Perth Things to Do - 15 Tips and Highlights

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Perth is the largest metropolis in Western Australia and a truly fascinating city. The atmosphere is very relaxed despite its size, which is often due to the friendly Australians. The city is also a perfect starting point for exploring the enormous Western Australia from here, with many highlights such as the beautiful coastal town of Esperance. But spending a few days in the big city is more than worthwhile because there are many Perth things to do.

15 Sights in Perth – Our Recommendations

The Perth sights really offer a lot to make your stay in the Western Australian metropolis something special. In the following, we’ll show you 15 tips for your visit. From cultural highlights to relaxing days on the beach, anything is possible in Perth.

Accommodation in Perth – Our Hotel Tip

The Alex Hotel is very centrally located in the Perth CBD district, specifically in Northbridge. It’s just a few minutes’ walk from the train station and the city center, an excellent starting point. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, television, free Wi-Fi, and modern bathrooms. Some rooms even offer a balcony and a great city view.

Additionally, the Alex Hotel offers a rooftop terrace with views of the skyline, a restaurant, a bar, and a small breakfast included in the room price. The 24-hour reception assists you at any time, and you can even rent bicycles on-site to explore Perth. For us, this hotel in Perth was a good choice, especially due to its central location.

If you’d like to look for other hotels, perhaps in other districts or directly at Elizabeth Quay, then check out this Perth hotel overview.

1. Elizabeth Quay

One of the highlights for us, and therefore one of the Perth things to do you shouldn’t miss, is Elizabeth Quay. This lively waterfront district basically connects the Swan River with the city center and is a popular meeting place in Perth for both locals and tourists.

Along the promenade, you’ll find numerous bars and restaurants. The best view is from the Elizabeth Quay Bridge, a pedestrian bridge offering a view of the skyline. In addition, you’ll see a 29-meter-high sculpture called Spanda, considered the emblem of Elizabeth Quay, the BHP Billition Water Park, and the small “island” with a restaurant and playground. You’ll also find a pier here with many ferry connections to South Perth, basically across the river.

You should also visit Elizabeth Quay in the evening or at night. The illuminated skyline is truly impressive. The many skyscrapers and hotels light up the area and are great for photos. We were there almost every evening to take a walk and enjoy the lit-up skyline.

2. Bell Tower

The Bell Tower, also known as the Swan Bell Tower, is one of the most famous landmarks and definitely belongs on the list of Perth things to do. It’s located right by the Swan River, where the ferries to Rottnest Island also depart. This modern, architecturally impressive building houses the historic Swan Bells, a total of 18 bells, some dating back to the 14th century from the famous St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church in London.

Aside from the bells, there’s another highlight inside the Bell Tower: an observation deck. It offers visitors a 360-degree view of Perth and the Swan River, giving you a unique yet beautiful perspective on the skyline. It is open daily from 10.00 AM to 4.00 PM, closed on Mondays. Tickets cost 15 AUD, with discounted prices for seniors and children. You can buy them either on site or online in advance.

3. Hay Street Mall

In the Central Business District (CBD) of Perth lies Hay Street, named after Robert William Hay, the Permanent Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies. One of the best-known and most popular sections is the Hay Street Mall, a shopping street similar to those you may know from Europe. One department store or specialty shop stands next to the other.

Among them, you’ll find well-known Australian brands such as Culture Kings, Nike, and Superdry, as well as shops for gifts and home accessories like West Elm, Pottery Barn, and T2. There are also a few restaurants and cafes along the Hay Street Mall where you can take a break with a tasty coffee. Additionally, you’ll find access here to historic buildings and Perth sights such as London Court (see the next point).

4. London Court

London Court is a small shopping arcade branching off from the Hay Street Mall. It was built in 1937 in the style of old England and immediately reminds many of Harry Potter. London Court was commissioned by the wealthy gold financier and businessman Claude de Bernales and served both residential and commercial purposes. He wanted to bring the flair of England to Perth.

This small arcade is designed in the Tudor style and resembles an English alley from the 16th century. Notable features include the decorative façades, bay windows, and the two clocks at either end of the passage. By the way, the clock at the Hay Street end features four knights who perform a mock battle every quarter hour, which is fascinating.

Today, London Court is a popular tourist attraction and hosts various boutiques, jewelers, souvenir shops, and cafes. For us, it’s definitely one of the highlights among the Perth things to do and very impressive. You shouldn’t miss it.

