Best Things to Do in Perth (2027)

From headline sights to easy half-day trips, these are the best things to do in Perth, a sunny coastal city in Western Australia, Australia, with tips drawn from how people really visit.

Perth is the capital of Western Australia, known for sunny weather, white-sand beaches, a leafy riverfront and wide open spaces. It is one of the most remote major cities in the world, with a relaxed pace and plenty of nature on its doorstep.

1. Walk or picnic in Kings Park

One of the largest inner-city parks in the world, with botanic gardens, a treetop walk and views of the Swan River and skyline.

2. Take a ferry to Rottnest Island

A short ferry ride leads to a car-free island with beaches, snorkeling and friendly quokkas. Book ferry tickets early in summer.

3. Relax on Cottesloe Beach

A classic city beach with clear water, sunset views and a lively café scene. Swim only between the flags.

4. Stroll Fremantle

The port town has heritage buildings, markets, breweries and the old prison. It is easy to reach by train.

5. Visit Elizabeth Quay and the waterfront

The riverfront promenade has cafés, public art and ferries. It is pleasant for an evening walk.

6. Explore the Swan Valley

A short trip from the city leads to wineries, breweries and chocolate shops. Go with a designated driver or a tour.

7. See the Pinnacles Desert

Limestone pillars in Nambung National Park are best seen at sunrise or sunset. Most visitors go on a full-day tour.

8. Go whale watching

Humpback whales pass near the coast from September to December, with boat trips leaving from Perth and Fremantle.

Perth Quick Facts

• Location: Western Australia, Australia.
• Type of place: sunny coastal city.
• Best time to visit: Visit from September to November or from March to May for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, and from December to February if you want beach weather and don’t mind the heat. Winters are mild but wetter, and spring brings wildflowers across the state.
• Suggested time: 3 to 4 days, or 2 days if you are short on time.
• Busiest: December to February and school holidays. Quietest: June to August outside the school holidays.

What to Eat in Perth

Perth’s coastal location means excellent seafood, from rock lobster to local fish and chips. Western Australian wines, craft beer and a strong café culture are also highlights, and the city’s many Asian restaurants reflect its location.

Getting Around

Perth Airport is about 20 minutes from the center by car, and trains and buses link the center to Fremantle and the suburbs. Ferries cross the Swan River to South Perth. For wineries, the Pinnacles and farther regions, a rental car or a guided tour is more practical.

Money-Saving Tips

Free attractions include Kings Park, the beaches and the Perth Cultural Centre. Public transport is inexpensive, and a day pass covers trains, buses and ferries. Choose a hotel outside the center or a short-term rental to lower accommodation costs.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Underestimating the sun and heat, especially in summer.
• Swimming outside patrolled beaches or ignoring warning flags.
• Trying to cover the whole region in a short stay; distances are very large.
• Booking Rottnest Island ferries and accommodation too late in the summer holidays.

Best Time to Do These Things

Visit from September to November or from March to May for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, and from December to February if you want beach weather and don’t mind the heat. Winters are mild but wetter, and spring brings wildflowers across the state. Perth’s summer sun is intense, so wear sunscreen and a hat, and swim only at patrolled beaches between the flags.

Top-Rated Tours in Perth

These are the best-reviewed options currently listed for Perth, based on traveler ratings and review counts on Viator. Prices are starting prices and change with date and group size.

• Ultimate Swan Valley Food and Wine Day Trip from Perth — rated 4.8 from 739 reviews, from $121.
• The Perth Mint Gold Tour — rated 4.8 from 658 reviews, from $19.
• The Optus Stadium Tour — rated 4.9 from 604 reviews, from $26.
• Discover Perth Walking Tour: History, Art, Local Insights + More! — rated 5.0 from 516 reviews, from $51.

How to Fit It All In

Most visitors need 3 to 4 days to cover the highlights without rushing, and 2 days is enough for the essentials. Our Perth trip-length guide shows how to split the days, and the best time to visit page helps you choose the season. Perth’s summer sun is intense, so wear sunscreen and a hat, and swim only at patrolled beaches between the flags.

Plan Your Trip

More Perth planning help: best tours and experiences in Perth, best time to visit, things to do, where to stay and how many days you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the number one thing to do in Perth?

Walk or picnic in Kings Park tops most lists. One of the largest inner-city parks in the world, with botanic gardens, a treetop walk and views of the Swan River and skyline..

What can I do in Perth in one day?

Walk through Kings Park and the botanic garden, then have a coffee at a river-view café.

Is it worth booking a guided tour in Perth?

Tours save time on logistics and often include entry or transport. Listed tours start around $19 with a typical price near $51. The most-reviewed option we list is Ultimate Swan Valley Food and Wine Day Trip from Perth, rated 4.8 from 739 reviews and starting around $121.

Are there good day trips from Perth?

See the Pinnacles Desert and Go whale watching are popular add-ons. See our trip-length guide for how to fit them in.