Perth: A Virtual Travel Guide

Why?

Sunbathe, indulge in some wine tasting, shop for pearls, wander the waterfront of Fremantle, or visit the fun-fair. These are just some of the many diversions that draw people to enjoy a holiday in Perth, Australia's laid-back, remote western city, which is surrounded by some stunning scenery.

When?

Unless you really like it hot, the best times to travel to Perth are during spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). Summers are extremely hot and dry, and winters wet and mild. Each season in Western Australia, though, offers something special that draws visitors to holiday in Perth, like the explosion of wild flowers in spring, and the whale-watching opportunities during autumn. Even winter is delightful when the countryside turns lush and green.

Who for?

Anyone and everyone will find plenty to do and see on a holiday in Perth. The city is packed with attractions to suit everyone, especially food-lovers, who will find more restaurants here per capita than in any other Australian city.

More Info: If you are planning a holiday in Perth make use of our Perth travel guide to find out all you need to know to make the best use of your time in this scenic city. The Perth travel guide features full details of attractions, excursions and events and is updated regularly.

Perth Overview
Most of the two million people who live in Western Australia reside in the sophisticated and scenic state capital. Perth grew on the banks of the Swan River, named after the Scottish city of the same name, and was proclaimed by Queen Victoria as a city in 1856. The discovery of gold in Kalgoorlie and Coolgardie, to the east of the city, in the 1890s led to a dramatic rise in its population and an economic boom. Another boom followed in the 1960s with the mining profits of iron ore and nickel.

Today the city is characterised by numerous waterways, green parks and a compact central business district. There is plenty to occupy visitors in Perth, from touring the city by tram or bus, enjoying watersports on the Swan River or just sipping a glass of the famous local wine in a riverside or beachside restaurant. Perth has more restaurants per capita than any other Australian city. Not far from the city is Western Australia’s oldest wine-growing region, Swan Valley, which welcomes tourists to visit the many award-winning family-owned wineries, which offer alfresco and restaurant meals and cellar tastings.

Perth is also the site of the world’s oldest operating mint, and boasts several museums and art galleries, historic buildings, a casino and a good variety of shopping opportunities. Last, but not least, the city offers more than 50 miles (80km) of white sandy beaches in close proximity. Among the most popular are Cottesloe and Scarborough.

Transport: Perth has a very efficient and convenient public transport system called Transperth, which operates buses, trains and ferries. Passengers can hop from one to the other on a single ticket, and obtain information on all the services at booths set up for this purpose at strategic points like Plaza Arcade, the railway station and bus stations. Buses in the central area are free, covering three routes, while suburban bus services and trains link to the outer districts day and night, buses running till 11.30pm and trains until 2am (later in summer). Ferries cross the Swan River between the Barrack Street jetty and Mends Street jetty, sailing between 7am and 7.15pm each day, and later on weekends. Fares are based on zones and tickets can be bought from newsagents and vending machines. Metered taxis can be hailed in the street in Perth, found at taxi ranks or booked by telephone. All major car hire companies are represented in Perth and driving in the city poses no problems. Cycling is a popular way to get around, too, and there are designated cycle routes.

Perth International Airport (PER)

Location: The airport is located seven miles (12km) from Perth's city centre. Time: GMT +8. Contacts: Tel: +61 (0)8 9478 8888. Transfer between terminals: A bus service links the international and domestic terminals daily. Transfer to the city: An Airport-City Shuttle meets domestic and international arrivals and services the city and many hotels. There is also a regular shuttle service to Fremantle and Scarborough, and bus 37 runs a service to the city centre from the domestic terminals. Taxis are available outside both the Domestic and International terminals, and a trip from the International terminal to Perth city will cost approximately A$33. Car rental: Avis, Budget, Thrifty, Hertz and Europcar are all represented at the airport. Facilities: Facilities include a selection of bars and restaurants, various retail stores and a duty-free shop. ATMs and bureaux de change are also available. There is also an information centre, Internet access, mobile phone rental, showers and a post office. Wireless Internet access is available at Terminals 1 and 3. Access to all terminal facilities is provided for disabled visitors. Parking: There is plenty of parking at both the Domestic and International terminals; both short and long-term parking is available. Disabled parking bays are available, situated at the top end of the car parks, closest to the terminal buildings.