Perth, Western Australia's bustling capital, is a popular vacation spot thanks to its attractive combination of urban sophistication and natural scenery. Perth has various tourist hotspots, from beautiful beaches and expansive parks to lively markets and fascinating historical landmarks. Despite this, there is so much to see and do in this city that trying to do so in a single day can be overwhelming. But have no dread! If you have a short time in Perth, we hope this blog will help you make the most of it so that you may see the city's best attractions and take away some beautiful memories.
If you have a short time in Perth, such as during a layover or a day trip, we hope our suggestions and advice will help you make the most of your visit. Everything you want to see or do is right here, from historical sites and cultural attractions to restaurants and natural wonders. Put on your seatbelts because we have an exciting day planned in Perth. Let's seize the moment and immerse ourselves in the allure of this metropolis. Get ready to see all the top attractions in Perth in one day!
Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Perth
- You may reach Perth by flying into Perth International Airport. The fare for an Uber from the airport to the city centre is around 50 AUD, which takes about 30 minutes. A metered taxi will cost slightly more.
- Get a local SIM card before you go to keep in touch. You can purchase prepaid SIM cards at the airport from either Optus or Vodafone. If you don't get a SIM card at the airport, you may usually find them for sale at any Coles supermarket.
- Perth is an excellent place to visit year-round due to its temperate climate; nevertheless, the Australian summer (December–February) is the busiest tourist season. Visit Perth in October, November, March, or April to avoid crowds and low hotel rates during the high season.
Where to Stay in Perth
Staying in or near Perth's Central Business District (CBD) or NOR (also known as "north of the river") is ideal for a day trip to Perth. People who want to make the most of their time in Perth also flock to the nearby neighbourhoods of Northbridge, West Perth, Subiaco, and Leederville.
How to Travel Around Perth in One Day
Hop On Hop Off Bus in Perth
The Hop On Hop Off Bus is the best way to get around Perth in one day. It's not the cheapest way, but it's the fastest. You can choose which stops to get off at depending on your interest.
CAT
Central Area Transit (CAT) is a free bus service in Perth that lets you get on and off as often as you want. They are a great way to get around Perth, but they can sometimes get crowded. On the Transperth site, you can find out more.
The Morning in Perth: Getting to Know the City
Stroll Along the Swan River
Walk, ride, jog, picnic, go sailing and fishing, or take a relaxing river cruise along the Swan River and its foreshore in Perth, Australia, and take in one of the world's most stunning cityscapes. The city stands proudly on its banks, and Perth's clear blue skies and scenic lookouts make for great photographs. See the river, the city, and the Darling Range in the distance from a vantage point that spans 180 degrees at Kings Park and Botanic Garden.
Visit Elizabeth Quay to Take in the Sights and Sounds of the Waterfront
The Elizabeth Quay Bridge and Island Playground are two of the many attractions of this waterfront esplanade. The Bell Tower, resembling a shattered glass spire, can be found in the heart of Perth, just in front of the Barrack Street Jetty. Visitors can check out the view from the rooftop observation deck and listen to bells dating back to the 14th century. Ferries and boats leave at Barrack Street Jetty to Rottnest Island, Swan Valley, and Fremantle.
Explore Fremantle’s Rich History for Yourself
About half an hour south of Perth is the port city of Fremantle. The Fremantle Prison and the Roundhouse, two historic prisons from the 1800s, are two of the city's most well-known landmarks. Both are on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Indulging in Perth's Local Cuisine at Noon
Go Out to Lunch and Experience the Cultural Diversity of Northbridge
Northbridge is the heart of Perth's entertainment district, drawing in revellers with its eclectic mix of restaurants, shops, and artists. Community spirit thrives in this vibrant centre of urban culture. The area is home to Perth's Chinatown and features a variety of cafes, brunch spots, vintage shops, boutiques selling local clothing and accessories, and intimate pubs. The fresh designers and unique boutiques on William Street will impress even the most seasoned shopper.
The Perth Cultural Centre, located in Northbridge, is home to several notable cultural institutions, including the WA Museum Boola Bardip, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the State Theatre of Western Australia, and the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art, which houses the State Art Collection and displays more than a thousand works of art from Australia and around the world.
Visit the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour for Some Delicious Seafood
Since the early 1900s, the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour has served as a fully working fishing port, and today, it also serves as a hub for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the city's famous fish and chips and locally made beers. The harbour is a short walk from Fremantle's downtown and only a half-hour drive or train ride from Perth's central business district, making it a popular weekend destination any day or night.
