The sunniest capital in Australia — where the outback meets the Indian Ocean, with world-class beaches, wine regions, and quokkas on Rottnest Island.
Perth is the capital of Western Australia and one of the world's most isolated major cities — closer to Bali than to Sydney. But don't let the distance fool you: this is a vibrant, modern city with a laid-back outdoor lifestyle, beautiful parks, and some of Australia's best beaches right on its doorstep. With more sunshine hours than any other Australian capital, Perth is a city that lives outdoors.
The city sits on the banks of the Swan River, with the glittering skyscrapers of the CBD on one side and the green expanse of Kings Park on the other. The Swan River winds its way through the city to the Indian Ocean, creating stunning waterfront areas like Elizabeth Quay and the South Perth foreshore. A short ferry ride across the river takes you to the university town of Fremantle, with its well-preserved 19th-century port buildings, cafés, and craft beer scene.
Just 19 kilometers off the coast lies Rottnest Island, a car-free island paradise famous for its adorable quokkas — the world's happiest animal, known for their natural "smile." Cycling around the island's pristine beaches and sheltered bays is one of Perth's most beloved day trips. The island also has fascinating Aboriginal and European history, with historic buildings and salt lakes.
Beyond Perth, Western Australia offers some of the country's most spectacular natural landscapes. The Margaret River wine region produces world-class cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay, with more than 150 wineries, gourmet food producers, and stunning coastline. Further north, the Pinnacles Desert, Monkey Mia's dolphins, and the turquoise waters of Ningaloo Reef are bucket-list experiences. The best time to visit Perth is spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May).
From island adventures to wine tastings, here's what makes Western Australia unforgettable.
A car-free island paradise with 63 beaches, crystal-clear turquoise water, and the famous smiling quokkas. Cycle, snorkel, and take the ultimate selfie.
One of the world's largest inner-city parks, with sweeping views over the Swan River and Perth skyline. Beautiful wildflowers in spring and great walking trails.
Some of Australia's best city beaches — Scarborough, Cottesloe, and Trigg are just a short drive from the CBD. Catch a sunset over the Indian Ocean.
Three hours south of Perth, world-famous wine region with 150+ wineries, gourmet food, craft breweries, and spectacular surf beaches.
Historic port town with beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture, the famous Fremantle Prison, lively markets, and a thriving food and coffee scene.
Day trips from Perth include the eerie limestone pinnacles of Nambung National Park and the Swan Valley wine region with chocolate factories and galleries.
Discover the flavors that define this destination, from local specialties to world-class dining experiences.
Perth has access to incredible Indian Ocean seafood — Western Australian rock lobster (crayfish), Dhufish, prawns, and pearl meat. Fremantle's Fishing Boat Harbour is the place to try them.
A day trip from Perth, the Margaret River region is world-famous for its wineries — especially Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay — plus craft breweries and gourmet food producers.
Perth's café scene punches above its weight — inner suburbs like Northbridge, Leederville and Mount Lawley are packed with great specialty coffee shops and brunch spots.
A day trip to Rotto isn't complete without trying a fresh bakery pie from the Rottnest Bakery, followed by the inevitable quokka selfie with the world's happiest animal.
Curated itineraries to help you make the most of your time, whether you're staying a few days or a full week.
Explore Perth city — Kings Park and Botanic Gardens (spectacular city views), the Bell Tower, and a walk along the Swan River. Dinner in Northbridge.
Rottnest Island day trip — ferry over, hire a bike, ride around the island, find the quokkas, and relax at a beautiful beach.
Fremantle day — the historic port town, Fremantle Prison tour, Fishing Boat Harbour for seafood, and the markets if they're open (weekends). Sunset at Bathers Beach.
Arrival in Perth. Kings Park and Botanic Gardens in the afternoon. Dinner in Northbridge — great Asian food and bar scene.
Rottnest Island full day — bike ride around the island, swim at the Basin, find your quokka selfie. Return on the late ferry.
Fremantle day — Fremantle Prison, the Round House, Maritime Museum, Fishing Boat Harbour seafood lunch, and weekend markets if available.
Swan Valley wine region day — wine tasting, a chocolate factory, cheese tasting, and a leisurely lunch at one of the many cellar door restaurants.
Cottesloe Beach and beachside suburbs in the morning — the famous Indiana Tea House and a swim at Cottesloe. Last-minute shopping in the city. Farewell dinner with river views.
From luxury riverfront resorts to boutique stays, find your perfect Perth accommodation on Trip.com.
Luxury riverside resort with casino, world-class restaurants, pools, and spa. The most opulent stay in Western Australia.
Boutique design hotel in the city center with bold interiors, rooftop bar, and walking distance to everything. Fun and stylish.
Riverside hotel with stunning Swan River views, pool, and restaurant. Easy walk to the city and great for business and leisure.
Affordable and modern hotel in the heart of Perth's CBD. Great value, comfortable rooms, and walking distance to everything.
Spring (Sep–Nov) and autumn (Mar–May) are ideal. Summer (Dec–Feb) is hot but great for beaches. Winter is mild with fewer crowds.
Perth Airport (PER) is Australia's fourth-busiest with domestic and international flights. Train connects to the city in 20 minutes.
Free transit zone in the CBD. Trains and buses cover most areas. Rottnest Island is a 25-minute ferry from Fremantle or Perth.
Mid-range: AU$120–220/day. Rottnest Island day trip: AU$60–100 including bike hire. Margaret River day tours from AU$150/person.
Everything you need to know before planning your trip to Perth.
Spring (Sep-Nov) and autumn (Mar-May) offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Summer (Dec-Feb) is hot and dry — perfect for beaches but temperatures often exceed 35°C. Winter is mild and wet.
Perth Airport (PER) is 12 km from the CBD. The Airport Line train takes about 18 minutes to the city. Taxis and rideshares take 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. The journey is straightforward by car or public transport.
Top attractions include Kings Park and Botanic Garden, Cottesloe Beach, Rottnest Island (with quokkas), the Bell Tower, Fremantle, Swan Valley wine region, and stunning sunsets over the Indian Ocean.
Perth is very safe for tourists. It's consistently ranked one of the world's most liveable cities. Standard precautions apply — keep valuables secure at the beach and stay sun-safe. Beaches can have strong rips — swim between the flags.
Budget hotels start around AU$100-150 per night, mid-range options cost AU$180-300, and luxury hotels range from AU$350-500+. Prices peak during school holidays and major events like the Perth Festival.
Most international visitors need a visa to enter Australia. New Zealand passport holders are granted a visa on arrival. Tourists should apply online in advance for a Visitor Visa (subclass 600) or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).