Where is the best place to stay in Perth?
By Carles Barcelo. Updated October 27, 2023
The best place to stay in Perth is the Central Business District in the city centre, which surrounds the meandering Swan River and follows it to the sparkling and glittering Indian Ocean.
The centre of it all is the pedestrianised Forrest Place and all around it there are many things to see and do like art galleries, highly-praised museums, magnificent modern and historic architecture and lots of entertainment complexes. The area has mountains of shopping to do with markets and malls in abundance and there is a huge choice of food, drinks and accommodation that will cater for anyone’s needs.
One of the main appealing factors for tourists coming to the capital of Western Australia, Perth, is the mixture of Mediterranean and Californian climate as it has hot and dry summers and mild and warm winters. Perth receives the most hours of sunshine than any other Australian city, which has all the ingredients for a perfect holiday. It has some of the best beaches in the country where you will see wild dolphins, cultural and historical sites, some of the largest inner parks in the world and lots of excellent cuisines to try out as well as world-class wineries.If you are interested in where to stay in Perth, you may also be interested in where to stay in Adelaide, where to stay in Sydney, where to stay in Melbourne and where to stay in Brisbane.
CBD, the best area to stay in Perth
While the term ‘business’ may be in the name, the Central Business District (CBD) in Perth is far from being just a hub of commerce. In fact, it offers an excellent blend of business and leisure, making it the best area to stay in Perth. The CBD boasts an impressive culinary scene, with some of Australia’s best and most sophisticated food and wine offerings.
The many art galleries, especially AG WA with its outstanding collection of Aboriginal and Asian art, are a must-visit for culture enthusiasts. Shopping enthusiasts can delight in a vast array of shopping options, from local and European designer goods to Aboriginal arts and crafts.
Additionally, the stunning Swan River is within walking distance, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. So, whether you’re visiting Perth for business or leisure, the CBD has something for everyone.
Other neighbourhoods to stay in Perth
East Perth
East Perth is a wonderful suburb of Perth and a great place to stay as there is so much going on! The water front area is very relaxing as it has chic bars and excellent seafood restaurants coupled with great views.
If you fancy being active, there are good walking and cycling trails along the banks of the Swan river and for relaxing, there are great open green spaces including Queens Gardens and Wellington Square.
If you fancy exploring inland, there are the historic centres of Guildford and Midland and the dramatic Wave Rock that looks just like a huge ocean wave. Other options include joining a wine, beer and chocolate tour, relaxing on a Swan River boat tour or spending a night under the stars on a stargazing tour. You can enjoy the thrill of quad biking or a romantic moonlight cruise with dinner on the Swan River.
Scarborough
If you enjoy water sports, Scarborough is the perfect place for you to stay! There are long stretches of gorgeous white sands and the perfect surf for surfers, kite boarders, body boarders and wind surfers- especially in the afternoons when the onshore breeze picks up. Even if you are not into these water sports, the coastline is impressive, because as well as lovely white beaches and marshy areas, there are spectacular views over the North Atlantic Ocean and itis a great spot for sunbathing and swimming.
It is great for family fun too, as the beach is monitored by surf life savers. One of the great new attractions is the new Beach Pool which is the geothermally heated public pool that is world class- as is its recreation facility.
Once the sun goes down, there is a distinct changein tempo and Scarborough beach becomes alive with restaurants, cafes and fun public barbecues.
West Perth
West Perth is predominately a professional’s and wealthy area, where a high proportion of miners, politicians and medical specialists live and work in the high-rise office buildings.
The most notable things to see and do here include the Parliament House, which acts as the Parliament of Western Australia. The building itself is of Greek Revival architecture and was built in the late 19th century and guided tours can take you around it.
Other things to see are the original Perth Observatory and Solidarity Park, which is where a monument is dedicated to trade union workers that have died when involved in work. The shopping is the main crowd-puller for the area as you can choose between Hay Street, Harbour Town and City West complex with each of them having luxury shops as well as cheap goodies. However, for restaurants, pubs and hotels it is best to look at Hay Street.
