Perth is one of Australia’s most underrated cities. A delicious food scene, plenty of bars, and surrounded by incredible nature, Perth is without a doubt one of Australia’s best-kept secrets.
But Perth is a large city and not all of its neighborhoods will appeal to visitors. Which is exactly why I put together this guide for where to stay in Perth.
This article was written for travellers, by travellers. It looks at the best neighborhoods in Perth and breaks them down into easy to digest bites so you can quickly find the one that’s right for you.
So whether you’re looking to party, explore, or lounge on the beach, we’ve got a neighborhood that will suit your travel needs.
Let’s jump right to it – here are our top recommendations for where to stay in Perth, Australia.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Perth.
If you’re a broke backpacker, don’t worry, there are plenty of great and affordable hostels in Perth. They offer quite a lot of bang for your buck too, so you can be sure to have a comfy bed, a safe place to rest your head, and a lot of like-minded travellers around you.
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Studio apartment in the heart of the CBD! | Best Airbnb in Perth
You won’t waste a second of your stay in Perth commuting into the city, because you’ll be staying right in the heart of it. This spacious modern studio has all the conveniences you’ll need, and you’ll be able to walk to both beach and bars with ease from your doorstep. Perth’s Airbnbs generally offer a lot, but this place is especially awesome!
Spinner’s Backpackers | Best Hostel in Perth
Spinner’s Backpackers wins our vote for the best hostel in the city because of its chilled out vibe and excellent central location. This hostel has new bedrooms with personalized charging stations, modern bathrooms, a commercial kitchen and a relaxing garden. Guests can also enjoy Netflix in the communal lounge.
Alex Hotel Perth | Best Hotel in Perth
The Alex Hotel is our pick for the best hotel in Perth because of its excellent views, spacious rooms and its tasty breakfast. This four-star hotel is centrally situated in Perth. There are plenty of bars and cafes in the area. And, it is in close proximity to famous tourist attractions and landmarks.
Central Business District
Perth Central business District (CBD) is a large neighbourhood located in the centre of the city. It’s set approximately 10 kilometres north of the swan river and offers an abundance of activities and attractions.
Central Business District (Budget)
In addition to being the historic, cultural and culinary hub of the city, Perth CBD is also where you’ll find the best budget accommodations in Perth.
Northbridge
Northbridge is a small and funky neighbourhood located north of the city centre. It was once known for it’s gritty aesthetic and as the home of Perth’s redlight district. today, northbridge is a hipster haven with graffiti-covered walls, restaurants offering cuisines from around the world, and is the entertainment hub of Perth.
Fremantle
Fremantle is a port town set on the west coast of Australia. a suburb of Perth, Fremantle is located south of the city centre and is well-connected throughout the region.
South Perth
South Perth is a beautiful neighbourhood just a short ferry ride away from Perth CBD. it is a neighbourhood characterized by its stunning natural surroundings because it sits on the shores of the idyllic swan river.
Perth is a laid-back, quiet and safe city set on Australia’s west coast. It is the largest city and capital of Western Australia and offers a unique mix of cosmopolitan and historical attractions and stunning natural beauty.
There are plenty of things to see and do in Perth, from exploring the beautiful Swan River to diving deep into history and indulging in the city’s lively and vibrant food scene.
The fourth largest city in the country, Perth is home to more than two million people. It is divided into 30 local government areas, which are further subdivided into 250 distinct suburbs. Because there’s so much to experience in Perth, we recommend you visit at least three or four different neighborhoods depending on the nature of your visit.
Perth Central Business District is the neighborhood at the heart of the city. It is home to the main business and shopping districts and is in close proximity to buzzing Northbridge. With art galleries, museums, shopping, dining and architecture, this is a hub for all types of travellers. You’ll find quite a to of Perth’s backpackers in this area too, since it’s the area with the most action.
Travel slightly north from here and you’ll arrive in bustling and vibrant Northbridge. Home to the city’s entertainment district, Northbridge is packed with bars, pubs, clubs and restaurants. If you want to experience Perth’s thriving nightlife scene, look no further than Northbridge.
Head south and cross the Swan River to arrive in South Perth. This neighborhood is characterized by its massive greenspaces and ample natural scenery. From riverside walks to picnics in the park, South Perth is a fantastic place to get back to nature.
And finally, travel southwest to the coast and you’ll arrive in Fremantle. One of the coolest neighborhoods in Perth, Fremantle is bursting with history and culture and has bohemian flair. Here you can enjoy unusual cafes, delicious food, interesting art galleries, and plenty of mysteries, stories and legends.
