Perth—the capital of Western Australia—might not be as famous as its Australian counterparts i.e. Melbourne and Sydney but is definitely still a lovely city worth visiting. With its flourishing dining scene and laid-back beaches, we reckon the world’s sunniest capital city is a perfect holiday destination. In fact, Perth is only a 5.5-hour direct flight away from Singapore!

From the must-see attractions, restaurant recommendations, popular nightlife spots to getting around, here is our comprehensive guide to Perth and everything else you should know.

WHAT TO SEE AND WHAT TO DO IN PERTH

Admittedly, Perth’s city life is nowhere as vibrant as its neighbouring global cities; but that doesn’t warrant it an awful online 2015 title of being the worst destinations on earth. Perth is home to several historical monuments and an exciting wine region called the Swan Valley—and there is so much to see and do at these attractions.

PERTH’S ICONIC BLUE BOATHOUSE

By now, you must have come across endless stunning shots of Perth’s iconic Blue Boathouse on your Instagram feed. It is believed that the historic Crawley Boat Shed was constructed in the 1930s and restored to its splendour in early 2000s. This photogenic boathouse is a must-visit for all photography enthusiasts.

COTTESLOE BEACH – THE MOST POPULAR BEACH IN PERTH

There are countless beaches in Perth for one to get his/her tan on (just keep in mind that summer season brings with it the constant buzz of houseflies) – one of the better suntanning spots would be the inviting Cottesloe Beach.

DAY TRIP TO FREMANTLE 

Fremantle can be easily reached in half an hour via car. Immerse yourself in history at the Fremantle Prison, a maximum-security-jail-turned-tourist-attraction or check out the weekend-only Fremantle Market which is known for hawking a wide array of indigenous and indie products, local organic produce and natural good.

Read our guide on day trip to Fremantle in Perth.

KING’S PARK

Attracting over six million visitors annually is King’s Park, one of the world’s largest inner city parks. The scenic park spans across 400.6 hectares and contains the The State War Memorial. Take a leisure stroll, have a picnic under the iconic 750-year-old tree and/or pay your respects on the dawn of ANZAC Day.

SWAN VALLEY

There is really no reason why visitors should miss out on the gorgeous Swan Valley, especially when it can be reached within a short 30-minute car journey from Perth’s CBD. Boasting animal farms, beautiful vineyards, chocolate factories, honey farms and more—you are guaranteed to have a fun-filled day exploring these places!

Read our guide on 12 reasons why you must visit Swan Valley in Perth.

MARGARET RIVER

Known for its popular craft breweries, award-winning restaurants, world-class wineries and beautiful beaches, Margaret River—a 3-hour drive from Perth—is a must-visit.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the famous White Elephant Cafe which comes with a stunning view of the Gnarabup beach in Prevelly. You can easily spend a day exploring the numerous wineries in the region. Some of our favourite wineries include Vasse Felix Winery, Voyager Estate and Wills Domain.

We will suggest to allocate at least 2 nights in Margaret River.

WHERE TO EAT IN PERTH

CHICHO GELATO

ChiCho Gelato is no ordinary ice-cream parlour. Made fresh from scratch daily, the sweet ice-cold treats are free from artificial colourings, flavours and preservatives – hence ensuring patrons only the highest quality possible. Anticipate a plethora of unique flavours such as Lavender & Honeycomb and Pandan & Roast Peanut Brittle.

180 William St, Northbridge WA 6003, Australia
Tel: +61 423 480 520
Sun to Wed: 12pm – 10pm
Thu to Sat: 12pm – 11pm

CHU BAKERY

Chu Bakery is arguably among the top bakeries in Perth. Strategically located opposite Hyde Park, the takeaway-only bakery spots long queues every day.

The display of daily fresh bakes are visually arresting, to say the least. There are Asian nuances on the menu, as well as some French flair. What you must try is its signature Chu Puff—a choux pastry well made, topped with luscious and a surprise jelly in the middle. And if you are lucky, grab yourself a Kaya Coconut Croissant.

498 William St, Highgate, WA 6003, Australia
Tel: +61 893 284 740
Tues to Sun: 7am – 4pm

CIAO ITALIA

No reservations are allowed at Ciao Italia but that is clearly not stopping eager crowds from forming every operating night. The Italian trattoria serves awesome seafood pasta and calamari rings in ginormous portions. Complete your meal with a divine tiramisu had us nearly licking the plate clean.

