Perth Western Australia

what to do in Perth 2024 top attractions

Wondering what to do in Perth? Perth has so many activities from wine tours, river cruises, visiting Rottnest Island and more to suit everyone. We share with you Perth 2024 top attractions for you to make the most of your visit.

Don’t forget to grab your camera as we share with you 40 of the best Perth photography locations too!

Make sure you allow yourself enough time to see the best of Perth.

Did you know that Perth is one of the sunniest places on earth averaging 8 hours per day all year round!

IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING TAKING OUT TRAVEL INSURANCE CLICK HERE FOR A QUOTE AND FULL POLICY DETAILS

If you enjoy visiting local pubs Perth has some of the best in Australia for you to enjoy a cold beer or a glass of great Australian wine with some typical Australian pub food.

This post may contain affiliate links.  Please see our disclosure for more information.

Read our review of our Rottnest Island Bayseeker Tour from Hillary’s Boat Harbour

In our article, we will cover things to do in Perth’s CBD, the suburb of Northbridge, Fremantle, Scarborough Beach, Swan Valley and South Perth and where to eat around Perth.

Are you heading to Margaret River? There are so many things to do in Margaret River.

Perth

What To Do In Perth’s CBD

Peddle Perth Experience Tour

Ride around the city in your unique private Rickshaw Chariot.

 “Iconic spots in Perth you can expect to visit are Yagan Square, Elizabeth Quay, Wolf Lane, Stirling Gardens, Council House, and more. 

Going to the hot spots and undiscovered gems in the City may be fun, but when you choose Peddle Perth it’s because you want something a bit different. Riding around the City in style on the back of our rickshaw chariots might just be the most fun experience of the whole tour, because when you choose to ride with Peddle, the journey is ALWAYS more fun than the destination. Not to mention, the cushions are comfy and the music is awesome!”

Book Now

Small Bar Rickshaw Tour

Tour description taken from Peddle Perth

“Now for the best part, you’ll partner up with someone in your crew and pick your favourite bike (or set of legs) and that’ll be your chariot for the first leg of the trip. The bikes will then take off en route to the first bar, but because Peddle is always more fun than your destination, you won’t want to get off as the cushions are too comfy, the music is too good and the ride is too much fun! 

When you get into the bars you’ll find an area reserved for you, some amazing Peddle-exclusive drink specials and friendly staff that treat you like regulars!

We spend 30 minutes in each bar and after 2 hours of drinks and great bonding experiences, we’ll leave you at a bar in the heart of the nightlife action so you can let loose and keep the party going!”

Book Now

Visit the Bell Tower – 360-degree views of the Swan River and Perth City from the oldest bell in Australia’s observation deck. Head to the Belfry level to see the historic bells of Saint Martin. One of the unique things to do in Perth is to hear the bell ringers practising their ancient art of ‘Change Ringing’. The bells are also rung on many other occasions, with 10-bell practices and Surprise Major Practices being held monthly.

Bell ringing times: Thursday and Sunday 12.00 pm – 1.00 pm

Bell Tower

Opening Hours: Thursday to Sunday from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm.

Address: Barrack Square, Riverside Drive, Perth

Perth Bell Tower Entry Ticket and Bell Chiming Experience

Get stunning views of the Swan River and city of Perth from the top of the Perth Bell Tower, and learn the history of the 18 historic bells from 14th-century London to modern-day Australia. Take part in a 30-minute interactive bell chiming experience.

Swan River Cruise

Perth Swan River Cruise
Enjoy a Swan River Cruise
  • Have lunch while cruising the Swan River
  • Cruise past the impressive homes and yacht clubs on the banks of the Swan River
  • See the docks, marinas, and charming heritage buildings of historic Fremantle
  • Take in spectacular waterfront views from the Swan River
  • Enjoy the informative commentary from your captain

Visit Perth Markets

“You’ll find plenty of markets all over Perth selling everything from hand-made arts and craft to organic produce. So many successful businesses begin their journey showcasing products at WA marketplaces.

Read on for a list of some of the best art, produce and growers markets in the region.

