The best areas to stay in Perth for first-timers are Perth CBD, Fremantle, West Perth, Subiaco, Northbridge, South Perth, Scarborough, and East Perth. These are popular and safe neighborhoods for tourists that offer a wide variety of attractions and amenities. In this post, we will discuss about where to stay in Perth for tourists, for couples, families, backpackers, all budget travelers.
Located in Western Australia (WA), Perth is well known for its world-class beaches, excellent surfing spots, carefree lifestyle, and supreme climate. Incredible national parks surround the city and some of the world’s best wines from the neighboring Margaret River. The city is home to a wide range of parks and outdoor activities and even some great restaurants and bars.
Perth is a sprawling city, spread over 6000 square km. Although Perth has one of the most efficient public transport systems in the world, it is still very spread out and choosing the right spot that suits your needs is essential.
Perth CBD is the best area to stay in Perth for first-timers because it has a super central location and it offers the widest range of accommodation options. If you stay here, you will be located in the heart of action, within easy walking distance to famous tourist attractions, as well as restaurants, bars, and shops.
South Perth is also some of the neighborhood to consider to stay during your holiday because it’s central to everything, close to the beach. South Perth offers the best views of the city, and it’s easy to get into the CBD and catch public transport to anywhere in Perth.
It depends on what you’re in Perth for, and if you’re going to Perth with a family. There are better places for those who love nature, and great spots for those like to party and superb areas for those who appreciate art galleries and culture. Some locations are better for shopping such as Subiaco or the CBD.
Apart from staying in Perth City itself, you can consider to stay in Fremantle if you have lots of time in WA and want to soak in the local culture and history. Both Fremantle and Perth are major cities in WA. Fremantle is walkable with plenty of tourist attractions and amenities. It take about 30 minutes to travel betwen two cities, trains between Perth and Fremantle station run every 10 – 15 minutes.
| 💖 Best Area for First-Timers: | Perth CBD |
| 💎 Best luxury hotel: | Duxton Hotel Perth |
| 🏨 Best mid-range hotel: | Peppers Kings Square Hotel |
| 💰 Best budget hotel: | Hostel G Perth |
- Where to Stay in Perth Australia: 8 Best Areas to Stay in Perth
- 📌 Perth CBD, best area to stay in Perth for first time traveler
- 📌 West Perth, within walking distance from the CBD
- 📌 Subiaco, good area to stay in Perth on a budget
- 📌 Northbridge, where to stay in Perth for nightlife
- 📌 South Perth, where to stay in Perth for families
- 📌 Scarborough, staying in Perth near the beach
- 📌 Burswood/East Perth, for relaxing holiday
- 📌 Fremantle, best area to stay near Perth
Where to Stay in Perth: 8 Best Areas to Stay in Perth
1. Perth CBD, best area to stay in Perth for first time
Perth CBD is the best place to stay in Perth for first-time travelers due to its prime location. If you stay here, you will be located in the middle of action, within walking distance to the top sights, as well as many restaurants, bars, and shops.
Located on the Swan River (Derbarl Yerrigan), 11km from Perth Airport, and 15-minute drive to the city’s famous beaches, Perth CBD has something for everyone, families, couples, and solo travelers.
A popular attraction is the Kings Park and Western Australian Botanic Garden, which is a beautiful garden with fabulous views of the Perth CBD. It is one of the world’s biggest inner city parks with heaps of Aboriginal and European culture. If the sun’s out and it usually is then this is a great spot.
The vibrant Barrack Square is also worth a visit. Located on the foreshore of the Swan River, the square is packed with shops, restaurants, bars, and busy with workers from the CBD. The square is home to the towering glass spire of The Bell Tower.
You can take a ferry from the jetties at Barrack Square to visit Rottnest Island. The Barack Street Jetties are also a departure point for river cruises to Fremantle, Swan Valley, and the ferries to South Perth and Perth Zoo.
The Swan River’s paths are great places to walk, ride, skate, or take a tour on a Segway. You can have a picnic or enjoy the sunset in surrounding green areas. There are water activities such as sailing, windsurfing and kayaking.
You can catch a show at the 20th-century His Majesty’s Theatre on Hay Street. It is the only remaining working Edwardian Baroque theatre in Australia that played host to world renowned musicals, ballet, and opera.
King Street, Murray Street, and Hay Street, is are some of the popular streets in the heart of CBD. King Street is packed with early 20th-century buildings, as well as designer shops and boutiques. it is a great place to do window shopping.
The Twilight Hawkers Markets is a great place for foodies. The market runs every Friday night from October to April. You can enjoy the tastiest street food from around the world in the heart of Perth.
Karla Yarning: Stories of the Home Fires is a set of Aboriginal heritage maps, allowing visitors to discover the importance Aboriginal heritage and learn about the Wadjuk Noongar history before white settlers arrive in 1829. You can download the maps from the PCC website or get a map from the WA visitors centre, and iCity Kiosk in the Murray Street mall.