273 Mill Point Rd, South Perth WA 6151, Australia
Tel: +61 8 9368 5500
Sun and Mon: Closed
Tue to Sat: 5pm – 10pm

DUOTONE

DuoTone serves a pretty wicked cuppa and we will certainly return everyday for our caffeine fix if we were based in Perth. Coffee aside, the new cafe also serves excellent breakfast Asian-inspired gourmet brekkie.

Read our guide on 17 best cafes and coffee shops in Perth.

313 Hay St, East Perth WA 6004, Australia
Tel: +61 8 9325 9396
Mon to Fri: 6am – 3pm
Sat and Sun: Closed

HYLIN

Hylin is hands-down our favourite cafe in Perth.

It may be a bit off the grid, but this neighbourhood cafe in West Leederville is totally worth travelling for. Its modern architecture and decor make the cafe a very cosy space to retreat to for breakfast. And we really liked the tables by the windows; perfect for a relaxing brunch session in Summer.

178 Railway Parade, West Leederville WA 6007, Australia
Mon to Sat: 6.30am – 3pm
Tel: +61 401 815 804

KAILIS FISH MARKET CAFE

Overseeing the boat harbour, award-winning Kaili’s Fish Market Cafe has been a well-loved destination amongst locals and tourists alike since 1928 for its tasty fish and chips and other fresh value-for-money seafood delights.

46 Mews Rd, Fremantle WA 6160, Australia
Tel: +61 8 9335 7755
Mon to Fri: 8am – 8.30pm
Sat and Sun: 8am – 9pm

TOOK BAE KEE 2

Located along Barrack Street in Perth’s CBD, Took Bae Kee 2 is our go-to Korean restaurant for affordable and good Korean food in Perth. Some of the dishes that you can try include Sizzling Hot & Spicy BBQ Pork (A$7), Sizzling Sweet & Spicy BBQ Squid Tubes (A$9) and Hot & Spicy Soy Bean Soup (A$8).

127 Barrack St, Perth WA 6000, Australia
Tel: +61 451 774 260
Thu to Tue: 11.30am – 8pm

TYPIKA ARTISAN ROASTERS

Do not leave cafe-cum-roastery Typika Artisan Roasters until you have savoured their insanely delicious Golden French Toast served with Maple Candied Bacon and Sliced Bananas drenched in Salted Caramel Sauce.

331 Stirling Hwy, Claremont WA 6010, Australia
Tel: +61 8 9284 6088
Daily: 6.30am – 3.30pm

WHERE TO DRINK IN PERTH

AIR NIGHTCLUB

Located in the bustling nightlife district of Northbridge, Air Nightclub is a stylish nightclub that opens till 5am on weekends. Kickstart the night with a potent ABC shot – a lethal mixture of Absinthe, Bacardi 151 and Chartreuse.

For something lighter, order Olivia’s cocktail and Death March; the former is a sweet, fruity alcoholic concoction that can only be prepared by bartender Olivia herself, while the latter is a spicy tobasco liqueur shot.

139 James Street, Northbridge WA 6003
Tel: +61 427 933 836
Fri and Sat: 9pm – 5am
Sun to Thu: Closed

LITTLE CREATURES BREWERY

Little Creatures is renowned for their pale ales and fans should make a special visit to their flagship brewery at Fremantle. No prior reservations are required and everyone is welcome to join one of the daily guided tours around the brewery.

40 Mews Rd, Fremantle WA 6160, Australia
Tel: +61 8 6215 1000
Mon to Fri: 10am – 12am
Sat: 9am – 12am
Sun: 9am – 11pm

THE AVIARY

Spanning across two storeys, The Aviary is a fancy bar-cum-restaurant located in the heart of Perth’s city. Head straight to the stunning open-air rooftop bar perched atop Goron Stephenson House and join in the party. The watering hole is packed with corporate workers, university students and literally everyone from all walks of life.

Gordon Stephenson House, 1/140 William St, Perth WA 6000, Australia
Tel: +61 8 9226 0259
Mon to Thu: 11am – 11pm
Fri: 12pm – 1am
Sat: 11am – 1am
Sun: 11am – 10pm

THE BEACH CLUB

We love the spacious space, nautical design and relaxed vibes at The Beach Club. Situated directly across Cottesloe Beach, The Beach Club provides city dwellers a great respite with its extensive menu of alcoholic drinks and bar nosh.

Cottesloe Beach Hotel
104 Marine Parade, Cottesloe, Western Australia 6011
Tel: +61 8 9383 1100
Daily: 12pm – 10pm

THE STANDARD

The Standard Bar Garden and Kitchen is ideal for a chill night out. Grab a drink at their elegant indoors or enjoy the alfresco ambience outdoors. It is also worth mentioning that The Standard serves really impressive Asian-fusion gourmet dishes too.

