Perth
Vibrant Perth: where natural beauty meets urban flair
Perched on the banks of the stunning Swan River and nestled alongside one of the world’s largest inner-city parks, Perth’s natural attractions are rivalled only by its big-city buzz. Prepare to be won over by Western Australia’s happening capital.
Clocking up an average eight hours’ sunshine per day, Perth is tailormade for outdoor fun. Explore the magnificent Kings Park and Botanical Garden, hire a bike and follow the cycle paths around the river, jump on a river cruise from Elizabeth Quay, or catch an Indian Ocean sunset at one of the city’s 19 glorious beaches -- after a refreshing swim, naturally!
Perth’s inner city has flourished in recent years. Get your retail fix in fashionable King Street, your culture hit at the Perth Cultural Centre, and your foodie kicks in multicultural Northbridge. Yagan Square is also worth a wander, with its bustling market hall, kids’ playground and public art.
An easy drive or train ride south, Rockingham is your gateway to the pristine Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. Get set for some unforgettable marine encounters, from swimming with wild dolphins to meeting penguins and seals.
Beach holiday and city break rolled into one, Perth is the total package.
Airport information
Distance to city centre 12km (domestic terminal), 19km (international terminal)
Taxi A taxi to central Perth will take around 20 minutes and cost about AUD $45 (plus an AUD $4 airport surcharge).
Bus Transperth runs bus route 380 from Terminals 1 and 2 and bus route 40 from Terminals 3 and 4 to the centre of town. Both journeys take around 30 minutes, and the fare is about AUD $5.
Rideshare DiDI, Ola and Uber are available at Perth Airport. Dedicated rideshare pick-up bays are clearly marked and can be found at each terminal. An AUD $4 airport surcharge applies to all airport pickups.
Back to topWhen to go
Perth has a temperate Mediterranean-type climate; summers are hot and dry, winters wet and mild. Summer temperatures average 30°C November–April, but maximum temperatures regularly reach (and can exceed) 40°C. Very hot days tend to have low humidity and an afternoon sea breeze, making conditions more bearable.
If you prefer pleasant, comfortable weather, with flowers blooming and clear skies, the best time to visit is spring (September–November). Perth's International Arts Festival is held in February–March, and the Fremantle Festival in October–November.
Ready to go? Find cheap flights to Perth
Back to topGetting around
Get around Perth on Transperth buses, trains and ferries. Purchase a Smartrider card that lets you load up credit and touch on to travel, and gives you discounted fares. Free CAT buses stop off at major spots around Perth. The city’s traffic is generally manageable, so hiring a car is also an option.
Back to top