48 Hours in Perth

Framed by endless blue skies and the sparkling Indian Ocean, Perth is one photogenic city. And with amazing flight deals from Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington, now’s the perfect time to escape to WA. Beyond hitting the beach, we’ve put together our dream itinerary showcasing the very best experiences this West Coast gem has to offer.

Day 1

• Touch down

Perth doesn’t have the best public transport connections to and from the airport, but it makes up for it with a fantastic line-up of Uber drivers. Download the app, and get to the CBD for as little as $25.

• Settle in

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation in Perth, with options for every palate. Stay in a boutique hotel in the city, and experience Perth’s inner hipster. We love the vibe at the Alex Hotel, but there’s plenty to choose from. Live the high life at the breathtakingly luxurious Crown Towers, or opt for an authentic experience and book a room with Airbnb. It unlocks access to a local experience, in trendy neighbourhoods like Mount Lawley, Cottesloe, Fremantle and Subiaco. Check out our latest ‘how to’ guide for the scoop on Airbnb.

• Brunch in the burbs

Perth is known for its scrumptious brunch scene, pioneered by some of Australia’s most creative chefs. There are some amazing places to eat, so why not check out the offerings? For some of the best Instagram worthy brunches in Perth, check out Mary Street Bakery in Highgate, TBSP in Maylands, Cantina 663 in Mount Lawley and Little Willy’s in Northbridge.

• A stroll around Elizabeth Quay

Fondly nicknamed Betty’s Jetty by locals, Elizabeth Quay is Perth’s latest waterfront development. Stroll around the quay, then catch a Transperth ferry to East Perth. It’s a picturesque place for a coffee, and home to Perth Zoo.

• Urban heart

Bohemian at heart, Northbridge boasts some of Perth’s best shopping. Check out William Street for quirky boutiques, or head to the city centre for malls, arcades and high street staples. Discover WA’s diverse natural history at the Western Australian Museum, go highbrow at the Cultural Centre and admire Indigenous work at the Art Gallery of Western Australia. Top things off with a glass of Swan Valley wine in Lot Twenty’s trendy brick-clad courtyard.

• Sunsets in Cottesloe

Head to the beach at around 4pm for a taste of Perth’s laidback lifestyle. It might not be warm enough to swim, but Cott is a gorgeous place for a beach walk. Order fish and chips from local favourite Amberjacks, and settle down on the grass for one spectacular sunset. Or, catch an Uber up the coast to City Beach and splurge on dinner with a view at Odyssea Beach Café.

• Urban cocktails

The sun sets early in spring, so if you’re still craving more head back to the city and check out Perth’s up and coming bar scene. Lafayette serves up mouth-watering cocktails (try Nuts & Berries!), as does the Print Hall. Alternatively, work your way through the impressive wine and beer list at Lalla Rookh.

Day 2

• Soak up the views from King’s Park

Rise and shine for an early morning coffee at King’s Park. As one of the largest inner city parks on the planet, it’s home to a kaleidoscopic palette of wildflowers, as well as bushwalking tracks, lakes, towering eucalyptus trees and of course, stunning views over the silvery Swan River. For an enriching experience, we’d recommend the 90-minute guided Indigenous Heritage Tour.

• Explore Freo

After you’ve ticket Kings Park off your list, catch the train to Fremantle for brunch, take two. Enjoy seasonal menus, artisanal sourdough and a lofty warehouse setting at Bread in Common, or get distracted with sparkling sea views at Bib & Tucker.

• Shop the strip

After you’ve had your fill, spend an hour or so exploring the quirky shops, and getting lost in the sprawling Fremantle Markets. Hiring a bike is another great way to explore Freo’s beautifully preserved Victorian townscape.

• Discover culture and history

Fremantle is home to some of Perth’s best cultural attractions, and it’s definitely worth dedicating a few hours to exploring what’s on offer. Tour Fremantle Prison, and sign up for a night ghost tour or tunnels experience if you’re feeling adventurous. Check out the Fremantle Maritime Museum for world class displays, and behind the scenes access to a genuine submarine. Other great picks include the Freo Arts Centre, Round House and War Memorial.

• Wine and dine by the waterfront

Wind things up by heading down to the Esplanade for a taste of Perth’s flourishing craft beer scene. Soak up waterfront views and a hip atmosphere at Little Creatures, Fremantle’s iconic brewery. Sample local vino at the elegant Whisper wine bar, then enjoy a boozy dinner somewhere like The Shipping Lane (rustic décor and fresh seasonal produce), Vin & Oli (trendy tapas) or La Sosta (authentic Italian).

Did we miss your favourite way to soak up the Perth sunshine? Give us a shout, we’d love to hear your suggestions on how to spend 48 hours in the West Australian capital!