Contrary to popular belief, Perth is actually a destination worth making a special trip for. I have visited the Western Australian city four times thus far – and each trip has been immensely memorable.
Perth is a 5-hour flight from Singapore. This means that it is nearer than other Asian cities such as Tokyo and Shanghai! If you’re planning a vacation soon, do consider making a trip to the Land Down Under.
The gourmet scene in Perth is topnotch, people are one of the friendliest, and the weather is (almost) perfect. I definitely see myself returning to Perth for the fifth and sixth time should opportunities arise.
Is Perth boring? I’m not going to lie that Perth’s city centre pales greatly in comparison to its sister cities Melbourne and Sydney. But you should never just stay put in Perth’s central business district.
What makes Perth so awesome is its insane proximity to unspoilt beaches, craft breweries and exotic wildlife. Get this straight: The vineyards are less than a 30-minute drive away, and pristine beaches only a 25-minute ferry ride away. You could teleport yourselves to a whole new realm within half an hour.
Most Melburnians I personally know – despite being born and raised in Aussie – have never been to Perth. Yeah, Perth’s reputation of being boring is THAT bad.. And I’m hoping to dispute its dullness with this post!
Perth Itinerary | Day One | Friday
- Before you arrive Perth: Check that you have a valid Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) before you fly into Australia. The ETA is basically a tourist visa and is valid for a year. Check the validity of your ETA or apply for a new one via the Australian government’s official ETA website.
1. Kailis’ Fish Market Cafe – Serving Award-winning Fish & Chips Since 1928
Loved by generations of Freo dwellers and tourists from all walks of life alike, 90-year-old Kailis’ Fish Market Café is truly a Western Australian institution.
The waterfront eatery is famous for its traditional fish and chips – portions are generous and it is impossible to finish the mountain of chips! Kailis’ Fish Market Cafe also serves a fantabulous selection of other fresh seafood such as chilled lobsters, natural oysters, chilli mussels, king prawn and barbecue squid.
Tip: Dining outdoors? You have been warned about aggressive seagulls on the prowl!
Address: 46 Mews Road, Fremantle WA 6160, Australia
2. Rottnest Island – Home to the ‘world’s happiest animal’ called Quokka
Regardless of season, all first-timers to Perth MUST make time for Rottnest Island. The tiny Australian island is home to majestic lighthouses, pristine beaches and most importantly… QUOKKAS!
Quokkas are known as the world’s ‘happiest’ animal, because they look like they are always ‘smiling’. You don’t have to hunt far and wide for these smiley creatures when you arrive Rottnest Island, because they are everywhere. And yes, quokkas are native to Rottnest Island.
To reach Rottnest Island, one would have to take a ferry (around 45 minutes one way). There are direct ferries departing Perth, Fremantle and Hillarys. The island is really small, and you can cycle from one end of the island to the other under half an hour.
In summer, many visitors hit the beaches to snorkel or swim. Rottnest Island’s beaches are seriously the most beautiful I’d ever seen!
Tip: You can get discounted return Rottnest Island Express Ferry Tickets via Klook at S$75.40 (U.P. S$79.40).
3. Fremantle Markets – The Market Has Been Around For More Than A Century
Located on the corner of South Terrace and Henderson Street, Fremantle Markets has been around for more than a century. Do bear in mind that the market is only open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
From kitchen accessories, fashionable jewelry to a huge selection of gourmet dishes, there are many things sold at Fremantle Markets! When you are there, do check out store number 40: The HoneyCake Shop. It serves the BEST honey cake. How good is it? Well, there are 3 The Honeycake outlets in Perth and I have visited all.
Tip: The market opens till 8pm on Fridays, but only opens till 6pm on Saturdays & Sundays
Address: South Terrace & Henderson St, Fremantle WA 6160, Australia
4. Little Creatures Brewery – A Brewery Built on Pale Ale
Little Creatures only started brewing hoppy Pale Ale in 2000 – and the boutique brewery has already become a household name. The award-winning Australian brand can be found in Singapore and many other offshore destinations.