Top free things to do around Perth

  • Pack a picnic and head to Kings Park and the Botanical Gardens (1.8 km from Quay Perth approximate walking time of 25 minutes). Kings Park is over 400 hectares in size and is the largest inner-city park in Australia. You can dine at the Botanical Cafe or Frasers Restaurant. There are several playgrounds for the children to enjoy.
  • Wander around Elizabeth Quay
  • At dusk and dawn head to Heirisson Island to see the kangaroos
  • Visit the Aboriginal Art Galley at Kings Park

Walking Tours around Perth

If you enjoy walking tours and want to learn more about Perth’s iconic sights, its art and history and more click here for more information.

Free Guided Walk in Perth’s King Park – Wildflower Walk

If you want to see Western Australia’s amazing wildflowers did you know you can take a free guided walk between July and October from the Kings Park Information Centre at 10 am and 2 pm daily?

Kings Park

Kings Park is only a 5-minute drive from the Perth CBD or you can take the free city bus service.

Western Australia has over 12,000 wildflower species. 60% can only be found in Western Australia.

Things to Do in Northbridge

Street art

Wander the laneways for local street art in Northbridge – Roe Street, William Street and Erricheti Place.

Visit the Northbridge Brewery at 44 Lake Street Northbridge. Enjoy the rooftop Sky Deck with views over Perth city or relax and enjoy local beers, wines, spirits and cocktails on the two other levels.

Visit the Western Australian Museum at the Perth Cultural Centre in James Street Northbridge. The state museum, now known as WA Museum Boola Bardip, officially re-opened on 21 November 2020 in the Perth Cultural Centre.

Discover the State’s rich cultural and natural heritage through three major themes.

  • Being Western Australian: Celebrating the diversity of our people.
  • Discovering Western Australia: Providing a gateway to our incredible State.
  • Exploring the World: Defining Western Australia’s place in the world.

Take in a show at the State Theatre of Western Australia – address 174 – 176 William Street Perth. Click here to see what is currently on.

Hop on the free Blue CAT bus from the CBD. The Blue CAT stops at Kings Park, Elizabeth Quay and Northbridge, running every 15 minutes.

Visit the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts for the latest visual, performing and media arts. Located in the Perth Cultural Centre at 51 James Street Northbridge.

Dine on a range of cuisines from Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, Chinese and Thai to modern Australian dishes in and around Roe Street, William Street and James Street.

Things to do in Fremantle

Meet The Quokkas at Rottnest Island

Quokka on Rottnest Island
Quokkas on Rottnest Island

“Book this day tour package and relax with return ferry transfers and a 90 minute guided bus tour around the island! Sit back and relax in air-conditioned comfort as you are transported to the island to view spectacular scenery and local wildlife. The guided bus tour visits the island highlights including the Wadjeumup Lighthouse and the spectacular lookout at West End.

Learn about the island’s indigenous, military and maritime history as well as the local flora and fauna as you listen to interesting commentary from local guides throughout the tour. You may even see some of the island’s famous inhabitants, the Quokka on your travels.

After the bus tour, enjoy free time on the island before returning to Fremantle on the afternoon ferry. This day tour package includes return hotel transfers from Fremantle to the port plus ferry transfers and a 90-minute bus tour.

Activities and meals are not included.

Ferries depart from B Shed, Fremantle at 9.30 am and return at 4.30 pm.

CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE

Ferry transfers to Rottnest Island from Fremantle

“Purchase your Rottnest Island ferry return transfers from Fremantle here to enjoy a day on this island paradise off the coast of Western Australia. In just 30 minutes, the Rottnest Island ferry will arrive at this natural playground where you’ll have plenty of time to discover the secluded beaches and bays and even spot a Quokka or two.

Rottnest Island offers a range of activities to suit everyone including bus tours, bike rental, snorkel tours, surfing, fishing, guided walks, bus tours and more. You will have over 6 hours of free time to explore the island at your leisure. Some of the best areas to snorkel are Little Salmon Bay, Parakeet Bay and The Basin.

Included in this package are return Rottnest Island ferry transfers departing Fremantle at 9.30 am and returning at 4.30 pm plus hotel transfers to the port from major Fremantle hotels.

Guided tours, activities and meals are not included in this package to give you complete freedom to explore the island on your own.”

BOOK YOUR ROTTNEST ISLAND FERRY TRIP TODAY TO BEGIN YOUR ISLAND ADVENTURE.