Other places of interest are the St Mary’s Cathedral, Art Gallery of Western Australia, Barracks Archway, the Western Australian Museum, the Perth Cultural Centre, Forrest Chase, Forrest Place, Burswood Entertainment Complex, Riverside Drive, Murray Street Mall, and Elizabeth Quay.
You can easily getting around Perth CBD on foot or by the free Central Area Transit (CAT) bus services, which run around Perth CBD and Northbridge and stops at Perth’s top tourist attractions .
Perth central business district offers a wide range of accommodation options for all budget travelers. There are superb backpacker hostels, budget 3-star hotels, and plenty of 5-star luxury hotels.
Stay in Perth CBD if this is your first time visiting the capital of Western Australia, you want to be a short drive from the coast, you want to be central, you don’t care about being in a busy area;
Best Places to Stay in Perth CBD:
luxury ($$$): QT Perth QT Perth is a luxurious, designer, urban hotel in the centre of Perth City, ideal for those who love to shop, dine and indulge. A restaurant, bar and a fitness centre are on-site and free WiFi is included. It is a 12-minute walk to Elizabeth Quay to enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes. Art Gallery of Western Australia is 6 minutes’ walk away and Perth Underground, Murray Street and Hay Street are all 4 minutes’ walk from the property.
luxury ($$$): Duxton Hotel Perth is situated in Perth CBD (Central Business District), the 5-star Duxton Hotel Perth offers luxury rooms in a great location. Facilities include a restaurant, bar, fitness centre and outdoor pool.
luxury ($$$): The Ritz-Carlton, Perth features a restaurant, outdoor pool, a fitness centre and bar in Perth. Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. Private parking is available on site. Popular points of interest near The Ritz-Carlton, Perth include Perth Concert Hall, Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre and Perth Town Hall.
mid-range ($$): Rydges Perth Kings Square This 4-star hotel is located close proximity to Perth CBD and RAC Arena, you’re just minutes away from everything.
budget ($): Hostel G Perth is situated in Perth in the Western Australia region, 1.7 km from Perth Concert Hall and 2.2 km from Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and a shared lounge, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The hostel has family rooms.
🔍MORE HOTEL DEALS IN PERTH CBD2. West Perth, within walking distance from the CBD
West Perth is an excellent option if you want to be within walking distance from the CBD and still very central and close to the attractions. The area has some great drinks and shopping options and offers a relaxed vibe outside of working hours.
There are a few great attractions to see in West Perth, such as the Parliament House, which is home to the government of Western Australia. It’s a beautiful old building constructed in 1904 and worth a see.
The Old Observatory, Solidarity Park, Watertown Brand Outlet, Kings Park, and kids’ interactive science museum Scitechare some of the attractions nearby. There are lots ot shopping, dining options on the Hay Street with a mix of cafes, restaurants, parks and shopping.
There is a varied amount of accommodation options in West Perth; you can find some brilliant hostels here but also some excellent mid-range hotel options.
Stay in West Perth if you love to be near the CBD, you like central, but not very central, you want relaxed places at night, you don’t mind not being next to the nightlife, you don’t mind not being next to the beach.
Best Places to Stay in West Perth:
mid-range ($$): Tribe Perth Featuring free WiFi throughout the property, Tribe Perth is located in Perth, 800 m from Domain Stadium. Guests can enjoy a drink on-site bar. Private parking is available on site. Explore the city with free bicycle hire.
mid-range ($$): Sage Hotel West Perth is located on trendy Hay Street, Sage Hotel West Perth is ideally positioned to enjoy a range of dining and shopping options. Guests can stay connected with free WiFi, keep active in the fitness centre and use the free bicycles to explore the city.
mid-range ($$): The Sebel West Perth Set in Perth, 1.5 km from Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre and 2.5 km from Perth Concert Hall, The Sebel West Perth offers accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre. Private parking is available on site.
More hotels located in West Perth ‣ The Richardson Hotel & Spa ‣ Quest West Perth ‣ Sage Hotel West Perth
🔍MORE HOTEL DEALS IN WEST PERTH3. Subiaco, good area to stay in Perth on a budget
Subiaco, or Subi by locals, is an inner-western suburb of Perth and is an upmarket area of Perth that is full of shops, pubs and art galleries. Shoppers will love some of the designer shops in the area, but nature lovers will also love parks such as Muller Park.
The Rokeby Road is a busy high street, packed with beautiful heritage buildings, as well as many eateries, cafes and shops. The Subi Farmers Market is a trendy place to visit in the area. You can eat some of the best cheeses and fresh food in Perth from here; it’s a great place to visit every Saturday in the morning.
