How To Spend a Weekend in Perth's CBD
There’s plenty to see and do in Perth. The CBD is famed for its parks, diverse architecture and stunning views of the Swan River. It’s also packed with cafes, bars and restaurants, and brimming with art and culture.
But if you’re planning a quick trip, your choice of hotel can make or break your stay. You’ll be able to plan your trip wisely with our guide to exploring the tiny but mighty city.
Once you arrive in Perth, you’ll likely want to get settled and drop off your bags before getting stuck into the sights and sounds of the city. Spend the night at DoubleTree by Hilton in Northbridge, an upmarket hotel close to Kings Park, Elizabeth Quay, Perth Arena, and, of course, the city centre. Along with well-appointed rooms with views across Perth, the hotel has an on-site restaurant and bar that’s perfect for people-watching, as well as an outdoor rooftop pool and a fitness centre.
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Check in to the hotel before you arrive by using the Hilton Honors app. You’ll unlock a digital key, making it a quick stop to drop off your bags. Then, it’s an easy walk from the hotel to the Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA), part of the Perth Cultural Centre. The gallery celebrates art from Australia and abroad, with ongoing exhibitions featuring Indigenous traditional and contemporary art, and other Western Australian art. Alongside the gallery’s prized permanent collection, current highlights include this year’s edition of The West Australian Pulse, a celebration of Year 12 Visual Arts graduates from 37 schools across WA, as well as immersive exhibition Revivification that looks into the brain of the late composer Alvin Lucier.
After all that art, you’ll be ready to re-fuel. The Re Store is your next stop – perfect for a bite to eat and a short walk from AGWA. It wouldn’t be a visit to Perth without sampling a conti roll. And here, you’re in for a legendary choice loaded with sliced cold cuts, salty cheese and oil-marinated antipasti in a perfectly crunchy and soft baguette. There’s also daily specials to try, including handmade pasta, as well as Italian cakes and pastries – and an espresso that will keep you kicking right through an afternoon of sightseeing.
A trip to Perth wouldn’t be complete without a wander through Kings Park. Now that you’re suitably full, head over to the 400-hectare park and botanic gardens – just a stone’s throw from the city centre – is home to over 300 native plants and 80 species of birds, a treetop walk and the State War Memorial. At any time of year, you’ll find calming views and opportunities to connect with nature. The 750-year-old Gija Jumulu (a giant boab) is a highlight, while the spiralling DNA Tower offers sweeping views as you climb to its 15-metre-tall peak.
A full day of walking around Perth’s CBD will get your appetite going – so dig into a bowl of comfort food at casual Italian eatery and wine bar No Mafia in Northbridge. The cosy diner serves some of the best Italian food in the city, with antipasti and house-made pasta as its focus. The gnocchi bolognese is a fan favourite, while the Roman arancini is a familiar classic done well.
Round out the night with a stop at Samuels on Mill at Parmelia Hilton Perth, in the heart of the and open late. The team at this lively haunt know how to mix a drink, while the casual setting lets you wind down before it’s time to head back to your hotel. Try one of the signature smoked negronis or leaf through the extensive menu of beers, wines and spirits. There’s also a rooftop bar, so you can take in nocturnal views of the city skyline.
This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with Hilton. When a great location is a must for your weekend getaway, it matters where you stay.
Produced by Broadsheet in partnership with Hilton. Learn more about partner content on Broadsheet.