Where to stay in Perth City – 7 TOP Areas for Your Visit
Located in Western Australia, Perth is a port town and one of the most isolated cities in Australia. With the Indian Ocean on one side and the Australian Outback on the other, the city offers an abundance of tourist attractions and amazing beaches, so I won’t be surprised if you’re already wondering where to stay in Perth.
Well, no need to wonder! As a born-and-raised Australian, I know all about the different areas of Perth City, so I easily came up with a list of the 7 best.
So, I can tell you that Perth City Center, also known as the Central Business District, is the best place to stay if you’re visiting Perth for the first time, for its stunning architecture and vibrant urban scene.
I wanted to make things even easier for you, so I went through almost all of the hotels in Perth and selected the very best for each of the areas I’m recommending in this post. On my list, you’ll find recommendations for luxury hotels as well as more affordable options – there’s something for every budget!
All that’s left for you to do is pick a hotel and make a reservation as soon as possible – Perth is a sought-after destination, and hotels are quick to sell out.
If you are in a hurry
Check out this list of the best hotels in Perth CBD:
budget hotel
Best affordable accommodation
Here’s a Perth map of all the neighborhoods I’ll be covering in this post:
1. Perth City Center (Perth CBD) – for first-time visitors
Perth’s city center, also known as the Perth Central Business District (CBD for short), is the city’s lively cultural center. It features Victorian-era architecture, museums, and many attractions. However, Perth’s CBD also boasts many modern buildings, designer stores, and stylish restaurants, making it the ideal destination for those visiting Perth for the first time.
The Central Business District is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Swan River, the Indian Ocean, and the Kings Park and Botanic Garden (map), a gorgeous park with unique landscapes overlooking the river. While in the park, walk out to the pier and snap a photo with the Blue Boat House (map) – it’s very picturesque!
The next stop on your CBD itinerary should be Elizabeth Quay (map), a waterfront entertainment complex with a variety of restaurants and cafes. From here, you can continue on to The Bell Tower – you can go up to the observation deck and witness the most incredible views of Perth city.
If you’re into museums and galleries, definitely check out the WA Museum Boola Bardip and The Art Gallery of Western Australia. But if you’re more interested in concerts or sports events, you can see what’s on at the RAC Arena, or alternatively, attend a performance at Perth Concert Hall.
Finally, if you want to do some shopping in downtown Perth, you won’t be disappointed! The Murray Street Mall (map) and the Hay Street Mall (map) are open-air shopping centers featuring a large number of designer shops and department stores.
To explore more of the city and the region, head to Perth Station (map), one of the city’s main train stations. From there, embark on a fun day trip from Perth or start exploring one of the nearby wine regions.
Luxury hotel
In a fantastic location in downtown Perth, the Ritz-Carlton boasts an outdoor swimming pool, a sauna, and a hot tub, as well as 2 amazing restaurants and a rooftop bar. Guests will also benefit from modern amenities such as air conditioning, satellite TV, room service, and more.
Other accommodation options in Perth City Center
BUDGET
In a great location in the city center, this hostel offers accommodation in private rooms and shared dormitories
Budget
A 3-bedroom townhouse with a private entrance, a lounge, and a kitchen, as well as access to a private courtyard
Things to do in Perth CBD
- Spend an afternoon exploring Kings Park
- Head to Elizabeth Quay and grab some lunch at one of the restaurants
- Go up to the observation deck at The Bell Tower
- Pay a visit to the WA Museum Boola Bardip and The Art Gallery of Western Australia
- See whether there are any scheduled games at HBF Park
- Spend your day shopping at Forrest Chase (map) shopping mall
- Join a sunset tour of the Pinnacles Desert
2. Northbridge – where to stay in Perth for nightlife
Located North of Perth CBD, just a short 5 min walk away, Northbridge is a small neighborhood that is well-known as the vibrant nightlife hub of Perth City. This is where you will find the most bars, pubs, clubs, cocktail lounges, and restaurants in the city.
Northbridge is never short of art, theatrics, and literature—and the proof is Perth Cultural Centre, where art galleries, theaters, and museums are located. You can even attend live presentations to learn more about Perth’s artistic movement!
William Street will make your stay in Perth even more memorable. Remember to check out its vintage stores, cocktail lounges, and laid-back bars. Then, move on to Russell Square (map), one of the most important local attractions and the site of the Fringe World Festival, which takes place during summer – check their website for exact dates.