There is no other better way to experience Little Creatures than at its birthplace. Get a tasting flight and sample a selection of Little Creatures’ bestselling beers. Then, head over to Creatures Nextdoor for scrumptious burgers and pizzas.
Tip: Remember to bring your ID along to prove you are >18
Address: 42 Mews Road, Fremantle WA 6160, Australia
5. Air Nightclub – Testimony that Perth’s Nightlife Is Not Dead
Source: Air Nightclub
Perth may be well known for its laid-back style, but a strict dress code still applies for certain upscale places such as Air Nightclub. The fancy nightclub disapproves runners, thongs and caps, and entrance might be denied should your outfit be frowned upon.
If you enjoy music by David Guetta, Calvin Harris and Swedish House Mafia etc, then Air Nightclub is the place to be. VIP bottle services are available upon requests.
Tip: Guys to wear collared shirts and leather shoes, or risk being denied entry to the club
Address: 139 James Street, Perth WA 6003, Australia
Perth Itinerary | Day Two | Saturday
- Hotels VS Airbnb in Perth: A one-night stay in a basic room of a 4-star hotel (in Perth’s CBD) starts from S$120/night. But we urge you to book a place on Airbnb instead. The average nightly price for an Airbnb unit in Perth’s CBD (either an entire apartment or a private room) is around S$98. Furthermore, most Airbnb units provide free parking lots! Get S$45 off your first booking here.
- Swan Valley or Margaret River? Having visited both, I personally prefer Margaret River. It is hands down way more beautiful than Swan Valley. However, the downside is that you have to embark on a long 3.5-hour drive one way to reach Margaret River. If you don’t have time to spare, then you should visit Swan Valley. Swan Valley is only a 25-minute drive from Perth’s city centre.
6. Mrs. S Cafe – Fantabulous Selection of Homemade Cakes
A trip to Mrs. S Café is akin to visiting your granny who makes the tastiest treats from secret family recipes. Think rustic bricked walls, overhanging potted plants and menus clipped on hard-covered children’s storybooks. The quaint space is super cute and the spread of freshly baked cakes will blow you away.
The brunch menu features classic dishes such as Eggs Benedict and Croque Madame. Don’t forget to try their Gluten Free Passion Fruit Lemon and Coconut Meringue (AUD 5.50).
Address: 178 Whatley Cres Maylands, Western Australia, Australia
7. Caversham Wildlife Park – Feed Kangaroos, Meet Wombats and Pat Koalas
Owned and operated by a Western Australian family since 1988, Caversham Wildlife Park is a must-visit for animal lovers. This lovely park is home to around 200 species and allows visitors to get up close and personal with native Australian animals like never before! Pat koala bears, touch a wombat and feed kangaroos and wallabies. For safety reasons, interactions with the cute koala bears and wombats are kept limited.
However, the opportunity to walk through the Kangaroo enclosure and mingle with the creatures itself has already made our entrance fees worthwhile! Admission tickets cost AUD 29 per adult and AUD 13 per child. Caversham Wildlife Park is open every day throughout the year (except Christmas Day). Do allocate at least 2 – 3 hours here to fully maximise your experience.
Address: B, Lot 99 Lord St, Whiteman WA 6068, Australia
8. Feral Brewing Company – Microbrewery in Swan Valley
I am a BIG fan of craft beer (especially IPA), and I’m so glad we visited Feral Brewing Company. The microbrewery is located in Swan Valley, and only a 19-minute drive from Caversham Wildlife Park. First-timers are encouraged to get the Brendan’s Tray (AUD 18), which features six different craft beers from Feral Brewing Company.
I also ordered the Fried Beer Cheese (AUD 9) – these piping hot golden brown balls were seriously the bomb! Think molten artisan cheese encased in deep-fried beer batter. The in-house restaurant also serves other delectable main courses such as Pork Belly (AUD 36), Tasmanian Salmon (AUD 34) and Grass-fed Lamb Loin (AUD 32).
