Perth spreads along the Swan River between the Indian Ocean and the Darling Scarp, with its central business district and its port at Fremantle both sitting on the water. The wider metropolitan area reaches far in every direction except the ocean, and former separate settlements such as Fremantle, Joondalup, Midland, Armadale and Rockingham have kept their own identities even after being absorbed into the greater city.
For a visitor, the practical choice is between the city centre and its immediate surroundings, the port city of Fremantle, and the coastal town of Mandurah to the south. This guide covers which of those areas to base yourself in, what kind of accommodation each one holds, and how each connects to the rest of the city. It does not recommend individual hotels, hostels or guesthouses.
Best areas to stay in Perth
1. City centre
The city centre is the small official City of Perth area on the north side of the Swan River, and it holds the largest concentration of hotels in the metropolitan area. It suits first-time visitors who want to be based among the main urban amenities and within easy reach of the river.
Expect hotels and motels rather than hostels here. The neighbouring suburb of East Perth, between the city centre and the Swan River, is part of the same hotel cluster and is a short step from the centre.
2. Northbridge
Northbridge is the area to choose if hostels and a backpacker scene are what you are after. Perth is popular with backpackers, and a large number of hostels are located in the city, particularly in Northbridge.
Because standards vary, it is worth seeing your room or checking ratings online before you commit. Northbridge sits adjacent to the city centre, so you remain close to the centre's hotels, transport and riverfront.
3. East Perth
East Perth lies between the city centre and the Swan River and forms part of the main hotel cluster alongside the centre. It suits visitors who want to be near the centre and the river without staying in the middle of it.
Accommodation here is hotel and motel style rather than hostel style. Its position makes it an easy base for walking into the centre.
4. Fremantle
Fremantle is the port city on the Swan River and one of the metropolitan area's predominant urban centres, originally established as a separate settlement and retaining a distinct identity. It suits visitors who prefer a waterfront base with its own character over the central business district.
Hotels and motels are concentrated here alongside those in the city centre and East Perth. The World Heritage-listed Fremantle Prison is among the area's heritage and cultural sites.
5. Mandurah
Mandurah is Western Australia's second-largest city and forms a conurbation with Perth along the coastline, though it is generally regarded as an independent city. It is a popular weekend getaway for Perth residents and has several hotels and beach resorts catering to that demand.
It is easily accessible by Perth's suburban railway system, which makes it workable as a base rather than only a day trip. Choose it if you want a coastal stay outside the metropolitan core.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: backpacker hostels, found in large numbers in the city and particularly in Northbridge; standards vary, so inspect the room or check ratings before booking.
- Mid-range: hotels and motels in the city centre, East Perth and Fremantle, plus caravan parks, which are a cost-effective and often good value family option.
- Splurge: the hotel and beach resort accommodation in Mandurah, aimed at the weekend getaway market.
Best area for a first visit
Stay in the city centre for a first visit. It holds the largest concentration of hotels in the metropolitan area and sits on the Swan River, with East Perth and Northbridge immediately adjacent for additional rooms and hostels. From there you are positioned to reach the rest of the city, including Fremantle and its port.
Frequently asked questions
Where are Perth's hotels concentrated?
Most of Perth's hotels are concentrated in the city centre, the neighbouring suburb of East Perth between the city centre and the Swan River, and the seaside suburb of Fremantle.
Where should backpackers look for hostels in Perth?
There are a large number of backpackers' hostels in the city, particularly in the Northbridge area. A few hostels in Perth are in terrible condition, so see your room or check the ratings online.
Are caravan parks a practical option in Perth?
Yes. Caravan parks are a cost effective and often good value family way to stay. They are usually some distance from the city, but some have bus stops right out the front door, and they are generally clean and offer a variety of accommodation types.
Can you stay in Mandurah without a car?
Yes. Mandurah is easily accessible by Perth's suburban railway system, which is part of why it works as a weekend getaway for Perth residents.
Compare live prices for the area you have chosen using the booking tools on this page.