5. The Big Cactus

On Forrest Place, opposite Perth’s central train station, stands the sculpture The Big Cactus. This art installation is controversial but still very well-known. The 6.5-meter-tall piece is officially called “Grow Your Own” and was created in 2012 by the Australian artist James Angus.

This unique artwork, which doesn’t really depict a cactus, has secured a permanent place among the Perth things to do over the years. However, the artist’s original idea was to create an abstract form symbolizing the growth, development, and self-reliance of the city. In our opinion, it’s a quick but fun stop in Perth to take a photo before continuing your exploration.

6. Yagan Square

Named after the Noongar leader Yagan, Yagan Square is a lively plaza in the center of Perth that connects the city center with the Northbridge neighborhood (see the next point). It’s also strategically located between Perth train station and the bus station, to which it offers direct access. Opened in 2018, it’s not only a transportation hub but also known for culture, cuisine, and events. The link to the Noongar history was attempted in the architectural design.

One notable feature of Yagan Square is the nine-meter-tall sculpture Wirin, created by a Noongar artist, Tjyllyungoo (Lance Chadd). Wirin means “spirit” in the Noongar language, and the sculpture embodies the spiritual power and culture of the Noongar. Other highlights include the Amphitheatre and the Digital Tower, which is 45 meters tall and continuously displays various content such as advertisements, artwork, short films, or even live broadcasts.

Most visitors come to Yagan Square because it’s quickly becoming a culinary hotspot. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants offering local cuisine and international dishes. If you’re nearby or on your way to Northbridge, feel free to stop by and form your own impression.

7. Northbridge

Northbridge is a vibrant neighborhood just north of the central business district (CBD). It’s connected to Perth’s center by Yagan Square (see the previous point). Northbridge is known for its multicultural atmosphere and offers many cafes, restaurants, hotels, as well as the Western Australian Museum, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, and the State Theatre Centre, all contributing to the area’s cultural diversity.

With a wide range of bars, pubs, and nightclubs, Northbridge is also the hub of Perth’s nightlife. The James Street and Lake Street are particularly known for their nightlife. In addition, Northbridge Piazza hosts free movie screenings, live music, and exhibitions, making it a popular evening spot for both locals and tourists.

8. Wolf Lane Street Art

Wolf Lane is a somewhat inconspicuous alley hidden in the Perth CBD. It connects King Street with Murray Street and has evolved into a canvas for local and international street artists. You could call Wolf Lane a small open-air museum, and a stroll is absolutely worthwhile if you enjoy street art.

The various artists from around the world have helped transform Wolf Lane into a vibrant example of the blending of different artistic styles and cultural influences. ​You’ll also find some small, charming cafes on site where you can take a break while exploring the Perth sights. In our opinion, it’s a quick but pleasant activity during a walk through the city.

9. Heirisson Island

Right in the Swan River lies the small island of Heirisson Island, located between East Perth and Victoria Park. It’s easily accessible via the Causeway and offers a tranquil oasis in the middle of the city. It’s particularly famous for its free-roaming kangaroos, which live in a protected area here and can be well observed at dawn or late afternoon. You may also spot other wildlife such as pelicans, water birds, and more during a walk around the island.

The island holds great spiritual significance for the Noongar, the Indigenous people of this region. They call the place Matagarup, meaning “ankle-deep water.” In the past, the island was an important crossing point over the Swan River and a meeting place for Indigenous communities. Today, Heirisson Island is officially registered as an Aboriginal Site, with information boards and artworks commemorating the Noongar history.

10. Kings Park

One of the most famous sights in Perth is Kings Park. It spans 400 hectares and is among the largest urban parks in the world. You can explore nature on the numerous walking trails, such as the Lotterywest Federation Walkway, take in viewpoints, or delve into the history of Western Australia with the State War Memorial. One of our personal highlights is the view of Perth’s skyline you get at the State War Memorial.

There are truly many places to discover in Kings Park, but you can also simply enjoy the peace away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Take a walk, have a picnic, and relax. You could spend several hours in the park, and it feels a bit like being in another world. You can find out more about what you can discover on site in our article about the Kings Park and Botanic Garden.

11. Blue Boat House

Originally built in the 1930s, the Blue Boat House is another Perth landmark and a very popular photo spot. Officially known as the Crawley Edge Boatshed, it’s located near the southern entrance of Kings Park, right on the Swan River. Tourists often stop by to check it out.

