Try our itinerary to experience the best that Perth has to offer.
Perth is a popular starting point, because it offers the best of both worlds. You can enjoy the excitement of a buzzing city; while surrounded by paradise.
You don’t need to drive far from the city to appreciate rolling vineyards, white coastlines, national parks and vibrant markets – that’s a big part of the charm!
Most of the activities in this guide are a short drive from Perth CBD (within half an hour).
However, we’ve also included a few destinations that are further away, for people keen to embark on a longer road trip!
You can follow our guide by driving to each location and staying there for the night. We’ve made sure you’re not driving for more than an hour from one location to the next. Click here to see all 10 days.
Alternatively, you may wish to remain based in the CBD and drive back and forth to select destinations. This is possible because the wineries, beaches and nature reserves aren’t far from the city. One of the reasons why people are drawn to Perth!
We’ve provided two distance measurements for every destination. The first measures the distance from the previous location (A to B to C). The second measures the distance from Perth city to each location (A to B and back to A).
Step into the vibrant world of Perth Zoo, a five-minute drive from Perth CBD. Meet a global cast of species – from majestic lions and playful orangutans to curious meerkats and graceful giraffes. Notice how every exhibition has been designed to closely resemble the natural environment of its inhabitants. No detail is too small! Walk away with a deeper understanding of the challenges these remarkable creatures face in the wild, as you learn from the dedicated keepers who care for them.
Explore 400 hectares of parkland by foot, bike or car! Immerse yourself in natural beauty while enjoying sweeping views of the surrounding city. The Botanic Gardens is a smaller oasis within the park – showcasing 8000 species of flora (including rare and threatened varieties). You’re instantly transported to a realm where Mother Earth takes centre stage, as you stroll through a kaleidoscope of native flowers that perfume the air.
This is a family-friendly destination for thrill-seekers of all ages, including children. The various rides, attractions, and activities will fill your day with excitement. Try the adrenaline-pumping roller coasters and water slides if you’re feeling bold. For a more chill experience, seek out the interactive play areas and wildlife presentations. Attentive staff are dedicated to helping you enjoy your experience. This park closes during winter.
Optus Stadium is an architectural masterpiece that seats 6000 people, against a backdrop of the Swan River and Perth city. Passionate spectators gather to enjoy massive sporting and entertainment events – like the AFL, soccer, Coldplay and Ed Sheeran.
This stadium was designed to create an immersive fan experience, and it succeeds. Witness the magic unfold for yourself, if you book a ticket for any events hosted here. You can also book a behind-the-scenes walking tour that shows off the best vantage points and off-limits areas.
Catch a ferry to Rottnest Island, a haven off the coast of Perth. A sense of calm will wash over you as you explore the island’s diverse landscape by foot or bike. When the sun is shining, you’ll be tempted to swim, snorkel or scuba dive in sparkling waters brimming with marine life. Rottnest Island hosts the biggest quokka population in the world, so there are plenty of opportunities to take photos of these friendly marsupials. But please keep your distance, remember they’re wild animals!
Note: ferry duration time depends on the departing wharf. Barrack Street Jetty (90 minutes), Hillarys Boat Harbour (45 minutes) and Fremantle (25 minutes)
These markets have been integral to Fremantle’s vibrant culture since 1897, thanks to a captivating blend of sights, sounds and scents. Artisans and craftsmen showcase their unique creations, ranging from handcrafted jewellery and artwork to vintage treasures and fashion pieces. The markets are a paradise for food lovers, offering an array of international street food, aromatic spices, freshly brewed coffee, and local produce. Let yourself unwind in the lively atmosphere, as street entertainers show off their talent.
Nestled in the southwestern region of Western Australia, Margaret River captivates with its natural beauty, world-renowned wineries and thriving artisanal scene. Visitors are invited on a sensory journey that covers idyllic landscapes, cellar door tastings and otherworldly caves. Enjoy the beauty of the pristine coastline, which beckons surfers and sun-seekers alike. And when hunger pangs hit, head to the farmer’s markets and sample culinary delights that show off local flavours.
Esperance is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts who are enchanted by untamed natural beauty. Anyone with an adventurous spirit will jump at the chance to explore the many secluded coves and hidden bays scattered along a coastline with the whitest sand. Some of the best snorkelling spots include the Woody Island “Snorkel Trail”, Recherche Archipelago and Tanker Jetty. By the way, if you have little ones, Twilight Beach’s sheltered waters are suitable for young families!
Exmouth is the closest town to Western Australia’s Ningaloo Reef, which is world-heritage listed. This is the perfect destination for anyone who dreams of swimming with majestic whale sharks; while exploring coral gardens filled with tropical fish. Not to be outdone by the water, the land boasts its own kind of rugged beauty. Dramatic red cliffs meet white sandy beaches at Cape Range National Park – home to emus, echidnas, wallabies and other native wildlife.
Nambung National Park attracts the highest number of visitors, second only to Perth. We can thank the Pinnacles for that – natural limestone structures that emerged from the ground around 25,000 years ago. Venture into a surreal desert landscape, where thousands of pillars tower over golden sands. Some of these pinnacles are five metres tall, creating an otherworldly spectacle. They almost seem to come alive in the sunlight, as their long shadows ignite the imagination.
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