3 days in Perth

DAY 1: GET TO KNOW PERTH

Morning
Take a free city bus known as CAT (Central Area Transit), jumping off at attractions such as the Perth Cultural Centre (to see Aboriginal art at the free Art Gallery of Western Australia and the edgy exhibitions at the free Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts), the Perth Mint (it exhibits live gold pouring and Australia’s largest gold nugget collection) and The Swan Bell Tower (the largest musical instrument in the Southern Hemisphere). Explore Elizabeth Quay with its waterpark playground public artwork, bars and restaurants, and check out designer labels along King Street and Raine Square. Wander along St Georges Terrace to see the clever integration of Perth’s historic and contemporary buildings and have lunch at the multi-level Print Hall at Brookfield Place or the Market Hall in Yagan Square.

Afternoon
Head over to Kings Park one of the world’s largest inner city parks offering splendid views over the Swan River and city skyline. Marvel at the native wildflowers blooming in spring (September-November), stroll across the Federation Walkway, check out the giant boab tree transplanted from the Kimberley and enjoy a Kings Park Aboriginal Tour. Afterwards, go for a swim or stroll along Perth’s famous Norfolk-pine framed Cottesloe Beach and enjoy a sunset drink at the Cottesloe Beach Hotel. Explore the trendy inner-city hub of Northbridge popping into bars and restaurants such as the rooftop Mechanics Institute, laneway Ezra Pound or Mexican La Cholita. Spoil yourself and stay at Australia’s hottest luxury hotel, Como the Treasury set inside the heritage-listed State Buildings, or enjoy waterfront views at The Ritz-Carlton Perth.

DAY 2: FREMANTLE FUN

Morning
Cruise down the Swan River to the charming port city of Fremantle, its streets filled with stories of convicts, maritime heroes, murderous mutineers and pioneers. Taste the past on a tour of World Heritage-listed Fremantle Prison, the state's first jail and largest convict built structure, and check out Western Australian Maritime Museum, overlooking the Indian Ocean, which features the winning America's Cup yacht, Australia II, an Oberon class submarine and the 17th century Dutch Batavia shipwreck.

Afternoon
Have lunch at Bread in Common, an inspired bakery, restaurant and bar in a converted warehouse before checking out the rollicking Fremantle Markets (Friday to Sunday) where you can shop for Aboriginal artworks and local produce, then browse the bookshops and boutiques along nearby South Terrace where local artists and musicians create a carnival atmosphere on weekends. Go on a pub crawl amongst the colonial architecture to check out Fremantle’s pubs and craft brewers, such as The Monk Brewery and Kitchen and the heritage-listed Sail & Anchor Hotel. Finish at the large and bustling Little Creatures Brewery on the Fishing Boat Harbour. Dine on fish and chips at Kailis' Fish Market Café or Cicerello’s, topped off with a sunset drink on the sand at Bathers Beach House. Catch a train and you will return to Perth in 25 minutes. 

DAY 3: ISLAND IDYLL

Morning
Take the ferry to Rottnest Island (or as the locals say, Rotto) just 19 kilometres (11 miles) off the coast where there are 63 beaches, 20 bays and no cars to spoil the tranquility. Rent a bicycle from your ferry provider of choice and ride four kilometres (2.5 miles) through the island’s centre to Oliver Hill, where huge guns and underground tunnels were installed last century. Take in the sweeping views and walk to the salt lakes. Spot diverse birdlife and quokkas, the island’s cute native marsupial, which has become something of an Instagram star. Cycle north 3.4 kilometres (2.1 miles) to Little Parakeet Bay for a swim in the clear, protected waters. Enjoy a relaxed seafood lunch by the water at Thomsons, Hotel Rottnest or Pinky’s Beach Club. Alternatively, join a catch and cook lobster cruise matched with premium WA wines and beers. If you would rather go by bus, jump on and off the Islander Explorer Bus or take the 90-minute Discovery Tour, which circumnavigates the island and gives information about wildlife and the island's cultural and historical heritage.

Afternoon
If you’d like to explore underwater, follow a snorkel trail at Parker Point or over various shipwreck sites. Scuba dive in Fish Hook Bay, where coral reefs make the water a patchwork of different shades of blues. Surf at Strickland, Salmon and Stark Bays. Go birdwatching for wedge-tailed shearwaters, osprey, sacred kingfishers, singing honeyeaters and sandpipers or just beachcomb your way around the island. You can also take an Eco Express bus, boat or snorkel tour and there is also sea kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling and walking tours. From September to November whale watching trips along what's called "the humpback highway" (between Fremantle and Rottnest Island) are offered. Take the ferry back to Perth to dine at vibrant The Standard, with its contemporary fusion of global share plates served up in a chic industrial setting. Hop across Perth’s laneway and rooftop bar scene at places such as the QT Rooftop, The Reveley, Cheeky Sparrow, and Helvetica. 

DAY 4: TASTE THE VALLEY

Morning
Take a cruise up the Swan River right to a cellar door or jump on a wine tour from your city hotel. The Swan Valley is a 25 minute drive east of the City Centre and is bursting with flavours across more than 40 vineyards. While Verdelho and fortified varietals reign supreme here, there are also 5 breweries, distilleries, a cidery and dozens of producers. Wine region favourites such as cheese and chocolate abound, of course, as well as other speciality food experiences from honey to coffee and nougat. Visit Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery for a uniquely local experience inclusive of bushtucker.

Afternoon
For lunch, stop at Mandoon Estate – a mega venue with a winery, brewery and bustling beer garden that hosts live music on weekends. Other standouts with restaurants include Sandalford Wines, Riverbank Estate and Upper Reach Winery. Lancaster Wines is a must for the Instagram lovers of the world! Finish up the day getting to know the locals at Caversham Wildlife Park, home to very close encounters with Australia’s furry friends and an incredible farm show on four times daily! Head back to Perth City and continue exploring the city’s many impressive bars and restaurants.