No Car, No Worries - Adventuring Around Perth On Public Transport

Getting around Perth without a car doesn’t have to be a challenge.

Did you know you can see some of Perth's best attractions without the hassle of driving and parking? Let’s see how easy and fun it can be to get to some of Perth’s hidden (and not so hidden) destinations by bus, train or ferry.

Perth City

Perth, in our biased opinion, is one of Australia's most beautiful cities, with stunning river frontage and views of Kings Park. Transperth trains and buses will get you to the city centre way faster than you can park your car. Places to visit:

• The cultural precinct in Northbridge can be reached by train or bus—the Transperth Busport is in Yagan Square, and the Perth Train Station is a stone's throw away. While exploring one of Perth's cultural hotspots, you will find yourself spoiled for choice with the Art Gallery of WA, PICA - the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts, and our world-class WA Museum Boola Bardip. The State Library is also worth a look, as they often have free exhibitions in their downstairs galleries. With all this culture only a stroll away from the busy streets of Northbridge and a vast selection of eateries, bars and cafes, the cultural precinct is worthy of a day trip on its own!

• Take an architectural wander through the city. Cathedral Square is a bustling hub of restaurants and bars bordered by some of Perth’s most iconic architectural features, such as the historic State Buildings, Perth Town Hall, St George’s Cathedral, the State Administrative Tribunal building, the City of Perth Library, and the David Malcolm Justice Centre.
• Nyungar History - Go Cultural Aboriginal Tours and Experiences offer a 90-minute walking tour of Elizabeth Quay and surrounds - a lovely way to learn more about the Nyungar history of the area.
• Elizabeth Quay is a short walk from Elizabeth Quay Train Station. There is nothing quite like a stroll through this bustling precinct. Restaurants and cafes make this the perfect spot to share a meal or grab a coffee with your friends. Check out the sculptures and artwork, hang at the kids’ playground, or climb The Bell Tower. Elizabeth Quay is also the gateway to all things boat. From here, you can catch a ferry to Rottnest Island or the South Perth Foreshore or take a river cruise up or down the Derbarl Yerrigan/Swan River.

South Perth

The South Perth Foreshore is just across the beautiful Swan River from Elizabeth Quay.  A Transperth ferry ride to Mends Street Jetty, South Perth is worth it just for the boat trip. Once you disembark, a beautiful display of public art will greet you.

• Mindeerup is the gateway to South Perth, a piazza with public art, including a giant numbat and a frill-necked lizard, meerkats and emus, all created by local artists. The artworks give a shout-out to the Perth Zoo for its commitment to the conservation of endangered species.
• Perth Zoo is a short 10-minute walk from Minderup. The magnificent Perth Zoo is where you can spend a day wandering the beautiful gardens and catching glimpses of your favourite animals. In fact, there are around 1300 animals in Perth Zoo! 

• The Old Mill in South Perth is an easy busy ride from the Elizabeth Quay Bus Station. The Old Mill was erected in 1835 and operational until 1859, where it ground flour for the early settlers. It now offers guided tours and is a popular backdrop for wedding photos!
• South Perth Foreshore is the perfect place to take a stroll. The foreshore not only gives you the most stunning views of Perth City but it is the perfect place to have a picnic or go for a wander and grab a coffee in the bustling Angelo Street precinct.

Guildford and the Swan Valley

A trip to Guildford is a must for the history buffs and antique aficionados. The Midland line train stops right in the centre of historic Guildford, 20 minutes from Perth. Guildford is classified as a Heritage Town by the National Trust of Australia. Things to do and see:

• Antiques and Curios - the secondhand and antique shops on Guildford Road will keep you busy for hours!  
• Craft Market - On Sundays you may come across the Town Hall craft market, held on the third Sunday of every month. Once you have browsed to your heart's content, coffee and eats are plentiful.
• Swan Valley - Guildford is also the gateway to the Swan Valley home to more than 150 wineries, breweries, distilleries, growers and producers of artisan wares.

• Bike Trails - If you wish to explore further afield from Guildford you could join Swan Valley Cycle Trails and see the region on two wheels, or hire a taxi or rideshare and make a day of the wineries and local attractions. Transperth will allow you to take a bike on the train in non-peak periods.
• Guildford Hotel - lunch at this stunningly restored hotel is an experience. No bookings required.

Drop into the Swan Valley Visitor Centre for more information about the history of this beautiful town.

Kings Park

Kings Park is one of the world's largest and most diverse inner city parks. The Western Australia Botanic Garden showcases over 3,000 species of unique flora found nowhere else in the world. Native bushland is protected in the 400 hectare park, which is rich in Aboriginal and European history.

• Transperth buses and free CAT buses will deliver you straight to Kings Park where you can choose a picnic spot with some of the most incredible views of the city or go for a hike on the many pathways and trails.  
• Lottery West Federation Walkway is a must-visit while you are there. The arched bridge with glass sides takes you high above the tree canopy and affords the most stunning views of the Swan and Canning Rivers and the old Perth Brewery. 

• Playgrounds - For the adventurous little ones in your life, the Rio Tinto Naturescape Playground is a great place for kids to reconnect with nature. Make sure you carry a change of clothes. Things can get muddy!
• Eats - Feeling hungry or thirsty? There are cafes and kiosks to stop and grab a bite or a coffee. Zamia Cafe does an amazing breakfast or lunch!

East Perth and Claisebrook Cove

Catch a train to Claisebrook Station and walk or ride to the Swan River. Claisebook Cove in East Perth  is a lovely place for a stroll and a great place to grab a coffee or a bite. There are many cafes, bars and restaurants to choose from.

• Walk the Bridges - Go for a walk across the amazing Matagarup Bridge to Optus Stadium and the Burswood Peninsula. 
• Zipline - Feeling adventurous? Book the Matagarup Zip and Climb and see the view from way up high.

• History - Visit The Perth Mint on Hay Street for a tour of the historic premises, open 7 days a week - the free Red CAT Bus Service will get you right to the door!
• Dolphin spotting - Laze by the Swan River and keep your eyes peeled for the local river dolphins.

Fremantle

A train ride to the port city of Fremantle is a favourite with many Perth locals and tourists. Just 30 minutes from the city, less time than it takes to drive! Beat the traffic and sit back while the scenery passes you by. The attractions available in Fremantle range from historical to adventurous and everything in between! 

• Fremantle favourites - Go for fish and chips on the wharf at Cicerello’s, visit the Fremantle Markets, explore one of the many museums or historical landmarks, such as Fremantle Prison or just wander Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour.
• More things to do in Fremantle - Drop into the Fremantle Visitor Centre for an extensive list of things to do! If you need to get around Fremantle, the CAT buses are free to use!

Next time you feel up for an adventure and driving is not an option, check your Transperth Journey Planner and odds are you can get to where you want to go by bus, train or ferry and sometimes at no cost. All while enjoying the scenery on the way. Mind the gap!