Are you planning a trip to Perth, Western Australia? Look no further! I’m here to guide you through the best places to stay and the top hotels to consider. Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is a city that seamlessly blends urban sophistication with stunning natural beauty.
Our pick of the best hotels in Perth 🔝
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: COMO The Treasury • The Ritz-Carlton, Perth
- ✨ 5-Star: Crown Towers Perth • InterContinental Perth City Centre
- 🏨 4-Star: QT Perth • Doubletree By Hilton Perth Waterfront
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Ibis Perth
- 💸 Cheap: City Waters
- 🏢 Apartment: Quest East Perth
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Mounts Bay Waters Apartment Hotel • Quest West End
- 🏩 For Couples: Crown Metropol Perth
We’ll dive into the six best areas to stay in Perth, each with its unique charm and attractions. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious escape in the heart of the city, a laid-back beachside getaway, or a trendy neighborhood with a thriving nightlife scene, Perth has something for everyone.
We’ll also highlight the top hotels in each area, carefully selected based on their exceptional amenities, prime locations, and glowing reviews from fellow travelers. From 5-star luxury to budget-friendly options, we’ve got you covered. So, sit back, relax, and let’s embark on a journey through the best places to stay in Perth for an unforgettable trip in 2024!
Quick Guide on Where to Stay in Perth in 2024 📋
- 🔥 For the First Time: Perth CBD
- 💎 For Luxury: West Perth and Subiaco
- 🧘🏻 For a Quiet Stay: South Perth
- ✨ For Trendy Vibes: Northbridg
- 🏖️ For Beaches: Scarborough
- 🌞 For Coastal View: Fremantle
1. Perth CBD – Best Area to Stay in Perth for the First Time 🔥
🏙️ Bustling center: The Perth CBD (Perth Central Business District) is the bustling city center and the perfect base for exploring the best of what Perth has to offer. This area is packed with iconic attractions, cultural highlights, and a thriving dining and nightlife scene.
🌉 Must-visit attractions in Perth CBD include:
- Elizabeth Quay: A stunning waterfront precinct with restaurants, bars, and public artwork
- Perth Mint: Learn about the city’s gold rush history and witness a live gold pour demonstration
- Art Gallery of Western Australia: Houses an impressive collection of Aboriginal and contemporary art
- Perth Cultural Centre: Home to the Western Australian Museum and the State Library of Western Australia
🍴 Food heaven: Foodies will be in heaven in the Perth CBD, with countless restaurants, cafes, and bars lining Murray Street and Hay Street. Whether you’re craving a casual bite or a fancy dinner, you’ll find it here. Insider Tip: For a unique dining experience with stunning city skyline views, head to Wildflower on the rooftop of the COMO The Treasury hotel.
🚌 Easy transport: Getting around Perth CBD is a breeze thanks to the free CAT buses that run throughout the city center. You can also easily catch a train or bus to other parts of the city from here. Top Tip: If you’re flying into Perth Airport, take the airport bus straight to Elizabeth Quay for an easy and affordable transfer.
🌳 Nature nearby: One of the best things about staying in the Perth CBD is the proximity to Kings Park and Botanic Garden. This massive urban park offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Swan River, making it the perfect spot for a morning walk or a picnic lunch. Don’t miss the treetop walk for a unique perspective of the park’s lush greenery.
Best hotels to stay in Perth CBD 🏨
⭐ Best Luxury Hotels in Perth
- COMO The Treasury – Best luxury hotel, housed in a stunning historic building and offering impeccable service, elegant rooms, and a fantastic spa. I love the attention to detail and the serene atmosphere.
- The Ritz-Carlton, Perth – With its prime location, exceptional amenities, and breathtaking views of the Swan River, The Ritz-Carlton is a top choice for those seeking luxury. The rooms are spacious and beautifully appointed, and the service is second to none.
- InterContinental Perth City Centre – I appreciate the InterContinental’s modern design, comfortable rooms, and excellent location in the heart of the city. The hotel’s restaurant and bar are also noteworthy.
🏨 Best Moderate Hotels in Perth
- Pensione Hotel Perth – This charming hotel offers great value for money, with clean and comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and a convenient location near public transportation.