Rottnest Island Day Tour including adventure boat ride for 90 minutes departures from Fremantle

“Departing Fremantle, join this full-day adventure to Rottnest Island and discover some of the island’s most picturesque and secluded beaches, bays and wildlife in this A-Class nature reserve.

The value for money day tour package includes return ferry transfers to the island plus an exciting 90-minute eco-adventure to spot wildlife.

Circumnavigate Rottnest Island aboard the Eco Express and witness New Zealand Fur Seals, Humpback Whales from September to November and a number of sea birds plus spot a Quokka on the mainland.

The 90-minute cruise is both educational and entertaining with great commentary and the chance for close encounters with wildlife. After the 90-minute high-speed eco-adventure, enjoy free time on the island at your leisure before returning to Fremantle at 4.30 pm. This tour is the perfect choice for nature lovers.”

YOU CAN RESERVE YOUR SEAT ON THE TOUR HERE

Rottnest Island Day Tour from Fremantle including bike and snorkel hire

Rottnest Island

“Venture over to Rottnest Island for the day and go snorkelling in this A-Class nature reserve. Explore the secluded bays and diverse range of coral and fish species at this aquatic playground.

Begin the island adventure with ferry transfers from Fremantle and then snorkel at some of the best coral reefs in WA. See a number of marine life including turtles, dolphins and perhaps Humpback Whales during their annual migration between September to November.

After the snorkelling adventure, enjoy free time on the island to relax at the beach, hop on a bike and ride the many nature trails or go surfing at popular surf breaks – the choice is entirely yours.

This day tour includes return ferry transfers from Fremantle and is the most convenient way to explore this beautiful treasure of the West Australian coast.”

CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE

Rottnest Island Full-Day Cruise from Fremantle

Cruise the waters surrounding Perth to Rottnest Island on this full-day luxury eco-sailing cruise aboard a luxury catamaran.

“Departing from Fremantle, the ‘Capella’ sails to Rottnest Island before finding a quiet, secluded area so you can snorkel the coral reefs. Dive right into paradise and discover up to 400 species of fish, coral and seagrasses plus keep an eye out for dolphins, stingrays and the playful Australian Sea Lions.

The catamaran also carries kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for use or perhaps you want to relax in a hammock taking in the picturesque bay. The full-day sailing cruise includes morning tea and delicious lunch and guests are welcome to BYO drinks if you wish.

Sailing cruises depart at 8 am from Fremantle and returns at 4 pm.

Explore Rottnest Island away from the crowds”

CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE

Fremantle Lunch Cruise

Fremantle Lunch Cruise
Fremantle Lunch Cruise – image credit Experience Oz

“Combine a delicious lunch and wonderful cruise on the magnificent Swan River into a single, great value tour on this Fremantle lunch cruise that showcases all of the region’s waterfront highlights while also providing a fresh and tasty meal on board.

Join your friendly and experienced crew aboard a spacious vessel to take in the scenery of this lovely part of Western Australia, relaxing as the captain provides an informative and entertaining commentary on all the local landmarks and icons. Indulge your tastebuds with a delicious seasonal buffet lunch including a hot selection where you can choose from a range of options comprised of continental meats and a selection of hot and cold dishes accompanied by a complimentary glass of wine, beer or soft drink.

Along the way, you’ll get views of Perth icons such as the Bell Tower, Kings Park, the Swan Brewery and the many amazing homes that lie along the waterfront. Available daily from Perth and Fremantle, the popularity of this unique cruise has seen the introduction of an updated and expanded menu to reflect Western Australia’s abundant seasonal fresh produce. The sights, sounds, and tastes of Perth are all included in this 2.5 hour Fremantle lunch cruise, so treat yourself to a lovely day out on the water and book online today.”

YOU CAN RESERVE A SEAT ON THE LUNCH CRUISE HERE

Whale Watching Experience

Take advantage of the whale migration season by heading out onto the water with a whale-watching cruise departing Fremantle. Aboard a purpose-built vessel, you’ll head out onto the water to get up close to migrating Humpback Whales!

Whale Watching from Fremantle
Whale Watching Experience from Fremantle – image credit Experience Oz

With five viewing platforms onboard spread out over three levels, you’ll be treated to some incredible views of the surrounding region and the whales when they breach, tail slap, play and feed in the waters near the boat. The vessel also features an underwater camera and microphone so you can see and hear the whales when they’re underwater.

