Perth Landmarks: Urban Gems and Top-Rated Accommodations

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Update Icon Aug 23, 2023

From nature sanctuaries to historic sites, these Perth landmarks define the city’s spirit. Find out where to go, what to see, and where to stay in Western Australia’s sunny capital.

Perth’s landmarks are a combination of natural landscapes, manmade structures, and historic buildings, such as those seen in abundance in Fremantle or ‘Freo’. (Photo Credit: Samuel T)

Australia’s Sunniest City

The heart of Western Australia is a gem for curious wanderers. Perth’s landmarks alone are bursting with peaceful nature spots, calming shorelines, and a rich tapestry of cultural highlights. And with Perth receiving an average of 3,200 hours of sunlight annually, visitors are guaranteed clear skies year-round — perfect for urban exploration!

Last time, we showed you the best places to visit in Perth. Now, we’ll take you to Perth’s landmarks, specifically the spots that harbor rich culture, modern relaxation, and forward-thinking technologies. We’ll also show you the choicest spots to stay at, so you can plan a vibrant vacation in this sun-drenched locale.


Must-Visit Perth Landmarks

These Perth landmarks perfectly encapsulate the city’s essence, from its historic spots and urban oases to its timeless design marvels. Let’s embark on a whirlwind tour of Perth’s most iconic sites:

FREMANTLE PRISON 

1 The Terrace, Fremantle WA 6160, Australia 

Step back in time at the Fremantle Prison, a UNESCO World Heritage site that used to house the most notorious convicts. It’s a window to the 19th-century inmate’s world, from the cell blocks to the subterranean escape tunnels. Boat tours are available, but fans of the macabre will be better suited to the Torchlight tours.

If you’re planning to hop from city to city in Australia for a cultural escapade, check out our guide to Sydney’s museums and historical attractions!

KINGS PARK 

Fraser Avenue, Perth, WA 6005, Australia 

Embrace the vastness of the verdant Kings Park, a global leader in inner-city green spaces. With a bouquet of botanical gardens, lush landscapes, and Western Australia’s unique flora, it gives you unmatched views of Swan River and Perth’s sparkling skyline.

Kings Park is one Perth landmark that allows visitors to kick back in its green spaces. (Photo Credit: Paul Arky)

PERTH MINT 

310 Hay St, East Perth, WA 6004, Australia 

One visit to the Perth Mint, and you’ll understand why there’s such a thing as a gold rush! Known for its precious metal creations, The Perth Mint allows guests to witness the magic of jewelry making. If you manage to peel your eyes from the molten gold, be sure to check out their array of jewelry and collector coins.

PERTH ZOO 

20 Labouchere Rd, South Perth, WA 6151, Australia 

Diverse wildlife awaits you at the Perth Zoo. It’s a sanctuary for over 1,200 animals from around the world and the best place in the city to learn about wildlife conservation efforts. Not to state the obvious, but this is the perfect place for animal lovers.

The Sun Bear, named for the yellow, rising-sun-shaped patch on their chest, is only one of the many species housed within the Perth Zoo conservation center. (Photo Credit: Slavan)

ELIZABETH QUAY 

The Esplanade, Perth WA 6000, Australia 

Elizabeth Quay offers a cornucopia of dining, leisure, and scenic splendors. The mesmerizing Spanda sculpture by Christian de Vietri is among the few Perth landmarks that are irresistibly Instagrammable. 

And speaking of poster-perfect snapshots, did we mention that Australia is chock-full of gorgeous vacation spots? If you’re looking to buff up your travel feed with eye-catching photos, check out our guide to the Sunshine Coast’s best beaches.

PERTH BELL TOWER 

Barrack Square, Perth WA 6000, Australia 

Dominating Perth’s riverscape, the Bell Tower houses the Swan Bells, which are among the oldest existing bells in the world. After a demonstration and tours around these historical artifacts, you can cool off at the observation deck as you drink in the view of Perth’s upscale architectural dwellings and nature escapes.

The Bell Tower, a Perth Landmark that houses historical parish bells despite its modern appearance, lit up at night. (Photo Credit: Iain Kennedy)

ART GALLERY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA 

Perth Cultural Centre, Perth WA 6000, Australia

For the artistically inclined, the Art Gallery of Western Australia is a must-visit. This institution houses a rotating exhibit of Western Australian, Australian, and international art. Expand your cultural horizons and get inspired by the myriad of colors, styles, media, and narratives that dot its halls.

SCITECH 

City West Centre, Sutherland St, West Perth WA 6005, Australia 

A highly prescribed setting for families, SciTech promises a splash of interactive fun for all ages. Revel in a world of innovation designed for minds young and old. This educational and entertaining science museum ignites curiosity in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math. 

