Where to Stay in Perth

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.

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.

It is situated close to the area of Notre Dame University with all it’s pretty historical buildings and very close to some of the best attractions in Fremantle. Of course the best part is the fantastic breakfast included with the stay that will have you fuelled and ready for a day of exploring.

Budget

Fremantle Prison YHA – Last but definitely not least is this super cool hotel housed in a section of the famous Fremantle Prison. Although it is a hostel, there are also private rooms available. The old cells have been converted to rooms and bathrooms and the courtyard is hemmed in by the old prison walls!

Needless to say this is in a great location, you are literally inside one of the top attractions! Fremantle Markets are just down the street where you can stock up on tasty treats before walking around town.

Burswood

Best For ↓

Luxury
Relaxation
Golf
Entertainment

Matagarup Bridge is a short walk from the Crown Resort

The Crown Resort and Casino occupies a large area of Burswood and is a favourite choice for travellers wanting top of the range facilities. The Crown offers three classes of accommodation depending on the level of luxury you desire but all are in the same complex.

You will have access to the casino and all the bars and restaurants contained within the complex. They also have large pools and all the other resort facilities. There is a golf course on site and also a theatre which hosts live shows.

You are located a short walk from a train station which will take you into the city. It is also only a short and affordable taxi ride to the downtown area. You can easily walk to the Matagarup Bridge which is one of the top Instagram spots in Perth.

Splurge

Crown Towers – This is the highest priced of the range but is still surprisingly affordable considering the facilities it offers. Definitely check here before booking anywhere else as it is well worth spending a cheeky bit extra for the amazing city views.

This is the best place to stay in Perth if you are on a romantic holiday with a partner or just want to spoil yourself.

Mid-Range

Crown Metropol – This pyramid shaped building is a bit of an icon in Perth, having been around for many decades. Everything is extremely well maintained however and a bargain price for the kind of luxury you will enjoy.

The beautiful poolside lounge location is a perfect place to wind down after a full day of exploring. This is a great location for tours into the Swan Valley as it is situated alongside the highway leading there.

Budget

Crown Promenade – Please note that this is not technically a budget option, just the lowest priced of the Crown Resort offerings. This hotel is quite new and very beautifully presented.

You will enjoy easy access to all the amazing offerings of the resort, such as the 7 restaurants, 8 bars, a night club and a 24-hour casino. This is a great location for access to the airport which is perfect if you are only on a short trip to Perth.

Swan Valley

Best For ↓

Wine Lovers
Relaxation
Nature
Travellers with a vehicle

Explore the picturesque Swan Valley vineyards

Perth’s very own top-notch wine region is only a 30min drive outside the city. This beautiful vine covered valley will give you a much more relaxed and nature centred location for your visit to Perth. As long as you own or have hired a car then you can still easily access the city and it’s attractions.

Staying in the Swan Valley will put you close to some of the best hikes in Perth and also provide easy access for day trips to the north of the city. There are some fantastic wineries here and if you are not from Perth then you might be surprised at the quality of wine produced.

Splurge

Upper Reach Spa Cottage – If you are staying in a wine region then the best place to stay is obviously at a winery. This isn’t just any winery either, they have won multiple awards for best small cellar door.

You will have views over the beautiful vineyard and a very short walk to their excellent cellar door and restaurant. They offer some great experiences like wine appreciation courses and winery tours as well.

Mid-Range

Rose and Crown Hotel – Although technically located in Guildford, you are only a couple of minutes drive from the wineries of the Swan Valley. This location benefits from easy access to the shops in town while still being in a prime location for wine tasting adventures.

The hotel itself is a beautiful 1840s building and has a fantastic beer garden. The rooms have old fashioned furniture and styling which makes for a unique and enjoyable stay. They have a swimming pool, a restaurant and you can also park for free.

Budget

Swan Valley Rest Cottage – This accommodation offers an entire house right in the Swan Valley. You can benefit from having a full kitchen to cook your own meals and prepare lunches to save money. There is also a lovely backyard setting including a pool!

This place is great value for all the features and the fantastic location. The price does go up with more than two people however it is still a great deal. There is free parking for your vehicle so this makes a great relaxing base to explore from.

Scarborough Beach

Best For ↓

Beaches
Relaxation
Sunset Views
Travellers with a vehicle

Scarborough has a lot of beachside accommodations

Perth has a lot of amazing beaches and staying right alongside one is going to be a great experience. Scarborough is the most developed beachfront area in the city so it has the best options for accommodation and eating/drinking. Unfortunately there is fairly poor public transport to Scarborough so having a car is pretty much a necessity.

While it is a beautiful beach I must admit that it isn’t my favourite in Perth. The benefit to staying here however is that you can easily drive up and down the coastal highway to all of the best beaches. Make sure to check out Cottesloe, City Beach and Sorrento while you are staying here!