The harbour has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a single jetty and fish market; in 1987, it was renovated extensively to host the America's Cup yacht race just off the coast of Fremantle. Traditional nautical activities can now be easily observed against a vibrant beachfront of restaurants, bars, cafes, and nightclubs. Enjoy the day's fresh catch while watching the fishermen bring in their catch, or go to the local seafood market and pick out your items for an authentic Indian Ocean meal.
Spending the Afternoon in Perth, Taking in the City’s Rich History and Beautiful Landscape
Take Enjoy Stunning Vistas at Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Kings Park is, without a doubt, one of the finest urban parks you will ever see. A strong claim, to be sure, but after exploring the park's many paths, gardens, and lookout points, you'll see what I mean. Kings Park is large enough to fill an entire day, so we've highlighted some of the highlights you shouldn't miss.
The State War Memorial, honouring Australian military casualties, is at the park's eastern end. A tall obelisk and the eternal Flame of Remembrance stand at its heart. The State War Memorial has traditionally been the ANZAC Day Dawn Service site.
Kaarta Gar-up, a viewing point right on the water's edge of the park, offers some of the most splendid panoramas in all of Perth. This suspended pavilion beautifully shows the Swan River and the surrounding cityscape.
The Washington State Botanic Garden is up next, and it's a must-see because it's a living research centre showcasing almost 3,000 species of WA's native flora. Although the best time to see flowers is between July and October, you can see them blooming anytime. Kings Park also hosts the annual Kings Park Festival every year in September, a fortnight-long festival celebrating the riot of colour provided by Western Australia's native flora.
The DNA Tower, called for its likeness to the double-helix chains responsible for transporting genetic information, can be found around 1.5 kilometres from the Botanic Garden. The 15-metre-tall stairway is the park's best vantage point.
The elevated Lotterywest Federation Walkway may be found just a short distance from the DNA Tower. This elevated path is suitable for strollers and provides a one-of-a-kind perspective of the city below.
After working up an appetite, head to the May Drive Parkland area of Kings Park for a bite to eat at Zamia. My toddler would have happily spent hours at the dinosaur-themed playground and Lycopod Island in May Drive Parkland, both of which can be found in Perth's famous Kings Park.
Explore Aboriginal Culture and Artwork at Western Australia Art Gallery
The Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA), located in Perth's Cultural Quarter, is the state's primary gallery for visual art. First Nations and Western Australian artists and pieces from around Australia and the world can be seen at the Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA), housed in a world-famous Brutalist structure by Architect Charles Sierakowski.
Throughout the year, AGWA presents an array of exhibitions alongside an engaging schedule of events, such as artist talks, music, performance art, and more. The Gallery's Design Store is worth exploring in its own right, as it is noted for carrying cutting-edge design works by both local and foreign artists.
Go for a Swim and Some Sightseeing at the Famous Cottesloe Beach
Perth, Western Australia, is home to the stunning Cottesloe beach. Activities like swimming, snorkelling, and surfing, as well as viewing the sunset over the lake while enjoying a cold beer, or a leisurely dinner, are common. It's easy to get to "Cott," as the locals call it, from Perth by car, bus, or train. Take one of the numerous Transperth buses or the Fremantle train line to the Cottesloe station; the beach is about 600 yards from there. The trip from the city takes about 15 minutes by automobile.
There are 19 beautiful beaches in Perth, but this one stands out for its many enticing qualities and popularity. White sand and shady Norfolk pines create the perfect setting for a picnic or a day at the beach with the family. Get your see-and-be-seen on at the beach's popular restaurants, cafes, and bars promenade for breakfast, lunch, dinner, sunset beverages, or a fun Sunday session.
The consistent swell makes this a popular place for surfers, bodyboarders, and swimmers, while the neighbouring cliffs and reefs attract snorkelers. In March, Sculpture by the Sea transforms the beach into the most spectacular outdoor gallery in the world.
Enjoy the Perth Nightlife and Chill Back This Evening
Go and Soak in the Lively Atmosphere at the Perth Cultural Centre
Step into a vibrant public place that hosts various artistic and cultural events. Perth's fascinating cultural precinct features performance spaces, art galleries, and a stunning new museum that tells the stories of Australia's traditional owners and their spiritual connection to the land, all against the backdrop of state heritage buildings and striking modern architecture.
Explore the carefully curated locations while sipping coffee, or unwind with a drink and a performance. The neighbourhood's lively atmosphere results from a compelling selection of experiences and events that stimulate the senses, the intellect, and the spirit.
Refresh at One of Perth’s Top Bars
Bars
Wine, gin, rum, whisky, and craft beer are all easily accessible in Perth. Northbridge has several secret speakeasies that are perfect for a night out on the town.
