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 AirportPerth 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
China Southern Airlines | Emirates | Garuda Indonesia | Jetstar & Jetstar Asia
Malaysia Airlines | Malindo Air | Qantas | Qatar Airways | Scoot | Singapore Airlines
South African Airways | Thai Airways | Virgin Australia

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

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 CruisesRottnest 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.

More Travel Information

Matagarup Bridge by Aeroture Photography

Destination Perth Holiday Planner

The Destination Perth Holiday Planner is Western Australia's premier publication promoting the destination of Perth. Download your own copy now to help plan your visit to Perth!

Joondalup Train Station

Travel 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.

Rottnest Island Beach

Important Travel Tips

Check out these useful travel tips to ensure your visit to Perth is safe and thoroughly enjoyable from emergency, health and safety to school and public holidays and customs information.

Bathers Beach House, Fremantle

Working Holidays and Backpacking

Perth offers all you need for your working holiday or backpacking adventure in Western Australia. We've collected some useful resources to help plan your working holiday or backpacking holiday.

Perth Visitor Centres Information

Contact a Visitor Centre

Head to a Visitor Information Centre to plan your holiday to Perth. Find maps and brochures, accommodation, tour bookings and provide local knowledge on the things to see and do in the region. 

Destination Perth Holiday Planner

A comprehensive guide to find out what to do while visiting the city of Perth and surrounding regions.

View the online version of the Destination Perth Holiday Planner

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.

Pool, Crown Towers Perth

Accommodation in Perth

You'll find a diverse range of accommodation to suit all budgets and styles all across Perth from five-star resorts to caravan parks.

Rottnest Express Eco Tour, Rottnest Island

Tours in Perth

Tours around Perth and surrounds take you to some of the most exciting and interesting holiday spots from hot air ballooning in the Avon Valley to cruising the Swan River.

Perth's Outback Splash, Maze

Attractions in Perth

There's plenty of attractions to choose from in Perth and surrounds, with fun-filled activities for all ages.

Public House, Perth City

Food and Drink in Perth

Whether its dining in an elegant restaurant overlooking the river or sampling local wines, Perth boasts an extensive buffet from which to delight your tastebuds.

Aspects of Kings Park, Perth City

Retail in Perth

Perth offers a host of shopping options to choose from - stock up on the latest fashions, buy unique art or head to a local market.

Apollo Motorhome Holidays

Hire in Perth

Looking to explore Perth on your own? There are plenty of hire options available from cars and motorhomes to bikes and kayaks.

Summer in Perth

Perth's endless summer shines across our city's dazzling beaches, islands and regional waterways, and now is the time to get outdoors to explore it all for yourself!