Visitors can catch a show at the stunning art deco Regal Theatre, or take a class or workshop Subiaco Arts Centre. Subiaco Arts Centre is home to leading Aboriginal performing arts organisation, Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company. The Subiaco Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the area.
Subiaco Oval is Perths biggest Australian Rules Football Complex and home to the West Coast Eagles. Many state and national sporting events are held here, including the National Soccer League grand final.
Subiaco is the best place to stay in Perth for backpackers because the neighborhood has the broadest range of hostels in Perth with some great, well-priced hostels in the area.
Stay in Subiaco if you want great budget deals, you want to be near good shops, you wish to be near the CBD, you don’t mind not being next to the beach, you don’t mind not being in the CBD.
Best Places to Stay in Subiaco:
mid-range ($$): Vibe Hotel Subiaco Perth has a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and bar in Perth. This 4-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and ticket service. Free WiFi is available and private parking can be arranged at an extra charge.
mid-range ($$): Lakeside Bed & Breakfast The hotel is situated 7-minutes’ drive from Perth CBD, 10-minutes’ walk from both the beautiful Lake Monger and Leederville train station. It is 15-minutes’ walk from Leederville and Subiaco which offer a range of dining, shopping and entertainment options.
budget ($): Subiaco Village 30 Situated in Perth, 3 km from Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre and 4.2 km from Perth Concert Hall, Subiaco Village 30 offers barbecue facilities and air conditioning. There is an in-house restaurant, plus free private parking and free WiFi are available.
🔍MORE HOTEL DEALS IN SUBIACO4. Northbridge, where to stay in Perth for nightlife
Northbridge is the culture and nightlife hub of Perth, located just within easy walking distance from Perth CBD. You should stay here if you love a diverse range of food from all around the world and want to party. If you enjoy Asian cuisine, then you’ll love the food on Williams street.
Similar with Kings Cross in Sydney and Fortitude Valley in Brisbane, Northbridge offers great nightlife. Northbridge is home to a heap of backpackers bars, and also upscale cocktail bars on Williams Street. You can find a significant number of bars and nightclubs in this area. You can also check out Northbridge Brewing Company, Perth Cultural Centre, Mechanics Institute, and No Mafia.
Northbridge is home to the Perth Cultural Centre which houses the WA Museum Boola Bardip, the State Theatre of Western Australia, the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art and the Art Gallery of Western Australia, and State Art Collection.
Northbridge has a large number of backpacker hostels and budget hotels that are perfect for budget travellers
Stay in Northbridge if you love the excellent nightlife, you want to be close to the CBD, you enjoy cocktail bars, you don’t mind not being next to the beach, you don’t mind being around busy nightlife.
Best Places to stay in Perth in Northbridge:
Doubletree By Hilton Perth Northbridge is located in the cultural, dining and entertainment hub in Perth city and welcomes guests with its signature, warm DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie on arrival. The property is steps away from Yagan Square, Western Australian Museum and RAC Entertainment Arena, and access to Perth local attractions and experiences are right at your door step. A variety of cafes, bars and restaurants, and shopping are also just a short walk from the property.
Attika Hotel in the heart of Northbridge, Attika Hotel offers a boutique hotel experience. All luxury apartments are self-contained, fully serviced and include free WiFi.
More best places in Northbridge ‣ Best Western Northbridge Apartments ‣ Arcus City Apartment
🔍MORE HOTEL DEALS IN NORTHBRIDGE🎬 Check out my virtual tour about the best places to stay in Perth in this video
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5. South Perth, where to stay in Perth for families
South Perth is a superb spot for pretty much everything. Situated just next to the Swan River, South Perth is home to the best views of the Perth Skyline. South Perth is easily reached from CBD within a 10-minute drive by car or a 20-minute bus ride.
South Perth has lots of open space for recreation, children’s playgrounds, as well as cycle paths, picnic tables, and barbecues.
South Perth is home to the Perth Zoo, great place for families and kids to explore a brilliant range of wildlife. The Sir James Mitchell Park is a cool part of South Perth, located on the Swan River.
Other places of interest are the Garden City Shopping Centre, The Old Mill – an iconic historic landmark, Rambla on Swan, the South Perth Foreshore, Ciao Italia, and Le Vietnam.
Accommodation in South Perth is excellent for mid to high end, with many of Perth’s most expensive hotels in this area. It’s probably the best spot in the city.
Stay in South Perth if you want to be in the centre, you like high-end hotels, you like parks and open space, you don’t mind being away from the beach, you don’t mind being in a busy place.
Best Places to Stay in South Perth:
🔍MORE HOTEL DEALS IN SOUTH PERTH6. Scarborough, staying in Perth near the beach
If you love the beach and you want to be in Perth’s prominent surfing spot with countless watersports options, Scarborough is your type of place.
