Things to Do in Perth: Discover the Best of Perth

Blessed with plenty of sunshine and surrounded by the natural beauty of the western coastline, Perth is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Australia.
 

Located on the west coast of Australia, Perth is an ideal base for all kinds of adventures. From sightseeing and cultural experiences to family-friendly holidays and action-packed outdoor pursuits, there’s an endless list of things to do in Perth.
 

If you’re planning a holiday in Western Australia, this is your guide to some of the very best things to do in Perth for families, friends, couples, and solo travellers whether you're after a food and wine holiday, an outdoor adventure, or something in between.

Perth boasts an enviable location on the Western Australian coastline offering up sweeping beach vistas together with the attractions and conveniences you've come to expect of a major city. The beauty of choosing Perth as a holiday destination lies in its wide-ranging appeal.
 

As the capital of Western Australia, Perth is a cosmopolitan base for a city break, a gateway to adventures in the wilderness, and a mecca for foodies, sports fans, and sun-seekers. There are some great free things to do in Perth as well as unforgettable experiences and unique locations to explore.
 

Planning an itinerary is a helpful way to make the most of your time and ensure you don’t miss any of the incredible attractions or sights on offer. To help you tailor plans to suit your holiday goals and interests, we've curated a comprehensive list of excursions, must-see attractions and activities, including budget-friendly things to do in Perth.

Perth is a great destination for families. Offering a veritable treasure trove of attractions for children of all ages, Perth boasts some incredible family-friendly activities and outings. Whether you have young children or teens, there’s plenty to see and do if you’re visiting Perth as a family. 

A labyrinth of fascinating displays and exhibits await at Scitech, Perth’s science museum. Covering topics related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, children of all ages will love this interactive learning experience. Visit the Planetarium, catch live science shows, and prepare to be amazed by all kinds of weird and wonderful facts. Scitech is located at the City West Centre and is open daily. 

A hop, skip, and a jump away from the centre of Perth, you’ll find Perth Zoo. Home to species from all corners of the globe, popular residents include sun bears, lions, Asian elephants, Sumatran tigers, and of course, everyone’s favourite cuddly locals, koalas.

Visit the website to book tickets and find suggested day itineraries. You can also check out the times for animal feeding and educational talks. Perth Zoo is open every day of the year and is located at 20 Labouchere Road. 

For underwater adventures, there’s no better place for families than the Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA). Boasting giant tanks filled with colourful, exotic species, this marine exhibit takes visitors on a fascinating journey around the stunning coastline of Western Australia.
 

In a single day, you’ll discover the state’s diverse sea life and get up close and personal with sharks, seahorses, and stingrays. For those keen to make their trip even more memorable, AQWA also offers experiences, including diving with sharks and glass-bottom boat tours. 

AQWA is a ticketed experience open daily from 9am to 4pm (closed on Christmas Day) and is located at Hillarys Boat Harbour, around 30 minutes from the centre of Perth. 

If you’re looking for a sightseeing tour with a difference, why not hop on board Western Australia’s only solar ferry? Taking full advantage of Perth’s pleasant year-round climate, the Little Ferry Company takes visitors on a tour of the beautiful Swan River.

Running from Elizabeth Quay to East Perth, you can hop on and off as you please. Ferries depart from Elizabeth Quay at 10am, 12pm and 2pm from Thursday to Sunday. Family tickets are available.

Known to the locals as Rotty, Rottnest Island has become quite the social media sensation. Rottnest Island has captured the hearts of travellers not solely for its glimmering turquoise waters and pristine white sands, but also for its friendly, photogenic residents.

Selfies with quokkas have gone viral, putting Rotty firmly on the map. The quokka is a cheery, playful, sociable marsupial, which has become the symbol of the island. Although quokkas are friendly and they often take an interest in visitors, it's important to remember they are wild animals.

Rottnest Island is easily accessible by ferry from Perth and Fremantle. It’s best to book tickets in advance, especially during peak season. It takes around 90 minutes from central Perth and 45 minutes from Fremantle.

Perth is a fun destination to visit with friends. There are activities to suit all tastes and interests from visiting the local breweries to shopping the markets and touring the historic gaol. 

Fremantle is a port city famed for its thriving craft beer scene. Fremantle is a great place to visit if you enjoy a local craft beer, you’re a fan of trying something new.

