Ultimate Guide to seeing the best of Perth and surrounds in one trip

When you choose the right place to stay, the city is just the beginning of your Perth adventure.

Perth – the most remote capital city on Earth – can be a mystery even to most Australians. It has internationally renowned vineyards, dazzling white sand beaches, ancient karri tree forests and vast limestone deserts. Experience them all, then unwind at the Parmelia Hilton Perth.

Getting there

The most popular way to reach Perth is by air, with each state capital providing direct flights. A more adventurous alternative is by road. Driving straight will be the fastest way, but where’s the fun in that? From Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Canberra and Melbourne, you can cross the Nullarbor Plain and pass the winter whales of the Great Australian Bight. On the opposite end of the country, the Darwin to Perth route crosses the Kimberley and Broome. For a dream journey, book the magnificent Indian Pacific train from Adelaide, Melbourne, or Sydney.

Soak in Perth’s breathtaking skyline. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Where to stay

The central location of the luxurious Parmelia Hilton Perth makes it the perfect holiday base. Take an easy stroll to one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, Kings Park Botanic Gardens. Walk to Elizabeth Quay for waterfront dining and water-based activities, or explore award-winning CBD dining. Other nearby favourites include Perth Arena and His Majesty’s Theatre.

Snuggle into cosy bedding and stunning Perth views.

The executive-style rooms and suites, some with views over Perth City and the Swan River, feature LED Smart TVs, cosy bedding and workstations. The heated outdoor pool, complete with daybeds and cabanas, is perfect for sunny Perth days,. And the fitness centre is well equipped for those who like to stay active.

Sip on some casual drinks before heading out on the town at the Lobby Lounge. Or, if you’ve checked into an executive room or suite, you can access the Executive Lounge with its complimentary breakfast, evening drinks and hors d’oeuvres.

Book into the sleek design and colour pops of Parmelia Hilton Perth.

Where to eat

Get a fine dining experience that’s refreshingly down-to-earth at the hotel restaurant, Samuels on Mill. The menu evolves with the seasons, inspired by the diverse landscapes of Western Australia. Seasonal produce shines on plates such as freshly caught fish in lemon myrtle sauce and Dardanup lamb with turnip cream and black garlic emulsion. À la carte breakfast is also served here.

On another night, eat out on the town with Wildflower and Balthazar close by. Boasting three Chef Hats, Wildflower offers a farmer-and-forager-driven degustation menu drawing inspiration from the six Indigenous seasons. Balthazar is a hidden European-inspired wine bar serving classic European cafe fare. The art-deco building it’s housed in makes for gorgeous surroundings.

Nothing ends a night more perfectly than a tipple at Perth’s best hidden bars. Try the award-winning artesian cocktails at Bar Lafayette, relaxed late-night drinks at Bobeche or the quirky Foxtrot Unicorn, hidden underground in an old bank vault from 1887.

For something more casual, head to Cooee the iconic Old Swan Brewery. Dine on a modern Australian menu with stunning river views as a backdrop. Or Cape Arid Rooms for an afternoon tea featuring local ingredients, surrounded by artworks created by Western Australian artists.

Taste wines from around Perth at Samuels on Mill. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Things to do

Start in the city at the botanical gardens of Kings Park, which has over 3000 species of Western Australian flora across its native, arid and landscaped gardens.

Venturing into the city surroundings has to start with a trip to see the adorable quokkas of Rottnest Island. While it is 31 km away, it is easy to reach by ferry, which sets out right by the Parmelia Hilton Perth at Elizabeth Quay. Take the easy walk or jump on the hotel’s complimentary pickup service. Onboard, you’ll get tasty refreshments as you soak in scenic river views, with a wine and cheese tasting on your way back from Rottnest.

Meet the famous quokkas of Rottnest Island. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Short on time but craving a tipple? You can take a helicopter ride directly from Perth to the gourmet food and wine of the Margaret River region with Helicopter Tours. Instead of a three-hour drive, you can be there in an hour, with the bonus of spectacular scenery over vineyards, nearby Mandurah and along the Peel Inlet.

Yet another Western Australian icon is available as a day trip: Pinnacles Desert. Enjoy a complimentary pickup from Parmelia Hilton Perth then set out for a Pinnacle Sunset and Stargazing Tour. Stop at Yanchep National Park, watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean and gaze at some of the purest night skies while enjoying a tasty dinner.

Perth can be steamy in summer. So where to go for a dip (besides your hotel pool, of course)? Three spots vie for the title of most popular beach. Cottesloe has white sand, terraced lawns and a pavilion. Energetic Scarborough features surfing and fitness classes. City Beach has a calm energy with oceanfront restaurants and sandy shores.

Take a dip in the breezy hotel pool.

Start planning your Perth adventure at hilton.com/en