Everyone wants to be one. A trendsetter who paves the way for those who follow in their footsteps. With our guide to the top things to do in Perth, you can guarantee you’ll be leading the way around this hip city.
Food Focus: The best places to eat in Perth
Already trendy in Melbourne and becoming more popular throughout Australia’s other cities are the hidden arcades and alleyways, where you’ll find some of the best restaurants in Perth. Located in the CBD, Wolf Lane is one of Perth’s coolest laneways with a growing selection of bars and cafes. Complete with a few sparkling chandeliers, the quaint Howard Lane showcases some cool street art, so grab a bite and admire the colourful surroundings. For a little more action, head to the bustling Shafto Lane, also in the CBD, packed with cafes, bars and boutiques.
THE place to be seen these days, Elizabeth Quay is Perth’s newest waterfront precinct, ideally located on the banks of the Swan River. Grab a seat at one of the great new Perth restaurants, sit back, and enjoy the relaxed vibe and spectacular views.
In the West End, you’ll find The King Street Perth Precinct, a luxurious and well-known district with high-end shopping, gorgeous heritage listed buildings and delectable dining options. Everything’s here, from fine dining to sushi and Thai. It’s also the best place to find restaurants near the Perth Arena, if you’re heading there for a show. For something a little less known, head north on King Street where you’ll find a cool collection of bars and eateries in what is quickly becoming the trendiest couple of blocks in Perth.
Centrally located, Stage Bar & Kitchen is the perfect place for delicious tapas and features an extensive wine list. It is just a few blocks from the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, Perth Arena, Elizabeth Quay and Kings Park.
Credit: Tourism Western Australia
A Wine Lovers Dream: Swan Valley Wineries and Beyond
Slow down. Sip. Unwind. Swan Valley is an absolute must on your Perth holiday, especially if you’re a wine aficionado. Just a short drive out of the city, the Swan Valley is bursting at the seams with vineyards, some old and some new, along with cider and ale producers and fresh, local produce at every turn. Lancaster Wines and Sandalford Wines are amongst the more popular ones, but there are plenty more to visit, whether it’s by bicycle, car or horse-drawn carriage.
Trendsetters are starting to explore the other wine growing regions around the Perth area, including the Bickley Valley and Chittering Valley. A hidden gem, Bickley Valley in the Perth hills is a peaceful escape just 30 minutes from Perth. Discover quaint vineyards, chat with the locals and dine on local fare with stunning views. At just one hour from Perth, Chittering Valley offers a stunning 76km wine trail. Taste your way through the northern hills of the Darling Range admiring the blooming wildflowers, beautiful parks and plunging valleys along the way.
Entertain Me! Events in Perth and Perth Attractions
Whether you’re a music lover, sports obsessed or are interested in the arts, there are plenty of things to do in Perth for everyone! Perth Arena is home to the Hopman Cup, one of the prelims to the Australian Open – welcoming the world’s hottest tennis stars (including Roger Federer!) in one of the most anticipated tennis events of the year, as well as host to some big names in music, including Katy Perry, Celine Dion and Shania Twain, to name a few. Head to His Majesty’s Theatre for some comedy or an opera or catch a game at the new, world-class Optus Stadium, host of West Coast Eagles and Freemantle Dockers AFL games.
Just a 40 minute ferry ride from Perth, Rottnest Island makes a great day trip. Explore the island by bike or bus – get a selfie (an ethical one of course!) with a quokka, lay your towel on one of 63 beaches or snorkel at one of the many sparkling spots.
In the city, check out the Perth International Arts Festival at Elizabeth Quay, visit the Western Australian Museum for one of its popular exhibits or head to Kings Park for the sunrise (set up near the State War Memorial for the best view) or the Moonlight Cinema (don’t forget the popcorn).
Venture a little further to Fremantle, or Freo, as it’s known by locals, a hip neighbourhood just 30 minutes from the city centre. Discover heritage listed buildings, eccentric shops, micro-breweries and the Fremantle Markets (Friday to Sunday) with over 150 stalls.
Stay in Style: Peppers Kings Square Hotel, Premium Perth Accommodation
Just a few blocks from Perth Arena, Kings Park, shopping, dining and major attractions, Peppers Kings Square Hotel is the perfect Perth accommodation. This premium Perth hotel offers 24-hour reception, a tour desk, the indulgent Stage Bar & Kitchen and modern rooms with expansive views across the city.
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