Travel around Perth with Bobby
I chose to visit Perth because of its unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. The endless sunny days and stunning beaches like Cottesloe really caught my attention. I was also excited to explore Kings Park, one of the largest city parks in the world, and take in those incredible views of the skyline and Swan River. The rich history of Fremantle and the vibrant arts scene, especially during the Perth Festival, added even more reasons to visit. And of course, I couldn’t resist a trip to Rottnest Island to meet the famous quokkas! Perth offered the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a must-see.
Day 1Sun, Sand, and Skyline – A Perfect Start at Kings Park
After landing in Perth, I immediately felt the warmth of the sunny skies—a welcome change from the chilly mornings back home. I checked into my hotel, QT Perth, right in the heart of the city. The hotel was the perfect blend of luxury and fun, with modern interiors and a quirky rooftop bar that I’d have to check out later. But first, it was time to hit the ground running. My first stop: Kings Park.
Kings Park is more than just a park; it’s a living postcard of Perth’s beauty. As I strolled through the park’s endless green spaces, I found myself surrounded by native Australian flora and spectacular views of the city skyline and Swan River. I headed to the Fraser Avenue Lookout, where the panoramic view took my breath away—this was the perfect spot to get acquainted with the city. I could see why locals cherish this park; it’s a peaceful escape right in the middle of the city.
After soaking up the views, I spent some time exploring the Western Australian Botanic Garden. With pathways lined with native wildflowers, it felt like stepping into a natural wonderland. I ended the afternoon at Fraser’s Restaurant, located right in the park. Over a plate of beautifully prepared barramundi, I enjoyed the stunning backdrop of the river and the setting sun. The combination of good food, great views, and a peaceful atmosphere made it a perfect introduction to Perth.
If you visit Kings Park, make sure to wear comfortable shoes—there’s a lot of walking involved, but every step is worth it. Also, grab lunch or dinner at Fraser’s; the food matches the beauty of the park!
Day 2Fremantle – Where History Meets Hipster Vibes
The next morning, I hopped on the Fremantle Line train for a 30-minute ride to the historic port city of Fremantle. Stepping off the train felt like entering a different world. Fremantle, or “Freo” as the locals call it, has an old-world charm mixed with modern, artistic vibes. My first stop was the Fremantle Prison, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The prison was built by convicts in the 19th century, and the history here is palpable. I opted for the “Torchlight Tour,” which is both spooky and fascinating. Our guide led us through dimly lit corridors while sharing gripping tales of escapes and executions—it was an eerie yet captivating experience.
From there, I headed to the Fremantle Markets, which have been a staple of the city since 1897. The atmosphere was buzzing with life—local artisans selling handmade crafts, food vendors offering delicious street eats, and street performers adding a lively soundtrack to the day. For lunch, I grabbed a plate of freshly made seafood paella from a bustling food stall. It was a simple but flavorful meal, enjoyed while people-watching and soaking in the market’s vibrant energy.
Later in the afternoon, I took a leisurely walk down to the Esplanade Park, where I couldn’t resist hopping on the Fremantle Ferris Wheel. The views from the top were fantastic, offering a different perspective of the port city. As the sun began to set, I made my way to Little Creatures Brewery—a local favorite. I ordered a wood-fired pizza and paired it with one of their signature craft beers, enjoying the lively, relaxed atmosphere by the harbor.
The Fremantle Markets offered a wide variety of street food, and the fresh seafood paella was a standout. Little Creatures Brewery’s pizza and craft beer made for a great dinner in a lively atmosphere.
Food
Still staying at QT Perth, I enjoyed the convenience of its central location while visiting Fremantle. The hotel’s comfortable rooms and quirky design made it feel like a home base.
Accomodation
Fremantle’s mix of history and culture was fascinating, from the eerie Fremantle Prison tour to the vibrant markets. The day was full of exploration, with plenty to see and do.
Activity
Fremantle is a must-visit for anyone who loves history, markets, and great food. Make sure to dedicate a full day here to experience the prison, markets, and the relaxed vibe along the harbor.
Day 3Rottnest Island – Quokkas and Coastal Adventures
Day three was all about exploring the famous Rottnest Island, a short 30-minute ferry ride from Fremantle. I had heard so much about the island’s adorable quokkas, so I was excited to see them in person. After disembarking at the island’s main jetty, I rented a bike, which is by far the best way to explore Rottnest. The island is car-free, so cycling is not only enjoyable but essential.
I set off on my bike, following the coastal trails that led me to secluded beaches and bays, each more beautiful than the last. My first stop was The Basin, a stunning beach with crystal-clear waters and natural rock pools. It was perfect for a quick swim before continuing my ride. Along the way, I finally spotted my first quokka—a tiny, smiley marsupial that has earned Rottnest its reputation. Quokkas are super friendly and not shy at all. I couldn’t resist taking a few photos with these cute little creatures!
