Perth is the capital city of Western Australia and a super appealing place to visit. The centre of the city sits right on the bank of the Swan River but leaves plenty of room for beautiful expansive parklands and walking tracks along the river.
There are so many things to do in Perth as well as plenty of amazing day trips from the city. This article will show you where to stay in Perth to be in the best position to explore everything.
We called this beautiful city home for many years and have explored pretty much every inch of it. Below you will find the best places to stay in Perth depending on your circumstances and what you are most interested in.
Once you have found your perfect accommodation option, make sure you don’t miss any of the amazing sights with this epic five day Perth Itinerary.
The amazing beaches are a highlight of Perth
Table of Contents
Getting Around Perth
Perth is a very spread out city and some of the best spots are quite far from each other. There is a fairly extensive bus and train network however it can be quite slow, especially if wanting to visit a lot of places in one day. People in Perth primarily rely on cars to get around and this will also be the best option for you if you are planning to stay for some time.
We always use Rental Cars when we travel, this allows you to search multiple providers for the cheapest price. The best option for a longer trip is to pick up a car at the airport. If you are only here for a short time then you should stay near the CBD. This will give you the best access to the public transport system.
If you don’t hire a car then you should visit the Transperth website and find a location to purchase a ‘SmartRider’ card. This gives you a small discount on fares and allows you to tap on and off trains and busses around the city. If staying in South Perth this also gives you access to the ferry across to the CBD.
Where to Stay in Perth
Below you’ll find our recommendations for where to stay in Perth including the best accommodation options in each area. There is a list at the top of each section that shows what type of traveller or activity is best in that area.
The CBD
Best For ↓
- Short Trips
- Sightseeing
- Eating and Drinking
- Nightlife
- Travellers without a vehicle
You can stay right here on Elizabeth Quay!
Staying centrally is the best idea if you don’t have a car or if you only have a short time in Perth. This will allow you to tick off as many of Perth’s best attractions in as short a time as possible.
There are some beautiful areas to stay around the CBD but you definitely want to make sure you’re in the right place. My favourite area of the CBD is Elizabeth Quay. This area is slightly outside of the busy shopping district and sheltered from the busiest roads.
It is still surrounded by restaurants and bars and is only a short walk to the train station. Many busses stop here and there are a lot of things to see within walking distance. There are also free city CAT busses which are great for reducing the amount of walking you have to do!
Splurge
The Ritz-Carlton – This recently completed hotel is located right on Elizabeth Quay. The stunning interior and amazing views of both the river and the city risk making you not want to leave to go sightseeing!
They have all of the amenities you would expect from a luxury hotel and the rooms with a city view are just amazing. The rooftop pool offers a sweeping panorama and is a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.
Mid-Range
Doubletree by Hilton Perth Waterfront – You can still stay right on Elizabeth Quay without blowing the budget at this beautiful hotel. It is only recently completed and in the perfect location for your stay in Perth.
Apart from the amazing amenities like rooftop infinity pool, restaurant and gym; you also have the a Rottnest Island ferry terminal right at your doorstep!
Budget
European Hotel – This cute Swedish themed place that sits right on Murray Street, one of the two main streets of the CBD. It’s only a one minute walk from the pedestrian-only shopping strip as well as a very short walk from the main train station.
There are a tonne of beautiful restaurants and bars all around this hotel. You can also easily walk across to the main nightlife district of Northbridge.
Where to Stay in South Perth
Best For ↓
- Families
- Sightseeing
- City Views
- Travellers with a vehicle
- Nice Walks
The South Perth Foreshore
This suburb is only just across the river from the CBD so is still perfect for sightseeing. Being just out of the busy centre gives you a better location if you have a car or want a more relaxed atmosphere.
South Perth features expansive parklands along the river and the best city views of any area. There is a ferry service that runs between here and Elizabeth Quay so you can easily get into the city.
If you have kids then you might prefer to stay in South Perth as it is right next to the Perth Zoo and there is a good selection of playgrounds nearby. You can also walk to Kings Park along the river, which is a great option on a sunny day.
Mid-Range
Quest South Perth Foreshore – An apartment style hotel, this property offers parking (for an extra charge) so is a great option to stay centrally with a car. They have various sized apartments for anything from a couple to a large family.
The apartments are self-contained so there is no restaurant on site. They do have a nice BBQ area and there are several great restaurants nearby. The best part of this property are the amazing city views across the river; make sure to request a room with a view when booking!
Mid-Range
The Peninsula Riverside Serviced Apartments – This complex is in a prime position for amazing sunset city views and even offers free parking. This is the perfect place to stay in Perth if you have a vehicle or are looking at renting one.
The fully equipped apartments will cut down on costs as you can cook your own meals. There is a grocery store a short walk away or you can visit the Windsor Hotel for a delicious meal in their awesome beer garden.
Fremantle
Best For ↓
- History
- Beaches
- Rottnest Island Trips
- Travellers with a vehicle
- Families
Historic Fremantle is a great place to stay
The oceanside city of Fremantle was originally a separate settlement from Perth but has since been absorbed into the sprawling expanse of the city. It still retains it’s own unique vibe however and is a must do day trip from the city if you don’t stay here.
There are some beautiful accommodation options here and you will be spoilt for choice with restaurants and bars. There is so much to do in Fremantle so make sure to check out this guide on the best things to see in Fremantle so you don’t miss anything!
The only downside is that you are a little far from the city but there is a train line that will take you straight into the CBD. This is a good location for families who want to be a little further from the hustle and bustle but still have a lot of dining options.
The ferry to Rottnest Island leaves from here and you can also easily drive up to Cottesloe Beach which is one of the best beaches in Perth.
Splurge
Fothergills of Fremantle – This hotel is set in three stunning 19th century houses, all of which are on the state heritage list. The hotel is an attraction in itself; apart from the amazing architecture and decor, there are numerous artworks and sculptures to view.
They are located right opposite Fremantle Prison so it is easy to do their famous night-time ghost tours. You are also only a short walk away from the town centre with all of it’s attractions, restaurants and bars. Don’t miss out on a stay in this amazing property!
Splurge
The National Hotel – This hotel is an iconic building in Fremantle and is situated right in the heart of the city. All the major attractions are within walking distance and the main café strip with all it’s restaurant and bar options is right at your doorstep.
The National also has a fantastic pub on the ground floor and a restaurant as well. I have spent many weekend afternoons listening to the fantastic live music they have on offer. The rooms are large and well appointed with reviews frequently commenting on their comfortable beds.
Mid-Range
Fremantle Bed and Breakfast – Another property set in a beautiful 19th century building, this welcoming B&B is a fantastic option for a stay in Fremantle. If you are using public transport this is a perfect spot, being only a short walk to the train station.