Still not sure where to stay in Perth? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
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Perth’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
In this next section, we’ll take an in-depth look at the five best neighborhoods to stay in Perth, Australia. There are so many amazing places in Perth, but they’re not all located in the same area. Knowing where to stay in Perth will make your trip a lot more enjoyable and save your feet.
1. Central Business District – Where to stay in Perth first time
Perth Central Business District (CBD) is a large neighborhood located in the centre of the city.
It’s set approximately 10 kilometres north of the Swan River and offers an abundance of activities and attractions. From art galleries and museums to dining, shopping and history, this neighborhood is bursting with things to see and do. And, this is exactly why Perth CBD is our top recommendation for where to stay in Perth if you’re visiting for the first time.
When visiting Perth CBD, you definitely don’t want to miss Murray Street. One of the liveliest streets in the city, Murray Street is lined with tasty restaurants, pubs and cafes where you can enjoy a cold and refreshing beverage or snack on a hot afternoon.
Studio apartment in the heart of the CBD! | Best Airbnb in Central Business District
You won’t waste a second of your stay in Perth commuting into the city, because you’ll be staying right in the heart of it. This spacious modern studio has all the conveniences you’ll need, and you’ll be able to walk to both beach and bars with ease from your doorstep.
The Melbourne Hotel | Best Hotel in Central Business District
If you’re looking for a hotel in an unbeatable location, buckle up. Set in the city centre, this hotel is close to restaurants, shops and bars, and provides easy access to Perth’s top tourist attractions. This stylish hotel has everything you need for a comfortable and bangin’ breakfast served each morning.
Alex Hotel Perth | Best Hotel in the Central Business District
The Alex Hotel is our pick for where to stay in Perth CBD because of its excellent views, spacious rooms and its tasty breakfast. This four-star hotel is centrally situated in Perth. There are plenty of bars and cafes in the area. And, it is close to famous tourist attractions and landmarks.
Little Monica Apartment | Best Hostel in Central Business District
If you’re travelling on a budget and looking for a place to stay, Little Monica Apartments is perfect for you. Nestled in central Perth these apartments are a short distance from the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre and lots of other very important business things for important people. The apartment itself is cosy with a living room and kitchen plus a comfy bed with a spacious bathroom. Some great bang for your buck if you ask me.
Things to See and Do in Central Business District
- Browse the collection at the Art Gallery of Western Australia.
- Dive deep in the history of the state at the Western Australian Museum.
- Explore the museums and art galleries at the Perth Cultural Centre.
- Grab a pint at the Belgian Beer Café.
- Head down to Murray Street and enjoy a night of food, drinks and fun!
- Listen to great music at Ambar.
- Stop and smell the roses at the Kings Park and Botanical Garden.
- Take a guided tour of the Perth Mint.
- Visit the Bell Tower and learn all about this unique building and its history.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Central Business District (Budget) – Where to stay in Perth on a budget
In addition to being the historic, cultural and culinary hub of the city, Perth CBD is also where you’ll find the best budget accommodations in Perth. Dotted throughout the city centre is a myriad of backpacker hostels where you can meet other like-minded travellers and enjoy a comfortable bed at a good price.
Fancy something a little more private? Well, you’re in luck! Perth CBD is also packed with good-value and affordable hotels where you can lay your head after a fun and exciting day of exploring.
Perth CBD is also home to a great variety of free and budget-friendly activities and attractions. Here you can enjoy all the best that the city has to offer without breaking the bank. It’s central and practical so it’s a solid base, especially if you’re only spending the weekend in Perth and want to see as much as possibe.
Self-contained studio at a bargain price | Best Airbnb in the Central Business District
If you want to find somewhere that’s easy on the wallet but still gives you some independence and privacy, this CBD studio would be a good bet. Within easy reach of the CBD and the Beach, this would suit a couple or 2 friends.
Spinner’s Backpackers | Best Hostel in Central Business District
Spinner’s Backpackers wins our vote for where to stay in the Central Business District because of its chilled out vibe and excellent location. This hostel has new bedrooms with personalized charging stations, modern bathrooms, a commercial kitchen and a relaxing garden.
Tribe Perth | Best Hotel in Central Business District
This modern hotel comes complete with a coffee bar, free wifi and on-site bicycle rentals. It is centrally located and is close to bars, restaurants, shops and clubs. This excellent four-star hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities, like a coffee machine, mini-bar and luxury linens.
Akara Hotel | Best Hotel in the Central Business District
The Akara Hotel is our pick for where to stay in the Central Business District if you’re on a budget. It offers comfortable beds and spacious rooms with great amenities all at an excellent price. This hotel also boasts a library, laundry facilities and luggage storage for guests.