Scarborough beach is gorgeous. This one of Perth’s most popular beaches with superb white sand, clear waters and great activities. If you love cafes, then there are cafes overlooking the shores of Scarborough.
You can find some excellent hotel deals in this area, with some reasonably budget hotels but also very well priced luxury too. Scarborough is a great place to stay in you plan to hire a car.
Stay in Scarborough if you love surfing, you love beachside views, you love to swim, you don’t mind being away from the CBD, you don’t mind staying in calmer places.
Best places to stay in Perth in Scarborough:
🔍MORE HOTEL DEALS IN SCARBOROUGH7. Burswood/East Perth, for relaxing holiday
East Perth is a popular destination with tourists, located to the east of the CBD. You’re still in a distance of the leading CBD attractions and many of the great things that Perth has to offer.
A popular thing to see in East Perth is the Perth Mint. The Perth Mint is a gold, silver and platinum producer. If you visit here, you can witness live gold pours and see how the organization produces metals.
East Perth is home to excellent accommodation options with a good range of budget hotels and hostels.
Stay in East Perth if you want to stay in a relaxed spot, you want to be outside the CBD, you want to visit the Perth Mint, you don’t want to be next to the beach.
Best places to stay in East Perth: ‣Fraser Suites Perth ‣Quest East Perth ‣Pan Pacific Perth
You can also check out some best hotels in Burswood on the Swan River with charming gardens, casinos, public golf courses, entertainment complexes. Some of the best hotels to stay in Burswood are ‣ Crown Metropol Perth ‣ Crown Promenade Perth ‣ Crown Towers Perth
🔍MORE HOTEL DEALS IN EAST PERTH8. Fremantle, best area to stay near Perth
People often call Fremantle the Alternative town of Perth, with a mix of alternative bars and quirky sights. The port town is named “Freo” by many locals and is an excellent escape from the CBD.
There are some great beaches in Fremantle such as Bathers Beach, a beautiful spot of paradise on the Perth coastline. You could also take a swim and a walk at South Beach; this is a top-rated beach with good nightlife, restaurants and high-end hotels surrounding.
Attractions such as the Fremantle Prison, the Fremantle Arts Centre, the Metropolis Fremantle, Freemantle Markets, Rottnest Island, and Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour.
It hard to anwer if Fremantle is better than Perth or Perth better than Fremantle. It really depend on the type of vacation you’re looking to have. You can combine staying few nights in each area if you have long time holiday.
Accommodation in Fremantle varies, but there are some great budget options with a vast array of backpacker hostels at reasonable prices. You can find great budget hotels too.
Stay in Fremantle if you want to be next to the beach, you want to be near an alternative scene, you enjoy a good nightlife, you don’t mind being away from the centre, you don’t mind being in a quieter area.
Best Places to stay in Fremantle:
Esplanade Hotel Fremantle – by Rydges is located in the heart of Fremantle, overlooking Esplanade Park. 20 minutes’ drive from central Perth, this hotel offers 2 outdoor pools and a fitness centre. It is easy walking distance of local shops, restaurants, markets and museums. Fishing Boat Harbour is just 400 m away and Fremantle Markets is just a 3-minute walk away.
Quest Fremantle offers accommodation with free WiFi and flat-screen TV, as well as a fitness centre and a garden. A bicycle rental service is available at this property and cycling can be enjoyed nearby.
Tradewinds Hotel offers 4-star accommodation in Fremantle with sweeping views across the Swan River. Guests can enjoy hotel facilities, including a swimming pool during their stay
Where should I stay in Perth for the first time?
Perth CBD is the best area to stay in Perth for first-timers due to its prime location. If you stay here, you will be located in the heart of actions, within walking distance from the top sights, as well as many restaurants, bars, and shops.
What are the best areas to stay in Perth?
Perth CBD, Fremantle, West Perth, Subiaco, Northbridge, South Perth, Scarborough, and East Perth are the best areas to stay in Perth for tourists because they are the most popular and safe neighborhoods that offer a wide range of attractions and amenities.
How many days should I spend in Perth?
I recommend spend at least 3 days, but the best amount of time is 5 days to a weeks. This time will allow you to see best attractions of Perth and able to spend couple of nights in Fremantle.
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Overall, Perth CBD is the best place to stay in Perth for tourist due to its prime location. It offers widest choices in accommodation that suits all budget. If you book a hotel here, you will be located within walking distance to tourist attractions, as well as shopping, dining, and nightlife venues.
Once you settle down with choosing the best neighborhood, you need to decide how long should you stay in Perth to book hotel. Well, if this is your first visit, I recommend spend at least 3-5 days to explore the capital of WA. This time will allow you to see famous landmarks, enjoy food and wines, as well as get the sense of local culture and history. If you have more time, you can take a day trip to Frementle, which is also a famous spots in Western Australia.