Address: 152 Haddrill Rd, Baskerville WA 6056, Australia
9. The House of Honey – Sample More Than 20 Different Honeys
From handmade beeswax candles, beauty products to honey liquor, The House of Honey at Swan Valley sells an impressive variety of honey, and products made from honey. The House of Honey specialises in pure, raw and unpasteurised honey. There are more than 20 different types of honey sold here – and you can sample them all!
If you can’t decide which honey to take home, we strongly recommend getting the amber-coloured Jarrah honey. Native and unique to Western Australia, the smooth honey has been laboratory tested for its natural healing abilities. While the Jarrah honey is delicious on its own, you can also apply it on wounds and burns.
Before you leave, do remember to order a scoop of the world’s best honey ice cream – exclusively manufactured at The House of Honey. You will remember it for life.
Address: 867 Great Northern Hwy, Herne Hill WA 6056, Australia
10. Coward and Black Vineyards – Free Food and Wine Tasting
In my opinion, Swan Valley is a far cry from Western Australia’s Margaret River and Victoria’s Yarra Valley. However, Swan Valley region is the closest vineyard region to Perth’s city centre. Indeed, it is only a mere 25-minute drive from Perth’s CBD! P.s. You will need drive for at least three hours before you can reach Margaret River.
While there are heaps of wineries in Swan Valley, I have decided to feature Coward and Black Vineyards, because it is literally beside Margaret River Chocolate Company (don’t be confused, you are NOT in Margaret River). Yes, you can simply walk over for a chocolate fiesta, after you are finally done sampling a vast selection of wine, jams and olive oil. Tasting is free of charge!
Address: 448 Tom Cullity Dr, Wilyabrup WA 6280, Australia
11. Ciao Italia – Prepare To Queue For A Table At This Famous Italian Eatery
Highly acclaimed restaurant Ciao Italia has been around for 19 whopping years, and business is still bustling every night! The authentic trattoria has won the city over with its delicious food, and it is totally normal to see snaking queues around the corner of Douglas Avenue and Mill Point Road from Mondays to Saturday nights.
The humble eatery is decked out in checkered tables cloths and wooden chairs. Nothing fancy. But it is the food that people are here for. The portions are humongous and we struggled to even finish half of what we ordered. While the pastas were great, it was the divine tiramisu that stole the show. P.s. I didn’t get to try the pizzas.
Address: 273 Mill Point Rd, South Perth WA 6151, Australia
Perth Itinerary | Day Three | Sunday
- Getting around Perth: Renting a car would be the most cost and time effective way. Do bring along your Singapore driver’s license for verification purposes.
12. Typika Artisan Roasters – Popular Warehouse Cafe Lived Up To Its Hype
Of all the cafes that I visited in Perth, Typika Artisan Roasters left the greatest impression on me. The unpretentious café is located inside a spacious industrial warehouse in Claremont, and you can watch coffee beans get roasted at the on-site roastery!
The Golden French Toast (AUD 19.50) is a sinful but heavenly treat. Fluffy brioche is baked till golden brown, and served with glorious salted caramel, maple candided bacon and banana slices. If you prefer something savoury, order the Spiced Beef Benedict (AUD 21.50).
Address: 331 Stirling Hwy, Claremont WA 6010, Australia
13. Crawley Edge Boatshed – The iconic blue boat house you see on Instagram
A prominent landmark on Swan River, the Crawley Edge Boatshed is the popular blue-coloured boathouse you see all over your Instagram feed. Truth be told, there is absolutely nothing to do here besides taking a photo. Don’t expect too much from it, you most likely will be disappointed by its random location along the main road.
The age-old boatshed has undergone the transfer of several ownerships, before it was refurbished and relaunched in 2004. When you arrive, join the orderly queue and patiently wait for your turn to snap a photo. And no, you can’t enter the boathouse.
Address: Perth WA 6005, Australia
14. Kings Park and Botanic Gardens – The #1 Activity in Perth on TripAdvisor
No trip to Perth is complete till you visit its Kings Park and Botanic Gardens. The spacious park is incredibly peaceful, and boasts an unrivalled view of Perth’s skyline. Come here in the afternoon for a picnic, or see the city in a different light at night.
