Stepping into Perth city can feel like being in an Asian country. This trend is happening globally, as people move across borders for better opportunities, work as expats, or migrate. Perth has experienced this, resulting in a diverse mix of ethnicities and cultures.
Perth is also home to Australia’s top universities, which have drawn countless students from different countries, adding further to the city’s diversity.
Whether visiting friends or family, or discovering Perth, the city does not disappoint. There are ample things to do - parks in Perth, museums in Perth, landmarks in Perth, and other popular attractions (PISA ITALY).
One of the best things in Perth is its efficient public transport, which makes it convenient to get from one sightseeing spot to another. However, while some attractions are within walking distance of each other, others may require longer travel times.
Still, the best way to get around Perth is by train
services, free CAT buses, and ride services like Uber. To keep the budget
affordable, trains and free buses are the preferred choices, unless Uber or
hiring a private car becomes unavoidable.
Perth Attractions
Like most cities, Perth experiences traffic jams as well. Peak hours are
usually in the mornings and evenings, especially on major roads, when people
are heading to work or other activities. Train and bus services are crowded at
these times. The same may apply during weekends, as locals are out and about,
taking a break from the weekday work routine.
Therefore, visiting popular tourist spots in Perth is best during weekdays, off-peak times. This helps avoid crowds and allows more space at the attractions.
One of the must-visit spots in Perth is Kings Park & Botanic Garden. It is easy to reach, as this popular park in Perth is only 1.5 km from the city centre.
Kings Park is huge, and it’s all about walking, depending on whether you want to cover the entire area. Considering its size, there is plenty of space for everyone. Some come for quiet moments, sitting on the grass and connecting with nature. Others, especially first-timers, can enjoy long walks throughout the native bushlands, botanical garden, Water Garden, and Pioneer Women’s Memorial Fountain.
Weekends are truly lively, with occasions like weddings, something to see from a distance and bring a smile to the face.Cafés, picnic spots, and walking trails make it easy to spend hours in Kings Park. Early mornings or late afternoons are quieter, ideal for strolling, jogging, or doing yoga.
One of the main highlights of Kings Park
is standing on the hilltops to take in a broad view of the Perth skyline, Swan
River, and distant Darling Range. It is simply breathtaking in the soft breeze.
Located just across the Swan River from Perth’s central business district, Perth Zoo is where Earth and animals are synonymous. The spaces include Australian Walkabout, Asian Rainforest, and African Savannah, all set within nature and protected through eco-awareness and conservation. Walking along the shaded paths, stopping in between to see the animals and nature, and continuing throughout Perth Zoo is a rewarding experience.
Opened in 1898, the huge area is home to over 1,200 animals across roughly 160 species. These include native Australian wildlife, elephants, giraffes, tigers, orangutans, koalas, quokkas, rhinos, and more. They roam freely within enclosures. Feeding giraffes is also one of the things to do in Perth Zoo, where time passes effortlessly while appreciating nature and animals.
It’s hard not to look up or ignore the central part of Barrack Square. This is where The Bell Tower stands tall across the Swan River, literally making you wonder what the tower is all about. The Bell Tower is indeed one of Perth’s well-known historic attractions. Its unique glass and copper design looks sleek and elegant, while the angled sides reflect sunlight, making the tower shimmer.
The Bell Tower houses the original bells
from St Martin-in-the-Fields Church in London, some dating back to the 14th
century. These bells were gifted to Western Australia during the Australian
Bicentenary in 1988.
Purchasing a ticket is essential for entering the tower and accessing its multiple levels. From the observation deck, the view of Perth city and the Swan River makes it worthwhile. There is also more to learn about this iconic Bell Tower through the interactive exhibits, which relate to the history of the bells and how the ancient bells are rung.
Towards the end of Murray Street, or across from Perth Train Station and within the heart of Perth Cultural Centre, is the Western Australian Museum Boola Bardip. Australian history, indigenous culture, science, and natural heritage are all represented in the museum. Its name, “Boola Bardip,” means “many stories” in the Noongar language.
It’s pretty much a mix of heritage and
modern buildings, connected by mezzanines, open corridors, and walkways in the
Western Australian Museum. The key galleries include Origins, Wild Life, and
Songlines. One standout feature is the massive blue whale skeleton suspended
above the central space, impossible to miss.
The Western Australian Museum Boola Bardip is open daily from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, with a small entry fee, though kids under 15 enter free, and there are occasional free-entry promotions.
Recreational attractions in Perth are all about slowing down and taking it easy, including family outings or moments of quality time. It all depends on whether you want to spend more time at a place or just make short stops to get the feel of it. Basically, these are moments to unwind before returning to daily life.
Located on the edge of the Swan River in central Perth, Elizabeth Quay features walking paths, public art, and river views, perfect for candid shots or watching boats along the city’s waterfront.
Cottesloe Beach
Cottesloe Beach, one of the popular beaches in Perth, is located about 15–20
minutes’ drive from Perth city. Known for its golden sand, clear water, and
stunning sunsets, it is suited for swimming or walking along the shore while
watching the surfers.
Hillarys Boat Harbour
Within 25–30 minutes’ drive from Perth city centre, Hillarys Boat Harbour
offers shopping, food, and the Aquarium of Western Australia. It is ideal for
an outing, tucking into food, or spending time by the water.
Swan Valley
A day in Perth can also be spent at Swan Valley, roughly a 30–35 minutes’ drive from Perth city. It is the place for Australian wine or visiting food stalls in the countryside.
