To do list - Perth

To do list - Perth

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Perth - the sunshine capital of Australia.  A smaller more manageable city than the east coast giants but with so much to do within the city and very close by. It's your launching point to the treasures of the south western corner of Australia, but don't just use the city for its airport there is much to be enjoyed, give it at least 3 days. 

Don't forget to pay your respects to the traditional custodians of the Perth area the Whadjuk Nyoongar people. 

City

WalkOrientate yourself by enjoying a walk around the city. Put aside a whole day to stroll up to Kings Park and the WA Botanical Gardens within.  Kings Park which is close to the centre of the city and is a 400ha wonderland of bushland, sculptured gardens, statuesque tall trees and the WA war memorial.  If you are lucky enough to visit in spring the amazing Western Australian wildflowers will be in full bloom.

Swan River - One of the best places to access the beauty of the Swan is from Elizabeth Quay.  It's not hard to find if you follow the bells, one of the largest musical instrument in the world.  The Bell Tower houses the bells of London's Saint Martin in the Fields church. Maybe not something you would expect to finds in such a young city.

 

 

Take a cruise from the quay. Experience the food and drink that's on offer and enjoy the unique public art of the precinct - The huge 'Spanda' sculpture by Christian de Vietri displaying the connection of the river to the city and the cast aluminium sculpture 'First Contact' by indigenous artist Laurel Nannup, to name just a few.  While not officially considered art the Elizabeth Quay Bridge that connects the outer shores of the quay is a fine example of artistic public planning.

 

 

 

 

 

You will probably return to Elizabeth Quay multiple times on your stay in Perth as its where you will pick up:

 

Museums and Galleries - 

The New Boda Bardip WA Museum opened in November 2020, it has eight permanent galleries and 1000 sqm of space for visiting exhibitions.  In the language of the Whadjuk Nyoongar people, Boda Bardip means 'many stories', Just what every good museum should tell!

Art Gallery of Western Australia - houses one of Australia's finest collections of Indigenous art.

Perth ZooTake the ferry from Elizabeth Quay to the Mends St. Jetty, just 500m walk to the Zoo from there.  With a fine array of Australian native animals especially international guests, it's an accessible zoo for all age groups.

Beaches

Cottesloe 'Cotto' Beach is only 15 - 20 minutes from the city centre by road, bus or on the Fremantle rail line. A quintessential Australian beach experience including the adjoining Marine Parade for fabulous restaurants and Bars.  There are three areas of the beach,  The southern part is clifts and reef so you can take this in on a walk,  Peters Pool to the north is great for snorkelling and the littlies and the Main beach in the middle is a lovely swimming and surfing spot.

 

 

 

Scarborough Beach, 20 minutes north-west of the city is a beach with quite a different vibe.  Scarborough has a famous beach break popular with surfers and Surf Lifesaving Championship events.  It's Pubs and eateries attract a younger crowd.  It's a great contrast to Cottesloe.

 

Rottnest 'Rotto' Island - One word - Quokkas!

Everyone wants to see the little guys, the cutest, friendliest and most Instagram worthy little mammal in the world.  The island itself is also pretty great. There are no cars on the island so you need to hire a bike or a segway or just walk around. 63 beaches to choose from, you will need at least a whole day just to scratch the surface.   A park entry fee of $19.50 for adults and $7.00 for children applies.

If you want to stay the night check out the accommodation available and book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Access via Ferry, from Perth - 1hr 45m or Fremantle -1hr.

Fremantle 

'Freo' is just 30 minutes from Perth, via road, rail, bus or ferry.

Historically, Freo holds a special place in Australian's colonial, convict and maritime heart.  As well as hosting the more recent sporting event of the America's Cup Challenge in 1987.

While enjoying the vibrant surrounds of the docks, markets, eateries and bars don't forget to take in the WA Maritime Museum and the Old Fremantle Prison.

You need a long weekend to do the basics of Perth but go for 10 days and pair your stay with a trip to the Margaret River, Albany area.

Photo Credits: Tourism WA and Sealink

Shelley Richardson

Shelley Richardson

Shelley has been working in the travel industry for over 30 years, in aviation, for tour operators and since 2016 for DriveNow. Having travelled extensively worldwide, alone, as a couple and with her family, Shelley has experience to share about how to make the most of your holiday, especially road-trips to amazing destinations.

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