Looking for easy Perth day trips without a car? Save on fuel, skip the traffic, ditch parking stress and sit back to enjoy the ride.
Perth is packed with easy escapes across its vast public transport network. From free city loops to full-day train adventures and weekend trips from Perth without a car, there are so many day trips from Perth by public transport.
Easy city CAT bus adventures
For spontaneous exploring, Perth's free CAT (Central Area Transit) buses are hard to beat. Running regularly across five coloured routes, the buses link the CBD with Northbridge, Kings Park, East Perth and Elizabeth Quay - making it ridiculously easy to jump between the city's best spots.
The Blue CAT – culture & Kings Park
Ride a few stops on the Blue CAT to Northbridge's WA Museum Boola Bardip, where West Australian stories are woven through immersive exhibits. From there, hop off on Hay Street and stroll to The Perth Mint for a deep dive into gold rush history, live gold pours and a glimpse of the world-record holding One Tonne Gold Coin. Back on the Blue CAT, the route climbs to one of the world's largest inner-city parks - Kings Park and Botanic Garden. Sweeping city and river views framed by West Australian fauna, and manicured lawns make this a perfect picnic spot.
The Green CAT – family-friendly fun
The Green CAT is made for family days out. Starting at Elizabeth Quay Bus Station, it drives through West Perth to Scitech, home to Australia's largest planetarium and hands-on exhibits, guaranteed to keep little minds busy. Back at Elizabeth Quay, the waterfront has plenty to keep all ages entertained. Lunch by the water, then climb the adventure playground, hunt for public art, ride the intricately decorated Venetian carousel, or even have a go at ringing the historic bells at The Bell Tower. End the day with a scoop (or two) from Gusto Gelato.
The Yellow CAT – East Perth adventure
For riverside wanders, with a side of adventure, head to East Perth on the Yellow CAT. Claisebrook Cove offers relaxed waterside cafés, while the East Perth Cemeteries run guided tours coloured with brave and tragic tales (open Sundays, bookings essential). The next stop is Matagarup Bridge, which leads over the Swan River to Stadium Park. Book a behind-the-scenes Optus Stadium tour or VERTIGO Rooftop Experience with The OZONE, for epic 360-degree views. The Burswood Peninsula is packed with fun, from WA-themed Matagarup Mini-Golf, adventure playgrounds and the thrilling Matagarup Zip + Climb, 72 meters above the river (bookings essential).
Car-Free day trips on Transperth
Beyond the city, Perth's train network opens up a stack of memorable day trips. From Fremantle, to Guildford, Mandurah and sun-kissed Scarborough – there are plenty of places to visit near Perth by train. These easy day trips from Perth are within reach by rail.
Fremantle Train Line – coastal culture in Freo
On the Fremantle Line, take a side-stop at bustling Claremont, known for its high-end shopping. Next, the train drops you in the heart of the port city. From here, High Street leads to heritage-listed Fremantle Markets (open Friday to Sunday), where there's artisan goods and street food stalls to browse. Nearby, discover sea-faring stories at the WA Shipwreck Museum, a world-leading maritime archaeology gallery. Cross the pine-covered Esplanade Park to the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour, to sip a local brew with lunch at the iconic Little Creatures.
Midland Train Line – Guildford heritage wanders
The Midland Line serves up heritage charm, with optional café stops in Maylands and Bassendean. In Guildford, James Street is lined with antique shops, brimming with vintage finds, vinyl, and retro curios. Across the tracks, lunch is calling in the sun-dappled beer garden of WA's oldest licensed pub, the Rose & Crown Hotel. Be sure to take a peek in the convict-built cellar. For a final stop, explore Woodbridge at Mandoon, a grand 19th-century home (bookings essential).
Joondalup Train Line - Surf CAT to Scarborough
White sand and ocean views are just a train and bus ride away. Take the Joondalup Line to Stirling Station, where the free Surf CAT connects to Scarborough Beach every 10 minutes. Start with a pancake stack at Zoie Cafe before hitting the water. Catch a wave with Scarborough Beach Surf School (bookings essential), or a relaxed dip at the heated Scarborough Beach Pool.
Mandurah Train Line – Mandurah Memories
Ride the Mandurah Line for a breezy day by the water. Buses ferry passengers from the station to Mandurah Eastern Foreshore. Here, parklands are dotted with playgrounds, swimming spots and picnic areas. The boardwalk is packed with cafés, while boat tours are a must. Dolphin-spot along the canals with Mandurah Cruises, or set sail with the Pirate Ship Mandurah, a swashbuckling way to see the waterways with kids in tow; book ahead.
Transwa staycations & short escapes
Need ideas for car free getaways in Perth? Transwa makes Perth staycations without a car surprisingly easy.
AvonLink - Avon Valley adventures
Just over an hour from Perth, the AvonLink train winds through the scenic Avon Valley, connecting historic country towns perfect for an overnight escape. Hop off in Toodyay, where quirky stops like Christmas 360 and The Cola Café and Museum sit alongside bushranger tales at Newcastle Gaol Museum and Connor's Mill Museum. After lunch at the contemporary Victoria Hotel Toodyay Restaurant, continue by train to Northam, watching farmland scenery roll by. Explore Bilya Koort Boodja, an interactive centre celebrating Nyoongar culture. Stay overnight at the boutique Farmers' Home Hotel, then rise early for an incredible hot air balloon ride over the valley with Liberty Balloon Flights or Windward Ballooning, making for a memorable staycation.
Australind - A perfect day in Pinjarra
Hop aboard the Australind train from Perth City, and journey south to the charming town of Pinjarra. A walk via the famous Pinjarra Suspension Bridge leads to the treasures of Edenvale Heritage Precinct. This award-winning precinct is where art, craft, food and local history comes together with the Edenvale Heritage Tearooms, Nu.Arts Collective at Liveringa Gallery, Roger May Machinery Museum and more. Find the many murals of Pinjarra Art Trail, then finish your day by devouring a pie from Pinjarra Bakery in leafy Cantwell Park.
Perth proves that a car isn't necessary for an adventure. Next time, skip the traffic, jump on a bus, train or ferry and let someone else do the driving. For even more inspiration, discover our favourite ways to explore Perth on public transport - no car required.