While onboard, you’ll be able to relax in the comfortable lounges, be treated to tea, coffee and biscuits and be given a complimentary postcard to commemorate your trip. All passengers will be given a 100% whale watching guarantee from September to October, so if no whales are spotted you’ll be welcomed back on board for another cruise.

Cruises depart Sardine Jetty at the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour twice a day at 9 am and run for a total of 3-hours.

DON’T MISS OUT ON THIS TOUR – BOOK HERE TO GUARANTEE A SEAT

Visit Fremantle Prison

1 The Terrace Fremantle.

Opening hours: Saturday to Tuesday from 9 am to 5 pm, Thursday from 9 am to 5 pm, Wednesday and Friday from 9 am to 9 pm.

There are five tours available:

  • Convict Prison
  • Behind Bars
  • True Crime
  • Tunnels Tour
  • Torchlight Tour

For more information and booking click here

Visit the Fremantle Arts Centre at 1 Finnerty Street Fremantle.

Offers courses, exhibitions, live music and more.

Visit Fremantle Markets at South Terrace and Henderson St on a Friday from 9 am to 8 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm.

Visit the Shipwreck Galleries at 45 Cliff Street from Monday to Sunday 9.30 am to 5 pm

Visit the Western Australian Maritime Museum at Peter Hughes Drive Victoria Quay. Opening hours Monday to Sunday 9.30 am to 5.00 pm

Dine out on the freshest of seafood at the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour. Whilst you are there pop in for a beer at the Little Creatures Brewery.

Take a guided tour at the Round House, the oldest public building in Western Australia, and learn about the hardships of the earliest settlements by the Europeans in Western Australia.

Things To Do In Scarborough

Head to the Yoga Garage for Bikram, Sumit Yoga, Yin Yoga and Hot Pilates at 19 Scarborough Beach Road

Scarborough Beach

Learn how to surf at the Scarborough Beach Surf School

Address: The Esplanade Scarborough

Enjoy a swim at the Scarborough Beach Pool

Address: 171 The Esplanade Scarborough

Relax at the Serene Day Spa

Address: 82 Scarborough Beach Road Scarborough

The children will love the Whale Playground and the Snake Pit Skateboard Park on Scarborough Beach

Have a picnic on Sunset Hill – The Esplanade Scarborough Beach

Surf, swim and sunbathe at Scarborough Beach

If you love kite surfing and windsurfing the best time to visit Scarborough Beach is in the afternoons as the winds of the Fremantle Dr rolls in from around 2 pm making conditions unsatisfactory.

12 km away at Cottesloe Beach is the perfect spot to grab some fish and chips, a cold beer or a chilled glass of wine and watch Perth’s sunsets which are legendary.

Swan Valley Wine Tours

d’Vine – Full Day Wine Tour

Taken from the website:

Our Tour Includes;

  • Premium wine tastings at three superb wineries
  • Delicious cheese board to share
  • A gourmet lunch at a beautiful winery – a choice menu is on offer. Please enquire regarding food options.
  • Complimentary glass of vino, beer or cider with your lunch
  • Chocolate lovers paradise with free chocolate tastings PLUS a gourmet chocolate truffle of your choice 
  • Fine food samples at the spectacular Providore*
  • A regular beer, cider or wine at an award winning micro-brewery 
  • Delicious hot chips to share at the brewery!

Book Now

Half Day Swan Valley Wine Tour

Tour information taken from their website:

Our Tour Includes; 
  • Premium wine tastings at three superb wineries 
  • Delicious cheese board to share
  • Chocolate lovers paradise with free chocolate tastings 
  • Fine food samples at the fabulous Providore*
  • The BEST hot chips to munch on whilst sipping your brewery drink
  • A regular beer, cider or wine at an award winning micro-brewery
Book Now

Bickley Valley Wine Tour – Full Day Tour

Tour description taken from website:

Our Tour Includes;
  • Premium wine tastings at three beautiful wineries
  • A delicious cheese board to share
  • A gourmet two-course lunch at the famous Core Cider House!*
  • A complimentary cider included with your lunch
  • A guided tour in a comfortable, air-conditioned mini-bus

Book Now

Sunday Funday Half Day Swan Valley Tour

Taken from their website the tour includes:

This tour is the perfect way to end the week! Our Sunday Funday tour is the ultimate ‘Sunday Sesh’ – fun and relaxing with lots of delicious wine, food, beer and cider to try along the way. PLUS you get that Sunday morning sleep in we all crave.. YAY! We will take you to four fabulous venues, all amazing in their own way and some that include fabulous live music to sink into. 