28 Roe St, Northbridge WA 6003, Australia
Mon to Thu: 4pm – 12am
Fri and Sat: 12pm – 12am
Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Tel: +61 8 9228 1331

TRANSPORTATION IN PERTH

TRANSFER FROM PERTH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

CONNECT Shuttle: Upon arrival at Perth International Airport Terminal 1, board a free terminal-transfer bus (available 24/4 daily) which will take you to Terminal 3. Over there, you can hop on the Perth Airport CONNECT Shuttle at A$15 per person one way.

Tickets can be purchased from the driver and you will be dropped at one of the following five destinations: East Perth Train Station, WA Museum on Beaufort Street, Wellington Street, (opposite the YHA Backpackers Hostel), The Kings Perth Hotel and The Ambassador Hotel.

Taxi: If you are travelling in a group or have multiple luggage, it would be more cost-efficient and time-efficient to get a taxi instead. It costs roughly A$38 from Perth Airport to the CBD.

Public Transport: Board Transperth’s 380, 37 or 40. For information regarding the buses’ frequency and timetable, refer to Transperth’s official website. Each one-way ticket costs A$4.50.

HOW TO GET AROUND PERTH

CAT buses in Perth’s CBD are absolutely free and allow you to cover various places in the city easily. If you are venturing beyond the city, you might have to ride on the Transperth Train. An one-way ticket typically start from A$2.10.tl

Prior to our recent trip to Perth, we noticed the lack of online recommendations for bakeries and cafes in this wonderful Western Australian city. So we took it upon ourselves and harassed our Perth-based friends for their favourite haunts.

Bear in mind that most establishments stop operating by the late afternoon in true-blue Aussie style, so wake up early or risk missing out!

There are more cafes in Perth than you think. And Australia really has the best cafes in the world. Here’s our guide to 16 Cafes & Coffee Shops in Perth That Are So Worth Visiting.

ADDISON & STEELE

One cafe in the North Bridge neighbourhood that we really loved is Addison & Steele. It is an open space with funky interior—an huge, open concept coffee bar with sleek coffee machines and pendant lamps, monochrome tiles and patterns all over the cafe, mismatched furniture and window-sill seats…

Addison & Steele has a simple menu of breakfast and brunch staples, and a whole list of regular coffee as well as seasonal specials (on the blackboard). And while you might be distracted by the caffeine options, do also give the Strawberry & Thyme Lemonade a try!

Addison & Steele
1/448 Fitzgerald St, North Perth, WA 6006, Australia
Tel: +61 432 938 322
Daily: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Mt Lawley

ARCHITECTS AND HEROES

If you are in the Subiaco ‘hood, Architects And Heroes is one cafe that is highly recommended by the locals. It may be a simple and unassuming-looking cafe, but it has honest coffee, tea and fruit juices.

It has a relatively big menu of breakfast items and toasties options and a very interesting menu of artisanal tea selections from specialist growers from all over the world.

Architects And Heroes
25 Rokeby Rd, Subiaco, WA 6008, Australia
Mon to Fri: 6.30am – 4pm
Sat: 7am – 4pm
Sun: 7am – 3pm
Nearest Station: Subiaco

BREAD IN COMMON

Bread in Common is one of the most stunning cafes in Fremantle. Just a short walk from Esplanade Park, Bread In Common boasts a large indoor seating area with a distinct industrial look, hanging lights, numerous bottles of pickles and something that everyone comes here for—the A$2 free-flow bread.

Yes, you’ve heard that right. For just A$2, you get to have a go of the daily selection of house breads—as much as you can eat.

Apart from that, Bread In Common also has a menu of regular bakes, brunch mains and lots of fresh juice options.

Bread In Common
43 Pakenham St, Fremantle, WA 6160, Australia
Tel: +61 893 361 032
Sun to Thurs: 9am – 9pm
Fri & Sat: 9am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Fremantle

CHU BAKERY

Chu Bakery is arguably among the top bakeries in Perth. Strategically located opposite Hyde Park, the takeaway-only bakery spots long queues every day.

The display of daily fresh bakes are visually arresting, to say the least. There are Asian nuances on the menu, as well as some French flair. What you must try is its signature Chu Puff—a choux pastry well made, topped with luscious and a surprise jelly in the middle. And if you are lucky, grab yourself a Kaya Coconut Croissant. 

