Perth Day Trip: How To Spend A Day In The City

Perth is the perfect day trip destination, known for its urban streets steeped in history, vibrant life, and exhilarating entertainment. Bound by peaceful sprawling parks, a breathtaking river foreshore, and sports grounds where legends are made, Perth is where nature, world-class arts, and a bustling food and drink scene collide. 

Perth Day Trip Itinerary

From extraordinary cultural precincts to where to dine along the way, this day trip itinerary connects you with the best things to do in Perth.

8:00 am: Take the train to Elizabeth Quay

Elizabeth Quay
Credit: Tourism Western Australia

We all know the early bird gets the worm so hit the road early to get the most out of your Perth day trip. Make the most of the free public transport on Sundays, and take your bikes on the train to Elizabeth Quay. Nestled on the banks of the Swan River, between Barrack and William Street, the waterfront entertainment precinct is home to a collection of public artwork, promenades, open spaces, and a range of bars and restaurants worthy of exploration.

9:00 am: Jump on the ferry to South Perth

Mister Walker in South Perth
Credit: Mister Walker

Take the ferry — which runs every 15 minutes and is also free on Sundays — to South Perth. With almost a quarter of the city’s land area classified as parks and gardens, South Perth is renowned for its leafy green parks and wide open spaces, the Perth Zoo, and an abundance of places to shop, dine, and explore.

9:30 am: Visit Mindeerup Piazza and grab breakfast

Breakfast at La Patisserie
Credit: La Patisserie

Park your bikes up at Mindeerup Piazza — the new gateway to South Perth and head to Mends Street for breakfast. With so many places to choose from, you’ll be spoiled for choice. If you’re in need of a recommendation, Gogo’s, Atomic, La Patisserie, and Mister Walker are all fabulous options.

10:30 am: Hit the South Perth Foreshore for a cycle

Black swan in the Swan River
Credit: AdobeStock

It’s time for a healthy dose of exercise! Hit the South Perth Foreshore and cycle east, watching the world of foreshore parties and picnics along the way. Enjoy the opportunity to revel in the scenic and extremely photogenic locations as you go. You’ll be forgiven for stopping for a cliched city skyline photo with a black swan while you’re at it.

You can also book a guided three-hour bike tour of the foreshore and East Perth with GoGo Active Tours. The gentle, 16-kilometre ride passes iconic Perth landmarks including the South Perth Foreshore, Heirisson Island, Crown Perth, Perth Stadium, Matagarup Bridge, Claisebrook Cove, the Perth Bell Tower, and Elizabeth Quay. You’ll also learn about local history and Noongar culture while observing some incredible bird life, hidden wetlands, and vibrant waterscapes.

12:00 pm: Stop for a lunchtime bite at The Camfield

Lunch at The Camfield
Credit: The Camfield

Once you’ve passed the Causeway, if you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time to refuel with a little sustenance. If you’re feeling like something on the bigger side, park your wheels at Crown and head to the buffet at Epicurean. Alternatively, pull in to The Camfield and enjoy a tasty pub grub feed, washed down with a pint. Check the dates on the Optus Stadium website for footy classes — it can get quite busy on footy days.

2:00 pm: Matagarup Bridge Zip+Climb or Mini Golf

Zip+Climb experience at Matagarup Bridge
Credit: Tourism Australia

There’s no rest for the wicked! For a high-adrenaline adventure, head to the majestic Matagarup Bridge for the Zip+Climb experience. This is no ordinary bridge walk. Expect to climb, shimmy, and slide past the bridge beams to reach the SkyView open-air viewing platform, positioned a scenic 72 metres above the Swan River. Then enjoy the 400-metre-long flying fox ride to the home base at exhilarating speeds of up to 75 kilometres per hour. Remember to book ahead of your visit!

For something a little less adrenaline-pumping, head over to the brand-new Matagarup Mini Golf for some good, old-fashioned family fun. Set on the banks of the Swan River, Matagarup Perth Mini Golf is conveniently located between Matagarup Zip+Climb and The Camfield in Burswood Park.

4:00 pm: Cycle over the Matagarup Bridge 

Cycling over the Matagarup Bridge
Credit: Tourism Australia

It’s time to jump back on the bikes. Cycle over the Matagarup Bridge and follow the river back to Elizabeth Quay. Stop by Gusto Gelato for a well-deserved ice-cold treat. Here, you’ll find delicious gelato, handcrafted in small batches using traditional artisan techniques learnt in the Italian town of Bologna.

5:30 pm: Sunset drinks and dinner at The Reveley rooftop bar

The Reveley
Credit: The Reveley

Salute a day well spent with sunset drinks at The Reveley rooftop bar. With a busy yet serene atmosphere, expect breathtaking sky-high views, and a sleek bar design accompanied by groovy live music. If you’re feeling peckish, choose a couple of plates from the share-style menu, to pair with the moreish cocktail list. 

For more Perth Day Trip itineraries to help you discover the best of Perth, visit our Destination Perth Day Trips hub.

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