The Cool Kids’ Guide To 48 Hours In Perth
Having undergone something of a cultural renaissance in the past few years, Perth is packed full of food and fun experiences sure to surprise and delight any traveller.
[related_articles]59954,59279[/related_articles]Now, as the Kangaroo Route brings Australia closer to Europe, it’s the perfect opportunity to check in on Western Australia‘s thriving capital city. This two-day itinerary ought to get you started.
Day one
Kick-start the day with good coffee and a delectable breakfast guaranteed to keep you going for hours. Located along the prestigious King Street shopping strip, the red bricks and high ceilings at La Veen, not to mention its coffee, have earned it as many accolades as there are unground beans in its roaster.
Take a stroll around the city, visiting Northbridge and the newly opened Yagan Square before visiting Perth’s new riverside darling, the Elizabeth Quay entertainment precinct. After you’re done soaking up stunning views of the Swan River and taking in glorious Kings Park from afar, hop onto a train for a short ride to Perth’s trendiest neighbourhood, Leederville.
Stroll along the popular Oxford Street strip and explore its quirky, independent stores before popping into The Garden, one of Perth’s favourite haunts. Marry a boutique beer or a local wine with high-brow pub grub (think: wood-fired pizzas and hearty modern Australian cuisine) in an industrial yet leafy backyard setting before jetting back into the city.
In the evening, make like Alice in Perth’s colourful rabbit hole-like laneways, where you can take a whirlwind tour of Perth’s small bar scene. On Two Feet’s intimate guided bar crawl, you’ll discover three well-hidden bars with the help of a local guide.
[related_articles]49770,46778[/related_articles]WA is known for its distinct sound, so head out on the town to discover the state’s up-and-coming musical talent at popular late night venue, The Bird. Or, if you’re up for late-night chats, retro-style diner and ultimate hipster hangout The Moon serves everything from bevvies and tea to towering plates of nachos and healthy shots of vegan ice cream.
Day two
From city to harbour, it’s time to hop aboard the train towards Fremantle, WA’s favourite port city. More often than not, you’ll be treated to good weather, and there’s no better way than to seize the rays than to head to the beach.
After a morning dip at Leighton Beach, dust the sand off and head to Bib and Tucker, a coastal dining institution owned by Olympic champion Eamon Sullivan. Enjoy WA’s finest produce while taking in views of the Indian Ocean from the balcony.
From North Fremantle station, take a quick train journey across the Swan River into the heart of Fremantle, or “Freo” as us locals call it. The famed cappuccino strip will heighten your senses, but save what’s left of your appetite for snacking at the Fremantle Markets.
[related_articles]61249,59439[/related_articles]
Here, you can indulge in the coconut-based cocowhip at Whipped or watch buskers play while enjoying a bite from one of the artisan, fresh produce or street-food vendors.
Cap off your afternoon with sundowners at Australia’s first licensed beach bar and restaurant, Bathers Beach House, and watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean. This is truly what days in WA are made for.
Later, take a lazy walk across Esplanade Park, winding through the town centre before finding yourself at ultra-hip hub, The Mantle. A mixed space of pop-up restaurants, ping-pong, arts, DJs, tapas, and drinks, you’ll certainly feel part of the Freo crowd. Rest assured, they know how to have a good time.
[related_articles]43961,47895[/related_articles]Now figure out where to drink in Perth with these best hidden bars.
[qantas_widget code=PER]Check out Qantas flights to Perth.[/qantas_widget](Lead image: Pedro Szekeley / Flickr)
