Is Perth Worth Visiting? 25 Reasons To Visit Perth (2024)

If you’re wondering if Perth is worth visiting, I’ve got you covered. As a Perth local who has travelled extensively both within Australia and internationally, I can confidently say that Perth is absolutely worth the trip! 

Perth is the capital city of Western Australia and is located on the west coast of the country. It has a rich history, having been founded in 1829 as a British colony, and has since grown into one of the country’s most beautiful modern cities

One of the most unique things about Perth is its location. It is the most isolated capital city in the world – its nearest capital is Adelaide which is over 2100 km away! This means that getting to Perth can be a bit of a journey, but it also means that once you’re there, you’ll be able to experience a truly unique part of Australia. 

Perth has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Its comfortable weather makes it a great destination to visit all year-round.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s history, relaxing on its beautiful beaches, or enjoying its world-class food and wine scene, Perth truly has something for everyone. So if you’re considering a trip to Australia, be sure to add Perth to your itinerary – you won’t regret it!

25 Reasons Why Perth is Worth Visiting

Perth is a fantastic Australian holiday destination. Here are the top 25 reasons why Perth is worth visiting on your next holiday. 

Perfect Sunny Days

Personally, I love soaking up the sun, so Perth’s sunny weather is a dream come true! Perth is known as ‘the sunniest capital city in Australia’ as it boasts an average of 8 hours of sunshine per day and a whopping 138 clear days per year. This means that no matter what time of year you visit, you’re almost guaranteed to enjoy beautiful weather.

Stunning Beaches

What better way to soak up that sunshine than laying on a stunning beach? Perth is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia (and dare I say the world!). 

From the iconic Cottesloe Beach to the surfy-vibes of Scarborough Beach to the chic City Beach there’s a beach for everyone. The crystal-clear waters and soft white sand make for the perfect day out, whether you’re looking to swim, surf, or just relax in the sun.

The Beautiful Swan River

The Swan River snakes its way through the heart of Perth, offering stunning views and plenty of activities. 

Take a cruise along the river to see the city from a different perspective, rent a kayak to explore on your own or take a laid-back walk along the river and take in the city skyline views from South Perth. 

You can even zipline over the river from Matagarup Bridge if you’re feeling brave!

Meet The Unique Wildlife

Australia is known for its unique wildlife, and Perth is no exception. Head to Rottnest Island to meet the famous quokkas, or visit the Perth Zoo or Caversham Wildlife Park to see kangaroos, koalas, and more native animals. 

Heirisson Island is home to a family of Kangaroos and nearby Hamelin Bay is home to stingrays that swim right up to the shore. If you want to swim with playful sea lions head to Jurien Bay and you can even go whale watching in various spots off the WA coastline. You might even spot a dolphin or two in the Swan River if you’re lucky! 

There’s certainly no shortage of unique wildlife experiences to be had in Perth!

Enjoy Its Laid-back Vibe

Perth has a laid-back, friendly vibe that’s hard to resist. Compared to other Australian capital cities Perth is less crowded and less busy. 

The locals are generally welcoming and always happy to chat, and the city itself has a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for a relaxing holiday.

Stunning National Parks

Perth is surrounded by stunning national parks, each with its own unique beauty. From the rugged coastline of Yanchep National Park to the towering trees of John Forrest National Park, there’s plenty to explore.

Perth’s national parks come alive with stunning colour during the wildflower season which is from September to November and rapids and waterfalls flow during the winter months.  

Bushwalkers should check out Walyunga National Park, Bells Rapids or Lesmurdie Falls National Park for an unforgettable day out in nature.  

Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island is a must-visit destination when in Perth. Located just a short ferry trip from Perth the island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia, as well as the famous adorable quokkas. 

Rent a bike and explore the island at your own pace, snorkel the crystal-clear waters, skydive onto the sand or take a guided tour to learn more about its history and wildlife.

Wine Regions

Perth is surrounded by some of Australia’s best wine regions, including the Swan Valley and Margaret River. 