Northbridge makes it easy to get around Perth as it is well-connected by public transport. Moreover, due to its central location next to the CBD, walking to all major attractions and other areas shouldn’t be a problem.
So, whether you want to party until sunrise or just chill with a modern cocktail, Northbridge is THE place to stay. Just keep in mind that the area gets quite noisy and even rowdy, so it might not be the best spot for a holiday with the kids.
Luxury hotel
You’ll find this upscale boutique hotel in a prime location in Northbridge, offering 4-star service in fully-serviced apartments. Each unit at the apartment hotel has a fully equipped kitchen with a coffee machine, but guests will also benefit from the laundry facilities and private parking offered by the hotel.
Other accommodation options in Northbridge
mid-range
The hotel features a swimming pool overlooking the Perth city skyline, a 24-hour gym, and modern guest rooms
budget
Enjoy your comfortable bed in the air-conditioned dormitories and gain access to the communal kitchen and shared bathroom facilities
Airbnb
This 1-bedroom apartment has a private bathroom, a living area with a work desk, and a kitchenette
Things to do in Northbridge
- See the museums and art galleries at the Perth Cultural Centre
- Sample local craft beers at Northbridge Brewing Company (map)
- Enjoy the rooftop city views at Mechanics Institute
- Go bar hopping on William Street
- Have a thrilling experience at Escape This – Northbridge
- Check out the Fringe World Festival in Russell Square
- Try your hand at mini-golfing at Holey Moley Golf Club
- See a movie under the sky at Rooftop Movies
3. West Perth & Subiaco – where to stay for the best location
West Perth is situated West of the Central Business District and Northbridge, within walking distance of the main tourist attractions in these areas. Further West of West Perth, you’ll stumble upon the suburb of Subiaco. Both of these neighborhoods are in a prime location for exploring Perth City while offering a quieter and more relaxed environment.
West Perth is one of the most lucrative places to stay in Perth, with its high-rise residential and office buildings. Although the area is more residential, there are a few things to occupy your time in case you don’t feel like going to the city center.
The first thing I’d recommend checking out in West Perth is Jacob’s Ladder (map), a concrete staircase consisting of 242 steps. It’s quite the hike, but I can assure you that the view from the top is worth the effort. Better yet, it’s one of the best places to watch the sunset in Perth.
Then, there are a couple of museums you should visit – Scitech is a kid-friendly, interactive science museum and The Nostalgia Box Museum is a very cool place that explores the history of gaming.
If you feel like going on a shopping spree, your top destination should be the Watertown Brand Outlet Centre (map), a large outdoor complex featuring more than 100 outlet stores.
Subiaco, a stylish neighborhood in West Perth, is full of coffee shops, restaurants, and pubs. Shopaholics will enjoy the designer boutiques, beauty salons, and art galleries. Some of the attractions worth mentioning are Mueller Park (map), the Regal Theatre, and the Subiaco Arts Centre.
Now let’s take a look at the best Subiaco and West Perth accommodation:
Luxury hotel
This is among the best luxury hotels in Perth, situated in Subiaco and offering access to an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, a restaurant, and a rooftop bar. I’m sure you’ll enjoy the comfortable rooms, each with a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi access.
Other accommodation options in West Perth & Subiaco
mid-range
An amazing apartment hotel within walking distance of Kings Park, offering comfortable beds and free Wi-Fi
budget
This is the best budget accommodation in West Perth, overlooking the city center and offering on-site dining
Airbnb
This cozy studio has 1 bedroom with a comfortable bed, a living room, and a good-sized kitchen
Things to do in West Perth & Subiaco
- Enjoy the views from the top of Jacob’s Ladder
- Visit Scitech and The Nostalgia Box Museum
- Spend a relaxing afternoon at Harold Boas Gardens (map)
- Go for a stroll in Mueller Park
- Enjoy a relaxed, light-filled coffee at Tiisch (map)
- Attend a performance at the Regal Theatre or the Subiaco Arts Centre
- Stop by West End Deli (map) for the best brunch
- End the day with a drink at the bar of the Subiaco Hotel (map)
4. Fremantle – where to stay in Perth for a local vibe
Fremantle is a port town that’s part of the wider Perth Metropolitan area, 22 km (13 mi) Southwest of Perth Central Business District, or a 35-min train ride away. The area boasts a large number of cultural and historical attractions, and it’s the best place to immerse yourself in the local scene.