Things to See and Do in Central Business District
- Browse the sculptures at Elizabeth Quay.
- Catch a free movie at the Northbridge Piazza.
- Go for a stroll through Lesueur National Park.
- Head to the beach and soak up the sunshine.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon in Kings Park & Botanic Garden.
- Rent a bike and go for a ride along the beautiful and scenic Swan River.
- Sink your teeth in the delectable sandwich at Toastface Grillah.
- Snack and sample your way through the delicious food hall at Carillon City.
3. Northbridge – Best area to stay in Perth for nightlife
Northbridge is a small and funky neighborhood located north of the city centre.
It was once known for it’s gritty aesthetic and as the home of Perth’s redlight district. Today, Northbridge is a hipster haven with graffiti-covered walls, restaurants offering cuisines from around the world, and is the entertainment hub of Perth.
Northbridge is where you’ll find the highest concentration of bars, pubs and clubs in the city. Tucked around every corner and down every alley are bars and clubs serving up everything from local craft beers and urbane cocktails to fruity drinks and shots galore.
So, whether you want a relaxed night out or a full-on party, you’ll find what you’re looking for (and more!) in Northbridge.
Britannia on William | Best Hostel in Northbridge
This hostel is centrally located in Perth with many restaurants, clubs and shops nearby. It is built in a stunning heritage building and this hostel boasts spacious rooms, new bathrooms and a relaxing courtyard. Guests can enjoy a large dining room, a well-equipped kitchen, and laundry facilities.
Doubletree By Hilton Perth Northbridge | Best Hotel in Northbridge
Located in buzzing and bustling Northbridge, this hotel is within walking distance of great bars, clubs and restaurants. It offers easy access to Perth’s entertainment district and is close to the CBD and top tourist attractions. It has 200+ comfortable and spacious rooms, free wifi and a swimming pool.
1BDR Apartment | Best Airbnb in Northbridge
If you’re in town to smash schooners and be your best bogan, this is the spot for you. If you don’t know what some of those words mean, don’t worry, you soon will. Double beds, private bathrooms and a kitchenette. Too easy mate.
Great Southern Hotel Perth | Best Hotel in Northbridge
Whilst this place isn’t the most fancy hotel in the world it’s cosy and has everything you need. The rooms are simple with a large double bed and spacious bathroom. There’s an onsite bar and restaurant serving up some delicious food and cocktails, plus you’re within walking distance from Northbridge Centre.
Things to See and Do in Northbridge
- Choose from a selection of homebrewed beers at Northbridge Brewing Company.
- Dance the night away at Connections Nightclub.
- Dig into nachos and other tasty treats at The Bird.
- Dine on quick and delicious bites at the Brass Monkey.
- Eat tasty Italian dishes at No Mafia.
- Enjoy drinks and the views from the rooftop bar at the Mechanics Institute.
- Indulge at Frisk Small Bar.
- Listen to live music at Tetsuo NC.
- Sip great cocktails at Ezra Pound.
- Visit Jack Rabbit Slim’s, a bar, lounge, live music venue and a diner all rolled into one!
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Grab an eSIM!4. Fremantle – Coolest place to stay in Perth
Fremantle is a port town set on the west coast of Australia. A suburb of Perth, Fremantle is located south of the city centre and is well-connected throughout the region.
Once Australia’s roughest port town, Fremantle reinvented itself in the 1950s and today it is one of the coolest neighborhoods in the country. And, it is our pick for the coolest neighborhood in Perth because of its bohemian vibe and abundance of unusual cafes, bars, restaurants, art and live music.
Fremantle is also a great neighborhood to stay in if you’re keen to dive deep into history. Here you’ll find noteworthy attractions like the Fremantle Prison as well as the Fremantle Arts Centre, which is home to world-class art galleries, museums and more.
Fremantle Old Fire Station | Best Hostel in Fremantle
This hostel is built in a converted fire station and is one of the best hostels in Fremantle. Their features include laundry facilities, an outdoor cinema, a common area and a kitchen. This property offers comfortable beds, a safe setting and a fun and lively atmosphere.
Hougoumont Hotel | Best Hotel in Fremantle
The Hougoumont Hotel is our top recommendation for where to stay in Fremantle. Because of its excellent central location, this hotel is close to bars, club and restaurants, as well as top tourist attractions. Each room comes complete with comfortable beds, luxury amenities, and a complimentary fruit bowl.
