With Qantas launching the new non-stop London to Perth recently, Perth has never been so accessible. But what makes this region so special? Its vibrant, relaxed lifestyle with beautiful natural highlights – including the Swan River, Kings Park and Botanic Garden, and the Indian Ocean – undoubtedly contribute to its increasing popularity as a top holiday destination. The city’s 19 metropolitan beaches, where you can relax and enjoy one of Western Australia’s famous sunsets over the water, probably help too. Once you’re there, there’s so much to see and do that you might not know where to start. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are just some of Perth’s must-visits.
Kings Park
It’s the equivalent of New York’s Central Park – except it’s even larger… 400 hectares larger! Kings Park is one of the largest inner-city parks in the entire world, and it’s just a short walk or free bus ride from Perth city centre. Look out at impressive views of the Swan River and the city skyline, settle down for a picnic or see an outdoor movie or live performance in summer. The first park to be designated for public use in Australia (in 1872), Kings Park is also home to the State War Memorial and State Botanic Garden. It showcases 1,700 unique native species and a dazzling display of wildflowers in spring, celebrated with the annual Kings Park Festival in September.
Top tip: Learn more about this stunning nature area on an indigenous guided walking tour.
Dining out
Perth City’s food scene continues to explode with new bars, cafes and restaurants opening on a regular basis. It’s home to award-winning restaurants and top chefs with personalities such as Jamie Oliver and Matt Stone opening establishments that have placed Western Australia’s food and drink scene on the international radar. Taking advantage of the sunny Western Australian climate, Perth City is where you’ll find the highest concentration of rooftop bars and alfresco eateries. Head out to the city’s urban villages including Northbridge, Leederville and Subiaco, and you’ll find a wide choice of new dining options. Visitors can sample fresh produce and wines at one of the area’s many small bars, cafés and restaurants, or try one of the city’s gourmet food vans and pop-up restaurants.
A cultural adventure
The Northbridge area of Perth is home to The Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Western Australia Museum, State Library of Western Australia, the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts and the State Theatre Centre of Western Australia, which includes the Heath Ledger Theatre. From November to May, visitors can enjoy various outdoor cinemas, live performances and festivals, including the popular Fringe Festival and Perth International Arts Festival.
Vineyards and cellar doors
Western Australia’s oldest wine region, the Swan Valley, is an easy 30-minute drive from Perth. Visitors can meet the maker at small family wineries or sample wines from internationally renowned vineyards. The Swan Valley Food and Wine Trail – and the Perth Hills and Avon Valley beyond – promises fresh produce, microbreweries and galleries to explore.
Fancy exploring Perth? You could be there in 16 hours and 45 minutes! Call our Australia experts for a FREE no obligation quote on 0161 888 5632.
Alternatively, request a copy of our 2018/19 Australia brochure here.