In Fremantle, you will find some notable attractions, such as Fremantle Prison, a former penitentiary that now hosts various tours and even a cafe, and the Fremantle Markets (map), a traditional indoor market dating back to the 19th century.
I highly recommend stopping by The Round House, another former prison, and the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour (map), home to various seafood restaurants and the amazing Little Creatures brewery (map).
There are also a couple of cool museums in Fremantle, so I suggest you start at the WA Maritime Museum, where you can join a guided submarine tour, then move on to the WA Shipwrecks Museum, dedicated to the history of Australia’s oldest shipwrecks.
No stay in the area would be complete without a visit to the Fremantle Arts Centre, an Australian Gothic building built by convicts. Here, you can see a variety of exhibitions, attend a live music show, and get some cool souvenirs.
And if you feel like hitting the beach, you’ll be happy to hear that the famous Cottesloe Beach (map) is just a 10-min drive away from Fremantle. So, pack your bag and snorkeling equipment and head to the beach!
Luxury hotel
This stunning boutique hotel provides luxurious accommodations in individually decorated rooms, each featuring modern amenities such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi. The National Hotel boasts an amazing restaurant but also offers room service if you don’t feel like leaving your room.
Other accommodation options in Fremantle
Mid-range
Guests at the Esplanade Hotel will enjoy the 2 outdoor pools, a buffet breakfast, and spacious and comfortable rooms
Budget
This hostel is the best budget accommodation in Fremantle, with a seasonal outdoor pool, a bar, and a shared kitchen
Airbnb
This spacious accommodation has an outdoor space for relaxing, barbecue facilities, and a private parking space
Things to do in Fremantle
- Take a tour of Fremantle Prison
- Spend the morning shopping at The Fremantle Markets
- Take a Swan River roundtrip cruise to Perth for the most scenic views
- Grab a pint in the Little Creatures brewery in Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour
- Explore the WA Maritime Museum and the WA Shipwrecks Museum
- Learn more about the exhibitions at Fremantle Arts Centre
- Find The Containbow sculpture (map) and snap a photo
5. South Perth – where to stay for families
Just across the Swan River from Perth city center is South Perth, the most enjoyable area for families. Situated just 4 km (2.5 mi) South of the city center, it’s much quieter and more peaceful than the Central Business District and offers a wide selection of family-friendly accommodations.
The main attraction in the area is the Perth Zoo, which is fun for the whole family! With more than 1,000 species of animals from all over the world, you will be spoilt for choice. Asian elephants, lions, and giraffes – you name it!
Another great thing to do in South Perth is have a picnic in Sir James Mitchell Park (map) and enjoy the views of the Swan River. You can also walk around the area and stop by The Old Mill (map), a restored tower mill that houses a great shop where you can get some souvenirs to remember your trip.
Moreover, South Perth is a great option because it’s still close to all attractions, and parking is abundant and easy to find, so it’s a great option if you’re traveling with a car. You can also get to the Central Business District via a quick ferry ride – the lines are frequent, the tickets are relatively cheap, and I’m sure the kids will have fun on the ride over!
Luxury hotel
Situated steps away from the South Perth Foreshore, this modern hotel provides accommodation in fully furnished apartments. You can choose from studio, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom apartments (perfect for families), make the most of the entertaining area, and also use the hotel’s conference center and business facilities.
Other accommodation options in South Perth
mid-range
Offering easy access to the city center, this apartment hotel boasts views of the river or the city skyline
budget
A great budget hotel with free car parking, a bar, and a restaurant serving locally sourced food
Airbnb
The room is in a recently renovated house near Perth Zoo, with a private half-bathroom and access to shared spaces
Things to do in South Perth
- Enjoy a fun-filled family day at the Perth Zoo
- Marvel at the spectacular views at South Perth Foreshore
- Hang out with friends and family at Sir James Mitchell Park
- Get some souvenirs at The Old Mill
- Try the delicious pizza at Ciao Italia
- Take a ferry across the Swan River to Elizabeth Quay in the CBD
- Grab lunch with fantastic views at The Boatshed Restaurant
6. Scarborough – where to stay in Perth near the beach
If you love soaking up the sun, then Scarborough is the ultimate place to stay in Perth. This coastal suburb is located 15 km (9 mi) Northwest of the Central Business District and has a very laid-back vibe that attracts families, surfers, and beach bums.
