
💡 TOP TIP: Looking for more places stay in this trendy location? Definitely check out Booking.com for the best deals on accommodation.
About the author: My name is Claire Ryan, I am an Aussie living in Houston, Texas and when I am not working I love to travel. I have always had a passion for travelling and I really want to share my tips, tricks and experiences with you. Won’t you wonder with me?
Frequently Asked Questions
If you want time to explore all the best things to do in Perth WA, then you will want to stay 3 days minimum. However, I would recommend at least 5 days in Perth.
The best time to visit Perth is in the spring. In Australia, this means September – November.
Perth is known for a few things: being the most remote city in the world, getting more hours than any other capital city in Australia, and being able to see the Quokkas on nearby Rottnest Island. Perth is also home to several famous actors, including Heath Ledger and Isla Fisher.
Did you find this guide to Perth helpful? Are there any top things to do around Perth, Australia that we missed? What are your favorite must do things in Perth?
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