Laidback Atmosphere
A lot of Perth’s magnetism is probably to do with the laidback atmosphere the city exudes. The warm sunny climate, picturesque location on the banks of the Swan River and rich cafe culture all lend themselves to a holiday that’s all about slowing down and catching your breath.
Fremantle is one of the best known destinations in the area immediately surrounding Perth. This historic seaport, which has become a haven for artists, writers and musicians, is a great place to spend a few hours or a few days.
Further afield, there’s an array of different experiences within a two hour drive. There are stunning beaches like Swanbourne, Cottesloe, Scarborough and Sorrento, or if you’re into food and wine, there are plenty of wineries and piles of fresh seafood. If you prefer to get active there’s surfing, golf courses, beautiful walking and cycling tracks or rivers to explore. And then there’s the shopping...
Perth Fast Facts 
• The city was founded in 1829 as the centre of the freely-settled Swan River colony
• It was ranked eighth equal in the Economist’s 2010 list of the world’s most liveable cities
• The city is located on the Swan River, between the Darling Range and the Indian Ocean
• The average maximum temperature in summer is 31.3°C; in winter it’s a balmy 18.3°C
• Geographically, Perth is closer to Jakarta in Indonesia than Sydney, Brisbane or Canberra
• The Whadjuk Noongar people are thought to have occupied the region for more than 40,000 years
• The area has a strong Italian community, as seen in places like Fremantle’s “cappuccino strip” |
Perth Highlights
To get a great insight into the city, its history and its highlights, take a free guided walking tour with an i-City Volunteer. They also staff the information kiosk in the Murray Street Mall – call in to pick up the latest maps and events guides.
The Aquarium of Western Australia is the perfect place to meet the underwater treasures of this state: as you make your way through the 98-metre tunnel you’ll see everything from sea dragons to stingrays. If you’re feeling particularly daring, you can even dive with the resident sharks.
If you fancy meeting a few locals, head for the Cottesloe Beach Hotel on a Sunday afternoon. It gets pretty crowded, but that’s understandable: the views are amazing, the atmosphere friendly and the drinks cold.
If you’re at all interested in Australian art, you must visit the Holmes à Court gallery in East Perth. It houses more than 3000 artworks, around a third of which are indigenous, including canvas and bark paintings and is considered one of the finest private art collections in Australia.
The Swan Valley is just 30 minutes from Perth, and is the state’s oldest wine growing region. Hire a car and explore the region at your own pace, or take a relaxed wine cruise along the river. Along the way you’ll see world class golf courses, wildlife parks and, if your timing is right, the spectacular wildfl owers of Walyunga National Park.
Jump on a ferry from Perth or Fremantle to Rottnest Island, 19 kilometres off the coast. Once there, you’ll find spectacular sandy beaches with clear water that’s perfect for swimming or snorkelling. There are no private cars allowed on the island, so hire a bike or use the local bus service.
Pay a visit to the Shipwreck Galleries in Fremantle, where relics of many of the hundreds of ships that have wrecked along the Western Australian coastline are now exhibited.
Looking for cheap flights to Perth? Take a look at our Cheap Australia Flights pages for cheap Perth flights that you can book online. Find online bookable fares to Perth using our mixandmatch Search Tool. Alternatively, check out the list of Airlines flying to Perth below.
Airlines flying to Perth: Air New Zealand British Airways Pacific Blue Qantas