The Swan Valley is just 30-minutes from Perth and is home to some world-renowned wineries such as Sandalford Winery, Mandoon Estate and Lancaster Wines. Visitors can take a Swan Valley wine tour to sample some of the region’s best wines, or visit a cellar door to learn more about the winemaking process.

Margaret River is located 3 hours south of Perth and is home to more than 200 vineyards! There is plenty to do in Margaret River from wine tours, to beach trips to exploring the eerie caves, making it well worth the trip. 

Tourist Attractions

Perth has plenty of tourist attractions to keep you busy, from the towering Bell Tower to the historic Fremantle Prison. Visit the Perth Mint to see how gold is turned into coins, or take a stroll through Kings Park for stunning views of the city.

Food and Drink

Perth has a thriving food and drink scene, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a fancy dinner in the city or a casual lunch by the beach, there’s something for everyone. 

Aboriginal History

Perth has a rich Aboriginal history, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn more about it. Visit the WA Museum Boola Bardip to see artefacts and exhibits, or take a tour with an Aboriginal guide to learn about the culture and history of the local people.

King’s Park

King’s Park is one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, and it’s a must-visit destination when in Perth. The park offers stunning views of the city, as well as plenty of walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. I highly recommend packing a picnic to enjoy as you watch the sunset over the city and Swan River. 

Fremantle Prison

Fremantle Prison is a fascinating piece of Western Australian history, and it’s a must-visit destination when in Perth. It was built in the 1850s by convicts and was operational up until 1991. 

Take a tour to learn about the prison’s history and see what life was like for the inmates. Thrill-seekers can even take the eerie Torchlight Tour at night and experience some of the prison’s ghastly stories. 

Elizabeth Quay

Elizabeth Quay is a modern development on the banks of the Swan River, offering stunning views and plenty of activities. 

Take a Swan River gondola ride, explore the Bell Tower, go for a stroll and enjoy the public art such as the iconic Spanda statue and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants.

Perth Zoo

Perth Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including kangaroos, koalas, and even African lions. Take a guided tour to learn more about the animals and their habitats, or watch a feeding to see them up close.

Scarborough Beach

Scarborough Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Perth, and it’s easy to see why. The crystal-clear waters and soft sand make for the perfect day out, whether you’re looking to swim, surf, or just relax in the sun.

Pinnacles Desert

The Pinnacles Desert is a unique natural wonder located just 2 hours from Perth in Nambung National Park. The desert is home to thousands of limestone pillars, dating back 25,000 – 30,000 years. Take a walk through this stunning landscape or drive through the park. For a unique experience, you can even take a night time stargazing tour. Check out my Perth to Cervantes Road Trip Guide for all the details. 

Shopping and Markets

Perth offers a wide range of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to local markets. The Subiaco Farmers Market is a must-visit for fresh produce and artisanal goods. The historic Fremantle Markets are great for souvenirs and delicious food, while the Murray Street and Hay Street Malls are popular spots for fashion and well-known retailers.

Outdoor activities

Perth’s sunny weather and natural beauty make it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city has a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and water sports. Kings Park is a popular spot for picnics and bushwalking, while Rottnest Island is a paradise for snorkelling and swimming.

Fremantle

Fremantle is a historic port city located just 30 minutes from Perth. It is known for its cool arts scene, historic buildings, and lively markets. The Fremantle Markets are a must-visit for local crafts, food, and entertainment. The Fremantle Prison is also a popular attraction for its history and architecture. There are also some great bars and restaurants – I recommend stopping for lunch at Little Creatures Brewery.

Road trips

Perth is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes that are perfect for road trips. The Pinnacles Desert is a unique rock formation that is a popular day trip from Perth. The Margaret River region is a scenic area known for its wineries, beaches, and forests. The Coral Coast is another popular road trip destination, famous for its marine life experiences like swimming with whale sharks and dolphin spotting. 

WA Museum Boola Bardip 

The Western Australian Museum Boola Bardip is a world-class museum located in Perth. It showcases the natural and cultural history of Western Australia, with interactive exhibits and immersive experiences. The museum is a must-visit for history and science lovers, with collections ranging from fossils to contemporary art.