Ascot
Ascot is a charming suburb of Perth that covers a narrow strip of land on the south side of the scenic Swan River. Its proximity to the airport makes it an ideal location for visitors arriving or departing late. Ascot gets its name from the renowned Ascot Racecourse, the neighborhood’s main attraction, which hosts thrilling horse racing events throughout the year.
Apart from the racecourse, the suburb is also well-known for its picturesque river strolls, offering breathtaking views of the serene surroundings. Visitors can take a leisurely walk or jog alongside the river and enjoy the tranquil ambiance.
For those interested in shopping, dining, and drinking, the vibrant part of the suburb is located around Resolution Drive. Here, you will find a wide range of restaurants and bars, serving a diverse selection of local and international cuisine. Additionally, there are plenty of shops offering everything from boutique fashion to unique souvenirs. Whether you are seeking a relaxing retreat or an exciting adventure, Ascot is a great place to stay during your visit to Perth.
South Perth
The city of South Perth is the best place to stay in Perth for those who love riverside hotels, lovely green spaces and outdoor activities. Situated just 4 km south of Central Perth, with very convenient public transport connections to downtown, South Perth enjoys an ideal location. It has a vibrant nightlife, yet plenty of peaceful areas to relax in nature.
Indeed, there are many great cycle paths and parks in South Perth where you can enjoy the fresh air and good weather. You can also take some scenic ferry rides along the river, and even visit the highly-rated Perth Zoo!
South Perth also boasts an excellent culinary scene, with numerous riverside restaurants and cafés. There are many great shopping options too, particularly along the buzzing Angelo Street. And in terms of accommodation options, you can choose from budget options or upmarket riverside hotels, with beautiful panoramic views of Perth.
Burswood
Just across the river from Perth’s Central Business District lies the beautiful suburb of Burswood. This is a vibrant area with no shortage of places to stay.
Burswood is the best area to stay for those who love entertainment and events. It is home to the famous Crown Perth Casino and Entertainment Complex (officially Western Australia’s only licensed casino). This is arguably Burswood’s most popular attraction, and you can gamble the night away as well as partying at one of the complex’s clubs or bars. There is also fantastic theatre, musical performances and sporting events here all year round!
Aside from the entertainment, you can enjoy relaxing riverside walks in Burswood. There are also a number of outdoor sporting activities for active travelers, including tennis courts and the local golf course. There is a wide range of hotels to choose from, whether you are on a budget or not at all.
Northbridge
Northbridge, located in the heart of Perth, is an energetic and culturally diverse area that offers an exciting and dynamic experience for those looking to stay in the city. Known for its vibrant nightlife, art scene, and multicultural dining options, Northbridge is a popular choice for both locals and tourists alike.
Staying in Northbridge means being at the centre of the action. The area is home to numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues, making it a perfect destination for those seeking entertainment and a lively atmosphere. During the day, visitors can explore its eclectic street art, visit contemporary galleries, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry that includes various festivals and events.
Additionally, Northbridge’s location provides easy access to other major attractions in Perth. The CBD is within walking distance, offering excellent shopping, dining, and business opportunities.
Fremantle
Fremantle, located just a stone’s throw away from Perth, is a vibrant and culturally rich area that offers an enticing experience for visitors and residents alike. This historic port city on Australia’s west coast boasts a unique blend of old-world charm and modern attractions. With its picturesque streets, colonial architecture, and bustling markets, Fremantle exudes a captivating ambiance.
Staying in Fremantle offers a range of activities and amenities, making it an ideal base for exploring the greater Perth region. Visitors can explore the Maritime Museum, Fremantle Prison, and the iconic Fremantle Markets, where they can indulge in a variety of culinary delights and artisanal crafts. The area’s pristine beaches and lively waterfront ensure plenty of outdoor fun, from swimming and surfing to sunset strolls along the esplanade.
Moreover, Fremantle’s exceptional dining scene, featuring diverse cuisines and renowned seafood restaurants, promises a delightful culinary journey.
Our recommended hotels in Perth
Use the interactive map to navigate through our recommended hotels in PerthNote: Hotel prices can change daily due to promotions, seasons, and demand. Our $ - $$$$ scale shows the overall cost range rather than exact prices.
