Thinking about visiting Perth for your next holiday and wondering where is the best place to stay? Perth is the capital of Western Australia and proudly takes out the title of the most isolated city in the world.
But don’t let this fool you; Perth is a must-visit for those seeking sunshine, incredible beaches and a laidback cosmopolitan vibe. Perth also serves as the gateway to the rest of the natural wonders that await in Western Australia.
In this detailed guide, I share all you need to know about where to stay in Perth, Australia including my local picks for the best hotels in Perth. Since Perth accommodation ranges from cheap hostels, apartment stays to luxury hotels, I’ve included a few options for every budget.
Where to Stay Perth
There are many options of where to stay in Perth, WA. If you are wondering “where should I stay in Perth” – don’t worry, I’ve got you covered in this guide!
Many first-time visitors opt for accommodation in Perth city centre, but there are many other neighbourhoods outside of the CBD that offer value accommodation in Perth.
The best places to stay include Northbridge, Burswood, Scarborough and Fremantle.
Where to stay will also depend on your travel style, including whether you are looking for family-friendly accommodation or more nightlife-centric options.
Summarised below are my recommendations for the best areas to stay in Perth for different travellers. I’ll go into detail on the best hotels to stay in Perth below or jump to the section using the table of contents above.
I’ve made planning your holiday in Perth a breeze – check out my fun 3, 5 and 7 day Perth Itineraries!
Best Location to Stay in Perth
Here is a quick summary of the best suburbs to stay in Perth:
- Perth City Centre (Perth Central Business District)
Best for: first-time visitors, short stays. The Perth CBD has the largest range of accommodation & luxury hotel options.
- Northbridge
Best for: nightlife
- Fremantle
Best for: culture, markets, heritage and history
- South Perth
Best for: family-friendly accommodation and attractions
- West Perth & Subiaco:
Best for: inner-city, local neighbourhood vibes
- Scarborough
Best for: walking distance to beaches
- East Perth & Burswood
Best for: close to CBD with good access to public transport, theatre & shows at Crown Theatre
Best Area to Stay in Perth Map
How to Get Around Perth
If you are staying in the above mentioned areas, they are all (with the exception of Scarborough) easy to get around the main attractions in Perth using public transport.
If you are planning on doing a day trip from Perth, or visiting the Margaret River Region, you will need to hire a car to get around.
I recommend Discover Cars to search the largest range of car hire options and for competitive best prices.
How Much Does Accommodation in Perth Cost?
It will fluctuate, especially depending on the time of the year you are searching for accommodation, but generally speaking a stay at a centrally located 4-star hotel in Perth will cost around $200 AUD per night as a general price guide.
Apartment-style hotels can offer great value, as they come equipped with kitchenettes or even full kitchens, so you can save on eating out by cooking a few meals at home. I provide some recommendations for this type of accommodation for each location below.
Perth City Centre
The Perth city centre is located on the Swan River, offering easy access to dining, attractions, public transport and must-see sights in Perth.
I’d recommend staying in downtown Perth if it is your first holiday in Perth, if you have a short stay or you don’t want to hire a car.
From the CBD, you will have access to all major train lines, as well as the free CAT bus which travels around the Perth CBD and Northbridge.
Places to stay in Perth city range from luxury hotels, backpacker hostels and short stay apartments. You’ll find quite a good range of 3-star and 4-star hotels in Perth CBD, check out my recommendations of where to stay in Perth city below.
Best Luxury Hotels in Perth City Centre
I’ve got a few personal favourite luxury options in the Perth CBD that I’ve included below.
To read more about the pick of the bunch of Perth’s luxury accommodation, read my dedicated guide to ensure an exceptional stay.
The Ritz-Carlton, Perth
Luxe with a capital L! The Ritz is Perth’s newest luxury hotel and has a prime position in Elizabeth Quay, commanding views over both the Swan River and the CBD.
I stayed in one of their studios with this incredible view of the Perth bell tower literally right outside my window!
This luxury hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, spa & sauna, rooftop bar and premium dining options all within the hotel. This is definitely one of Perth’s nicest hotels.
Check prices and booking availability here
QT Perth
One of my favourite hotels in Perth thanks to the quirky design and great location right next to Perth’s main shopping malls, Murray Street mall.