The waterfront strip of Scarborough has a lot of great restaurants and bars. There are also some very popular nightclubs and beach clubs for those who like to party a little on holiday.

Families will love this location as most properties include parking and kids will love the beach access. You are also an easy drive up to Hillary’s Boat Harbour with the fantastic Aquarium of W.A and small amusement park.

Splurge

The White Pearl Penthouse – This entire apartment offers an absolute beachfront stay with all the benefits of a fully equipped house. The property features large clean rooms with fresh modern décor.

The highlight is the balcony overlooking the ocean so you can enjoy the amazing Perth sunsets while eating dinner. There is free parking which is great since as mentioned you ideally need a car to stay in Scarborough.

Mid-Range

Rendezvous Hotel Scarborough – You can’t miss this hotel as it is the biggest building along the beach. It’s prime beachside location means you will get amazing ocean and sunset views from your room (if you stay on the right side of the building!).

This is a resort style hotel so you will get a beautiful palm fringed pool with ocean views. There is also an on-site restaurant and bar, the restaurant in particular is a great spot to eat as you watch sunset.

Budget

Ramada by Wyndham – This is one of those locations where there isn’t a true budget option, you are right on the beach after all! The Ramada offers full apartments however so you can save on eating out and their queen suite is very good value for money.

It isn’t right on the beach so the views aren’t quite as spectacular as the above option however you are only a couple minutes walk away. The rooms are super modern and neatly furnished. Pod machines, free Wi-Fi and a fitness centre are some of the features you’ll enjoy at a great price.

Northbridge

Best For ↓

Nightlife
Backpackers
Sightseeing
Travellers without a vehicle

Northbridge is the nightlife district of Perth

The suburb of Northbridge is just across the railway line from the CBD and is the nightlife centre of the city. There is a profusion of bars, clubs and late night eateries all over the place.

Here you will also find the W.A. museum, cultural centre and art gallery, so the location is perfect for sightseeing. You can walk into the city in only 5 minutes and the free city CAT busses also make stops around this area.

This is definitely not the ideal location for families as the weekends see a large number of partygoers. For young people and backpackers however this is a great spot as you are surrounded by fun things to do. There are also a lot of hostels in this area for the really budget travellers.

Splurge

Doubletree by Hilton – If you have some cash to splash on some great digs and love the party scene then this place is for you. Not to be confused with the hotel on Elizabeth Quay with the same name, this one is right in the heart of Northbridge.

The best feature is the amazing pool with city views, a great place to unwind and cool off after a day of sightseeing. A lot of rooms have great city views as well and there is a classy bar and restaurant on site to have some pre-drinks before hitting the town.

Budget Private

Britannia on William – Northbridge is definitely the place for budget travellers, if you are looking mid-range then you are better off in the CBD. This backpackers was renovated in 2018 and features a fantastic outdoor common area. The rooms are simple but clean and affordable.

They have dorm rooms of course but for those looking for a bit more privacy they have great value private rooms. They are located right next to the Perth Cultural Centre with all the things to do there. The central train station is a short walk away so this location is perfect for sightseeing.

Budget Dorm

Spinners Hostel – This is the best option if you want to stay in a backpackers in Perth. There are a few dodgy ones around so try to book this one or the above if you can. The location is perfect, just outside of the noisy party centre but close enough to easily walk there.

They have air-conditioning in the rooms and free Wi-Fi. There is even free parking for those backpackers with a vehicle who want to stay in the city for a while. The nice garden courtyard provides a perfect place to have a drink and meet other travellers.

Subiaco and Leederville

Best For ↓

Sightseeing
Families
Relaxed Nightlife
Funky café strips

Where to Stay in Perth - Subiaco and Leederville

Funky street art in Leederville

Subiaco and Leederville are two inner city suburbs that sit just to the west of downtown. They are known for their fantastic café strips and many relaxed pubs and bars.

Staying here is a great way to be right near the downtown without all the noise and craziness of the CBD. Both suburbs have train stations so it is easy to get around and they are both only a moderate walk from the city.

Both suburbs have some great street art to enjoy and Leederville has one of my favourite pubs in all of Perth (The Garden). Subiaco is bordered on one side by Kings Park so is a great place to base yourself if you want easy access to the amazing sunset views from the park.

Splurge

Vibe Hotel Subiaco – This clean and modern hotel is right in the heart of Subiaco and only a short walk from the train station. They have a rooftop pool which is great on those hot Perth days. There is parking on site however it is $15 a day, there is some free street parking in the area on weekends.

This hotel is about 2km walk to Kings Park and has a huge range of shops, cafes, restaurants and bars nearby. From Subiaco it is super easy to reach the beach, just follow the main road running through the suburb. This is a great location to be close to all the action without being right in the city.

Mid-Range

Lakeside Bed & Breakfast – This property is situated right on Lake Monger, which is a fantastic location for nature walks or a morning jog. You are only a short walk from the café strip of Leederville with all its dining and drinking options. You will have access to a shared pool and common area with free Wi-Fi.