Vibrant nightlife 

Perth has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a range of bars, arcades, clubs, and live music venues. Northbridge is a popular area for nightlife, with a diverse range of venues catering to different tastes. The Perth Cultural Centre is also a hub for live music, galleries and performing arts.

Stargazing

Perth’s clear skies and low light pollution make it a great destination for stargazing. The Perth Observatory offers guided tours and stargazing experiences, with telescopes and expert guides. 

For visitors wanting to get out of the city to enjoy even darker skies, the Pinnacles Desert is another popular spot, with its unique rock formations creating a dramatic backdrop for the night sky. The dark skies of small Wheatbelt towns are also astrotourism hotspots. 

Cleanliness and safety

Perth is known for its cleanliness and safety, making it a comfortable destination for travellers. The city has a well-maintained public transport system that is safe and reliable. The streets are well-lit and there is a visible police presence in the city. The beaches are also clean and well-maintained, with regular cleaning and monitoring. Overall, Perth is a safe and clean destination for travellers.

Accommodation in Perth

When it comes to finding accommodation in Perth, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious stay or a budget-friendly option, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few of my favourite places to stay in Perth:

The Swan Valley Retreat

If you’re looking for a peaceful and serene place to stay, The Swan Valley Retreat is a great option. Located in the heart of the Swan Valley, this retreat offers stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and hills. 

The onsite spa offers an extra touch of luxury and is sure to leave you feeling relaxed. The rooms are comfortable with air-conditioning, coffee machine, a relaxing bath and a balcony with lake views. 

COMO The Treasury

For a luxurious stay in the heart of Perth, COMO The Treasury is hard to beat. This beautifully restored 19th-century building offers spacious rooms, bar, and a world-class restaurant. The hotel is located in the heart of the city, within walking distance of many of Perth’s top attractions.

Crown Towers Perth

Crown Towers Perth is another great option for those looking for luxury accommodation. The hotel offers spacious rooms, a range of dining options, and a world-class spa. The hotel is located on the banks of the Swan River, with stunning views of the city skyline, plus the resort-style pool is hard to beat! 

The Ritz-Carlton Perth

The Ritz-Carlton Perth is a new addition to the Perth accommodation scene, and it’s quickly become a favourite among travellers. The hotel offers spacious rooms, a rooftop cocktail bar, and a range of dining options. The hotel is located in the heart of the city, within walking distance of many of Perth’s top attractions.

No matter where you choose to stay in Perth, you’re sure to have a great time. With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to find the perfect accommodation for your needs and budget.

Best Time to Visit

As a local, I can confidently say that Perth is a great destination to visit year-round. However, there are certain times of the year when the city truly shines.

If you’re looking for the best weather, then spring (September – November) is the ideal time to visit Perth. During this time, the city is awash with the vibrant colours and sweet fragrances of spring, and the sunny days are uninterrupted by rain.

Summer in Perth (December – February) is hot and dry. This is the peak tourist season, and the beaches and attractions are packed. 

In autumn (March – May) Perth is more laid-back, temperatures are comfortable and the city is less crowded.

Winter (June – August) in Perth is cooler and rainy compared to the rest of the year. Attractions are less crowded and rivers and waterfalls are flowing. Although it’s winter the weather is still generally comfortable. 

Check out my monthly guides to Perth for more information on the best time to visit Perth:

• Perth In June: Weather, Events, Things To Do + More!
• Perth in July: Weather, Events, Things To Do And See + More
• Perth In August: Weather, Things To Do, Events + More
• Perth in September: Weather, Events, Things To Do + More!

Last Words On Is Perth Worth Visiting

Perth is the most isolated capital city in the world, but don’t let that deter you from making it your next holiday destination! Perth is well and truly worth visiting – there is something for everyone to enjoy from stunning beaches, nature and wildlife experiences to historical sites and luxurious dining and shopping. Perth will not disappoint!

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