Gorgeous sandy beaches, trendy bars and curated street art. Check out some of the most iconic sites in Perth.
No matter what sort of traveller you are, there’s guaranteed to be something to delight in and around Perth. But, of course, first-time visitors shouldn’t skip out on the most famous spots. This list of the most iconic sights of Perth will take any holiday to the next level.
Kings Park is one of the most renowned iconic sites in Perth
Kings Park is one of the largest inner city parks in the world, home to the Western Australian Botanic Garden with more than 3000 species of native flora. Spanning 400 hectares, there are so many exciting things to see and do while visiting.
Join a walking tour with Go Cultural Aboriginal Tours & Experiences to learn all about the significance of Noongar language, history and culture. On the tour, you will sample native bushfoods, learn about traditional medicine plants, and participate in an interactive session to learn how to use traditional tools and artefacts.
Visitors should also walk the Bushland Nature Trail to see more than 327 species of native plants, including more orchid species than the whole of Europe. Keep an eye out for wildflowers, black cockatoos and honeyeaters on your way.
Kids will love the Poolgarla Family Area, which features a playground, sports field, cafe, and picnic facilities for a classic Aussie lunch.
Bell Tower is one of the most interesting iconic sites in Perth
To commemorate Australia’s bicentenary in 1988, St Martin in the Fields presented the City of Perth with seventeen prestigious bells, including two specially designed and cast from the cities of London and Westminster. The ANZAC Centenary Bell is the largest swinging bell in Australia, and is run at midday to commemorate servicemen from Australia and New Zealand.
When visiting this historic monument, visitors should head to the observation deck for panoramic views of Swan River and the city. Or, join a Bell Tower Experience to learn about the tower’s unique past, and even get the chance to ring the bells for yourself.
Elizabeth Quay and Swan River are iconic sites in Perth you can enjoy day and night
On the banks of the Swan River, visitors will find the iconic Elizabeth Quay. This popular destination is home to a number of elevated restaurants, including The Reveley, The Island, and The Oyster Bar. The public art trail, which features a diverse range of sculptures crafted by local artists, is another highlight. The Quay also hosts markets throughout the year, with a wide range of vendors selling fresh produce, jewellery, art, and more.
From Elizabeth Quay, you will have easy access to the waters of Swan River. Little ones will love discovering the natural wonders of the river on a boat tour with Wild West Charters, while those looking for romance can enjoy a private sunset tour with champagne and chocolate thanks to Gondolas on the Swan.
Yagan Square is one of the most artistic and iconic sites in Perth
This community meeting place is always buzzing with people looking to shop, eat, and hang out with friends. Central to the design of the square is the importance of honouring Australia’s Indigenous people, as the site was originally a meeting place for the Whadjuk people.
While here, make sure to wander through the wildflower gardens, play in the Waterline art installment, and watch the projected video pieces telling the story of Perth and WA. There is always an event or festival to explore, including KAYA, which will tell the story of the Noongar Boodjar people through storytelling, music and visuals in May.
Fremantle Prison is one of the oldest and most iconic sites near Perth
Fremantle Prison was built as a convict barracks in the 19th century, housing more than 10,000 convicts in its lifespan. Today, visitors can join a number of fascinating tours to learn all about the special and spooky history of this prison. On the Tunnels Tour, you will slip into overalls and descend 20 meters below the prison to paddle a punt through the labyrinth of tunnels built by prisoners. The expert guide will share stories of famous inmates, historic intrigue and more.
Or, if you’d like to stay above ground, join a Behind Bars Tour to explore the history of Fremantle Prison as a maximum security gaol from 1887 to 1991. Wander through the main cell block, exercise yards and more as you gain insight into the day-to-day experiences of prisoners.
Matagarup Bridge is one of the youngest iconic sites in Perth
Since opening in 2021, the Matagarup Zip+Climb has welcomed more than 60,000 thrill seekers from around the world. Each and every guest has made the climb to the top of the bridge, squeezing around beams and obstacles, to reach the open-air viewing platform above the river, offering spectacular views of the city. From here, visitors can zipline back to the home-based at speeds of up to 75km/hr on the 400 metre-long line.
If you enjoyed our feature on the most iconic sites in Perth, check out the best festivals and events in Perth for 2025, here.
