While it may not be as well-known around the world as Sydney or Melbourne, Perth is a happening destination in its own right and a great place to study abroad – there’s always something new to see or do! Here are just a few favorite activities in the area…
1. Picnic in the Park
Pack a picnic at home and head off for a walk at Kings Park and Botanic Garden. With 400 hectares of beautiful landscaped gardens and natural bushland, Kings Park is one of the largest inner city parks. You can do the free DNA Tower Climb (101 steps) and take in the view. At night, you can even enjoy the city lights from the park as the colors of the city reflect on the river.
View of the city from Kings Park | Photo by Program Manager Nick F.
2. Swan Valley Trip
Explore the vineyards of Western Australia’s oldest wine region, Swan Valley. Pack a lunch to cut down. costs, but make sure to save room for some local delights like olives, cheese, chocolate, nougat and, of course, wine. It’s just a 25-minute ride from the city.
3. Go to the Beach
With literally hundreds of sandy spots just outside of the city, what better way to spend a cash-free day than with a good book and a beach towel? Check out Cottesloe Beach, Scarborough Beach, City Beach and Sorrento Beach – just a few of Perth’s hidden gems.
“This photograph is of Cottlesloe Beach in the Perth area. It was taken in winter, and the beach still looks absolutely amazing. The water was so clear and blue you could see all the way down to the bottom.” | Photo by Megan M., Saint Mary’s College of California
4. Explore Fremantle
Browse the famous Fremantle Markets – a local institution that’s been bustling for over 100 years. From Friday to Sunday the markets are filled with the fresh and exotic foods. During the week, enjoy Taco Tuesday at the Mexican Kitchen in Fremantle. Stuff your face with half priced nachos as big as your face, or three soft tacos for $9, starting from 5:30pm.
5. Day Trip to Rottnest
You can take a ferry to Rottnest Island (25 minutes from Fremantle or 90 minutes from Perth) located just off the coast. Take a selfie with a Quokka, cycle round the island, or kick back at one of Rottnest Island’s 63 beaches and bays.
Quokka selfie on Rottnest Island | Photo by Jennifer F., University of Iowa
6. Check Out Northbridge
Head to Northbridge to check out the unique street art and environment that gives this inner city suburb its hipster vibe. There are plenty of trendy restaurants and cafes to visit. In fact, Conde Nast Traveller described Northbridge as a “lively enclave is at the vanguard of cool…”
Cool coffee shop in Northbridge | Photo by Nick F.
7. Visit Perth Zoo
Check Transperth timetables and catch the buses to go to Perth Zoo, open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. For $31 AUD you can enjoy Australia’s most iconic species, and even learn a little bit about the country’s heritage as well.