Chu Bakery
498 William St, Highgate, WA 6003, Australia
Tel: +61 893 284 740
Tues to Sun: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Station: East Perth / Claisebrook Station

DUOTONE

DuoTone is an independent specialty coffee cafe that serves all-day gourmet brekkie till 2pm. The gluten-free Sweet Potato Stack (A$18.50) is one of their bestselling breakfast items and it consists of avocado mash, egg, maple bacon, rocket leaves, quinoa and tomato chutney.

Patrons are entitled to A$1 coffee on Mondays and Tuesdays with every breakfast/lunch purchased.

DuoTone
313 Hay St, East Perth, WA 6004, Australia
Tel: +61 893 259 396
Mon to Fri: 6.30am – 3pm
Nearest Station: Moiver Station

HYLIN

This is arguably our favourite cafe in Perth. Hylin may be a bit off the grid, but this neighbourhood cafe in West Leederville is totally worth travelling for. Its modern architecture and decor make the cafe a very cosy space to retreat to for breakfast.

Its menu is well put-together, with a great variety of brunch items (our favourite is the Grilled Chorizo, Fried Egg & Creamed Corn), bagels, lots of coffee options, smoothies and juices.

Hylin
178 Railway Parade, West Leederville, WA 6007, Australia
Tel: +61 401 815 804
Mon to Sat: 6.30am – 3pm
Nearest Station: Leederville Station

KOKO BLACK

Koko Black is a chocolate institution, and one that all serious chocolate lovers must visit. Its outlet sits in the CBD area, and the huge space is as family friendly as it is romantic for a date.

We went for the degustation menu, and that is pretty much what everyone goes there for. At A$29.50, it comes with 5 sampler servings of Koko Black’s signature desserts and it is good for two to share. Our favourite has to be the Chocolate & Salted Caramel Tart!

Koko Black
140 William St, Perth, WA 6000, Australia
Tel: +61 892 263 929
Mon to Wed: 9.30am – 5.30pm
Thurs: 9.30am – 7pm
Fri: 9.30am – 10pm
Sat: 11am – 10pm
Sun: 12pm – 5.30pm
Nearest Station: Perth

LA VEEN

La Veen is where we had one of the best Avocado Smash in our lives. We are not even exaggerating! Its vegan Avocado Smash (A$18) comprises La Veen style avo creme slathered on sourdough bread, topped with fresh heirloom tomatoes, Danish feta, watercress and truffle oil. The seemingly complex flavours blended so well together, and every bite was memorable, with a lingering fragrance of the truffle oil.

This photogenic cafe sits in a heritage listed building, and the warm interior is inviting, cosy and very gorgeous. Red brick walls, long windows, relaxing music. Can we just say how much we love its Synesso coffee machine too?! Of course, while you are at it, have yourself a cuppa. La Veen does good coffee.

La Veen
90 King St, Perth, WA 6000, Australia
Tel: +61 893 211 188
Mon to Sat: 7am – 3pm
Sun: 8am – 1pm
Nearest Station: Perth

LAYUP

Layup is a cafe in Northbridge and is really a popular option in the ‘hood for its laid back vibes. The cafe is split into three parts—two rooms for indoor seating, and tables in the outdoor.

Plants and coffee aroma fill the space, and everyone loves their Acai Bowl (A$17). Other brunch items include Eggs on Toast (A$12), Lemongrass & Coconut Poached Salmon (A$24) and Deep Fried Hash (A$19).

Layup Cafe
197-199 Brisbane St, Perth, WA 6000, Australia
Tel: +61 481 064 166
Tues to Sun: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Perth

MARY STREET BAKERY

Mary Street Bakery is renowned for their baked treats. Feast on their exciting selection of pastries, namely Rosewater & Pistachio Doughnuts (A$4.50 each), Lemon Maple Pecan Doughnuts (A$4.50 each) and Cinnamon Doughnuts (A$4). The bakery-cum-cafe also serves a hearty variety of savouries such as Cured Salmon (A$23) and Pork Schnitzel (A$20) till 3pm.

Mary Street Bakery
507-509 Beaufort St, Highgate, WA 6003, Australia
Tel: +61 499 509 300
Daily: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Station: East Perth / Mt Lawley Station

SAYERS SISTER

Set foot into Sayers Sister and you would feel like you have just entered someone’s living room. The cosy cafe is exceptionally popular in Perth and it is not hard to understand why after sampling their glorious food. Go there for breakfast as they have really outstanding breakfast items, such as the Leek & Parmesan Croquettes (A$19.50) and Pancette Wrapped Asparagus (A$19.50).

Choose your coffees from two premium in-house blends, namely chocolate blend and floral blend. The former is characterised by creamy caramel notes and a lingering cocoa aftertaste, while the latter has a distinctive candied peach aroma and a lingering dark chocolate finish.

