Need to Know
For detailed information, see Survival Guide
Daily Budget
Budget: Less than $150
Dorm bed in a hostel: $30–50
Private hostel room: $80–130
Mainly self-catering, with the occasional budget meal: $30
Public transport DayRider pass: $12.80
Midrange: $150–350
Double room in a midrange hotel: $130–250
Lunch in a cafe or pub: $30–40
River cruise or surf lesson: $40–70
Short taxi ride: $20
Top End: More than $350
Double room in a top hotel: from $250
Three-course dinner in a top restaurant: over $80
Car rental per day: $50
Advance Planning
ACheck what kind of visa you’ll need to visit Australia.
ACheck that your passport has at least six months’ validity.
AIf you’re flying into Perth, check which terminal you’ll be landing at: there are four, with different domestic/international transfer and public transport considerations.
ABring a ‘rashie’ swimming top, a broad-rim hat and sunglasses to combat the sun on Perth’s glorious beaches.
Arriving in Perth
A From Perth Airport
Perth Airport is 10km east of Perth. Rent a car, or jump in a taxi (around $45 into the city) or prebooked shuttle bus (from $25).
J From Elizabeth Quay Bus Station
South West Coach Lines focuses on WA’s southwestern corner, with buses departing Elizabeth Quay.
L From East Perth Station
Transwa runs trains and buses into rural WA from East Perth. Great Southern Rail runs the Indian Pacific train between Perth and Sydney, also departing East Perth.
Getting Around
K Car
There are local and international car-rental offices at the airport and in the city.
L Train
Transperth operates five lines: Armadale, Thornlie, Fremantle, Joondalup, Mandurah and Midland.
J Bus
Regular Transperth buses and free Central Area Transit (CAT) buses service the city. Fremantle also has free CAT bus services.
K Taxi
Metered taxis abound: hail one by by raising your arm, or head for a taxi rank. Uber operates in Perth.
N Ferry
Ferry across the Swan River from Elizabeth Quay to Mends St Jetty in South Perth (for Perth Zoo).