- Ibis Perth – I find the Ibis Perth to be a reliable choice for budget-conscious travelers, offering basic but well-maintained rooms and good amenities.
- Metro Hotel Perth City – This hotel provides a comfortable stay with spacious rooms, helpful staff, and a great location close to dining and shopping options.
🛏️ Best Budget Hotels in Perth
- Spinners Hostel – I love the friendly atmosphere at Spinners Hostel, with its clean and comfortable rooms, great common areas, and convenient location in the vibrant Northbridge area.
- Hostel G Perth – This hostel offers affordable accommodation in a central location, with a laid-back vibe and helpful staff. The outdoor courtyards are a nice touch.
2. Northbridge – Best Neighbourhood in Perth to Stay for Trendy Vibes ✨
🎨 Edgy Vibes: If you’re looking for a place that’s got a bit of an edge, Northbridge is the spot for you. This trendy and bohemian neighborhood is just a stone’s throw from the Perth CBD, but it feels like a whole different world. The streets are lined with colorful street art, quirky boutiques, and some of the best nightlife in the city.
🏛️ Cultural Hub: One of the things I love most about Northbridge is the cultural scene. The Perth Cultural Centre is a must-visit, with:
- Western Australian Museum: Explore the state’s natural and cultural heritage.
- Art Gallery of Western Australia: Admire an impressive collection of Australian and international art.
- State Library of Western Australia: Discover a wealth of knowledge and resources.
- State Theatre Centre of Western Australia: Enjoy captivating performances in a modern venue.
You could easily spend a whole day exploring Perth through these cultural gems.
🍴 Diverse Dining: When it comes to food, Northbridge has some of the most diverse and exciting options in Perth. You’ll find everything from hole-in-the-wall Asian eateries to high-end restaurants serving up modern Australian cuisine. We recommend wandering down William Street and stopping at whatever catches your eye. Insider Tip: For a truly unique dining experience, check out The Standard, a converted 1930s art deco building that now houses a restaurant, bar, and rooftop terrace.
🌙 Nightlife Hotspot: If you’re a night owl, Northbridge is one of the best places to be. The neighborhood comes alive after dark, with countless bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for a craft cocktail or a night of dancing, you’ll find it here. Top Tip: Check out the Northbridge Piazza for free outdoor movies and live performances throughout the year.
🚊 Well-Connected: One of the best things about staying in Northbridge is the proximity to public transportation. The Perth train station is just a short walk away, making it easy to explore other parts of the city. You can also catch a bus or a taxi to other popular areas like Fremantle or Scarborough Beach. Money Saver: If you’re planning on using public transportation a lot during your stay, consider getting a SmartRider card for discounted fares.
Top Accommodation in Perth City 🏨
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels in Perth
- Doubletree By Hilton Perth Northbridge – Opened in 2018, this modern hotel is located in the vibrant Northbridge area, close to dining, entertainment, and attractions. It offers an outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant.
- Attika Hotel – This boutique hotel in the heart of Northbridge offers self-contained, fully-serviced luxury apartments with free WiFi, kitchens, and laundry facilities. Its prime location allows easy access to the area’s entertainment, restaurants, and cafes.
- Quokka Backpackers Hostel Perth – Located a 15-minute walk from Perth CBD, this hostel offers both private and dormitory-style rooms with shared bathrooms. Amenities include free WiFi, a shared kitchen, lounge areas, and a tour desk.
3. Fremantle – Best Neighbourhood to Stay in Perth City for a Coastal View 🌞
🌊 Coastal charm: If you’re looking for a place to stay near Perth that has a more laid-back, coastal vibe, Fremantle is the perfect spot. This historic port city, known to locals as “Freo,” is just a 30-minute drive or train ride from the Perth CBD, but it feels like a world away. The streets are lined with beautiful 19th-century buildings, many of which have been converted into quirky cafes, independent boutiques, and art galleries.
🏰 Unique attractions in Fremantle include:
- Fremantle Prison: Take a tour of this fascinating former prison, which housed convicts from 1855 to 1991.
- Fremantle Markets: Browse the stalls of this vibrant market, which has been operating since 1897.