Sayers Sister
236 Lake St, Perth, WA 6000, Australia
Tel: +61 892 277 506
Daily: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Perth

SMALL PRINT BAKER & COFFEE MAKER

Coffee is serious business at Small Print Baker & Coffee Maker. From pourovers to cold brews, the specialty coffee shop’s professionally trained baristas would be happy to take you through the available seasonal coffees.

A comprehensive menu of artisanal breads, handcrafted cakes and scrumptious breakfast/lunch mains await too.

Small Print Baker & Coffee Maker
125 St Geroges Terrace, Perth, WA 6000, Australia
Tel: +61 862 820 022
Mon to Fri: 6.30m – 4pm
Nearest Station: Elizabeth Quay

TOAST

Toast is a scenic riverside cafe that oversees the Claisebrook Clove—an inlet of the picturesque Swan River—and serves nourishing all-day breakfast items.

Free-range eggs are sourced from Baldivis Farms, while free-range bacon and chicken come from Mondo Butchers. Bestsellers include Bacon & Maple Syrup Corn Fritters (A$16.90) and the classic Eggs Benedict (A$16.50).

Toast
21/60 Royal St, East Perth, WA 6004, Australia
Tel: +61 892 210 771
Daily: 7am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Claisebrook Station / East Perth

TUCK SHOP CAFE

While there is clearly nothing fancy about Tuck Shop Cafe, what won the Northbridge cafe a loyal fanbase is its simple but delicious food offerings.

Sink your teeth into Handmade Pies (A$12.95 each), Mixed Berry Pancakes (A$19.50) complemented with maple syrup and vanilla mascarpone or Bruschetta (A$18.50) with grilled bacon, goat’s curd, avocado and basil salad.

Tuck Shop Cafe
1/180 Newcastle St, Perth, WA 6000, Australia
Tel: +61 892 271 659
Tues to Sun: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Perth

TYPIKA ARTISAN ROASTERS

Warehouse-like cafe Typika boasts an on-site coffee roastery where patrons get to witness all the roasting actions firsthand. Their signature Golden French Toast (A$19.50) is a must-order; fluffy french toasts served with banana slices, maple candied bacon and generous amounts of gooey salted caramel.

Typika’s Spiced Beef Benedict (A$21.50) is equally impressive too! The savoury delight is served with two soft poached eggs, harissa hollandaise and slow cooked beef on toast. Gluten-free options are available for most of Typika’s dishes upon request.

Typika Artisan Roasters
331 Stirling Hwy, Claremont, WA 6010, Australia
Tel: +61 892 846 088
Daily: 6.390am – 3.30pm
Nearest Station: Claremont Station

WHISK CREAMERY

Whisk Creamery is truly a paradise for those who have a sweet tooth. Throngs of eager customers are seen lining up at virtually any hour of the day to get their dessert fix.

Order the Tom & Berry’s (A$15.40) – a choux puff filled with berry compote, vanilla gelato, rhubarb sorbet, fresh cream and a homemade strawberry-chocolate macaron. Or customise your own!

Whisk Creamery
151 Rokeby Rd, Subiaco, WA 6008, Australia
Tel: +61 861 622 948
Sun to Thurs: 11am – 9.30pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Subiaco

Chu Bakery is arguably among the top bakeries in Perth, and it is also one of our favourites.

Strategically located opposite Hyde Park on William Street, the takeaway-only bakery spots long queues every day. It is not hard to understand why the locals love Chu Bakery so much—an array of croissants and bakes, good coffee, and breakfast takeouts.

The simple-looking bakery has a modern offering that keeps its regulars—residents and visitors to the parks—coming every day.

Step in and you will instantly feel the warmth of the bakery; very home-like, very comforting. The display of daily fresh bakes are visually arresting, to say the least. There are Asian nuances on the menu, as well as some French flair.

What you must try is its signature Chu Puff (A$6)—a choux pastry well made, topped with luscious and a surprise jelly in the middle. We liked the Lychee Raspberry Chu Puff so much. It was light and refreshing with a hint of tartness that went very easy on the palate.

They do a pretty mean Lemon Meringue Tart too! Buttery case with smooth, creamy lemon curd, topped with a slightly torched meringue that wasn’t overly sweet.

And if you are lucky, grab yourself a Kaya Coconut Croissant. That is one outstanding creation of Chu’s and something that everyone speaks well of!

Chu Bakery
498 William St, Highgate WA 6003, Australia
Tue to Sun: 7am – 4pm
Tel: +61 8 9328 4740