Our Tour Includes;
  •  Premium wine tastings at two superb wineries
  •  Delicious nibbles to enjoy at the wineries!
  •  A regular sized drink of your choice at an award winning Micro-brewery
  •  Delicious hot chips to munch on.
  •  A regular cider, beer or cold-pressed juice at Perth’s BEST Cider House

Book Now

Top Things To Do In South Perth

Visit Perth Zoo home to 1300 animals in a lush tropical garden setting.

Visit South Perth Foreshore and Sir James Mitchell Park

Head to Mends Street for coffee, cafes, Asian and European restaurants

Angelo Street offers cafes, bars, boutiques, gourmet food stores and gift shops

Ride the Ferry tram

Take a guided tour of Perth’s Old Mill built in 1835

Where To Eat In Perth

Love a good high tea? Perth is not short on high tea venues. Here are some of the best ones to enjoy:

  • Cape Arid Rooms at COMO The Treasury Hotel – 1 Cathedral Avenue Perth
  • Haven Lounge at the Westin Hotel – 480 Hay St Perth
  • Hearth at the Ritz Carlton – 1 Barrack Street Perth

For the best breakfasts in Perth head to the following venues:

  • Mary Street Bakery at 507 Beaufort St, Highgate
  • Arrival Hall in 162 Aberdeen St, Northbridge also good for homewares
  • Daisies at 305 Marmion St, Cottlesloe
  • Roasting Warehouse at 312 South Terrace, South Fremantle
  • Duck Duck Bruce at 18 Collie St, Fremantle
  • Petition at State Buildings, St Georges Tce &, Barrack St, Perth
  • Sayers Sisters at 236 Lake St, Perth
  • Hobart Deli 45 Hobart St, North Perth

Best Restaurants in Perth

5 top restaurants that you should try on your visit to Perth:

Wildflower at the Como Treasury 1 Cathedral Avenue Perth for “Our contemporary dishes revolve around the indigenous ethos of six seasons with farmer and forager-driven menus.”

Le Rebelle at 676 Beaufort Street Mount Lawley for European cuisine

Nobu at Crown Metropol Perth, Great Eastern Hwy, Burswood – top Japanese restaurant

Odyssea City Beach at 187 Challenger Parade, City Beach for modern Australian cuisine

Nieuw Ruin at 12 Norfolk St, Fremantle for “good food, good cocktails and weird wines”

For more top restaurants in Perth and their reviews from visitors click here

free things to do in Perth

There are a lot of free things to do in Perth:

  • picnic in Kings Park
  • spend the morning at some of Perth’s best beaches e.g. Cottesloe or Scarborough
  • take a walk around the CBD
  • The City of Perth information kiosk offers free guided walking tours run by volunteers, or self-guided walking tour itineraries if you’d prefer to do it on your own.
  • visit local markets
  • walk the riverside trail at Elizabeth Quay
  • Visit the Perth Cultural Centre, the home of the Western Australian Museum, the State Library of Western Australia, the Art Gallery of Western Australia and the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art – they all have free entry! 
  • Watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean
  • Visit St Marys Cathedral Perth at Victoria Square

Conclusion

We hope you have enjoyed our article on things to do in Perth. There are many more things for you to enjoy around Perth, you may just have to come back for a return visit.

If you would like more travel inspiration join our Staycation Australia Facebook Group here

Car rental in Perth – we use Rentals Cars when we travel in Australia – you can find the latest quotes here

Latest flight deals to Perth – we use Skyscanner when researching and booking flights

For the latest travel insurance quotes and policy details – click here

Want to hire a camper? Check details here.

Are you on Pinterest? We are at Staycation Australia.  Why not follow us and save to your own board for your next travel inspiration.

Related Reading:

Western Australia Travel Guide

Western Australia Accommodation Guide

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *