Perth, the sun-kissed jewel of Western Australia, is a city that truly defies expectations. It took me a full 27 years to make my way there, and I suspect I’m not alone among my east-coast-based compatriots in this regard. For many, Perth had always lingered at the bottom of the travel list, overshadowed by more famous destinations like Ningaloo Reef and The Pinnacles.
But then, I recently spent some time in Perth and guess what? It’s this cool, well-kept secret, a city that stirs your senses and warms your soul. It’s got those silky, sandy beaches, a lively small bar and street art scene, and best of all, no crazy crowds to contend with. Perth just oozes culture and a sense of adventure, waiting for you to dive in.
Here are five reasons you should visit Perth.
The Bar Culture Holds its Own
Anyone who claims Perth is dull hasn’t experienced its vibrant bar scene. It’s more than just drinks; it’s a fusion of culinary delights, captivating decor, and inviting atmospheres. From chic wine bars tucked away in commercial buildings to hidden cocktail havens concealed behind unassuming alleyway doors, Perth boasts a wealth of options spanning wine, cocktails, and whiskey. However, many are like well-kept secrets, known mainly to locals.
For those seeking expert guidance, turn to Two Feet and a Heartbeat. Their knowledgeable guides can introduce you to your passions, whether it’s coffee, culture, art, or arcades. These small, foot-powered tours provide an excellent way to explore and navigate Perth. And if you’re a fan of cheese, wine, and whiskey but can’t find a tour that combines all three, don’t fret; you can arrange a personalised tour that caters to your specific interests. This is not only an ideal way to delve into Perth’s bar culture but also to uncover its culinary scene and rich history.
The Closest Wine Region to Perth is Only a 25 Minute Drive
Margaret River is by far the most popular wine region in Western Australia, but it’s also a 2.5-hour drive away. For those who want to stay closer to home, Swan Valley is only a 25-minute drive away and has award-winning food and drink options like the Margaret River.
For 150 years, the Swan Valley was WA’s only wine region, making it the second oldest wine-growing region in the country. The first vines were planted in 1829, and since then, time-honoured recipes have been passed down to bring you some of the best Chenin Blanc drops in the country, as well as Verdelho varieties from over 40 world-class wineries.
Nikola Estate is a James Halliday 5-star winery cultivating wines from vines planted in the 1830s at this historic estate. With knowledge passed down through four generations of the Yukich family, this winery is a great example of Swan Valley’s cultural heritage and sustainable viticulture.
Winemaker Damian Hutton has expanded the wine collection to four ranges, including the Gallery, Regional, Estate, and Rare fortified wines. A visit to the heritage-listed grounds is a must for tastings at the Cellar Door, gourmet picnics beneath the shade of jacaranda trees, or a fine dining culinary journey at Woodcutters Restaurant.
Mandoon Estate is another lush, verdant paradise in the valley, squeezing award-winning wines that ranked among the world’s best. However, the grounds encompass a craft brewery, a 32-room boutique hotel, a beer garden, a fine dining restaurant, a function centre, and an Aboriginal art gallery. Inside the art gallery is an experience that will have you sampling bush tucker and learning about dot paintings.
Dale Tilbrook Experiences offers a Bubbles and Bush Tucker talk and an Aboriginal Art and Dreamtime Stories tour, where you can learn more about the nutritional value and healing properties of native foods and plants while getting the chance to try quandong, native limes, spices, and peppers with Dale Tilbrook.
The First Nations’ Experiences are Unmatched
Boorloo (Perth) is one of the most progressive cities when it comes to connecting and experiencing its First Nations identity, the Whadjuk Noongar people. There are several incredible experiences visitors can book to learn about the history and lives of the Noongar people while getting hands-on with art, food, and culture. Here are a few noteworthy tours to book.
Djurandi Dreaming
Djurandi Dreaming, led by Noongar artist Justin Martin, offers an Aboriginal Art Workshop that allows you to learn traditional Noongar symbols, stories, and line work. With all art supplies provided, you can create your unique artwork while gaining insights into local Indigenous history. Whether indoors or in nature, this experience is a fantastic way to connect with the culture. A pro tip: dress comfortably; you might get a little paint on you.
Warrang-Bridil
Warrang-Bridil’s new walking tour is a step towards bridging the gap in knowledge and understanding of Nyoongar heritage, sharing their rich culture with visitors. Led by a Nyoongar guide, the 60-minute ‘on country’ tour unveils the scenic Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River), offering panoramic views of Perth city, Matagarup Bridge, and the Optus Stadium precinct. It delves deep into the pre-colonial history of the Nyoongar nation, emphasising the significance of culture, language, values, relationships, responsibilities, and social structures.
Art Gallery of Western Australia
Located in the heart of Perth’s Cultural Centre, the Art Gallery of Western Australia is home to a captivating collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art in the Six Seasons space. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Indigenous culture and creativity as you explore these vibrant works, which offer profound insights into these unique communities’ heritage and artistic traditions.
Nature is Never Far Away
Kings Park, overlooking Perth’s urban grid, is both one of the world’s largest and most beautiful inner city parks and also a rich cultural heritage site. It is home to the spectacular Western Australian Botanic Garden, which displays over 3,000 species of the State’s unique flora—a sight unlike anywhere else in the world. When you’re in need of some Vitamin N, Kings Park is only a hop away from the city.
Another perk of Perth’s natural landscapes is the hiking. You don’t need to drive hours to find a good hike. John Forrest National Park is a hidden gem in the Perth Hills, a mere 30-minute drive from the CBD. ts winding trails lead through the heart of pristine Australian bushland, where nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in a diverse ecosystem. In the spring, the park comes alive with a vibrant display of over 500 wildflower species, making it a hotspot for wildflower spotting. If you don’t want to tackle it by yourself, Off the Beaten Track WA is a local eco-tour operator with a range of different experiences to suit your needs and abilities. Their experienced and knowledgeable Hiking Guides provide a safe yet relaxed atmosphere so you can be completely immersed in nature and reconnect with yourself.
Its Heritage-Listed Precinct is Thriving with Spirit and Soul
Fremantle, often referred to as Perth’s old town, is a maritime city with enough spirit and soul to rival New Orleans, with the added touch of an iconic Australian seaside town culture. Tucked away along the shores of Western Australia, “Freo” has a rich maritime tapestry, which you can dive into at the Western Australian Maritime Museum or spend your days strolling along the bustling streets, where you’ll encounter historic landmarks, from the iconic Fremantle Prison, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to the lively Fremantle Markets.
The town’s streets are adorned with colourful murals and street art, creating a dynamic and ever-changing outdoor gallery. The Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour offers an array of fresh seafood, while the café culture thrives along the Cappuccino Strip, where you can savour delicious brews and delectable treats. The brewery scene is also booming, with Gage Roads and Little Creatures inviting you into their massive warehouse venues, where you can grab a pizza and a pint by the water.
Throughout the year, Fremantle hosts a lively calendar of events and festivals. From street arts festivals to music celebrations, the town comes alive with a sense of community and celebration.
Then there’s Rottnest Island, affectionately known as “Rotto” by locals. This slice of paradise, just a short ferry ride away, rewards visitors with white sandy beaches, abundant marine life, and unique residents—the quokka, often dubbed the world’s happiest animal. It’s a haven for snorkelers, cyclists, and nature lovers. It’s also a hot spot for whales and seals, best taken in from the thrill of an adventure boat or on the ferry.
Related: Perth’s New EverNow Festival Fuses Lightscapes with Noongar Dreaming
Related: Perth Is a Sneaky Hot Spot for Hidden Bars — Here’s Where to Find Them
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