Peddle Perth, Perth, Western Australia © Tourism Australia

3 days in Perth

Delve into Perth’s Aboriginal history, explore Fremantle’s craft breweries and discover Rottnest Island’s awe-inspiring beaches and bays. The laid-back charms of Western Australia’s capital await.

The must-do experiences

Wine and dine at Perth’s trendy restaurants and bars
Say “cheers” at the birthplace of Australian craft beer
Meet an adorable quokka on Rottnest Island

Day 1: Perth

Western Australia’s capital has it all: sun-drenched beaches, rich culture and a deliciously diverse food and drink scene. From the city to the coast, Perth’s activities are limitless.

Wildflower, Como the Treasury, Perth, WA © COMO The Treasury

Where to stay in Perth

From hipster hangouts to old-school elegance, Perth’s best hotels cover all the bases.

Read time • 6min

Day 2: Fremantle

Sail down the Swan River to reach the charming Fremantle (otherwise known as ‘Freo’), a city steeped in history and the birthplace of modern Australian craft beer. There’s plenty to do in Fremantle, so take your pick from these top experiences.

Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour, Fremantle, WA © Spool Photography

Guide to Fremantle

Wedged between Perth’s bustling shipping port and a working fishing harbour, there’s nowhere quite like historic and hipster Fremantle.

Read time • 4min

Day 3 : Rottnest Island

You can’t visit Perth without taking a day trip to the dazzling Rottnest Island, home of the quokka, Australia’s smiling marsupial. Here are a few of Rottnest Island’s must-do experiences.

The Basin, Rottnest Island, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia

Guide to Rottnest Island

When it’s time to relax and recharge, swap the rush of the city for an idyllic escape on Rottnest Island.

Read time • 4min

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there guided tours available in Perth?

Yes, there are plenty of guided tours available in Perth, from city sightseeing tours to adventure to nearby destinations.

City tours: Choose between walking tours, bus tours and segway tours around the city. Local experts at Oh Hey WA showcase the city's creative culture and small bar scene.
Food and wine tours: The Swan Valley wine region is located just 30 minutes from the city, and a day tour with Out and About Wine Tours lets you taste the region's top drops.
Rottnest Island tours: Rottnest Island sits just off the coast of Perth. Take a day trip with SeaLink to spot the island's smiling quokkas and marvel at brilliant blue beaches.
River cruises: Perth is built around the Swan River, and a cruise with Captain Cook Cruises is the perfect way to see the city from the water.
Pinnacles day trip: A longer tour, a Pinnacles day trip typically runs for 8-10 hours and includes the Pinnacle Desert as well popular places like Caversham Wildlife Park.

How do I get to Rottnest Island and is it worth visiting?

Visiting Rottnest Island is a highlight of this itinerary.

Short ferry rides run regularly from Perth and Fremantle, and the island is completely car-free. Once there, you can explore by bike or shuttle bus, with plenty of time to enjoy beaches and snorkelling spots. Of course, the island’s must-do is saying hello to the famous quokkas.

Do I need a car to explore Perth?

A car is optional rather than essential when visiting Perth. The city itself is easy to explore on foot, with many attractions such as museums, galleries and the riverside precinct located within a compact and walkable area. You can also enjoy guided experiences like the Peddle Perth rickshaw tour for a fun and relaxed way to see the sights.

Nearby destinations are also easy to reach without driving. Fremantle can be accessed by train or a scenic river cruise, while Rottnest Island is reachable by ferry.

That said, having a car can be helpful if you’d like to explore further afield, such as the Margaret River region.

Explore more nearby

Family at the Western Australia Maritime Museum in Fremantle © Cultural Attractions of Australia

Places to go

8 of Perth's best museums, galleries and theatres

Francois Peron National Park, Shark Bay World Heritage Area, Denham, WA © Greg Snell Photography

Places to go

Holiday destinations around Perth

McLeod Tours, Margaret River, Western Australia © Tourism Australia

Trips and itineraries

3 days in Margaret River