For lunch, I headed to Thomsons Rottnest, a casual waterfront restaurant with views of the ferry coming and going. I opted for a light meal—grilled fish and a fresh salad—before continuing my island adventure. The highlight of my day was snorkeling at Little Salmon Bay. The water was incredibly clear, and the underwater world was teeming with vibrant coral and fish. After a full day of cycling, swimming, and exploring, I caught the ferry back to Fremantle, with a content smile on my face.
Thomsons Rottnest offered a casual and tasty meal by the water, with fresh seafood dishes that were light and delicious. The atmosphere was laid-back, matching the island’s vibe perfectly.
Food
Back at QT Perth, I appreciated returning to a stylish and comfortable room after a full day of cycling and exploring. The rooftop bar was the perfect spot to unwind with a drink.
Accomodation
Rottnest Island was the highlight of the trip—cycling around the island, snorkeling, and of course, meeting the adorable quokkas made it an unforgettable day.
Activity
Rottnest Island is a day trip you can’t skip! Rent a bike and bring plenty of water—it can get hot cycling around, but the beaches and quokkas make it all worth it.
Day 4Swan Valley – A Wine Lover’s Dream
On my final day in Perth, I decided to indulge in a little wine and gourmet food adventure in Swan Valley, Western Australia’s oldest wine-growing region. Just a 30-minute drive from the city, Swan Valley is a peaceful escape full of vineyards, breweries, and gourmet food producers. I booked a wine tour that picked me up from my hotel and took me to some of the valley’s best spots.
Our first stop was Lancaster Wines, where I sampled a selection of their finest reds and whites. The vineyard itself was beautiful, with rows of grapevines stretching as far as the eye could see. Next, we visited Sandalford Winery, one of the oldest and most well-known estates in the region. The wine tasting here was exceptional, with knowledgeable staff guiding us through each pour. I couldn’t resist buying a bottle of their award-winning Shiraz to take home.
For lunch, we stopped at Mandoon Estate, which not only serves fantastic food but also has an art gallery and beer garden on-site. I enjoyed a farm-to-table meal featuring local produce and paired it with one of their signature wines. After lunch, I explored more of the valley, stopping by a chocolate factory and a local brewery to try a few more local specialties. By the time I headed back to Perth in the evening, I was full, happy, and ready to relax at the hotel.
The farm-to-table lunch at Mandoon Estate was fantastic, featuring local produce paired with excellent wines. It was a gourmet experience that perfectly complemented the day’s wine tasting.
Food
Once again at QT Perth, the stay remained consistent with excellent service and comfort. After a day of wine tasting, returning to such a stylish and central hotel made the experience even better.
Accomodation
Swan Valley’s wineries and gourmet experiences made for a relaxing and indulgent day. Wine tasting, chocolate sampling, and exploring the valley’s art scene was the perfect way to wrap up the trip.
Activity
Swan Valley is the perfect way to end your Perth trip. Even if you’re not a big wine fan, the local produce, chocolate, and art galleries make it a well-rounded experience.
Summary of My Trip
Perth was a pleasant surprise in so many ways. I’ve traveled to a lot of cities, but there’s something truly special about the mix of natural beauty and laid-back vibe here. From the stunning views at Kings Park to the charm of Fremantle’s markets, every day brought a new experience. Rottnest Island, with its quokkas and pristine beaches, felt like a slice of paradise just a ferry ride away. The food was a standout, whether it was fresh seafood by the river or gourmet dishes in the Swan Valley. The people were incredibly friendly, and getting around was easy, thanks to great public transport options. Staying at QT Perth gave me the perfect balance of luxury and fun, making the city feel like home for the week. The activities, from historical sites to wine tastings, kept things diverse and engaging. Overall, Perth delivered more than I expected—it’s a city that offers both relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal destination for any type of traveler. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable trip down under!
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Perth provided me with a well-rounded experience, blending nature, history, and modern amenities effortlessly. Whether I was exploring Kings Park, enjoying local cuisine, or experiencing the city’s rich culture, each day had something new to offer. The city is easy to navigate, and the people are friendly, making it an enjoyable destination for all types of travelers. Here's how I’d rate my experience in Perth across 10 key categories:
Fraser’s Restaurant in Kings Park served up fresh, locally sourced seafood with beautiful views of the city and Swan River. The barramundi was perfectly cooked, and the ambiance was peaceful and welcoming.
Food
QT Perth offered a fun and luxurious stay, with modern decor, great service, and a rooftop bar perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. The location was central, making it easy to get around.
Accomodation
Kings Park exceeded expectations with its stunning gardens, endless walking trails, and incredible city views. It was the perfect way to kick off the trip and get a feel for Perth’s natural beauty.
Activity