Perth

AGWA was founded way back in 1895 and houses a collection of indigenous, historical and contemporary works of art. This is your chance to experience historic and contemporary Australian art through stimulating exhibitions.

The Swan Valley in Western Australia is a fascinating mix of award-winning wineries, tasty food, impressive art and interesting events, all of which take place in beautiful scenery just 25 minutes away from Perth’s city centre. The best way to experience the region is to follow the scenic route called the Swan Valley Food and Wine Trail. Discover fine wineries, distilleries, breweries, cafés and art.

Explore a mixture of grassed parkland, botanical gardens and natural bushland on Mount Eliza. Beautiful views, spectacular scenery and free guided walks are offered at this park. About 3,000 of Western Australia’s 12,000 species of local flora are displayed here, with a unique diversity of wildflowers.

The Swan River makes its way through many of the city’s neighbourhoods before it reaches the Indian Ocean. The river takes you through the Swan Valley wine region, Perth’s Central Business District and affluent suburbs, and the port city of Fremantle. Enjoy the view and the breeze, have a meal, and stop once or twice for a wine tasting. Pick a cruise that is just right for you. Captain Cook Cruises is one of the most popular cruise operators. They sell a variety of tour packages, including ones that take you past the mansions in Millionaire’s Row or into the peaceful Swan Valley.

The WA Maritime Museum showcases Western Australia's rich seafaring history. Located by the Indian Ocean, it features iconic vessels like the America’s Cup yacht Australia II and the Cold War-era HMAS Ovens submarine. Explore exhibits on WA’s sailing, sporting and adventure heritage, plus temporary exhibitions.

The City of Perth offers a variety of guided walking tours to suit your taste. This is a great way to learn about the history and culture of Perth. All tours are led by i-City Volunteer Hosts. Join a group of explorers or follow a self-guided tour using maps and other information from the Visit Perth website.

PICA is home to contemporary visual and performance arts. It is housed in iconic heritage buildings that for 40 years served as the Perth Boys’ and Girls’ School. Alongside the gallery is the PICA Bar & Cafe where you can grab your morning coffee, lunch or evening drinks in the relaxed atmosphere of the Cultural Centre.

The Margaret River region is located 270 km from Perth and has become a well known tourist destination. The area has a diverse variety of activities such as surfing, wine tasting and cultural events.

Just 30 minutes south of Perth (and a five-minute ferry ride), Penguin Island is a unique nature reserve, home to Western Australia’s largest colony of little penguins. Don't miss the feeding time! The wildlife is the star attraction, but beyond that the island offers white sandy beaches and is surrounded by crystal clear waters perfect for snorkelling.

Adventure World is a great amusement park for the whole family. With 7 man-made lakes, thrilling rides, wild water action, waterslides, water jet guns, smoking volcanos and unique attractions you will find yourself busy at this park. There are restaurants around the area or you can bring your own food. The gardens are beautifully landscaped with lots of large grassed areas. Good facilities, including a licensed bar.

The upside of Perth being more like a small town than a capital city is minimal light pollution. It means Perth and its surrounding areas are full of excellent stargazing locations. The most obvious and fitting location is the Perth Observatory in Bickley Valley. Check their website for tours and special events. If you don't feel like taking a guided tour, why not make an evening of it by packing a picnic basket and jumping in the car to admire the Milky Way somewhere special, away from intruding city lights?