Western Australia’s capital, Perth, is a bustling modern city on the threshold of some of the world’s greatest natural treasures. Whether you're seeking white sand beaches, gastronomic heaven or scenic wildlife encounters, this sun-drenched city has it all.
With a Mediterranean climate and endless blue skies, Perth offers something for every traveller all year round. And whether it’s a long weekend or a long week off, we’ve got a Perth itinerary you’ll love—let’s go!
Every trip to Perth should begin with a visit to one of the city's most famous beaches, Cottesloe Beach. Located just a 20-minute drive from the city centre, this pristine beach is perfect for a morning swim or stroll along the soft white sand beach. The clear turquoise waters make it ideal for snorkelling and the towering Norfolk pines give all day shade.
After soaking in the beach head to one of the local cafes for brunch – Il Lido is a great brunch spot and just one of the dozens of cafes in and around Perth known for brilliant coffee.
In the afternoon make your way to Kings Park and Botanic Garden, one of the world’s largest inner-city parks. Take a walk through the stunning wildflower gardens and climb to the top of Mount Eliza for panoramic views of Perth's skyline and the winding Swan River. If you’re feeling adventurous try the Federation Walkway, a treetop bridge offering a unique perspective of the city.
And end the day with drinks at The Shorehouse to watch the sunset on the beach while enjoying the holiday vibes.
Day 2: Rottnest and Quokkas
Rottnest – one of the best places to visit in WA – is known for its stunning beaches, secluded coves and, most importantly, quokkas. Quokkas have a reputation as the cutest animals in Australia and Rottnest Island is the only place you’ll find them.
With an early start, Rottnest Island is an easy, relaxed day trip. Ferries depart regularly from Hillarys Boat Harbour (8.45am onwards) or Fremantle (7.30am onwards) and the journey only takes about 30-45 minutes.
Once you arrive, rent a bike and cycle around the island stopping at beaches like The Basin and Little Salmon Bay for a swim or snorkel. Don’t forget to take a selfie with a quokka – they’re friendly and always up for a photo.
All of that cycling and swimming will leave you hungry so head to lunch at Hotel Rottnest for a seafood feast with ocean views, or grab something more casual at The Lane Café. Then spend the rest of the afternoon exploring all the hidden beaches and sweeping views—there isn’t a place on the island that doesn’t have them.
Get the ferry back to Perth in the late afternoon and have a laid back dinner at Long Chim, an urban Thai restaurant set in a heritage building right in the beating heart of Perth.
Book a Rottnest Island Day Tour
Day 3: Elizabeth Quay and Perth Cultural Centre
Urban Perth starts with Elizabeth Quay. This waterfront precinct along the Swan River is the gateway to Perth’s shops and CBD and a must for any Perth itinerary. If you’re not in the mood to shop, check out the public art displays, cafes, and boats on the water during a morning stroll.
Afterwards, visit the Perth Cultural Centre in Northbridge, a short walk from the CBD. Here you’ll find a variety of attractions including the Art Gallery of Western Australia, which houses a stunning collection of Indigenous art and contemporary works. The Western Australian Museum Boola Bardip is another highlight, showcasing the state’s natural and social history.
For lunch, check out Petition Kitchen in The State Buildings for modern Australian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
It’s worth leaving the afternoon free for The Perth Mint, one of the city’s most iconic historical sites. You can watch a live gold-pouring demonstration and learn about Perth’s fascinating gold rush era. Then wrap up your trip with a sunset cocktail at QT Rooftop Bar, taking in the panoramic city views before heading to Wildflower for their menu that makes creative use of native ingredients
5 Days in Perth: Expanding horizons
Day 4: Penguin Island and Wildlife Encounters
Rottnest is just one of several stunning Australian islands off the coast of Western Australia. Penguin Island, 45 minutes from Perth in the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, hosts the largest colony of little penguins in Western Australia. It’s about a 35-minute drive from central Perth down the coast to Rockingham and then an easy five-minute ferry ride to the island. From there you can take a guided tour to learn about the penguins and see their habitat.
And in case you thought Penguin Island was all penguins, make sure you explore the island’s sea lions, dolphins, and pelicans. Then take a glass bottom boat tour of Penguin, Seal and Bird Islands for glimpses of the dolphins swimming below.
Head back to Rockingham for a leisurely lunch at Latitude 32 on the Harbour, a popular spot that looks out on the water from its perch on the shore. And then it’s time to head back to the city to explore the best things to do in Perth at night, winding your way back along the water.
In the evening, head to Northbridge and unwind with dinner at Shadow Wine Bar. The European inspired menu and warm, intimate atmosphere make it the perfect spot to relax after a day of adventure, and its extensive wine list features dozens of Western Australia’s greatest drops. Northridge plays host to dozens of top restaurants, bars and boutiques, so it’s worth adding on another hour to explore.
Book a cruise to Penguin Island
Day 5: Bold Park, Lake Monger and Perth Zoo
Start your day with a visit to Bold Park, just a short drive from the city. This 400 hectare park is a sanctuary of native bushland, offering several walking trails with views of the city skyline and the Indian Ocean.
