If riverside walks and outdoor activities appeal, stay near Elizabeth Quay for your long weekend in Perth. It’s just a short walk to public transport, the foreshore, and Perth’s pedestrian shopping malls on Hay and Murray Streets. Quay Perth offers modern studios overlooking the waterfront precinct. Or splurge on a stay at the Ritz-Carlton, Perth, where floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views from every luxurious room.
For museums, galleries, food and nightlife, base yourself near the Perth Cultural Centre, adjacent to Northbridge and Perth Station. Alex Hotel has compact but stylish rooms, a rooftop terrace and a chic wine bar downstairs - ticking all the boxes for an ideal place to stay for a Perth long weekend.
Find more: Spectacular stays in Perth City
On day 1, get to know the city with a walking tour. There are heaps of free, self-guided trails to follow, or you could book a group tour to get a local’s insights and insider tips. Explore Perth city highlights or art, arcades and laneways with Oh Hey WA or try a unique cheese or coffee-focused tour with Two Feet and a Heartbeat - to name just a few options.
A visit to Kings Park is a must-do while in Perth for a long weekend. Enjoy views over the city skyline and Swan River, wander the Western Australian Botanic Garden (home to more than 3,000 native plants) or take a walk through the beautiful bushland. Pack a picnic and time your visit to catch the sunset.
On the morning of day 2, make the most of Perth’s famous sunshine and experience the city from the water. Activity options on the Swan River range from peaceful to adventurous. You could take a short cruise on a gondola or an Edwardian-style, solar-powered Little Ferry; hire a kayak and paddle near Heirisson Island; or jump onto a jetboat ride. Keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins, pelicans and black swans.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the city’s cultural scene. WA Museum Boola Bardip is the perfect introduction to the state’s history. Or visit the Art Gallery of WA or Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts - both free to enter. With kids, try Scitech or the Perth Mint for an engaging and educational experience.
There are heaps of options for entertainment after dark. In summer, hit up Rooftop Movies or a FringeWorld or Perth Festival event. Or try out these ideas for a fun night out in Perth.
On the last of your 3 days in Perth, there’s time to hit up any attractions you’ve missed, or indulge in a little shopping spree. Head to Watertown Brand Outlet Centre for bargain hunting, King Street for high end fashion, or Northbridge for unique boutiques and vintage op shopping.
Find more: Things to see & do in Perth
Explore WA's rich history at WA Museum Boola Bardip Perth City is full of food options for every taste and budget.
Start your day with a creative croissant from Croff Bakehouse or Zonts, or order a beautiful breakfast dish at Northbridge’s cute Little Bird Cafe or chic CBD spot Petition. Up for a bottomless brunch? Tiisch is iconic.
For lunch and dinner, Perth has everything from casual takeaway spots to fine dining. One top recommendation? Book a degustation at Wildflower for a uniquely Western Australian fine dining experience inspired by the six Nyoongar seasons.
Find more: Your guide to dining in the City
The Perth city centre is fairly compact and flat, so you can easily get to a lot of places with a leisurely walk. There are also five free CAT bus routes you can use to reach many of the main attractions around the CBD, Northbridge, East Perth and West Perth. Just jump on and off - no ticket required.
To venture further afield, use the Transperth train and bus network. There are two main hubs for trains and buses, located near Yagan Square (Perth Station and Perth Busport) and Elizabeth Quay. From Elizabeth Quay, you can also catch a ferry across the Swan River. Coming to Perth by plane? It’s now easier than ever to travel between the city centre and Perth Airport, with an airport train line.
And if you’re bringing or hiring a car for your long weekend in Perth, City of Perth Parking offers some of the most affordable rates and has large carparks at key locations, with real-time availability shown on the website.
Find more: Getting around Perth