Exhibits centered around robotics are a crowd favorite at SciTech. (Photo Credit: stem.T4L)

WACA GROUND 

Nelson Cres, East Perth WA 6004, Australia 

WACA Ground is the place to immerse yourself in the excitement of cricket. If you time your visit with any of the Ground’s major matches or events, you’ll be treated to the Australian sports scene like you’ve never seen it before. 

THE PINNACLES 

Pinnacles Dr, Cervantes WA 6511, Australia 

Though a little ways beyond the city, The Pinnacles is a close-to-Perth landmark that promises an out-of-this-world experience. The Pinnacles pertain to the towering limestones that dot the golden desert. Believe us when we say: this place is straight out of a sci-fi film!

If your appetite for the Australian outback got whetted by The Pinnacles, do check out our guide to adventure activities in Melbourne.

The Pinnacles are ancient rock formations that today dot the desert landscape and give it an out-of-this-world feel. (Photo Credit: Chris Stenger)

Where to Stay in Perth, Australia

After immersing yourself in the allure of Perth’s landmarks, finding that snug nook to unwind in becomes paramount. Dive into five of Perth’s premier locations, where ease, luxury, and authenticity coalesce:

1. SOUTH PERTH 

Just a stone’s throw across the river from Perth’s heart, South Perth unveils breathtaking vistas of the city, most notably from the iconic Sir James Mitchell Park. It’s where the famed Perth Zoo resides, delighting families and nature enthusiasts alike. The bustling South Perth Esplanade is adorned with eateries, including the delightful “The Boatshed Restaurant.” Post-meal, why not meander around Mends Street Jetty or treat yourself at the Mends Street shopping arena?

2. NORTHBRIDGE 

Embodying a spirited nightlife and a melting pot of cultures, Northbridge beckons those craving a pulsating city vibe. The Perth Cultural Centre, myriad art hubs, and the State Theatre Centre of Western Australia take center stage here. And if pasta calls out to you, don’t skip the “Francoforte Spaghetti Bar.”

Photo Credit: DOUBLETREE BY HILTON PERTH NORTHBRIDGE | HOTEL IN NORTHBRIDGE

3. FREMANTLE 

Affectionately dubbed “Freo” by the locals, this vintage port city pulsates with charm. Meander Fremantle’s famous cappuccino corridor, bustling with quaint cafes, or hunt for treasures at the Fremantle Markets. And, of course, the iconic Perth landmark, Fremantle Prison, demands a visit.

4. WEST PERTH 

Offering serenity without distancing itself from urban flair, West Perth is a delightful paradox. It nestles SciTech close to its heart and sits in the gentle shadow of Kings Park. Whether you’re up for a caffeine fix at “Gordon Street Garage” or a sumptuous treat at “Black Tom’s,” West Perth delivers.

5. EAST PERTH 

Draped elegantly by the Swan River’s embrace, East Perth promises a relaxed retreat. Key attractions like the Perth Mint and WACA Ground call it home. Your taste buds can dance with joy at “Bakers Hill” or dive into a seafood feast at “The Partisan.”

Photo Credit: PAN PACIFIC PERTH | HOTEL IN EAST PERTH

Wander Through ‘Westralia’ With Hotala

So there you have it — a vibrant palette of Perth landmarks awaiting your discovery! The next move? Get that suitcase ready and set forth on your next remarkable expedition. For crafting the perfect itinerary and finding the perfect stay, let Hotala be your trusted planning partner! 

Our platform lists a diverse selection of hotels, resorts, and vacation lodgings in Perth and across the globe. Whether you’re enticed by a beachside villa, a quaint riverside cabin, luxurious city hotels, or the homey B&Bs, we have thousands of options and user-friendly filters that will help you match your group size, preferred location, and budget with the best accommodation.

So, start planning your Aussie adventure today!

And if you’ve been there, done that, you can subscribe to The Hot List to get weekly updates on the Hottest destinations! Travel farther, experience more, and discover hot deals in hot destinations with Hotala.


TLDR

From Kings Park’s awe-inspiring natural wonders to the mystique tales echoing within Fremantle Prison, our guide spotlights Perth landmarks that paint the city’s distinct allure. Dive deep into the world of art at the Art Gallery of Western Australia, stand awestruck by the sweeping vistas from Elizabeth Quay, or lose yourself amidst The Pinnacles’ ethereal landscapes. For lodgings, ponder upon the dynamic vibes of South Perth, Northbridge’s cultural tapestry, the serenity of West Perth, Fremantle’s storied streets, or the scenic embrace of East Perth. And don’t forget, Hotala is here to bridge you to your ideal nest, ensuring your Perth escapade remains etched in memory. In Perth’s myriad offerings and adventures, every wanderer will find a sun-kissed slice of heaven.

Feature Image Photo Credit: M.Fildza Fadzil