by Sircha (cropped image) / [CC BY-SA 2.0

An Isolated City Famed for Its Easygoing Lifestyle, Pristine Beaches, and Sunny Weather

A. About Perth

Nickname: The Sunniest City

Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches like Cottesloe, and vibrant urban culture centered around the Swan River.

The city boasts iconic landmarks such as Kings Park, one of the world's largest inner-city parks, and the modern Elizabeth Quay waterfront.

It is often considered one of the most isolated major cities in the world, with the nearest major city, Adelaide, over 2,100 kilometers away.

 


The Good

Perth stands out for its friendly, laid-back locals, creating a welcoming vibe.

Additionally, its prime location boasts natural beauty and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

With low crime rates, Perth is safe and secure, while its cleanliness and well-maintained spaces further enhance the visitor experience.

Negative Aspects

Perth is a very expensive city to visit, with high accommodation, dining, and transportation costs.

 


B. Best Things to Do in Perth in 2025 (Detailed List with Photos and Information)

In total, we count more than forty sights in the Australian coastal city of Perth. The following sights and attractions contribute to a score of 4.65/10 in this most important category:

# Kings Park and Botanic Garden 5 2.5 out of 5 stars

Kings Park is one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, offering panoramic views of Perth's skyline, Swan River, and Darling Range.

The park showcases over 3,000 species of Western Australia’s unique flora and features the State War Memorial and walking trails.

Museum

by Gnangarra / CC BY-SA 3.0

# Art Gallery of Western Australia 5 2.5 out of 5 stars

The Art Gallery of Western Australia houses an impressive collection of Indigenous and contemporary Australian art, alongside international works. Located in the Perth Cultural Centre, it hosts dynamic exhibitions and educational programs.

Art Museum

by The Logical Positivist / CC BY-SA 4.0

# The Bell Tower 5 2.5 out of 5 stars

The Bell Tower is a striking architectural landmark featuring the historic Swan Bells, a set of 18 bells with origins dating back to 14th-century England. Visitors can learn about bell-ringing traditions, enjoy city views, and even chime a bell.

Bell Tower

by Ché Lydia Xyang / CC BY-SA 3.0

 

# Perth Mint 4 2 out of 5 stars

The Perth Mint is Australia's oldest operating mint, offering guided tours on gold production, a collection of rare coins, and the chance to see the world's largest gold coin. It’s a blend of heritage architecture and fascinating exhibits.

Mint

by Kgbo / CC BY-SA 4.0

# Beaches 4 2 out of 5 stars

Perth’s pristine beaches, including Cottesloe and Scarborough, feature white sands, clear waters, and perfect conditions for swimming, surfing, or relaxing. During summer and autumn, water temperatures are invitingly mild, adding to their appeal.

Beaches Water Temperature: Dec-Jun 21–23°C

by TedDougal'n'Jack / CC BY-SA 4.0

 

# Perth Zoo 4 2 out of 5 stars

Perth Zoo is home to over 1,200 animals, including native species like kangaroos and koalas, as well as exotic creatures from around the world. It emphasizes conservation efforts and features immersive habitats for visitors.

Zoo

by Calistemon  / CC BY-SA 4.0

# Swan River 4 2 out of 5 stars

The Swan River flows through Perth, offering recreational activities like kayaking, sailing, and riverside picnics while linking the city to its natural surroundings. Its picturesque beauty makes it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.

River

by Bahnfrend / CC BY-SA 4.0

 

# Aquarium of Western Australia 4 2 out of 5 stars

The Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA) is the largest aquarium in the country, showcasing marine life from five distinct coastal regions of Western Australia. Its main feature is a 98-meter-long underwater tunnel, offering an immersive experience beneath the Indian Ocean.

Cathedral

by SheDev / CC BY-SA 4.0

 

# WA Museum Boola Bardip 4 2 out of 5 stars

The WA Museum Boola Bardip celebrates the state’s rich culture, biodiversity, and history through state-of-the-art galleries. Its name, meaning "many stories" in Noongar, reflects a commitment to showcasing diverse voices and stories.

Museum

by Gnangarra / CC BY-SA 2.5

 

#10 | Elizabeth Quay 4 2 out of 5 stars

Elizabeth Quay is a vibrant waterfront precinct with restaurants, public art, and scenic views of the Swan River. It features attractions like the striking Spanda sculpture and a pedestrian bridge connecting various entertainment spots.

Quay

by Evad37 / CC0  

Scoring and Icons Legend (Click here for detailed information)

10 = top-10 sight in the world

9 = world-class  

8 = outstanding

7 = excellent 

6 = impressive

5 = interesting

4 = decent

3 = mediocre

2 = bad

1 = abysmal

🌎 = World Heritage Site

= Excursion

C. Other Notable Sights and Attractions in Perth

#11 | Scitech 4 2 out of 5 stars

Scitech is an interactive science museum featuring hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and live science shows for all ages. It covers topics like physics, robotics, and space exploration, fostering curiosity and learning.

Science Museum

by The Logical Positivist / CC BY-SA 4.0

 

#12 | St. Mary's Cathedral 4 2 out of 5 stars

St. Mary’s Cathedral is a stunning neo-Gothic church with a rich history dating back to the 1860s. It combines original heritage architecture with modern elements from a 2009 restoration.

Cathedral

by Dietmar Rabich / CC BY-SA 4.0

– Aviation Heritage Museum 4 2 out of 5 stars

The Aviation Heritage Museum houses an extensive collection of historic aircraft and aviation artifacts. Highlights include World War II planes and interactive exhibits showcasing the evolution of flight.

Museum

by Alec Wilson from Khon Kaen / CC BY-SA 2.0

Hillarys Boat Harbour 4 2 out of 5 stars

Hillarys Boat Harbour is a vibrant recreational area with a variety of restaurants, shops, and family-friendly attractions.

Harbour

by EurovisionNim / CC BY-SA 4.0

D. Best Day Trips and Excursions from Perth

FREMANTLE PRISON 5 2.5 out of 5 stars

Fremantle Prison, built in the 1850s by British convicts, is a well-preserved example of a 19th-century penal institution in Australia. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010, it offers guided tours highlighting its grim history, from convict labor to modern-day escapes.

Former Prison 🌍 World Heritage Site: since 2010 | Distance from Perth: 50 km

by Gnangarra / CC BY-SA 2.5

 

Rottnest Island 5 2.5 out of 5 stars

Rottnest Island, located 19 km off Perth, is a car-free paradise known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique wildlife like the quokka. The island is a popular spot for snorkeling, cycling, and learning about its Indigenous and colonial history at various heritage sites.

Island Distance from Perth: 19 km

by Pedro Szekely / CC BY-SA 2.0

E. Top 10 List of the Best Things to Do in Perth (including close-by excursions)

To sum things up, these are the ten best sights we recommend to you when visiting Perth for at least three entire days:

Kings Park and Botanic Garden 5 

Art Gallery of Western Australia 5 

The Bell Tower 5 

🌍 FREMANTLE PRISON (50 km from Perth) 5 

🌍 Rottnest Island (19 km from Perth) 5 

Perth Mint 4

Beaches  4

Perth Zoo 4

Swan River 4

Aquarium of Western Australia 4