Take a stroll and you will see an eternal flame burning within the pool of reflection. Queen Elizabeth II has lit the Flame of Remembrance back in 2000 to commemorate those who have fought to defend Australia’s freedom. It will continue to burn forever.
Address: Fraser Ave, Perth WA 6005, Australia
15. Little Bird Cafe – Not-for-profit cafe with the healthiest pancakes
Little Bird Café caught my attention with its eye-catching pictures on Instagram. Imagine my surprise when I eventually found out that it’s a not-for-profit café! What you can expect: Gorgeous customised cakes, friendly pooches and a comprehensive menu catered for different diets i.e. gluten-free, paleo, vegetarian and vegan options.
Everyone seems obsessed with Little Bird Café’s pretty coconut buckwheat pancakes. Health junkies will totally dig it. I mean, these pancakes aren’t just vegan and vegetarian, but they are also free from dairy, gluten and processed sugar. Wow. I seriously never knew it was even possible to have such healthy brunch.
But clean eating clearly isn’t for me. Bring on the bacon and maple syrup please.
Address: 100 Lake Street Perth, Western Australia
16. Hay Street Mall – Perth’s Main Shopping Precinct
First things first, Hay Street Mall isn’t exactly a mall. Instead, it is an open-air pedestrian district lined with shops, arcades and a few tiny malls. I wouldn’t encourage anyone to make a special trip here – you will be disappointed if you did. I personally am not a big fan of shopping, so I might be biased. But since you are already here, you might as well support local Australian brands such as Lush, Industrie Clothing and Valley Girl etc.
You will walk past London Court when strolling along Hay Street. The old shopping arcade is renowned for its old English architecture. If you want my honest opinion… I didn’t find it impressive at all, and it certainly looks nothing like England. However, I really like the graffiti art strewn along the alleyways behind Hay Street! I have pinned the location of the street art on Google Maps (scroll below).
Address: 647 Hay St, Perth WA 6000, Australia
18. Chicho Gelato – Made from scratch every day
Chicho Gelato is a boutique gelataria located in Northbridge. The dessert parlour takes immense pride in creating the smoothest gelato with locally sourced ingredients. Every morning, Chicho Gelato’s team goes through an arduous process of creating delicious ice cream and its various toppings from scratch. Even the brownies and meringue are created in house, so that you can expect the freshest and tastiest gelato!
From lavender honeycomb, smoked s’mores to chocolate, the extensive gelato menu features 20 flavours on rotation. The availability of creative creations usually depends on the season, but classic flavours such as vanilla and pistachio are main stays.
Address: 180 William Street, Northbridge WA 6003
19. Crown Perth – Luxurious Casino Open 24/7 Daily
Frankly speaking, all casinos look pretty much the same from the inside. But if you are looking for some fun, or if you are a Singaporean who wants to experience what it’s like to be inside a casino… Then you might as well head to Crown Perth.
Fun fact: If you didn’t know, all Singaporeans have to pay an entrance fee of S$100 to enter casinos in Singapore – an initiative by the government to dissuade Singaporeans from gambling. So this is a good opportunity for Singaporeans to have a game or two of baccarat, black jack or poker.
Remember that the odds are always against you, so play in moderation!
Address: Great Eastern Hwy, Burswood WA 6100, Australia
20. Nobu Perth – Winner of WA’s Best Premium Restaurant 2017
Nobu Perth is a word-class Japanese restaurant located inside Crown Metropol Perth. It recently won a honourable award of Western Australia’s Best Premium Restaurant – and that is merely one of the many accolades that the Nobu brand has received.
For those not in the know, celebrity chef Nobu owns this fine-dining Asian establishment. Given Nobu’s global fame, prices here are deffo costly, but worth every dollar for that special occasion!
Address: Crown Metropol Perth, Great Eastern Highway, Burswood WA 6100, Australia
Here is a Google map of all the places featured in this Perth Itinerary:
Download this 3D2N Perth Itinerary in PDF file here or word doc here.
Disclaimer: We last visited Perth in August 2017 and are not liable for any inaccuracies. Do email us at thekeepersmap@gmail.com if you spot any outdated information. Thank you!
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