Exploring Perth: A 2-Week Travel Itinerary

travelwithmil
Nov 26, 2024
5 min read

Updated: Apr 17

Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, sunny climate, and laid-back lifestyle. While often overlooked in favor of Australia’s eastern cities, Perth has a unique charm, offering the perfect mix of cosmopolitan experiences, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure. In this 2-week itinerary, we’ll take you through the best that Perth and its surrounding regions have to offer.

Day 1-2: Discover Perth City

Start your journey by exploring the heart of Perth.

Kings Park and Botanic Garden: Begin with a stroll through one of the largest inner-city parks in the world. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline and Swan River, explore the native flora, and walk the Lotterywest Federation Walkway.
Elizabeth Quay: Head down to the riverfront for a scenic walk, grab a coffee at one of the nearby cafes, and explore the Bell Tower.
Perth Cultural Centre: Visit the Art Gallery of Western Australia, WA Museum Boola Bardip, and the State Library to get a taste of Perth’s cultural and artistic side.

Stay the night in the CBD or nearby Northbridge for access to restaurants and nightlife.

Book activities around Perth City via Get Your Guide.

Day 3: Fremantle

Take a short trip to the vibrant port city of Fremantle.

Fremantle Markets: Browse through local arts, crafts, and fresh produce at this iconic market (open Friday to Sunday).
Fremantle Prison: Tour the World Heritage-listed site to learn about Australia’s convict history.
Fremantle Arts Centre: A historic building now showcasing contemporary art exhibitions.
Cappuccino Strip: Relax with a coffee or grab lunch at one of the many cafes along this bustling street.

Stay overnight in Fremantle or return to Perth.

Book activities to Fremantle via Get Your Guide.

Day 4: Rottnest Island

Catch the ferry from Fremantle or Perth to Rottnest Island, home to the adorable quokka and beautiful beaches.

Cycling: Rent a bike and explore the island’s many bays and beaches, such as The Basin and Little Parakeet Bay.
Snorkeling: Don’t miss the underwater trails at Parker Point or Little Salmon Bay.
Meet the Quokkas: These friendly marsupials are known for their photogenic smiles, make sure to snap a selfie.

Stay overnight on Rottnest Island or head back to Fremantle/Perth.

Book activities to Rottenest Island via Get Your Guide.

Day 5: Cottesloe Beach & Swan River

Spend the day relaxing and soaking up Perth’s famous beach culture.

Cottesloe Beach: One of Perth’s most iconic beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a meal at the beachfront cafes.
Swan River: In the afternoon, return to Perth and take a leisurely Swan River Cruise or rent a kayak to explore the river’s tranquil waters.

Book activities to Cottesloe Beach and Swan River via Get Your Guide.

Day 6-7: Margaret River

Time for a road trip! Drive 3 hours south to the world-renowned Margaret River wine region.

Day 6: Visit some of the region’s top wineries, such as Vasse Felix, Leeuwin Estate, and Voyager Estate, for tastings and gourmet dining.
Day 7: Explore the natural wonders of the area by visiting the stunning Mammoth Cave and Lake Cave or take a walk along the Cape to Cape Track for coastal views. Finish the day with sunset at Surfers Point in Prevelly.

Stay in Margaret River or a nearby beachside town like Dunsborough.

Book activities to Margaret River via Get Your Guide.

Day 8: Busselton & Yallingup

On your way back to Perth, stop at Busselton and Yallingup.

Busselton Jetty: Walk or take the train along the 1.8 km jetty, the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Don’t miss the Underwater Observatory at the end.
Yallingup: Known for its surf breaks, Yallingup also has beautiful sheltered beaches perfect for swimming, like Yallingup Lagoon. Visit Ngilgi Cave to learn about the area’s rich Aboriginal history.

Return to Perth by the evening.

Book activities to Busselton and Yallingup via Get Your Guide.

Day 9: The Pinnacles & Lancelin

Take a day trip north to the otherworldly Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park (about 2 hours from Perth).
Pinnacles Desert: Walk through the limestone pillars that rise out of the desert floor, creating an eerie, unique landscape.
Lancelin Sand Dunes: On the way back, stop in Lancelin for sandboarding on its towering white sand dunes or a quick swim at Lancelin Beach.

Return to Perth by evening.

Book activities to The Pinnacles & Lancelin via Get Your Guide.

Day 10-11: Perth Hills & Swan Valley

Explore the natural beauty and wineries of Perth Hills and the Swan Valley.

Day 10: Drive to the Perth Hills and hike through John Forrest National Park or Lesmurdie Falls for scenic views of waterfalls and wildflower-filled landscapes.
Day 11: Spend the day in Swan Valley, just 30 minutes from Perth, known for its wineries, breweries, and chocolate factories. Visit Houghton Wines, Mandoon Estate, and the Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm if you’re traveling with kids.

Return to Perth by evening.

Book activities to Perth Hills & Swan Valley via Get Your Guide.

Day 12-13: Wave Rock & York

Head east for a 4-hour drive to Wave Rock, a natural rock formation shaped like a giant wave.

Wave Rock: Spend time walking around the rock, which is over 2,700 million years old, and explore nearby attractions like Hippo’s Yawn and Mulka’s Cave with Aboriginal rock art.
York: On the return trip, stop in York, the oldest inland town in Western Australia, and explore its charming streets, historical buildings, and the York Motor Museum.

Stay overnight in York or return to Perth.

Book activities to Wave Rock & York via Get Your Guide.

Day 14: Perth’s Surrounding Beaches

For your final day, relax at some of Perth’s best beaches.

Scarborough Beach: Known for its great surf, trendy cafes, and lively promenade.
City Beach: Just 15 minutes from the city, it’s a perfect spot to end your trip with a swim, beachside lunch, and stunning sunset.

Practical Tips for Traveling in Perth

Getting Around

While public transport is great within the city (trains, buses, and the free CAT buses in the CBD), renting a car is essential for day trips and exploring outside Perth.

Weather

Perth has a Mediterranean climate, meaning hot summers and mild winters.

Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are ideal for visiting.

Beaches

Remember that Perth’s beaches, while stunning, can have strong rips. Always swim between the flags where surf lifesavers patrol.

Final Thoughts

Two weeks in Perth will allow you to experience the best of both worlds: the cosmopolitan charm of the city and the natural beauty of Western Australia’s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re lounging on pristine beaches, sampling local wines, or exploring historic sites, Perth has a wealth of experiences waiting for you. This 2-week itinerary ensures you’ll leave with lasting memories of your time in this beautiful part of Australia.