Perth holidays
Western Australia’s capital city is a playground for surfing, snorkelling and dining with views of the beautiful Swan River. Famous for its abundance of sunny days, outdoor enthusiasts can spend a holiday in Perth hiking bushland trails and enjoying wine tasting at the many nearby vineyards that decorate the rolling green hills.
Perth holiday highlights
Perth
Tourism Western Australia
Beach adventures
Perth’s famous postcard shot is of the powdery white sand and aquamarine water in front of the Cottesloe Beach Hotel. But this is only one of many gorgeous beaches you can visit on your holiday to Perth. Spot starfish in the natural lagoon at Mettams Pool, or grab your flippers and snorkel and explore the calm waters of Port Beach in Fremantle.
Performing arts
Movie star Heath Ledger and rock band Tame Impala both hail from Perth, a city renowned for nurturing talent at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Check the schedule at the Perth Concert Hall for the symphony orchestra, opera and ballet. Book show tickets in advance to avoid missing a sold-out show during your holiday to Perth.
Kings Park
One of the world’s largest urban parks, Kings Park is situated on the north side of Swan River. The park houses the Western Australian Botanic Garden, as well as nature trails and picnic areas. If you’re travelling with kids, they’ll love the Ivey Watson Playground. Visit in September to see the wildflowers in bloom and attend the Kings Park Festival.
Perth: Know before you go
Language
English
Currency
Australian dollar ($)
Time zone
UTC+8 (AWST)
High season
December – January
Low season
February
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Photographer name
Find the best time to go to Perth
Weather in Perth
March – May: Autumn starts out warm before things cool down and rain becomes more frequent. This is a good time for sightseeing.
June – August: It may be winter, but a midday sea swim is still a possibility. Cold afternoon downpours or thunderstorms aren’t uncommon, so pack waterproof layers.
September – November: Wildflowers take centre stage in spring with banksia, Swan River myrtle and wild violets headlining the show. Expect warm, pleasant days with passing showers.
December – February: Beaches are packed, the patios are full, and cicada song fills the air. This citybuzzesin summer, and the weather cooperates with plenty of warmth, little rain and cool evenings.
Events in Perth
Perth Festival (February to March): This month-long arts festival offers a busy programme of music, performing arts, installations and films.
Margaret River Pro (April or May): An exciting stop on the World Surf League tour, this surf competition three hours south of Perth is worth the drive to see monstrous swells and some of the best wave-riders in the sport.
Everlasting Kings Park Festival (September): It takes all year to plant and prepare for this wildflower celebration. Wander the huge city park to see thousands of native flowers in bloom, or check out a free guided walk.
The best neighbourhoods in Perth
Things to do in Perth
Perth
Tourism Australia
Shopping
For designer bling and high-end fashion, visit the shops at Raine Square. If you like vintage stores better than Tiffany & Co, search for retro treasures in the hipster Northbridge neighbourhood. Lined with historic buildings, Hay Street Mall is the main open-air shopping strip, with a mix of homewares, streetwear and gourmet food shops.
Places to eat
Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, international flavours or fine dining, you’ll find it at restaurants in Perth. Located in a 1930s cabaret hall at Cottesloe Beach, Il Lido hits the spot for Italian food cravings. Try Western Australian brews with pizza and pint specials at Ruinbar, or devour gourmet farm-to-fork dishes with rooftop views at Wildflower.
Take in the culture
Many art galleries and museums are free to visit, including the Art Gallery of Western Australia in the Perth Cultural Centre. Don’t miss their rooftop sculpture walk and, in the warmer months, stay for stunning sunsets at the AGWA Bar. Make sure to also visit the WA Museum Boola Bardip to discover the traditions of local First Nations peoples.
Beaches
From Cottesloe to Bathers Beach, sugary white sand and transparent blue water are guaranteed at the beaches in Perth. The closest to the city centre is City Beach, with waves big enough to surf. Take the kids to Leighton Beach for shallow water they can splash around in. It’s worth hiring a car to beach-hop along the Sunset Coast Self Drive Trail.
Nightlife
Nightlife in Perth might see you partying on rooftops or beachfronts, with plenty of lively bars and pubs around the city. Put your dancing shoes on for live bands at the Rosemount Hotel or DJs and disco balls at Paramount Nightclub. Check the schedule for theatre shows and blockbuster musicals at the Edwardian-era His Majesty’s Theatre.
Free things to do
A cheap holiday in Perth is possible with lots of free things to do including sunny beach days and guided walking tours from the Perth City Visitor Kiosk. Or download the Perth Trails App to set out on your own. Pack a picnic to enjoy at Heirisson Island, in the middle of the Swan River, and meet the friendly resident kangaroos.
Plan your holiday to Perth
FAQs about Perth holidays
The rainiest month is July, which gets an average rainfall of 11 cm. But don't let the weather take the shine off your Perth trip — there's still plenty to do indoors like shopping for unique finds, visiting museums, or enjoying a long lunch.
You’ll likely find cheap holiday deals to Perth outside of school holidays in winter from June to August. With average highs of 19°C and sunny days, you’ll still enjoy the beach — without the crowds.
August brings the coolest weather. Plan your Perth trip then and you can anticipate lows of 8ºC (46ºF).
The Australian dollar (AUD) is the official currency. From tipping to shopping at local markets, having a small amount of cash during your trip to Perth is a good idea.
English is the language you'll encounter most often while on your city break in Perth.
The warmest month in Perth is January, when temperatures reach a maximum of 35ºC (95ºF).
It’s possible to see the attractions in the CBD over a long weekend. We recommend at least a week for holidays in Perth to beach-hop and take day trips to places including Rottnest Island.
Perth is a safe, friendly city that’s set up for tourists to enjoy with ease. Exercise normal common sense such as keeping an eye on your belongings at all times.
Whether your thing is history, culture, or anything else, there are loads of things to do in Perth. Mill Point Swan River and Fremantle Prison are just a taste of what awaits in this holiday-worthy destination.
When you visit, how you travel, and where you stay will influence the price you pay for your city break in Perth. If you're looking to keep costs low, keep an eye out for deals or last-minute offers on Perth flights and hotels. Staying midweek and flying with budget airlines can also help you save.
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Plan your holiday to Perth
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