- WA Shipwrecks Museum: Learn about the state’s maritime history and see artifacts from shipwrecks along the coast.
- Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour: Watch the boats come in and out of the harbor and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants.
🎨 Artistic haven: Fremantle is also known for its thriving arts scene, with the Fremantle Arts Centre being a must-visit. This former lunatic asylum now hosts exhibitions, concerts, and workshops. The city is also home to numerous independent galleries showcasing the work of local artists. Insider Tip: Check out the Fremantle Street Arts Festival in April for a weekend of incredible performances and art installations.
🍴 Foodie paradise: When it comes to food and drink, Fremantle has no shortage of options. The Cappuccino Strip on South Terrace is lined with cafes and restaurants serving up everything from Italian to Indonesian cuisine. For something a bit more casual, head to the Fishing Boat Harbour for fish and chips or a cold beer at Little Creatures Brewery. Top Tip: Don’t miss the Fremantle Markets on the weekend for fresh produce, baked goods, and international street food.
🚶♂️ Easy to explore: One of the best things about staying in Fremantle is how easy it is to explore on foot. The city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with most of the main attractions within walking distance of each other. If you want to venture further afield, you can catch a bus or train to other parts of Perth or take a ferry to Rottnest Island for a day trip. Money Saver: Many of the attractions in Fremantle, such as the markets and the Fishing Boat Harbour, are free to visit.
Perth’s best hotels to stay in Fremantle 🏨
⭐ Best Hotels in Fremantle
- Esplanade Hotel Fremantle - by Rydges – Overlooking Esplanade Park, this hotel offers 2 outdoor pools, a fitness center, and 2 on-site restaurants.
- Be. Fremantle – These self-contained apartments offer stunning harbour views and are just a 5-minute walk from Bathers Beach.
- Warders Hotel Fremantle Markets – Set in a historic building, this 5-star hotel offers a terrace, a bar, and an on-site restaurant.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels in Fremantle
- Fremantle Prison YHA – Housed in a former prison, this unique hostel offers private and dormitory rooms and a fully equipped shared kitchen.
- Fremantle Bed and Breakfast – This charming B&B is located in a historic 1890s house, offering individually decorated rooms and a continental breakfast.
- Fothergills of Fremantle – Housed in a historic building, this boutique hotel offers elegant rooms, a garden, and a shared lounge.
🛏️ Best Hostels in Fremantle
- Fremantle Village – This hostel offers private and dormitory rooms, a shared kitchen, a games room, and an outdoor pool.
- Gallery Suites – Located in the heart of Fremantle, this hostel offers private and dormitory rooms, free WiFi, and a shared kitchen.
4. Scarborough – Best Place to Stay in Perth Near the Beach 🏖️
🌊 Beachside paradise: If you’re looking for an area near the beach, Scarborough is the perfect spot. This coastal suburb is just a 20-minute drive from the Perth CBD, but it feels like a world away. The star attraction here is undoubtedly Scarborough Beach, a stunning stretch of white sand and turquoise water that’s popular with swimmers, surfers, and sunbathers alike.
🏖️ Beach activities: There’s no shortage of things to do in Scarborough, especially if you love the beach. You can:
- Take a dip in the Scarborough Beach Pool, a public pool with stunning ocean views
- Learn to surf with one of the many surf schools in the area
- Rent a bike and cycle along the beachfront path
- Play beach volleyball or join a yoga class on the sand
🍴 Beachfront dining: When it comes to food and drink, Scarborough has plenty of options, many of which come with incredible ocean views. The Scarborough Beach Amphitheatre is a great spot for a casual bite or a sundowner, with a variety of food trucks and pop-up bars. For something a bit more upscale, check out The Peach Pit or The Sandbar, both of which offer modern Australian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Insider Tip: Head to The Wild Fig for brunch with a view – their pancakes are to die for!
🚌 Getting around: While Scarborough is a bit further from the city center than some other neighborhoods, it’s still well-connected by public transportation. You can catch a bus or a train from the Perth CBD, or if you’re driving, there’s plenty of parking available. Top Tip: If you’re staying in Scarborough, consider renting a car for a day or two to explore some of the other beaches and attractions in the area, like Trigg Beach or Hillarys Boat Harbour. Money Saver: If you’re planning on staying in Scarborough for a week or more, consider renting an apartment or holiday home instead of a hotel – you’ll have more space and the ability to cook your own meals, which can save you money in the long run.
