Getting around Perth

Perth is a spread-out city, but its public transport makes the main highlights easy to reach. Transperth runs the trains, buses and ferries, and the compact city centre is best explored on foot. For day trips further afield, a car or tour helps. Here is how to get around.

Transperth

Transperth runs Perth's public transport network, including trains, buses and ferries. Fares are based on zones and distance, and you can pay using a SmartRider card or some contactless methods. Check Transperth's website for current fares and ticketing options.

Trains

Perth's train network radiates from the city. Useful lines for visitors include the Fremantle line (to Cottesloe and Fremantle), the Airport line, and the Midland line (to Guildford for the Swan Valley). Elizabeth Quay station serves the riverfront.

Buses

Transperth buses cover the metropolitan area. In the city, free central-area buses loop through the CBD. Buses serve Kings Park, the beaches and suburbs. Use the Transperth journey planner.

Ferries

The Transperth ferry crosses the Swan River between Elizabeth Quay and South Perth. Other operators run river cruises and ferries to Fremantle and Rottnest Island.

Free travel

Transperth offers free travel within defined Free Transit Zones in central Perth and some regional centres, and free central-area buses. Boundaries and rules can change, so check Transperth's website.

Airport transfers

Perth Airport is east of the city. Trains connect the airport with the city, and buses, taxis, rideshare and shuttles are also available. Check the airport and Transperth websites for current options.

Cycling

Perth has extensive shared paths, including riverside paths around the Swan River and coastal paths along the beaches. Helmets are compulsory. Bike hire is available in the city and on Rottnest Island.

Driving

A car is useful for day trips to the Pinnacles, Perth Hills and Swan Valley. Driving is on the left. Watch for wildlife in rural areas at dawn and dusk.

Walking

The CBD is compact and mostly flat, and riverside paths link the city with Kings Park and Elizabeth Quay.

Getting to the highlights

Accessibility

Most Transperth trains and buses are accessible, and many stations have lifts and ramps. Check Transperth for accessibility information.

Taxis and rideshare

Taxis and rideshare services operate throughout Perth. They are useful for late nights and trips to areas with limited public transport.

Tours

Tours are a good option for day trips to the Pinnacles, Swan Valley and Rottnest.

Safety

Perth's public transport is generally safe. Transit officers patrol the network. As in any city, keep valuables secure.

Tips

Travel outside peak hours when possible. Check timetables at weekends and public holidays, when services may be reduced.

Late-night travel

Some train and bus services run late, particularly on weekends. Check timetables for last services.

With children

Children travel at concession fares. Prams are allowed on trains and buses. Check Transperth for details.

Getting around Rottnest

Rottnest Island is car-free. Visitors use bikes, buses or walk. See our Rottnest guide.

Is Perth easy to get around?

Yes, for the main highlights. Public transport covers the city, Fremantle and beaches. For day trips further afield, a car or tour is useful.

Planning a journey

The Transperth journey planner, available on its website and app, is the easiest way to plan trips. Enter where you are going and it suggests train, bus and ferry connections, with walking directions and timetables. Allow extra time for connections, especially at weekends, when services can be less frequent.

Travelling with luggage

Trains and buses can carry luggage, though peak-hour services can be crowded. If you are arriving at the airport with large bags, consider travelling outside the morning and evening peaks, or take a taxi or shuttle to your accommodation.

Ferries and river cruises

Besides the Transperth ferry to South Perth, private operators run sightseeing cruises along the Swan River, river trips to Fremantle and wine cruises to the Swan Valley. Ferries to Rottnest Island run from Fremantle, the city and Hillarys Boat Harbour. Check each operator's timetable and book ahead in summer.

Hiring a car

Car hire is available at the airport and in the city. Western Australia is huge, and distances between towns can be long, so plan fuel stops and avoid driving at dawn and dusk in rural areas, when kangaroos are most active. Check road conditions before setting out.