Getting to and Around Perth
Perth is accessible by land, sky, rail and sea through a vast network of travel options and the region is easy to navigate.
Set between the Swan River and the 400 lush hectares of Kings Park, Perth is synonymous with everything that is attractive about Australia. Perth is acknowledged as a beautiful, clean and friendly city and is a centre of commerce, culture, sports, shopping and entertainment. The city and surrounds are easy to navigate with well signposted roads, an excellent public transport system and a large selection of touring options. Follow the links below to find out all there is to know about getting to and around Perth.
Travel to Perth
Air
Perth is easily accessible by air from around Australia, overseas and from many locations within the State. Perth Airport serves Western Australia by connecting people, business and communities, and provides support for local communities. It strengthens cultural, family and social bonds as well as supporting business, tourism and leisure travel. It is the fourth busiest airport in Australia in terms of passenger traffic, and operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, throughout the year.
International Airlines |
Air Asia | Air Asia X | Air Mauritius | Air New Zealand | British Airways | Cathay Pacific |
Domestic Airlines |
Air North | Jetstar | Qantas | Tigerair | Virgin Australia |
Regional Airlines |
Alliance Airlines | Qantas | Regional Express | Skippers | Virgin Australia |
Train
Known as one of the world's greatest train journeys, the legendary Indian Pacific, operated by Great Southern Rail, is a trip of a lifetime. This three-day trip departs from Sydney, Melbourne or Adelaide and journeys through vineyards, river lands, the both amazing and expansive Nullarbor Plain and plenty more that the beautiful country of Australia has to offer.
Road
To truly appreciate how big and sparsely populated Australia's outback is many people decide to take the journey across the country or through the state by road. There are clearly sign-posted, well marked and serviced wide roads in Western Australia's north and south. Townships and roadhouses are also regularly spaced throughout. Speed limits are 110 kilometres per hour, and wildlife can often be sighted by the roadside.
Cruise Ship
During summer (November to February in the southern hemisphere) Perth, along with other parts of the state feature on world cruise itineraries as part of Australian coastal cruise packages. This presents a range of opportunities to explore Western Australia by sea. Find out more about cruising into Perth.
Airport Access
Taxi and Rideshare
Taxis are available from both the domestic and international terminals. A taxi trip from the airport terminals to Perth city centre will take 20 to 30 minutes and cost approximately AUD30.00 - AUD40.00. Taxi ranks are located outside both the domestic and international terminals and main providers in Perth are Swan Taxis and Black & White Cabs. Perth Airport has dedicated rideshare pick-up areas to service all terminals. Uber is a ridesharing service available at Perth Airport, offering a range of services. Find out more on the Perth Airport website.
Public Transport
Transperth operates regular bus services between Perth Airport, Perth City and other local centres. You can plan your journey on public transport using their Journey Planner. For up-to-date information about routes, rates and schedules, please contact Transperth.
Airport Shuttle
The Perth Airport Connect offers shuttle services between Perth Airport Terminals and car parks. myAirShuttle connects Fremantle with all domestic and international terminals. Departing from the Fremantle Town Hall with modern, air-conditioned vehicles.
Get Around with Transperth
Perth's public transport system, Transperth, brings our city’s greatest attractions within easy reach, while going easy on your wallet. Before you head out for the day, use the JourneyPlanner feature on the Transperth website or app. JourneyPlanner will provide you with useful details like what service you’ll need to take and how much it will cost. Download Transperth's Guide to Getting Around Perth for more information, and see some of Transperth's services below.
FREE CAT Buses
Within the Perth City CBD, you can enjoy free and easy transport. The modern CAT buses run on four routes providing free transport around Perth City and Leederville. In February 2022, new CAT service will link two of Perth's major hospitals (Perth Children's Hospital and Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital) with the University of Western Australia. The CAT bus stops are easily recognisable and provide real time passenger information. Free CAT bus transport is also available in Fremantle and Joondalup.
Transperth Metro Bus and Train Service
There are five train lines which service the Perth metropolitan area departing from Perth City to Armadale, Fremantle, Midland, Joondalup and Mandurah. Many train stations along these lines provide connecting bus services to access Perth's tourist destinations and attractions. Train and bus service details, as well as a comprehensive journey planner, can be obtained from Transperth or by calling 13 62 13. TransWA operate bus and rail services outside the Perth metropolitan area to region destinations.
Transperth Ferry
A Transperth ferry service crosses the Swan River from Elizabeth Quay in Perth City to Mends Street Jetty in South Perth - giving access to the South Perth foreshore, dining options and the Perth Zoo.
Travel Around Perth
Taxi and Rideshare
Designated taxi ranks are located around Perth City for safe and convenient travel. Supervised taxi ranks operate in Northbridge on Friday and Saturday nights. Taxis may also be hailed on the street or ordered by telephone anywhere in Perth. The main taxi service providers in Perth are Swan Taxis and Black & White Cabs. Ridsharing service, Uber also operates in Perth.
Walk and Cycle
Perth has a comprehensive network of cycle and dual-use paths in Perth City and beyond. One of the most popular routes for leisure cyclists and walkers is a circuit around the Swan River at the doorstep of the city, that is clearly signposted. Detailed cycle maps can be obtained from most metropolitan bicycle retailers. There is also pathway popular for recreation lining much of the coast. Hire a bike or see all some great walking trails and cycle trails around Perth.
Private Services, Ferries and Tours
Perth City and Fremantle offer guided hop-on/hop-off bus and tram services with commentary, allowing visitors to embark and disembark and major tourist attractions around the cities. A private ferry service connects Elizabeth Quay in the CDB, to Point Fraser and Claisebrook Cove in East Perth. High-speed ferries travel from Barrack Street Jetty in the CBD to Fremantle, Rottnest Island and the Swan Valley with Captain Cook Cruises, Rottnest Express and SeaLink. A high-speed ferry to Rottnest Island also departs Hillarys Boat Harbour with Rottnest Fast Ferries.
There are a number of tour companies that offer city sightseeing, one day, overnight or extended tours of Perth and its surrounding regions. Most companies depart from the Perth CBD and offer courtesy pick up from selected hotels in the city, Fremantle and along the coast.
Self-Drive
Rental cars and campervans/caravans are readily available and require a valid driver's license. While international licenses are not required, they are recommended. Visitors will find a huge range of national and international rental brands and special offers, so shop around for the best deal. Motor homes are a popular option when exploring the great outdoors, with plenty of caravan parks to be found across the region. Check out our Perth Self Drive Trails for some inspiration on your next road trip in Perth and WA.
Disabled Access
The City of Perth is considered a universally accessible city for all people, including those with disability. It has pedestrian friendly streets and public spaces that are designed according to universal design principles, and continuous accessible paths of travel link public transport, parking, retail, business and entertainment areas. The People With Disabilities WA website provides some information on accessible accommodation in Perth and country areas.
Travel Times and Distances
How long will it take me to get there? How far away is it? Find out the travelling times and distances before you hit the open road. The distances shown on the chart below use the main roads. In some areas, there are alternative routes using unsurfaced roads or four wheel drive tracks. Check with the local visitor centres for current road information, travel times and distances. Access the Perth City Map here.

Destination Perth Holiday Planner
A comprehensive guide to find out what to do while visiting the city of Perth and surrounding regions.
Plan Your Trip to Perth
Start planning your visit by finding out what to do in Perth during the day and night. See all accommodation, tours, attractions, activities, food and drink and retail in Perth.