The main point of interest in the area is Scarborough Beach (map), with its crystal-clear water and golden sands. But there’s more to this beach! You’ll find a playground, an open-air swimming pool, a skate park, and numerous bars and restaurants.
If you’re looking for things to do at night, I suggest you check out the Scarborough Sunset Markets (map), a night market where you can enjoy live music and delicious street food, and you can also spend a fun night bowling at The Lookout Bar.
Scarborough also has the most popular nightclubs and pubs in Perth, so if you like to dance the night away, this is the place to stay. In addition to the vibrant nightlife, it provides shops with all kinds of beach essentials. Located northwest of the CBD, Scarborough is a bit isolated from the rest of the city, however, it is well connected to the main attractions of Perth with numerous bus stops.
Lastly, I would advise you to make the 5-mile (8 km) drive up to Hillarys Boat Harbour (map), from where you can join a tour of Rottnest Island and visit AQWA – The Aquarium Of Western Australia – a great opportunity for a day trip from Scarborough!
Luxury hotel
This is one of the best luxury hotels near the beach in Perth, with an outdoor pool and a terrace with barbecue facilities. Each of the units at the hotel apartment has a seating area, a work desk, and a spacious bedroom, while some of the apartments also have a fully equipped kitchen and laundry facilities.
Other accommodation options in Scarborough
mid-range
A great apartment hotel providing easy access to the beach, awesome ocean views, and 2 outdoor pools
budget
Within walking distance of the beach, this hotel offers spacious apartments with modern furnishings and air conditioning
Airbnb
A short walk from the beach, this 2-bedroom apartment can accommodate up to 6 people and provides stunning ocean views
Things to do in Scarborough
- Spend the day soaking up the sun at Scarborough Beach
- Pay a visit to the Scarborough Sunset Markets
- Go bowling at The Lookout Bar
- Spend a day at Peasholm Dog Beach (map)
- Take a relaxing walk through Abbett Park Reserve (map)
- Embark on a guided tour to Rottnest Island
- Grab a drink with a view of the beach at The Peach Pit (map)
- Have fun at The Aquarium Of Western Australia
7. East Perth & Burswood – where to stay for relaxation
Head East of the CBD to reach East Perth – it’s less than a mile (~1 km) away from the center – another favorite area for tourists who want peace and relaxation but want to remain close to important attractions. Cross the Swan River and find Burswood, an up-and-coming area offering fine dining, high-end shopping, and much more.
The most notable attractions in East Perth include the Perth Mint, where you can learn about the production of gold coins, and Saint Mary’s Cathedral (map), boasting impressive Gothic architecture.
If you want to get away from everything for a while, there’s no place like Langley Park (map), with its large green lawns and its riverfront promenade. I’d also recommend paying a visit to the Perth City Farm (map), a lovely garden center that sells a variety of plants and flowers and also hosts a Saturday market.
In addition, this area is home to the Queens Gardens (map), which hosts a replica of the famous Peter Pan statue, just like the one in Kensington Gardens. For leisure, you can sit and relax at one of the many chic bars and restaurants by the waterfront. And if you like being active, I recommend walking or cycling the trails along the banks of the Swan River.
TIP: if you like exploring parks, plan a visit to Caversham Wildlife Park, home to over 200 animal species and just a 25-min drive away from East Perth.
Located on the opposite side of the Swan River, Burswood is another great place for relaxation and entertainment. Here, you can keep yourself occupied with golf courses, casinos, and picturesque gardens.
The main Burswood landmark is Optus Stadium, home to the AFL teams, the West Coast Eagles and the Fremantle Dockers. If you’re a sports fan, you should consider getting tickets for a game at the stadium.
Both East Perth and Burswood are near the CBD, and public transport is also available, so even if you stay here, you’ll still have access to the main tourist attractions in Perth.
Luxury hotel
The Crown Towers is definitely one of the best luxury hotels in Perth, with a multi-tiered pool area, a luxurious spa center, and access to as many as 32 restaurants within the same complex. Each of the rooms in the hotel has high-end furnishings, a marble bathroom, and a mini-bar.