Fremantle Harbourside Luxury Apartments | Best Hotel in Fremantle
400m from the beach these snazzy apartments are the perfect place to perch up. Fremantle apartments have everything you need including a fully equipped kitchen, cosy living room and ridiculously comfy bed. You’re also in a great location within walking distance from restaurants, cafes and bars.
Celina’s Ocean View Studio | Best Airbnb in Fremantle
It might not be the largest apartment in the world but If you’re a solo traveller or digital nomad this place is ideal. This tasty apartment comes with delicious ocean views and close-pumping bars if you fancy a few beers. There is a desk and decent wifi if you need to make that dollar and a fully equipped kitchen to whip up some home-cooked meals. Overall it has everything you need and great bang for your buck.
Things to See and Do in Fremantle
- Eat, drink and enjoy the atmosphere at Sail and Anchor.
- Excite your sense at The Mexican Kitchen.
- Explore the exhibitions at the Fremantle Arts Centre.
- Get that perfect pic for the ‘gram in the Whalers’ Tunnel.
- Grab a coffee at one of the many cafes that make up the Cappuccino Strip.
- Learn the history and mysteries of the Fremantle Prison.
- Party all night long at the Metropolis Fremantle.
- Shop the vibrant Freemantle Markets.
- Soak up the sunshine at South Beach.
- Visit Rottnest Island and take a selfie with one of Australia’s cutest and friendliest creatures, the Quokka.
5. South Perth – Best neighborhood in Perth for families
South Perth is a beautiful neighborhood just a short ferry ride away from Perth CBD. It is a neighborhood characterized by its stunning natural surroundings because it sits on the shores of the idyllic Swan River.
This neighborhood is our pick for where to stay in Perth for families because of all the great things you can see, do and experience. From exciting outings to the Perth Zoo to kayaking the Swan River, you and your family will love exploring this vibrant and lush Perth neighborhood.
The Peninsula Riverside Serviced Apartments | Best Apartments in South Perth
These colourful and comfortable apartments are the perfect home away from home in Perth – and are our pick for where to stay in South Perth. This property boasts modern apartments packed with essential amenities. There’s also a luggage storage and laundry facilities.
Melville Oasis | Best Airbnb in South Perth
Whilst it may not be the most fancy apartment whether you are staying in Perth for business or pleasure this apartment does the job. You’re within walking distance from the best restaurants, cafes and bars in town, plus you’re close to the beach. Feel at home with a comfy bedroom, cosy living room and fully equipped kitchen.
Victoria Park Lodge | Best Lodge in South Perth
This charming hostel is ideally located in South Perth. It is conveniently located for exploring the city and is in close proximity to restaurants, shops and landmarks. This lodge offers 14 bedrooms, a large common room and a fully-equipped kitchen. Guests also have access to laundry facilities and a BBQ area.
Quest South Perth Foreshore | Best Apartments in South Perth
If you’re searching for a snazzy hotel room with some tasty views, this one is for you. Look out over the Swan River as you sip your morning coffee, not a bad way to start the day. There are heaps of cafes, restaurants and bars nearby, plus you’re in a great location for exploring the city.
Things to See and Do in South Perth
- Charter a boat and explore the waters around Perth.
- Dine on fresh and delicious dishes at Rambla on Swan.
- Eat flavourful Thai fare at Wok & Ladle.
- Enjoy a day at the beach at the South Perth Foreshore.
- Explore the grounds of The Old Mill.
- Rent kayaks and glide along Swan River.
- Savour tasty Vietnamese cuisine at Le Vietnam.
- See your favourite animals at the Perth Zoo.
- Shop until you drop at the Garden City Shopping Centre.
- Sink your teeth into a delectable slice of pizza at Ciao Italia.
- Wander through Sir James Mitchell Park.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Perth
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Perth and where to stay.
What To Pack For Perth
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Perth
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Perth
Perth is a charming and vibrant city that is often overlooked by travellers. But thanks to its abundance of good food, its access to nature, its interesting history and thriving cultural and arts scene, we definitely think this Western Australian city is well worth the time and effort of travelling to Australia’s west coast.
In this guide, we’ve looked at the best neighborhoods to stay in Perth. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here is a quick recap of our favourites.
Perth CBD gets our vote as the best neighborhood with the most going on. It’s where you’ll find history and culture, lively nightlife and plenty of tasty eats.
Our pick for the best hostel is Spinner’s Backpackers because of its great location, laid-back vibes and excellent amenities.
The Alex Hotel Perth is our favourite hotel because it is close to Perth’s top tourist attraction and it offers comfortable rooms with a scrumptious breakfast.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Perth.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Perth.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Perth instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Perth to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Perth is a great way to maximise your time.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Oceania backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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