This simply painted blue boathouse stands on stilts, which you can reach via a long wooden jetty. But be careful, it can get a bit wet and slippery sometimes. It’s privately owned by a family but isn’t inhabited; it serves purely as a decorative landmark. Thanks to its picturesque location, it has become one of the most photographed spots in Perth. It’s definitely worth a short stop on the way to Kings Park (see the previous point).

12. Swan River

The Swan River winds through Perth until it flows into the Indian Ocean at Fremantle. It’s a vital habitat for many animal species and a popular location for many leisure activities or water sports. Along the Swan River, you’ll find numerous parks, walking, and cycling paths, some offering stunning views of the skyline. You can also simply have a picnic on the riverbank or go stand-up paddling or kayaking.

A highlight is definitely the boat tours on the Swan River, which shouldn’t be left out when listing Perth things to do. Various tours are available, for example, between Perth and Fremantle or tours into the Swan Valley, famous for its wine. Exploring Perth on the water offers a different perspective on the city and is definitely worth it.

13. Point Walter and Blackwall Reach

Situated right on the Swan River, the scenic areas of Point Walter and Blackwall Reach are also worth mentioning. Point Walter, known as Dyoondalup in the Noongar language, is a headland in the Bicton area, about 12 km from Perth’s center. The highlight here is the sandbar stretching over a kilometer into the river, which becomes visible at low tide and invites you to wade in. You can fish, swim, have a picnic, and enjoy many walking and cycling paths and playgrounds on site. It’s a great place to soak up nature.

Blackwall Reach, also called Jenalup in the Noongar language, is located slightly downstream from Point Walter. It’s particularly famous for its impressive limestone cliffs rising up to eight meters high. There are also a few trails for walks where you can enjoy nature and observe the many birds living there. Both places are very popular for taking a break from the big city right by the Swan River.

14. Cottesloe Beach

If you venture a bit farther from the center, you can also find some beaches. Cottesloe Beach, often just called Cott, is one of the best-known and most popular beaches in Perth. It’s over one kilometer long and attracts both locals and tourists alike. You’ll find beautiful, clear water for swimming and a gorgeous white sandy shore.

Cottesloe Beach really has something for every visitor. You can try snorkeling at the reefs just off the coast, or even try surfing in some areas along the beach that are suitable for it. You don’t have to participate in any water activities, though; you can simply spend your time on the promenade in the many cafes and restaurants.

The beach also provides some shady spots under trees, well-maintained lawns for picnics, and plenty of facilities like restrooms and showers. There’s even a shark protection net in the swimming area for added safety if you decide to go into the water. Cottesloe Beach is especially popular during the summer months and should be on your list.

15. Fremantle

Fremantle is a historic port city located at the mouth of the Swan River, about 30 minutes south of Perth, yet still part of the greater metropolitan area. It’s also easily reached by train. The city is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, its vibrant arts and cultural scene, and its laid-back atmosphere.

There’s a lot to see in Fremantle, and it’s especially worth visiting on the weekend. A highlight is the Fremantle Prison, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering fascinating tours into the convict history. You also shouldn’t miss the famous Fremantle Markets, which feature a wide range of local products, handicrafts, and culinary specialties. We also recommend a stroll along the Cappuccino Strip, where cafes, bars, and restaurants are lined up. You can learn more in our article on Fremantle tips.

Perth: Tours and Tickets

Do you prefer to travel with a guide who knows the area very well? Then we recommend a guided tour with a local. This way you can get to know Perth in a completely different way. GetYourGuide offers a wide selection of exciting tours for Perth.

Hot to Get to Perth

Getting to Perth is convenient and easy to organize. Perth has the largest airport in Western Australia and can be reached by plane from many destinations. These include domestic flights from smaller cities or the west coast of Australia. But also long-haul flights, mostly from Asia like Kuala Lumpur, Bali, and Bangkok, are a great starting point if you want to travel to Perth. You can find a precise selection of airlines, times, and prices at Skyscanner.

To reach Perth within Australia, there are several other options. These include trains or long-distance buses. You can find a selection at TransWA, where all the different possibilities are presented. You’ll learn which places are on the railway line and which ones, for example, can only be reached by bus.

The last alternative is your own car or a rental car/camper. If you’re on an Australia road trip and also want to get to Perth, there are many routes available. In our opinion, the most beautiful is along Highway 1 on the south coast, which leads from Adelaide along Esperance and Albany to Perth.

What is the highlight for you among the Perth things to do? Do you have any other tips for the city? Feel free to leave your opinion in the comments.

Photos: Photo 15 (Cottesloe Beach): AM Photo Co/shutterstock.com