Top Hotels in Perth, Scarborough 🏨
⭐ Best Hotels in Scarborough
- Rendezvous Hotel Perth Scarborough – Overlooking Scarborough Beach, this hotel features an outdoor pool, complimentary limited WiFi, air-conditioned rooms, a fitness center, and a spa.
- Ramada by Wyndham VetroBlu Scarborough Beach – Located in Scarborough Beach’s entertainment district, this hotel offers modern apartments with kitchens, complimentary WiFi, and secure on-site parking.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels in Scarborough
- Quest Scarborough – Just 200 meters from Scarborough Beach, this hotel features an outdoor pool, BBQ facilities, and apartments with cable TV and DVD players, with some including fully-equipped kitchens.
- Scarborough Sunset Resort – The hotel is a great budget option, with self-contained apartments and a location just a few minutes walk from the beach.
5. South Perth – Great Place in Perth for a Quiet Stay 🧘🏻
🌉 Scenic location: If you’re looking for a place that’s a bit quieter, South Perth is a great option. Located just across the Swan River from the Perth CBD, this suburb offers stunning views of the city skyline, especially at night when the lights are twinkling on the water. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway that’s still close to all the action.
🐨 Family-friendly attractions in South Perth include:
- Perth Zoo: Home to over 1,200 animals from around the world, including kangaroos, koalas, and penguins
- Sir James Mitchell Park: A beautiful riverside park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and plenty of space to run around
- Mends Street Jetty: Catch a ferry across the river to Elizabeth Quay or just enjoy the views from the jetty
🍽️ Dining options: South Perth may be quieter than some other areas of Perth, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking in dining options. The suburb is known for its cafes and brunch spots, like Gusto Food, known for its delicious coffee and inventive breakfast dishes. For something a bit more upscale, head to Rambla on Swan, which offers Spanish-inspired cuisine and stunning river views. Insider Tip: Don’t miss the Perth Farmers Market on Sunday mornings at Windsor Park for fresh, local produce and gourmet treats.
🚶♀️ Getting around: While South Perth is a bit further from the city center, it’s still well-connected by public transportation. You can catch a ferry from Mends Street Jetty to Elizabeth Quay, which is a great way to see the city from the water. There are also plenty of buses that run through the suburb, connecting it to other parts of Perth. Top Tip: If you’re staying in South Perth, consider renting a bike to explore the river foreshore and nearby parks.
Where to stay in South Perth 🏨
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels in Perth
- The Peninsula Riverside Serviced Apartments – Located along the South Perth foreshore, just 5 minutes from Perth’s city centre by car or ferry, offering fully-equipped kitchens, free WiFi, and on-site parking.
- Metro Hotel Perth – Situated in South Perth with panoramic views of the Swan River and Perth city, featuring stylish rooms, complimentary WiFi, a restaurant, and bar.
- Quest South Perth Foreshore – Offering views of the Swan River and Perth city centre, this property features studio, one, and two-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes or fully-equipped kitchens.
6. West Perth and Subiaco – Great Place to Stay for Luxury 💎
🌳 Leafy suburbs: If you’re looking for a place that’s a bit more upscale and residential, West Perth and Subiaco are amazing options. These leafy suburbs are just a short drive or train ride from the Perth CBD, but they offer a quieter, more laid-back vibe. The streets are lined with beautiful heritage homes, trendy cafes, and boutique shops.
🏞️ Kings Park proximity: One of the best things about staying in West Perth is the proximity to Kings Park and Botanic Garden. This massive urban park in Perth is one of the largest in the world, with over 400 hectares of natural bushland, manicured gardens, and stunning city views. Don’t miss the treetop walk for a unique perspective of the park’s lush greenery.
- Main sights in West Perth and Subiaco:
- Kings Park and Botanic Garden: A massive urban park with natural bushland, gardens, and city views.
