Overview
Perth has long been seen as a stopover, a gateway to the rest of Western Australia. But increasingly, it's proving itself as a destination in its own right, just as worthy of a trip across the country as the Kimberley.
Set against the Indian Ocean, with pristine beaches and the gateway to the Margaret River wine region, Perth offers something a little different to the usual east coast city break. With winter just around the corner, here's why a trip to Perth should be on this year's travel bucket list. Especially for travellers looking to swap long-haul plans for something closer to home.
The Best of Both Worlds
One of Perth's biggest drawcards is how seamlessly it blends city life with the outdoors. Within minutes, you can go from the CBD to the shimmering coastline, with beaches like Cottesloe Beach and Scarborough Beach offering clear water, soft sand and jaw-dropping sunsets.
Even in winter, the milder climate makes coastal walks and ocean dips surprisingly doable. Closer to the city, Kings Park and Botanic Garden offer sweeping views over the skyline and Swan River, one of the largest inner-city parks in the world. The balance of enviable nature on your doorstep, alongside the buzz of a capital city, makes Perth one of the most visitable cities in the world.
Garum, The Westin Perth
The Local Dining Scene
While Perth's dining scene may not shout as loudly as Sydney or Melbourne, it more than holds its own. Garum, by acclaimed Australian chef Guy Grossi, is an award-winning Roman Osteria attached to The Westin Perth hotel on Hibernian Place. Garum focuses on ancient Roman dining techniques while using the best in local produce. It also features an unforgettable wine list with highlights from Italian regions and the nearby Western Australian wineries.
At Hearth Restaurant, located inside The Ritz-Carlton, Perth, the focus is also on Western Australia's incredible local flavours. The restaurant showcases the best produce from local farmers, fishermen and artisans, creating an elevated dining experience that you'll remember for years to come.
Get a Culture Fix
Perth is famous for its sparkling blue water and essentially untouched beaches, but outside of weekends spent on the sand, the city also has a thriving cultural scene.
Start at the Perth Cultural Centre, where institutions like the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the State Theatre Centre, the Perth Institute of Cultural Arts, and WA Museum Boola Bardip are all within walking distance of one another.
In Fremantle, heritage streets are filled with small galleries, record stores and long-standing pubs, while weekend markets and live music will fill your cultural cup. A 30-minute drive from the Perth CBD, you'll also find Swan Valley. It's Western Australia's oldest wine region and one of its most accessible.
Explore over 40 wineries, breweries and distilleries alongside artisan producers offering gourmet produce, including chocolate and cheese. It's an easy crowd-pleasing addition to any Perth itinerary. Back in the city, the calendar is packed. From major touring acts at RAC Arena to smaller gigs and theatres, there are a number of events that give Perth a city buzz without the overwhelm you find in larger cities.
Where to Stay
Where you check in shapes the kind of trip you have, and Marriott Bonvoy has a lineup of local hotels that offer all sorts of holidays. You can currently save 10 percent on stays at all the Marriott Bonvoy Perth hotels from now until Tuesday, June 30. The Ritz-Carlton, Perth in Elizabeth Quay offers a more elevated escape. With views overlooking the Swan River, this 5-star hotel provides an infinity pool, luxury spa (featuring bespoke treatments) and a popular rooftop bar, Songbird. While the Ritz-Carlton, Perth has all the makings of a luxe couples getaway, the hotel also offers the Ritz Kids experiences, so the whole family can enjoy the accommodation.
The Westin, Perth
In the CBD, The Westin Perth strikes a balance between city energy and wellness. Stay in the centre of town whilst also reaping the benefits of a spa retreat. Enjoy the 24-hour WestinWORKOUT studio and Bodhi Spa, where you can book in massages and facials to relax and reset. For something a little more playful, Aloft Perth offers a design-forward stay just outside the CBD. Its location near the Swan River and Optus Stadium makes it a smart pick for event accommodation, while its social spaces and pool keep your stay vibrant and energised.
Aloft Perth
South of the river, Courtyard by Marriott Perth Murdoch only opened in 2024 and features modern, streamlined rooms and a quieter base that still keeps you within reach of Fremantle and family attractions like Adventure World. It's a great option if you're planning to explore Perth beyond the city centre. And for a central stay that puts you close to the action, Four Points by Sheraton Perth sits directly opposite RAC Arena. Ideal if your trip revolves around a concert or sporting event, it also puts you near Perth's best nightlife, shopping and dining. It's an easy, no-fuss base in the heart of Perth.
Travel Hacks
If you were looking into booking that western winter trip ASAP, Marriott Bonvoy currently has a 10 percent offer for its members (it's free and easy to sign up). Book now for stays until Tuesday, June 30, and you can get 2,500 bonus points and one Elite Night credit (i.e. more benefits and rewards) to go towards your next stay.
From sun-soaked beaches and riverside walks to world-class dining, galleries, and boutique neighbourhoods, Perth is a city worth making a trip to. Its mix of laid-back energy, cultural depth, and easy access to wine regions and nature makes it more than just a gateway or stopover. So swap the long-haul flights and book a winter escape closer to home.
Image Credit: Supplied