Other accommodation options in East Perth & Burswood
mid-range
A waterfront apartment hotel providing easy access to Peth’s CBD, and free use of the swimming pool and barbecue facilities
budget
All rooms at this budget accommodation are non-smoking and air-conditioned, and you’ll also benefit from free parking
Airbnb
This 2-bedroom apartment also has a cozy living area, functional kitchen, and a clean bathroom and offers free parking
Things to do in East Perth and Burswood
- Take a guided tour at Perth Mint
- Stop by Saint Mary’s Cathedral
- Spend a relaxing afternoon in Langley Park
- Attend the market at Perth City Farm
- Explore the Queens Gardens
- Plan a day trip to Caversham Wildlife Park
- Visit the best harness racing track at Gloucester Park
- Catch a game at Optus Stadium
- Pay a visit to the Victoria Gardens (map)
BONUS: Best hotels near Perth Airport
If you find yourself in Perth during a layover or you have an early morning/ late-night flight, it’s a good idea to stay somewhere near the airport and get a few extra hours of sleep.
To save you some time, I compiled a list of the top Perth hotels near the airport, ranging from luxury hotels to affordable budget accommodation:
- Ingot Hotel Perth ($$$) – if you’re looking for the best luxury hotel near the airport, the Ingot Hotel should be your top choice. Offering a free shuttle bus to and from the airport, this hotel also features a restaurant and an outdoor swimming pool.
- Airport Apartments by Vetroblu ($$) – an apartment hotel offering a shuttle service for an extra cost, a 24/7 front desk, and free on-site parking, as well as having a very friendly and helpful staff.
- Ascot on Swan Bed & Breakfast ($) – this lovely B&B is situated within walking distance of many cute cafes and shops. The property also provides airport shuttle services and a delicious continental or gluten-free breakfast at no extra cost.
FAQs about where to stay in Perth
💯 What is the best part of Perth to stay in?
The best place to stay in Perth is the city center, i.e., the Central Business District (CBD), with attractions like The Bell Tower and Elizabeth Quay, and some of the top hotels in Perth like The Ritz-Carlton and the Nightcap at Belgian Beer Cafe.
🤔 Is it better to stay in Perth CBD or Fremantle?
If you’re going to Perth for the first time and want to be close to all the major tourist attractions, I suggest staying in Perth CBD. However, if you want to experience Perth’s local vibe, it’s a good idea to stay in Fremantle.
📆 How many days should I spend in Perth?
To fully experience Perth, plan at least 3 to 4 days. This should give you enough time to visit the city’s main landmarks, but if you want to add some experiences or day trips to your itinerary, it’s better to spend a week in Perth.
🚶🏽 Is Perth a walkable city?
Yes, Perth is quite a walkable city. Most of the top attractions are within walking distance of each other, and the city has wide pavements, so you can take your time strolling the streets.
🚗 Can you get around Perth without a car?
Yes, you can explore Perth without a car. You can walk around the city center and the adjacent neighborhoods, and if you’re staying further away in Fremantle or Scarborough, you can rely on public transport.
🪙 Is Perth a cheap city?
Perth is an affordable city, especially compared to other cities in Australia, such as Sydney. If you choose to do the trans-continental train journey from Sydney to Perth, you’ll notice a significant difference in the cost of accommodation, food, and leisurely activities.
⚖️ Which side of Perth is better?
If you want to be close to the main attractions, have easy beach access, and join in the city’s vibrant nightlife, head to West Perth. However, if you want something more relaxing and family-friendly, then choose either East Pert or South Perth.
👨👩👧👦 Where to stay in Perth with family?
👩❤️👨 Where to stay in Perth for couples?
If you’re going to Perth on a romantic getaway, I recommend you stay either in Burswood at the Crown Towers Perth or in Subiaco at the Vibe Hotel.
Conclusion
I hope you liked my article on where to stay in Perth and you have found the ideal accommodation to suit your needs.
If you’re still on the fence about what to pick, these are my 2 favorite hotels in Perth’s CBD:
Wherever you decide to stay, make reservations well ahead of your trip to secure the best rates on your favorite hotel.
If you enjoyed this content, check out our other articles on Western Australia. And feel free to leave me a comment if you have any questions about your stay in Perth – I’ll be happy to help!
Enjoy your trip to Perth, Australia!
Kate
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