Built on 60,000 years of history, the iconic capital of Western Australia is known for its international art galleries, breathtaking skylines, vast array of wildlife, and high-end eateries. Walking tours led by Nyoongar guides offer visitors the chance to hear more about the deep spiritual connection that Australia’s First Peoples have with this particular region, as well as the origins of their rituals and beliefs.

Scenic bushland in Kings Park offers picturesque surroundings for morning yoga and sunset strolls, and wildlife-spotters will be in their element around the city, looking out for black swans, koalas, and a host of different seabirds. There’s art galore at the Art Gallery of Western Australia and the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art, while the grand building of the Perth Mint houses a one-tonne gold coin as well as a unique insight into the region’s gold mining history.

Perth Airport (PER) is located a little over six miles from the city’s central business district. You can take a bus into the city directly from any of the airport terminals, with services running seven days a week. Ride-hailing and car rental services are also easy options, with a journey time of less than 20 minutes. If your Perth holiday rental is centrally located, most things will be accessible on foot, and the city centre also boasts a free transport zone for bus rides. Ferries criss-cross the Swan River, local trains serve the wider suburbs, and the city is also accessible by bike.

Like many other Australian cities, sunshine is pretty much guaranteed all year round in Perth. Summers here (December through February) tend to be hot and dry, so sun protection is essential. If you’re looking for warmth rather than heat and cascades of blooming wildflowers, the months bridging winter and spring are your best bet. Late summer and early autumn (March and April) are filled with local events. Schedule your trip for February to coincide with the Australia’s longest running annual festival which is a celebration of the city’s art and culture. A visit in March is a popular choice for foodies who are looking to get in on the action at the Swan Valley midsummer feast, which showcases produce from the Perth region. The winter months are usually cool and wet, with the chance of heavy showers and thunderstorms.

Kangaroo-spotting

Located right in the middle of the Swan River, Heirisson Island holds a great deal of significance to the local Noongar people, and also plays host to an abundance of kangaroos. In addition, the area is home to native plant species and a vast array of birds, so be sure to bring along your binoculars.

Fremantle

Head 30 minutes to the city’s outskirts to soak up the atmosphere in Freo, as the locals call it. The dynamic port of Fremantle boasts an eclectic mix of artists and entertainers, who are often eager to show off their skills in the neighbourhood. Browse the weekend markets, learn about the port’s maritime history at the WA Shipwreck Museum, and head to one of the restaurants along the waterfront for dinner with a view.

The Bell Tower

This towering glass spire is one of Perth’s most iconic monuments. It was originally custom-built to house the 14th-century bells of Saint Martin-in-the-Fields Church in Trafalgar Square, London. The tower is also home to the Anzac Bell, which rings at midday for a minute on a daily basis, and there are sweeping vistas to be had from the open-air viewing deck.