Pubs
Pubs in Perth range from trendy gastropubs to classic watering holes with sticky floors. Pubs, also known as hotels, are ubiquitous worldwide and serve as community hubs by being open everywhere from midday to midnight every day of the week.
Clubs
Northbridge is where it's at if you need to get your groove on. This area of Perth is a hub of after-hours activity, with venues ranging from small bars to large nightclubs. If you can't wait till midnight, go there before 10 p.m., and you won't have to pay the cover.
Live Concerts
Perth's live music scene is modest but formidable, especially regarding alternative and heavy rock. On Friday and Saturday nights, venues provide various shows, from free open houses to paid ticketed tours.
Comedy Clubs
The Perth Comedy Festival is held annually in Western Australia between the middle of April and the middle of May, attracting top comedians from across the world and providing invaluable exposure for local talent.
Check out the Comedy Lounge or Lazy Susan's Comedy Den for weekly stand-up, improv, and open mic events.
Conclusion
Tourists can choose from a wide variety of activities and sights in Perth, since the city is home to various beaches, parks, markets, and historical landmarks. Staying in or near the CBD or NOR, as well as Northbridge, West Perth, Subiaco, and Leederville, will let you to make the most of your time in Perth.
The Hop On Hop Off Bus and the City Area Transit (CAT) are the best and quickest means to see as much of Perth as possible in a single day. The city is also home to two UNESCO World Heritage-listed prisons: Fremantle and Roundhouse. The Perth Cultural Centre is located in Northbridge, the city's popular shopping and dining district.
Weekenders can enjoy classic nautical pursuits and delectable seafood at Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour. Since the early 1900s, when renovations began, the waterfront has been a favourite weekend destination for both locals and visitors. At the eastern end of the park stands the State War Memorial, a tall obelisk housing the everlasting Flame of Remembrance, and the Kararta Gar-up, a viewing point, provides breathtaking vistas of the Swan River and the surrounding city.
In conclusion, Perth is a great spot to spend a few days because it has so much to see and do. Exploring Perth's rich history and stunning surroundings is a must-do on any trip to the city, no matter how brief. Almost 3,000 varieties of Washington’s native flora are on display at the Washington State Botanic Garden, making it a must-see attraction. The annual Kings Park Festival in the month of September highlights the brilliant hues of Western Australia's indigenous flora. The DNA Tower is a 15-story stairwell with spectacular views of the city.
There is a Lycopod Island and a dinosaur playground in the May Drive Parkland area. The Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA) is the premier art museum in the state, showcasing works by local and international artists, including many from the First Nations. The gallery regularly presents new shows and features performances by musicians, poets, and other artists.
In addition to its beautiful outdoor gallery in March, Perth's Cottesloe Beach is a popular destination for water sports, including swimming, snorkelling, and surfing. Accessible by car, bus, or train, the area features 19 stunning beaches. With theatres, galleries, and a brand-new museum, the Perth Cultural Centre is always bustling with activity.
Entertainment options in Perth range from pubs and clubs to live music and comedy venues. The Perth Comedy Festival, which takes place every year in April and May, is a great opportunity for up-and-coming Australian comedians to perform alongside international superstars.
Content Summary
- Perth has various tourist hotspots, from beautiful beaches and expansive parks to lively markets and fascinating historical landmarks.
- Despite this, there is so much to see and do in this city that trying to do so in a single day can be overwhelming.
- If you have a short time in Perth, we hope this blog will help you make the most of it so that you may see the city's best attractions and take away some beautiful memories.
- If you have a short time in Perth, such as during a layover or a day trip, we hope our suggestions and advice will help you make the most of your visit.
- The fare for an Uber from the airport to the city centre is around 50 AUD, which takes about 30 minutes.
- You can purchase prepaid SIM cards at the airport from either Optus or Vodafone.
- Perth is an excellent place to visit year-round due to its temperate climate; nevertheless, the Australian summer (December–February) is the busiest tourist season.
- Visit Perth in October, November, March, or April to avoid crowds and low hotel rates during the high season.
- Central Area Transit (CAT) is a free bus service in Perth that lets you get on and off as often as you want.
- Walk, ride, jog, picnic, go sailing and fishing, or take a relaxing river cruise along the Swan River and its foreshore in Perth, Australia, and take in one of the world's most stunning cityscapes.
- See the river, the city, and the Darling Range in the distance from a vantage point that spans 180 degrees at Kings Park and Botanic Garden.
- The Bell Tower, resembling a shattered glass spire, can be found in the heart of Perth, just in front of the Barrack Street Jetty.
- Ferries and boats leave at Barrack Street Jetty to Rottnest Island, Swan Valley, and Fremantle.
- About half an hour south of Perth is the port city of Fremantle.