Their restaurant Santini Grill is top notch too. Make sure to check out the QT Rooftop Bar, with some incredible views of the city and they make great cocktails!
QT Perth is my go-to for an urban, affordable luxury stay in Perth.
Check prices and availability here
Best Mid-Range Hotels in Perth City Centre
Art Series the Adnate
Another modern and urban mid-range hotel is the funky The Adnate Art Series. The Adnate is an eye-catching addition to Perth’s hotel scene thanks to its large street front mural by renowned Australian street artist Matt Adnate. This vibrant hotel includes an outdoor pool, restaurant, bar and gym and each room feature Matt Adnate artwork.
This affordable luxe hotel makes for a great base to explore Perth’s CBD.
Check prices and availability here
Novotel Perth Murray Street
My top pick for a mid-range hotel in Perth is the Novotel Murray Street. You can’t get much more central than this hotel which only opened at the end of 2019.
Plus it has some great facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool and sauna, a bar and restaurant.
This is a great place to stay in Perth with family – when I visited in November 2022, it was clear this is a favourite with families judging by the breakfast! The rooms are modern, clean and comfortable, and quite well-sized for an inner city hotel.
You can read my detailed review of my stay here.
Check prices and availability here
Other Recommended Mid-Range Hotels in Perth CBD:
- Doubletree by Hilton Perth Waterfront: A new addition to Perth’s 4-star hotel scene is this highly rated Doubletree hotel. Located on the river within footsteps of Elizabeth Quay, this hotel has rooms with both city skyline and river view options, plus a rooftop pool with views out across the Swan River.
Best Apartment Hotel Accommodation in Perth City Centre
- Quest Mounts Bay Road: At the base of Kings Park you’ll find the modern Quest Apartment Hotel. From here you can easily stroll along the Swan River or walk up to Kings Park in minutes.
- Adina Apartment Hotel Perth Barrack Plaza: This serviced apartment-style hotel is located in the heart of the CBD with options of 1, 2 and 3-bedroom apartments or studio rooms. As a bonus, they all come with balconies. Adina Apartment Hotel is a great choice for longer stays, as the apartments come equipped with a kitchen and laundry facilities.
Best Budget Accommodation in Perth City Centre
- Citadines St Georges Terrace: This hotel is situated within walking distance to a range of restaurants, bars and entertainment areas and is located in the heart of the main business strip in Perth CBD.
A quick note: not all these hotels in Perth have a pool.
If cooling off from the Perth sunshine in a hotel pool is an essential, check out my guide to the best Perth Hotels with a Pool here.
Northbridge
Northbridge is located opposite the City Centre, on the other side of the train line.
Whilst best known as the nightlife capital in Perth, don’t let this deter you. Northbridge has definitely “cleaned up” its act in recent years.
Northbridge has become a popular location to stay in Perth, with several new hotel openings and a revival of the small bar scene drawing visitors in. Northbridge also has the most backpacker-style accommodations in Perth.
My favourite hotel in Northbridge is the quirky and boutique Alex Hotel.
Besides from its prime location between Northbridge and the CBD, it has an amazing rooftop terrace overlooking Northbridge.
You can make use of their free bicycle hire for guests and cycle your way around Perth.
Best Boutique Hotel in Northbridge
- The Alex Hotel: Boutique, charming accommodation in the heart of Northbridge with a rooftop terrace, on-site bar and free bicycle hire to make exploring Perth a breeze.
Best Mid-Range hotel in Northbridge
- Doubletree by Hilton Perth Northbridge: This affordable inner city hotel offers guests modern luxury, panoramic city views from the rooftop pool and bar, on-site dining and a 24-hour fitness center in close proximity to local attractions and dining.
Best Apartment Hotel in Northbridge
- Attika Hotel: Nestled on the edge of lively Northbridge, Attika Hotel offers boutique, self-contained luxury apartments with free WiFi, modern amenities, and easy access to the vibrant culture, entertainment, and dining of Perth.