Next visit Lake Monger, an easy 10-minute drive west. This urban wetland is famous for its black swans and other birdlife plus it makes for a lovely picnicking spot.
In the afternoon, head to Perth’s famous Zoo. Located just across the river in South Perth, Perth Zoo has been around for over 120 years and features over 1,200 animals including kangaroos, koalas, and rare Asian elephants. It’s a great way to get up close to Australian wildlife without leaving the city.
To put a cap on your five days, head nine minutes down the road for dinner at the nearby Santini Bar & Grill, an award-winning spot known for excellent modern Italian.
The whole world watched when Freemantle hosted the America’s Cup in 1987 and it’s been a popular destination ever since. Only a 30-minute drive from the city, it’s worth spending a good half day in Freemantle. Start at the markets, where you can grab a bite for breakfast and browse an eclectic mix of local arts, crafts, and fresh produce.
The other thing Freemantle’s famous for is its UNESCO World Heritage-listed prison. The beautifully preserved 19th century jail gives insights into Australia’s convict history and offers tours and special events depending on the time of year.
Another great stop—and lunch option—is the Little Creatures Brewery on the Freemantle harbour. Grab a beer and a bite and a look at how they make their famous pale ales. Little Creatures don’t take reservations, so get in before the one o’clock rush.
A good lunch demands a good walk; so in the afternoon, drive east to the Bibbulmun Track. The track stretches over 1,000 kilometres from the Perth Hills to Albany but don’t worry, there are plenty of hikes that fit in to an afternoon. The Mundaring Weir section is particularly scenic and only about 45 minutes from the city.
Return to Perth for dinner at The Standard, another great Northbridge dining spot known for its modern Australian dishes and fantastic rooftop garden.
Day 7: Optus Stadium and Perth Observatory
Optus Stadium is sports-mad Perth’s flagship sporting venue and one of the world’s most modern and sustainable sports arenas. But you don’t need a game or a concert to go there; Optus Stadium’s Halo tour takes you on a 360-degree walk around the rooftop, giving you sweeping views of the city and the Swan River. Of course you’re strapped in and tied down so it’s totally safe. And if there’s a game or event on, it’s as good as any sporting venue in the world.
For lunch head out to Mount Lawley for a pastry or sandwich from Mary Street Bakery, Perth’s best-known cult bakery and worth a trip on its own.
After a morning gazing at the city, spend the afternoon stargazing at the Perth Observatory in the Perth Hills, about 40 minutes from the city. Book an evening stargazing tour and explore the southern hemisphere's night sky where you'll spot constellations, planets, and galaxies.
End your trip with dinner at Wildflower, a fine-dining restaurant offering contemporary Australian cuisine that showcases native ingredients in a luxurious setting.
Book a rooftop tour of Optus Stadium
9 Days in Perth: Go a Little Further
Day 8: Yanchep National Park and Lancelin Sand Dunes
Perth is both a city and a gateway to the mindblowing natural splendour of Western Australia, so if time allows, it’s well worth adding a day trip on your Perth itinerary. And you don’t need to venture more than an hour out of Perth to discover WA’s beauty. A day trip to Yanchep National Park is a chance to spot koalas and kangaroos in their natural habitat. There’s also Yanchep’s famous koala boardwalk and caves, or you can take a guided tour through Crystal Cave.
Afterwards, drive 30 minutes further north to the Lancelin Sand Dunes. Try sandboarding or take a scenic 4WD adventure across the dunes where you’ll be rewarded with views of the Indian Ocean.
All that, and you’re still less than 90 minutes from home base. But if you want to stay in the area for dinner, Lancelin’s Endeavour Tavern is a low-key option for excellent pub food loved by visitors and locals alike.
If you’re looking to explore some of the wine regions near Perth, Swan Valley wineries are just over a 30-minute drive from Perth.
Book a tour to Laneclin sand dunes
Day 9: St Mary’s Cathedral and Scitech
On your final day see the history of Perth shine through in the architecture of St Mary's Cathedral, a stunning neo-Gothic church located in the heart of the city. Take a quiet moment to appreciate its 160-year-old features, intricate stained glass and peaceful gardens.
If you want to truly feel Perth’s contrasting sides, spend the afternoon at the cutting edge of technology at Scitech. It’s Perth’s science museum and as good for adults as it is for kids.
Before your trip ends, there’s one more thing in Perth to experience: the nightlife.
And you can take it all in on a rickshaw with Peddle Perth, who do rickshaw taxi tours of Perth’s best pubs and cocktail bars. One of the most unique things to do in Perth, it’s a surprising and fun way to have a night out, with a guide to clue you in on the best places to go.
From pristine beaches and wildlife encounters to world-class dining and cultural experiences; Perth has it all, and this guide will help you get the best of it. Ready to explore Perth?
Flights to Perth
Now that you’ve got your Perth itinerary sorted, it's time to book that ticket. Virgin Australia offers direct flights to Perth from major Australian cities, including:
