Australia

Perth

Western Australia's sunlit Indian Ocean capital

The most isolated big city in the world — 2,000 km of nothing on either side, but a swim-friendly river, white beaches, and a port town worth a day.

When to go

March–May and September–November.

Getting around

Free CAT buses in the CBD; train to Fremantle in 30 minutes.

Perth highlights

The top places to start with if you only have a day or two — the essentials before you go deeper.

No. 01 · Landmark

Kings Park and Botanic Garden

400 hectares of bush and city view above the river

Bigger than New York's Central Park, with a skyline view from the war memorial and free public BBQs.

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No. 02 · Where to stay

Fremantle

Port town of pubs, markets, and a convict-built prison

Perth's historic port — Victorian streets, the working markets, and a former convict prison you can tour.

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No. 03 · Landmark

Rottnest Island

Car-free island of beaches and quokkas

A 19 km² island 30 minutes by ferry — circle by bike past 63 beaches and selfie with the world's friendliest marsupial.

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Things to do in Perth

A curated mix of landmarks, neighborhoods, and museums worth your time in Perth, Australia — grouped by type below.