Perth
One of the world’s most isolated cities, Perth is known for its beautiful architecture and gorgeous Kings Park. The beaches attract surfers and sun-bathers alike, while Fremantle is the perfect place to enjoy your coffee or find a bargain at the weekend markets.
Location
Perth is one of the most isolated cities in the world. It’s the capital of Western Australia and lies on the Swan River. The nearest major city is Adelaide, located at 2,104 km / 1,307 miles from Perth, which wouldn’t make it a short getaway option by any means except flying.
How to get to Perth
Both domestic and international flights arrive at Perth Airport. The sea port is occasionally visited by cruise liners, while a train ride would probably break your budget. It takes about 3 days to get from Sydney to Perth by train and is very expensive. The city is also linked by railroad to Kalgoorlie and Bunbury.
Quick search flights to Perth (PER) from Sydney (SYD), Adelaide (ADL) and Melbourne (MEL):
There aren’t any scheduled bus rides between Perth and Adelaide, but there are some services across the state. However, it takes up to 2 days to cover the distances so it’s not a recommended way to travel. If you prefer to drive a car from Adelaide to Perth, you might be scared at the idea of having to drive for over 2,700 km / 1678 miles, considered “once in a lifetime” activity for most of the locals.
>> Check out these tips for driving across the Nullarbor
>> To help once you get there, read about getting around Perth
Weather
Due to its location, Perth experiences a Mediterranean climate. It’s been said that Perth enjoys as much as nine months of sunshine. The summers are hot –and long – with temperatures reaching 86 F between October and April. The nights are warm and just perfect for watching a perfect sunset on one of the beaches. Winters are cold, but for the tourists used to European climate, it’s actually quite warm. However, sometimes after a really fine day, the temperatures may be around freezing point.
Spring – September to November – and Autumn – March to May – are the ideal times to visit the city. During spring –and after a decent rainfall during winter – tourists can enjoy the famous wildflowers around Kings Park and Avon Valley. However, the water is still too cold to swim in during spring.
What to Do
Right in the middle of the city you will find Kings Park. It comprises a lovely collection of local flora and offers the perfect location for your morning workout. There are bike and walk trails and you can enjoy looking at over 80 bird species. The park offers the best views of Perth and Swan River.
Head to Fremantle –part of Perth but considered by many a different city – to check out the weekend markets or visit the Maritime Museum. It offers a laid back atmosphere. Locals prefer to enjoy a coffee here or to rent a moped and explore the area.
Perth is home to a lot of architectural landmarks, one of them being The Perth Mint, housed in a heritage building. It’s the oldest operating Australian mint and a very popular attraction among tourists.
Mundaring Weir is another historic landmark in the city of Perth. A gift from the City of London, the weir is opened for people to walk over and around. The surroundings have special spots for picnic and BBQ.
Perth Zoo is popular both among tourist and locals. Free guided tours are offered daily at 11 AM and 1:30 PM. You can also ride a zebra or take a ride in the historic carousel. The zoo is opened daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. The tickets cost AUD 9 for children and AUD 18 for adults.
Within a short distance from the city you will find the perfect beaches. Most of them are popular among surfers. Don’t miss visiting Cottesloe (one of the most popular beaches), Floreat, Leighton, Port, Scarborough, Swanbourne and Trigg Island beaches if you like surfing, while if you want to enjoy calmer beaches, go to Como, Crawley or Peppermint Grove.
The Swan Valley provides a getaway for those that love good wine as well as those that are interested in a brewery tour.
>> Check out other things to do in Perth to gather some further inspiration.