Best Budget Accommodation in Northbridge
- Hostel G Perth: Not your ordinary hostel, Hostel G is a new and modern hostel offering private rooms with a private bathroom at affordable rates. They also have a range of 4-bed to 8-bed female only and mixed dorms. It’s located in a quieter spot on the edge of Northbridge, within walking distance to all the mains sights and nightlife.
East Perth & Burswood
East Perth and the neighbouring suburb of Burswood are another great option for those wanting to stay close to the city.
This is one of the best places to stay in Perth with family thanks to the range of accommodation available in the area and central access to the main attractions in Perth.
Burswood is best known for the large Crown hotel, casino and entertainment complex.
Best Luxury Hotels in East Perth & Burswood
The best luxury hotel in Burswood (and highly-rated and acclaimed in Perth in general) is the Crown Towers Perth. Perth’s first six-star hotel, the Crown Towers is one of the most popular hotels in Perth.
The sparking lagoon-style pools are a major drawcard for families and couples alike.
I paid extra for a room with a view across the Swan River and the city, and it was definitely worth the extra cost! The room service was great too – we had breakfast in bed overlooking this iconic view!
Other luxury hotels in East Perth:
- Pan Pacific Perth: Located in the East Perth business district, this 5-star hotel offers a large range of guest rooms and suites.
- Hyatt Regency Perth: In the heart of East Perth is one of Perth’s longest-standing luxury hotels. With renovated rooms and an outdoor heated pool, this is a great base to explore the rest of Perth.
Best Mid-Range Hotels in East Perth & Burswood
- Crown Metropol: This four-star hotel offers modern and comfortable rooms with a resort-style pool lagoon and a heated indoor pool.
- Ibis Styles East Perth: modern accommodation in East Perth near the Perth Concert Hall
Best Apartment Hotel Accommodation in East Perth & Burswood
- Fraser Suites Perth: Stylish apartments in East Perth with a heated indoor swimming pool
- The Sebel East Perth: Luxurious waterfront serviced apartments overlooking Claisebrook Cove
Best Budget Accommodation in East Perth & Burswood
- Crown Promenade: Centrally located, more budget-friendly accommodation within the Crown complex.
Fremantle
The port town of Fremantle is also known as Perth’s Old Town. Referred to as Freo by locals, this bustling town is full of vibrant streets, historical buildings, colourful markets and numerous dining options.
The best area to stay in Fremantle is near the Fremantle coffee strip, South Terrace. Staying near here you will be walking distance to Fremantle’s main attractions, including Esplanade Park, beaches and lots of dining options.
Fremantle is one of the best places to stay in Perth near beach, restaurant and public transport options.
Should I Stay in Perth or Fremantle?
If it’s your first time visiting Perth, I’d recommend staying closer to the city centre. If you don’t stay in Fremantle, you can explore Fremantle on a day trip. It takes about 30 minutes to get to Fremantle on the train from Perth CBD.
Fremantle offers the most ferry options to visit Rottnest Island – one of Perth’s best day trips.
Best Luxury Hotels in Fremantle
- Warders Hotel Fremantle Markets: Beautifully restored, luxury heritage accommodation located next to the Fremantle markets in the middle of town. Warders Hotel is the only 5-star hotel in Fremantle.
- Tradewinds Hotel Fremantle: This 4-star accommodation in Fremantle offers modern luxe rooms to travellers. Located 10 minutes from the heart of Fremantle, this hotel is nearby the iconic Instagrammable Container Rainbow and has an outdoor pool and bar.
- Hougoumont Hotel Fremantle: This boutique hotel is made out of sea containers! Only a 5-minute walk from the Fremantle Markets, there is a huge range of gourmet dining and drinking options within walking distance from this unique hotel.
Best Mid-Range Hotels in Fremantle
- Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges: One of the most centrally located hotels in Fremantle! You’ll find the Esplanade Hotel in the heart of Fremantle, right next to the Esplanade and near the famous Little Creatures Brewery.
- The National Hotel: Centrally located on Fremantle’s coffee strip, this hotel has renovated rooms and is only a 5-minute walk from Bathers Beach.
Best Apartment Hotel in Fremantle
- Quest Fremantle: Centrally located and within walking distance from all of Fremantle’s main attractions, Quest offers studio rooms as well as one and two-bedroom apartments.
