This network incorporates all ferries, trains and buses and can be accessed by buying yourself a Smartrider card, which makes the fare a lot cheaper than buying individual tickets onboard. There are four specialty Perth CAT bus routes that go to Perth’s attractions and beaches. These depart every 5-10 minutes on weekdays and every 25-30 minutes on weekends and are free.
The Fremantle train is the easiest way to get to Fremantle, or Freo as it’s called from Perth, and you can also use it to get to Rottnest Island from most city hotels in Perth. It'll take you roughly 30 minutes to reach both places, unless you get on the faster express service during peak hours.
The comprehensive local train network in Perth is pretty easy to use. There are four local Perth train lines, which are all commuter-focused and all part of the Transperth transport network.
Driving can be an easy and effective way to explore Perth and its surrounds, particularly if you are travelling with a family. Car hire is readily available and Perth traffic is not too intimidating or hectic.
Couples looking for things to do in Perth will fall in love with the city by night on the popular City of Lights Dinner Cruise. You’ll head along the Swan River on a three-hour dinner cruise, enjoying the resident pianist and a DJ on Saturday nights as you dine from a scrumptious hot and cold buffet, including vegetarian dishes. Make sure you book in advance as these cruises tend to fill up quickly, especially when the weather’s nice.
Replicas of old trams that operated here from 1899 onwards are still in action in Fremantle. So once you get off the boat from Perth, hop onboard for a look around. You can stop off along the way to visit the main attractions such as the markets, the spooky Fremantle Prison, the smelly Fishing Boat Harbour and the Arts Centre. The Maritime Museum also showcases Western Australia's amazing maritime history. End your visit at the cosmopolitan South Terrace, also known as the Cappuccino Strip. Enjoy a meal and a few drinks at the area’s many restaurants, bars, pubs and cafes.
Here’s your chance to get up close and personal with Australia’s underwater world without even getting wet. At this popular family attraction, 98 metres of underwater tunnels let you view hundreds of creatures, such as turtles, sharks and stingrays. You can even snorkel or dive with the sharks at 1pm or 3pm if you’re brave enough, though don’t forget to book in advance. The experience costs $159 with your own gear. To hire a snorkel/dive gear costs an additional $20/40.
If you’re in Australia to look at the world’s deadliest animals without actually putting yourself at risk in the outback, Perth Zoo could be your best bet. You’ll find snakes, spiders, scorpions and even not-so-dangerous orangutans. It’s also a unique wedding venue and hosts a number of regular experiences for visitors such as free guided walks and a teddy bears picnic for the children.
Take in some river views with a walk along Fraser Avenue to Kings Park and spend some time with nature in the gardens. Take a trip back in time in the water garden as you snap a photo by the Pioneer Women's Memorial water fountain. For lunch, watch the world go by at the Old Swan Brewery, with some scrumptious pub food. In the afternoon explore the malls of Hay and Murray streets and London Court, not forgetting the boutiques and bars on King Street.
No trip to Perth is complete without a side adventure to Fremantle. Head to South Terrace for a coffee and people watch or if it's a weekend, check out Fremantle Markets. Michele's Crepe Suzette is a popular spot for a snack or late breakfast. For lunch, Little Creatures Brewery offers great food and is also a nice way to spend the afternoon as there's a special play area for the kids. Alternatively, Fremantle Prison is a creepy yet intriguing option. Stick around for the nightly ghost tour and something will definitely go bump in your night.
Pay a visit to the WA Museum and take in the contemporary, historical and cultural exhibits at the impressive Art Gallery of WA. If gold interests you head eastwards on Hay Street to the Perth Mint and watch the gold pour – when molten gold becomes a solid gold bar in seconds. After lunch, take a sightseeing tour on the fun double-decker bus or the trolley tram and spend the evening at the Regent Theatre or Ace Cinemas to finally put your feet up.
Catch the ferry over to what the Dutch explorers called the rat's nest and hire a bike for some of the country's most spectacular scenery. At just 11 kilometres long Rottnest Island is a cyclist's dream with perfect options for swimming on secluded beaches, surfing or even fishing and scuba diving. With no motorised transport allowed on the island you're guaranteed peace and quiet, plus some excellent fish and chips.
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Expedia Holidays > Perth Holidays