- Subiaco Oval: A historic football stadium that hosted AFL games until 2017.
- Subiaco Farmers Market: A weekly market featuring fresh, local produce and gourmet treats.
- Watertown Brand Outlet Centre: An outlet mall with over 100 stores offering discounted designer brands.
- Scitech Discovery Centre: An interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits and activities.
🍽️ Dining scene: When it comes to food and drink, West Perth and Subiaco have plenty to offer. Hay Street is lined with trendy cafes and restaurants, serving up everything from classic Italian to modern Australian cuisine. For something a bit more casual, head to the Subiaco Hotel for a pub meal and a pint. Insider Tip: Don’t miss the Subiaco Farmers Market on Saturday mornings for fresh, local produce and gourmet treats.
🛍️ Shopping options: If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, West Perth and Subiaco have you covered. The Watertown Brand Outlet Centre is a great spot for bargain hunters, with over 100 stores offering discounted designer brands. For something a bit more unique, head to the boutiques along Rokeby Road in Subiaco. Top Tip: Check out the Subiaco Arts Centre for local art and handmade crafts.
🚶♂️ Getting around: While West Perth and Subiaco are a bit further from the city center, they’re still well-connected by public transportation. The Subiaco train station is just a short walk from the main shopping and dining areas, and there are plenty of buses that run through the suburbs. If you’re driving, there’s also plenty of parking available. Money Saver: Consider getting a SmartRider card for discounted fares on public transportation.
🧪 Family-friendly fun: If you’re traveling with kids, West Perth and Subiaco have some great family-friendly attractions. The Scitech Discovery Centre is a must-visit, with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that make learning about science and technology fun. The Perth Zoo is also just a short drive away in South Perth. Insider Tip: Check out the Subiaco Library for free kids’ activities and events.
Where to stay in West Perth and Subiaco 🏨
⭐ Best Hotels in West Perth
- Quest on Rheola – Located in West Perth, a 5-minute drive from Perth CBD and a short walk from Kings Park Botanical Gardens, offering modern 1 and 2 bedroom apartments with full kitchens and laundry facilities.
- Tribe Perth – Situated 800 metres from Domain Stadium in West Perth, offering stylish rooms with city or garden views, free WiFi, private parking, and free bicycle hire, just a 6-minute drive from the city centre.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels in West Perth and Subiaco
- Quest Kings Park – Located across the road from Kings Park, a 5-minute drive from Perth CBD, offering modern studio apartments with free WiFi, kitchenettes, washing machines, and tumble dryers.
- Vibe Hotel Subiaco Perth – Situated in the heart of Subiaco, just 5 minutes’ drive from Perth CBD, featuring an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant, and modern rooms with free WiFi and flat-screen TVs.
- Sage Hotel West Perth – Located in West Perth, a 5-minute drive from Perth CBD, offering modern rooms with free WiFi, a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and 24-hour room service.
FAQs about Visiting Perth ❔
What part of Perth is best to stay?
The best area to stay in Perth for tourists is the Central Business District (CBD). Staying in Perth City Centre means you’ll be closest to the main attractions, have the best public transportation connections, and plenty of dining, shopping and entertainment options.
Is south or north of Perth better?
South Perth is a good option for families, with attractions like the Perth Zoo and quieter atmosphere while still being close to the CBD. The northern coastal suburbs like Scarborough are noted for their beaches. It depends on your preferences.
What is the difference between Fremantle and Perth?
Fremantle is a smaller, more historic port city located about 30 minutes drive southwest of Perth. It has more of an artsy, laidback vibe compared to the larger, more modern city of Perth. Fremantle is known for its well-preserved 19th century architecture, markets, fishing boat harbour, and beaches. Perth has a much bigger city feel with skyscrapers, more dining and entertainment options.
Why to live in Perth?
Key reasons include the excellent weather, beautiful beaches, relaxed lifestyle, good work-life balance, plenty of outdoor activities, a growing dining and cultural scene, and its proximity to Western Australia’s natural wonders.
Can I sleep in Perth airport?
Yes, Terminal 1 is open 24 hours and provides the most comfortable sleeping options, with armrest-free benches, couches, and sleeping pods available to rent.