Budget Hotel Accommodation in Fremantle
- The Federal Boutique Hotel: Located close to the visitor centre, this heritage hotel offers value accommodation with options for shared bathrooms or private facilities.
- Fremantle Prison YHA: Hostel stays don’t get much more memorable than this! Stay in the Fremantle Prison in this modern backpackers hostel.
West Perth & Subiaco
West Perth was mostly known for its business hotels and the home of Perth’s Parliament House. In recent years several new hotels have sprung up in West Perth and the neighbouring “coffee shop” suburb of Subiaco.
Stay in West Perth or Subiaco for those wanting to get a more local feel of Perth, whilst still remaining close to the city centre.
Both of these suburbs have train stations on the Fremantle line that connects the Perth CBD to Fremantle.
Best affordable luxury hotels in West Perth & Subiaco
- Tribe Perth: One of Perth’s best outdoor attractions, Kings Park and Botanic Garden, is located directly across the road from this hotel. Explore the park and the city with free bicycle hire from the hotel.
- Vibe Hotel Subiaco: Bringing a new modern era to the leafy neighbourhood suburb of Subiaco is the 4-star Vibe Hotel. Don’t forget to fit in a visit to the rooftop pool and outdoor bar!.
Best Apartment Hotel in West Perth
- Sebel West Perth: This modern apartment hotel-style accommodation has an outdoor heated swimming pool and fitness centre.
South Perth
South Perth is a good place to stay in Perth with family, but the range of accommodation options are more limited. It is centrally located with a short public ferry ride across the Swan River to reach the city centre.
You will also find the Perth Zoo in the middle of this leafy green suburb which is a must-visit with kids. South Perth has lots of coffee shops and cafés, and a walk along the South Perth foreshore is a must.
Best Apartment Hotels in South Perth
- Quest South Perth Foreshore: Offering a choice of a studio with a kitchenette, one or two-bedroom apartments with full kitchens. Modern facilities and rooms, some with city skyline views.
- The Peninsula Riverside Serviced Apartments: with free on-site parking, all apartments have a fully-equipped kitchen and make for a great base to explore Perth.
Scarborough
Scarborough is a coastal neighbourhood suburb in Perth, about a 20-minute drive north of the Perth CBD. Scarborough is the best place to stay in Perth near the beach. All the accommodation options listed below are within walking distance to Scarborough Beach.
If you decide to stay in Scarborough, I’d recommend hiring a car as the only public transport option from here is the bus.
Scarborough would make a great family-friendly base for exploring the rest of Perth, including one of Perth’s best day trips.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Scarborough
- Rendezvous Hotel Scarborough: Overlooking the famous Scarborough Beach, this 4-star hotel has a large resort-style pool on the outdoor terrace.
Best Apartment Hotel Accommodation in Scarborough
- Seashells Scarborough: Ocean view apartments only a 3-minute walk from the beach! These self-contained luxury apartments also have two outdoor pools and a barbeque area.
- Quest Scarborough: 200 metres from Scarborough Beach, Quest offers a range of clean and comfortable studio and apartment room styles.
Best Budget Hotel in Scarborough
- Indian Ocean Hotel: Also known as the Indi Ocean, this 3-star hotel is a 5-minute walk from the beach. This hotel also has an outdoor swimming pool. Thsi hotel and interiors are dated, but its all part of the hip 70’s vibe of the hotel.
Summary of Where to Stay in Perth for Holiday and Tourists
In summary, the best area to stay in Perth for tourists is the Perth City Centre. If you have visited Perth before, you should consider staying in Fremantle or one of the other areas in this guide to explore more of Perth and surrounds.
The best place to stay in Perth with family is East Perth & Burswood, or South Perth.
If you are looking for the nicest hotels Perth has to offer, look at the luxe The Ritz-Carlton in Elizabeth Quay or the incredible Crown Towers in Burswood.
For more affordable and boutique luxury, consider the QT Perth, or the quirky Alex Hotel in Northbridge.
Final Thoughts – Where to Stay in Perth Australia
That wraps up this detailed guide of the where to stay when visiting Perth.
I hope you enjoyed reading my guide on the best places to stay Perth – let me know in the comments below if you have any questions!
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