Getting around Perth is easy by public transport, and the city’s year-round climate makes it a great place to explore on foot and by bike. Here are some tips to help you get around Perth.
Public Transport Options in Perth
To access public transport in Perth, including buses, trains and ferries, it is recommended that you purchase a Perth SmartRider public transport card. You can purchase a SmartRider Public Transport Card at the Perth Transit InfoCentres and at selected SmartRider Card retail outlets. The SmartRider Public Transport Card gives you access to fare discounts and a maximum daily spending limit.
Before you can use public transport in Perth, you’ll need to load a certain amount of money (at least AUD$10) onto your SmartRider card to cover the cost. Fares are not fixed but are usually just a few dollars in the city and suburbs. To start travelling, swipe your SmartRider card at the card reader when you get on the train and be sure to swipe it again when you get off.
Train in Perth
Perth’s well-developed rail network is a great way to get around the city’s attractions and neighbouring suburbs.
There’s a free ride zone in the city centre where you can catch a train to and from City West, Elizabeth Quay and Claisebrook stations. To experience the benefits of a free ticket, you must use a SmartRider public transport card. Travelling by train within the free ride zone will take you to major attractions such as the Art Gallery of Western Australia and the Western Australian Museum, as well as to places like Northbridge.
You can also catch the train from major city stations such as Perth Station and Elizabeth Quay Station to Fremantle and Cottesloe Beach.
Bus in Perth
Free bus services are also available from Perth city centre and Fremantle. On most days of the year, several bus routes run at 5-15 minute intervals between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. These buses are particularly good for travellers who need to get to and from hotels and attractions in Perth or Fremantle city centre.
You can also take public buses from Perth Busport or Elizabeth Street Bus Station to get to attractions further away from the city centre. You can use the Journey Planner to plan your route to Kings Park & Botanic Garden and Perth Zoo with ease.
The hop-on, hop-off Perth Explorer bus is also a great way to see Perth’s attractions. You can buy a single-day or two-day pass. The bus stops at popular attractions such as the Perth Cultural Centre and Optus Stadium. You can also buy day passes to the outskirts of the city to explore the amazing rock formations of The Pinnacles and Wave Rock or visit places like the Margaret River.
Ferry in Perth
With a SmartRider public transport pass, you can also take a public ferry across the Swan River. A ferry leaves the Elizabeth Quay trestle every 15-30 minutes from 6.30 am to 11.30 pm every day, bound for the Mends Street trestle. This is the ideal way to get to Perth Zoo.
A private ferry is a great option for exploring Rottnest Island with ease. You can catch the Rottnest Express or SeaLink ferry from Perth. Departure times vary depending on the season, but there are usually multiple ferries departing each day.
Getting to and from the Airport
The easiest way to get to Perth Airport from the city is by public bus. From Elizabeth Quay station in the city centre, you can catch bus 380 to Terminals 1 and 2, or alternatively, bus 40 to Terminals 3 and 4. These buses run at approximately half-hourly intervals. You can use your SmartRider public transport card to pay for airport bus fares, which are the same as regular city bus fares.
Accessible Transport Options
In Australia, flights, trains, buses and ferries are all accessible to people who use wheelchairs and mobility aids. Perth Airport has a special service for people with disabilities to assist with baggage handling, getting in and out of the airport and getting on and off planes. Most buses and trains are accessible and you can visit the Perth Transit website for information on how to use public transport before you go.
Conclusion
In conclusion, living in Perth offers a seamless and efficient transport system that beautifully complements the city’s vibrant lifestyle. Whether you’re a student commuting to university, a professional heading to work, or a tourist exploring the city’s gems, Perth’s transport network is designed to meet your needs with authenticity and reliability.
From the well-connected buses, trains, and ferries of Transperth to the convenience of cycling paths and car hire services, navigating through the city is an experience that’s as enjoyable as it is efficient. And for those who prefer a more personal mode of transport, taxis and ride-share services are readily available, ensuring you reach your destination quickly and safely.
Trustworthy and visionary, the city of Perth recognises the importance of sustainable transport solutions. The growing network of electric vehicle charging stations is a testament to this commitment, paving the way for a greener, cleaner future for all residents and visitors.
Living in Perth is about embracing the journey as much as the destination. It’s about experiencing the joy of movement, the thrill of exploration, and the satisfaction of knowing that no matter where you’re headed, Perth’s transport system will get you there with ease and confidence.
FAQ
Perth boasts a robust and efficient public transport system, primarily comprising buses, trains, and ferries operated by Transperth. These services connect various parts of the city, ensuring you can reach your destination with ease.
Absolutely! Perth is a bicycle-friendly city, with a network of cycling paths that allow you to explore the city while promoting a healthier lifestyle. The city also provides Bike Shelters and U-rails at stations to keep your bike safe while you travel on public transport.
Yes. Taxis and ride-share services like Uber and Ola are widely available across Perth, providing a convenient, personal mode of transport at your fingertips. They offer a quick and flexible way to get around the city, especially outside of public transport operating hours.
Perth’s vision for a sustainable future is reflected in its transport system. The city is expanding its network of electric vehicle charging stations and promoting cycling as a green mode of transport. Additionally, Transperth is progressively transitioning to more environmentally friendly buses, contributing to a cleaner, greener Perth.
If you lose something on a Transperth service, you can report it to the Transperth InfoLine or at a Transperth InfoCentre. Items found on Transperth services are kept for a month, so there’s a good chance you’ll be able to retrieve your lost item.