Leederville train station is about 1km away so you can easily get around the city. City Beach is only a 12min drive straight down the main road near the property. This is my favourite beach in Perth and a drink at Clancy’s Fish Pub right on the beach is always a highlight for visitors.

Budget

Beatty Lodge – This is a true budget option and great for backpackers or travellers on a tight budget who want a private room close to the city. It is an older property however the rooms and facilities are clean and well kept (note that there are no private bathrooms). There is a communal kitchen and a courtyard swimming pool.

The property offers both dorms and private rooms and is in a great location just a 5 minute walk from the main strip of Leederville. There are frequent busses and trains from Leederville into the city or Northbridge. There is free street parking near the property and you can easily reach the beach following one main road the whole way.

Where to Stay in West Perth

Best For ↓

Sightseeing
Kings Park
City Views

Easily catch a Kings Park sunset from West Perth

West Perth forms a sort of buffer between the CBD and the start of the suburban area. It sits right adjacent to Kings Park and is steeply uphill from the CBD. This offers great views over the city and the best possible access to Kings Park.

The best part of staying in West Perth is that you can walk up to Kings Park for sunset and maybe even have a picnic dinner. The free CAT busses still service this area so you can easily access the city or Northbridge if you want more nightlife options.

You are close to some of the best inner city suburbs like Subiaco and Leederville so can check out their great street art and funky café strips.

Splurge

Quest Kings Park – You can’t really get closer to Kings Park than this place. Quest is situated just across the road from this huge inner city park and offers stunning views over the trees. The cost is offset to some degree here as they are studio apartments with a kitchenette, meaning you can prepare a lot of your meals.

The rooms are modern and nicely furnished, there is also a fitness centre for you to use. The location means that you can easily stroll to the best spot in Kings Park to watch the amazing sunsets and rises over the city.

Mid-Range

The Sebel West Perth – While this hotel is located on the opposite side of the suburb from Kings Park, it offers the best access into the city centre. You are still only a short walk from the park and are right near the brand outlet shopping centre of Watertown.

They have a fantastic rooftop pool and BBQ area to cool off in after the walk to Kings Park. The rooms are studios so you can save money by doing some cooking. There is a very well equipped fitness centre for those who like to keep in shape on holiday.

Mid-Range

Riverview on Mount Street – West Perth doesn’t really have any true budget options that are worth mentioning. This property is on the cheaper side of the spectrum and is in a really fantastic location. Mount Street feels like a leafy little hideaway, tucked between Kings Park and the city.

The location is amazing for sightseeing in the city, you can take a super nice riverside stroll straight to Elizabeth Quay. Kings Park is just around the corner and the South Perth foreshore is a short walk across the Narrows Bridge. The property itself offers very nice apartments with a kitchenette and you will hardly feel like you’re in the city at all.

Bonus: Where to Say in Perth Hills

Best For ↓

Nature
Relaxation
City Break
Hikes

The pretty Lesmurdie Falls

Not everyone likes to stay in busy cities; if you are the type who prefers to be surrounded by nature with short ventures into the big smoke for sightseeing, then consider staying in the Perth Hills.

Perth sits in a basin surrounded by an escarpment which rises up above the city and is covered in nature reserves. There are some absolutely lovely places to stay in these hills which offer an escape from the city but still within a short drive from everything you might want to see.

Have a look at the options below and find your holiday within a holiday. If you like to get into nature then check out these best hikes in Perth, a lot of which are in or close to the hills.

Rosebridge House B&B

This beautiful retreat in the hills will definitely leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. The large rooms open onto a picturesque pool and garden area through French doors. They cook a gourmet breakfast each morning and there is free Wi-Fi available.

This property is only a short drive to Lesmurdie Falls and there are some great hikes and walks accessible right from the front door. It is about 30 minutes to drive into the heart of the city and there is also a nearby bus that will take about an hour.

Bickley Valley Cottage

This property has the best views of the lot, looking out over a lush valley from your balcony. You have the whole house with 3 bedrooms so this is great for large families. There is even a spa bath to relax in after a day of hiking in the beautiful hills.

A bonus of staying in this property is that you are right near the Perth Observatory and can easily take advantage of their awesome night sky tours. You can also dine at the nearby La Fattoria restaurant with their stunning vineyard/orchard views.

Mountolive Studio

This property is situated in a different part of the hills to the previous two but is right near my favourite national park in Perth. The stunning villa is surrounded by lush greenery and has an amazing natural themed pool. You have the entire villa to yourself so this is a great choice for couples on a romantic getaway.

The property is dog friendly so you can bring your furry friends. The risk with this property is that you won’t want to go sightseeing as it is too nice to leave. This makes it perfect for a break from the city to recharge for awhile before moving on. The hikes and the pub in the nearby John Forrest National Park are a highlight in this area.

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