- The Fremantle Prison and the Roundhouse, two historic prisons from the 1800s, are two of the city's most well-known landmarks.
- The area is home to Perth's Chinatown and features a variety of cafes, brunch spots, vintage shops, boutiques selling local clothing and accessories, and intimate pubs.
- Since the early 1900s, the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour has served as a fully working fishing port, and today, it also serves as a hub for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the city's famous fish and chips and locally made beers.
- Enjoy the day's fresh catch while watching the fishermen bring in their catch, or go to the local seafood market and pick out your items for an authentic Indian Ocean meal.
- Take Enjoy Stunning Vistas at Kings Park and Botanic GardenKings Park is, without a doubt, one of the finest urban parks you will ever see.
- Kings Park is large enough to fill an entire day, so we've highlighted some of the highlights you shouldn't miss.
- The State War Memorial, honouring Australian military casualties, is at the park's eastern end.
- A tall obelisk and the eternal Flame of Remembrance stand at its heart.
- The Washington State Botanic Garden is up next, and it's a must-see because it's a living research centre showcasing almost 3,000 species of WA's native flora.
- Kings Park also hosts the annual Kings Park Festival every year in September, a fortnight-long festival celebrating the riot of colour provided by Western Australia's native flora.
- The DNA Tower called for its likeness to the double-helix chains responsible for transporting genetic information, can be found around 1.5 kilometres from the Botanic Garden.
- The elevated Lotterywest Federation Walkway may be found just a short distance from the DNA Tower.
- After working up an appetite, head to the May Drive Parkland area of Kings Park for a bite to eat at Zamia.
- My toddler would have happily spent hours at the dinosaur-themed playground and Lycopod Island in May Drive Parkland, both of which can be found in Perth's famous Kings Park.
- The Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA), located in Perth's Cultural Quarter, is the state's primary gallery for visual art.
- First Nations and Western Australian artists and pieces from around Australia and the world can be seen at the Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA), housed in a world-famous Brutalist structure by Architect Charles Sierakowski.
- It's easy to get to "Cott," as the locals call it, from Perth by car, bus, or train.
- Take one of the numerous Transperth buses or the Fremantle train line to the Cottesloe station; the beach is about 600 yards from there.
- The trip from the city takes about 15 minutes by automobile.
- There are 19 beautiful beaches in Perth, but this one stands out for its many enticing qualities and popularity.
- White sand and shady Norfolk pines create the perfect setting for a picnic or a day at the beach with the family.
- In March, Sculpture by the Sea transforms the beach into the most spectacular outdoor gallery in the world.
- Perth's fascinating cultural precinct features performance spaces, art galleries, and a stunning new museum that tells the stories of Australia's traditional owners and their spiritual connection to the land, all against the backdrop of state heritage buildings and striking modern architecture.
- Explore the carefully curated locations while sipping coffee, or unwind with a drink and a performance.
- The neighbourhood's lively atmosphere results from a compelling selection of experiences and events that stimulate the senses, the intellect, and the spirit.
- Northbridge has several secret speakeasies that are perfect for a night out on the town.
- Pubs in Perth range from trendy gastropubs to classic watering holes with sticky floors.
- ClubsNorthbridge is where it's at if you need to get your groove on.
- This area of Perth is a hub of after-hours activity, with venues ranging from small bars to large nightclubs.
- Perth's live music scene is modest but formidable, especially regarding alternative and heavy rock.
- The Perth Comedy Festival is held annually in Western Australia between the middle of April and the middle of May, attracting top comedians from across the world and providing invaluable exposure for local talent.
Frequently Asked Questions About Perth
While it may be challenging to explore all of Perth's major attractions in a single day, it is definitely possible to visit the key highlights and get a taste of the city's beauty and culture.
Perth boasts a vibrant food scene. Consider trying a delicious brunch at a local café, sampling fresh seafood at the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour, or exploring the diverse culinary offerings of Northbridge for lunch.
Absolutely! Perth offers a unique blend of urban and coastal experiences. With efficient planning, you can explore the city's attractions in the morning and early afternoon, and then head to one of the beautiful beaches, such as Cottesloe Beach, for a refreshing dip later in the day.
Perth's nightlife offers a variety of options for evening entertainment. Relax at a riverside bar, explore the vibrant atmosphere of Perth Cultural Centre, or indulge in a dinner with panoramic city views at a rooftop restaurant. Choose an experience that suits your preferences.
While more time is always desirable, a day in Perth can still be worthwhile and provide a taste of what the city has to offer. It's a great opportunity to explore the highlights, immerse yourself in the local culture, and decide if you'd like to return for a longer visit in the future.