48 hours in Perth

Embrace the best of both worlds in Perth, where soft-sand beaches and scenic parks meet a thriving metropolis of small bars, creative restaurants and curated street art.

The flight to Perth can take from 7 hours  – 10.5 hours depending on where you fly from, but it’s well worth the trip to Australia’s remotest city. There is so much to do in this bustling desert town 48 hours won’t cover it all but if a weekend is all you can spare here are some ideas to make the most of your trip.

Day 1 2:25 pm 

Arrive in Perth

Touchdown at Perth Airport and make your way to your hotel in East Perth via rental car.

Choices for accommodation in East Perth include Regal Apartments or Luxe Spa on Kensington Boutique Suites for your ideal location.

4:30 pm

Victoria Gardens, East Perth

Wander from your hotel through to the Victoria Gardens and have a stroll around the green gardens, and water inlet, taking in the beauty of the area. Walk along the inlet to the west and then up towards Claisebrook train station, where you can catch a train into the city.

6:45 pm

Elizabeth Quay, Perth CBD

Make your way to through the city to Elizabeth Quay, Perth’s newest riverside entertainment area, and take your pick of restaurants to dine in for the evening.

Choose from places such as

Isle of Voyage, or the Reveley.

8:45 pm

Stay out or head back

Either choose to stay out and play in some late night city bars, such as the Hula Bula Bar, for some Tiki fun, or The Stables Bar, for old world charm, or catch a taxi back to the hotel for a relaxing evening.

Day 2: 8:00 am

Head to Cottesloe Beach

Now’s time to hit the beach for a spot of breakfast and a swim if the weather’s good. Drive to Cottesloe, which is to the South West of the CBD, and have some breakfast watching out over the ocean at a spot such as Indiana’s or the Blue Duck.

Slip on your togs and head into the surf for a leisurely swim after your meal.

11:00 am

Fremantle fun

Jump in your car and head further south down the coast until you reach the port town of Fremantle. Here you can explore beautiful locations like the Round House, Fremantle Prison, and the Fremantle Arts Centre.

Once you’re hungry, try the Little Creatures Brewhouse on the Esplanade for some delicious food and craft beers on tap.

4:00 pm

Drive through Kings Park

By now, you’re feeling a little tired, so it’s time for a drive, this time through one of Perth’s main attractions: King’s Park, overlooking the Swan River. Stop through the park for a wander to look at the wildflowers and follow a path.

6:00 pm

Movies in Leederville

From King’s Park, it’s only a short drive to Leederville, where Luna Cinemas are located. This vintage cinema house offers a range of classic, arthouse, and modern movies so you can relax for a few hours before dinner.

8:00 pm

Dinner in Leederville

Leederville has an abundance of restaurants to choose from. Take your pick and have a relaxing dinner in this cute neighbourhood of Perth.

10:00 pm

Return to your hotel for a good night’s sleep.

Day 3: 8:00 am

Check out of your hotel and visit Maylands café strip

Drive just 5 minutes north of East Perth to the Maylands café strip on Whatley Crescent for a spot of breakfast at venues such as Chapels on Whatley or Sherbet.

9:30 am

Tranby House

Visit one of Maylands’ most popular attractions, Tranby House, a cottage from years gone by, and stroll along the Swan River.

11:30 am

Crown Entertainment Complex

Another 5-minute drive takes you across to Perth’s Crown Entertainment Complex in Burswood. Have a sticky beak around the country’s only 6-star hotel, the Crown Towers, and marvel at the beautiful Dubai-inspired interiors. Browse around the shops and choose which restaurant you’re keen to visit for lunch, such as the Atrium buffet, or Rockpool Bar and Grill.

Stop by the casino for a flutter if you’re in the mood for a round.

4:00pm

Time to return to the airport

Your trip is done! Head to the airport in time for your flight.  Air New Zealand flies to Perth most days arriving at 2:35 pm, and departing at 7:35 pm.