Many holidaymakers to Australia think there is nothing interesting in Western Australia and head for the bright lights of Sydney or Melbourne instead. They’d be wrong. Perth, situated on the South West coastline offers a multitude of delights. Perth is Australia’s fourth largest city and it’s fastest growing one. However it’s also one of the most isolated cities in the world too with its nearest neighbour over 2000 kilometres away in Adelaide. If you are planning a holiday or gap year for grown ups in Australia, we recommend you consider Perth as a destination - here's our guide.
Coastline – Another boast of Perth is that it is also the sunniest city in the world and it also has some great beaches on which to make the best of this. Head to Scarborough beach for people watching and cafes or to Coogee or Cottlesloe for a more relaxed feel.
Cultural Quarter – Spend a day or two exploring Perth’s cultural quarter. Enjoy the West Australian museum which holds an extensive display of aboriginal artefacts as well as much other interesting information about the area and its history. The WA Art Gallery is also a fascinating few hours spend along with numerous other smaller, boutique galleries situated in the area.
Sport and the arts – Perth regularly holds Australian Rules football matches plus cricket at its WACA stadium in Subiaco. And for those with more discerning tastes, Perth’s art scene won’t disappoint either. Perth Concert Hall regularly holds theatre, ballet, opera and orchestral performances AND THE Perth International Arts festival is held yearly around the month of April.
Rottnest Island – Just a short boat trip away from Perth is Rottnest Island, a popular weekend destination to relax on the beach or spend time cycling round. The island is also home to the Quokka, a small marsupial who is responsible for the island’s name.
Fremantle – ‘Freo’ as Fremantle is locally known lies just south of Perth and is home to an artier scene than Perth. Freo is great for a weekend trip to enjoy markets, open air restaurants and entertainment.
Winelands – the Swan Valley region is a famous wine region and one of the oldest in Western Australia. There are over 40 vineyards in the region which can best be reached on one of numerous wine tours offered by tourist companies. For those who don’t drink wine, the trips also give a good overview to the history of the area plus you get to enjoy more foodie delights along the way such as cheese and chocolate!
Kings Park – Kings Park is situated opposite the CBD across the Swan River, which means you obtain a stunning view of the city’s skyline from the top of the park – a great photo opportunity! Kings Park is still mainly rough bushland to explore either on foot or by bike. The top of the park is well manicured with a few restaurants, cafes and gift shops. The park often holds summer evening concerts to enjoy too.
Yanchep – Head out of Perth 50 kilometres North to explore more of the wild bushland the region has to offer. Yanchep Park’s main attraction is as home to Australia’s most famous animal – the koala. Other than koala spotting, hike the main trails in the park, take a lake cruise and be educated upon the many bird species situated along the banks or visit the spectacular crystal caves.
Flights from London Heathrow will include a stop in one of Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai and other hubs, depending on the airline you choose and will take approximately 20 hours total flying time - although connection time at the hub airport will make this longer.
Airlines flying from LHR include British Airways, Singapore Airlines, Qantas and Emirates.
Top Tip: Ask your travel agent to book you a stopover for a night in a hub destination and take the chance to have a short city break - it usually only costs the price of a hotel room and some airlines offer reduced price hotels. It breaks your journey up and you'll be ready for the next leg of your trip!
Perth Airport is a taxi ride away from the city.
Have you been to Perth, or anywhere else in Australia? Share your experience, submit a review. Click Here.
Home
go back