Highlights on the craft beer trail include Sail & Anchor (built in 1901 and today has 40 beer taps), Little Creatures Brewery (local brewery started by a group of mates), and Gage Road Brewing Company (locally inspired and brewed craft beers).

To get to Fremantle from Perth, you can drive or take the train. Tours are available at Little Creatures and the tour ticket includes a beer tasting board. 

If you have foodies in the group, or you’re looking for cool shopping spots and hangouts for a bite to eat, Fremantle Markets are a must.

Steeped in history, the markets have run for over 100 years and are famous for fresh fruit and vegetables, ready-to-eat food stalls, as well as homeware, accessories, clothing, toys, books and antiques. The hall offers a diverse range of outlets and stalls to quench your thirst and keep hunger pangs at bay. 


Fremantle Markets open each week on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. They are located on the corner of South Terrace and Henderson Street. 

Travel back in time and discover the rich history and chequered past of Fremantle Prison with an intriguing behind-the-bars tour.

Learn the backstory of this famous jail, discover the crimes and misdemeanours of some of its most infamous residents, and see what it’s like to spend time in a cell. For those who are brave enough, take the tunnels and torchlight tour for an eerie insight into life behind bars.

Fremantle Prison tours have group discounts available. The prison is located at 1 The Terrace, Fremantle. Opening hours are 9am to 5pm with evening tours available on Wednesdays and Fridays. 

Perth offers the best of both worlds for those who love the dining and shopping of the city as well as those who have a passion for the great outdoors. Flanked by parks, rivers, and beaches, there are endless opportunities to enjoy the fresh air, burn some energy, and take in breathtaking views. 

The jewel in the crown of Kings Park, the Lotterywest Federation Walkway meanders through Western Australia Botanic Garden, offering a relaxing treetop adventure, which provides scintillating views of the city skyline and gardens. Extending over 600 metres over an arched suspension bridge, the 40-minute return walk offers vistas of the Swan River, Canning River, and Marri woodland. Admission is free and the trail is open daily.

One of the city’s most popular spots for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and snorkelling, Cottesloe Beach is just a 15-minute bus ride from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Perth. Affectionately known as Cott to locals, this beach is an idyllic base for watersports, soaking up the sun, and watching the sky change colour as the daylight fades. This beach attracts all kinds of visitors, including families, groups of friends, fitness fans, and those keen to embrace the views and tranquillity of sunset. 

For a fun-filled, active sightseeing adventure, take to the water to enjoy views of the city while reaping the rewards of a workout. The Swan River is an excellent base to test your kayaking skills or learn how to paddleboard. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you can’t beat a relaxing paddle across the rippling waters. You'll find local providers offering kayak and paddleboard tours and hire.  

Food and wine lovers, rejoice! Perth is one of the best places in Australia to visit if you’re a fan of trying new dishes, eating out, and exploring vineyards and wineries.

This experience is a gift that keeps on giving. Not only will you be able to marvel at art collections, but you can also round off your visit with drinks and nibbles overlooking the city. After you’ve moseyed around the gallery taking in the works of art, head up to the rooftop bar to sample local wines and treat your tastebuds.

This experience is available in the spring and summer months on Fridays and Saturdays from 4pm. Admission to the gallery is free, but donations are encouraged. You’ll find the gallery and rooftop bar at Perth Cultural Centre.

Wine lovers will be spoiled for choice in the Swan Valley. Home to some great Australia wineries, a visit to the Swan Valley offers abundant opportunities to try new flavours and learn all about the process of making award-winning wines.

To make the most of your trip and enjoy every minute of your tour from dawn till dusk, why not book an overnight stay at Novotel Swan Valley Vines Resort? 


It’s worth noting that many of the Swan Valley wineries offer tours and tasting experiences as well as opportunities to book a meal, often with glorious views of rolling hills, meandering valleys, and verdant vineyards. There are various Swan Valley winery tours and excursions available including half-day and full-day tours. 

Perth is a fantastic holiday destination, which offers something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a weekend with friends or your partner, organising a family holiday, or looking for inspiration for a trip to celebrate a special occasion, you won’t be disappointed.
 

Perth is a city that covers all bases. Explore tranquil parks, relax on the beach, visit the zoo, cruise the river, sample local beer and wine, tour historic sites and galleries, and shop up a storm. There’s plenty to do in Perth whatever type of holiday you're enjoy most.
 

Ready to visit Perth? Be sure to book your Perth accommodation as you plan out your ideal travel itinerary.