Perth City Guide

Welcome to your complete Perth City Guide, brought to you by amber. This Perth guide is designed for students, travellers, and anyone interested in exploring Western Australia’s lively capital. In this city guide, Perth, you’ll find detailed insights into top universities, student accommodation in Perth, the best places to eat, nightlife, Perth attractions, transportation, and a breakdown of the cost of living. Whether you’re planning to study, explore, or stay for a short period, this guide will help you navigate the city with ease and confidence.

Perth offers a mix of urban sophistication, coastal beauty, and a laid-back lifestyle. From pristine beaches to thriving cultural precincts, this Perth travel guide showcases the best experiences the city has to offer. We’ll explore the best things to do in Perth, Australia, the local food scene, and the best day trips from Perth that are perfect for students and tourists. Following this Perth city guide ensures that your time in the city is enjoyable, memorable, and hassle-free.

About Perth

Perth is the capital of Western Australia and home to around 2.1 million residents, making it the fourth-largest city in Australia. The city is known for its sunny climate, long stretches of beaches, and lively arts and music scene. Perth blends natural beauty with modern urban life. The city boasts a safety index of 68, a student population of over 55,000, an employment rate of around 95%, and a happiness index of 7.4, making it a safe choice for students, professionals, and families. Perth’s multicultural population creates a dynamic, welcoming environment reflected in its festivals, local cuisine, and cultural events.

The city’s infrastructure supports both residents and visitors, with excellent transport links, healthcare facilities, universities, and student apartments in Perth. Its proximity to natural wonders, including Rottnest Island and Kings Park, ensures that outdoor enthusiasts have plenty to explore. Whether you’re staying in student accommodation near Curtin University or exploring city life, this Perth city guide will help you navigate daily life, plan excursions, and enjoy the unique Western Australian lifestyle.

Top Universities in Perth

Perth is home to some of the top universities in Australia, attracting students from around the globe. With strong academic reputations and research-driven environments, these institutions offer high-quality education across various disciplines. City Guide Perth gives you a detailed look at the best universities in Perth:
1. University of Western Australia (UWA) - Ranked #93 in QS 2025, UWA is a member of the Group of Eight. It offers programs in medicine, engineering, business, and the arts. The average semester fee is around AU$18,000, with over 23,000 students enrolled. UWA’s campus life is lively, and its research programs attract international recognition.
2. Curtin University - The university is known for practical and industry-focused courses. Curtin has more than 45,000 students. Programs in business, health sciences, engineering, and IT are standouts. Average semester fees are around AU$17,000. Students living in student accommodation near Curtin University benefit from easy access to the campus and city amenities.
3. Edith Cowan University (ECU) - ECU offers over 300 courses in areas like education, health, engineering, and creative industries. Ranked in the top 400 globally, its semester fees are around AU$16,000, with 30,000+ students. The university emphasizes practical learning and hands-on experience.
4. Murdoch University - Focused on research and professional development, Murdoch offers programs in environmental science, veterinary studies, law, and health. Semester fees average AU$15,500, with about 20,000 students enrolled. Murdoch’s Perth campus is known for its green spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.
5. The University of Notre Dame Australia - A smaller university offering programs in law, medicine, and arts. Semester fees are around AU$14,000, with smaller class sizes providing personalized learning experiences.

Food & Dining in Perth

Perth’s culinary scene reflects its multicultural population and coastal location. The Perth Food Guide showcases a diverse range of dining options, from fine dining to street food, offering flavors that cater to every taste and budget. Students living in student accommodation in Perth and visitors can enjoy a range of eateries across the city.
1. Wildflower - Fine dining with modern Australian cuisine. The signature dish here is Kangaroo Loin. The average cost goes up to AU$75 per person.
2. Post - Provides Italian-inspired cuisine. The must-try dish here is Truffle Tagliatelle. The average cost goes up to AU$60 per person.
3. Jamie’s Italian Perth - Casual Italian dining for students. The famous dish here is Risotto ai Funghi. The average cost goes up to AU$40 per person.
4. Northbridge Piazza Market - Street food hub offering multicultural dishes, from Asian noodles to tapas. The average cost goes up to AU$15-20 per meal. It's famous for  Pad Thai noodles.
5. The Aviary - Rooftop dining with cocktails and share plates. The average cost goes up to AU$50 per person. The must-try dish here is Crispy fried chicken sliders.

Nightlife in Perth

Perth offers an exciting nightlife scene perfect for students and young professionals. Whether it’s rooftop bars, live music venues, or dance clubs, there’s something for everyone. Students living in student apartments in Perth can easily access the best bars & clubs in Perth:
1. The Aviary - Rooftop bar with tropical cocktails. The average drink costs AU$15-20.
2. Jack Rabbit Slims - Nightclub with live DJs and themed events. The entry fee is around AU$15-25.
3. The Stables Bar - Popular for craft beers and student nights. The average drink price is AU$10-18.
4. El Público - Lively Mexican bar with tequila flights. The average drink costs AU$12-20.
5. Canteen Bar - Laid-back venue for live music and casual drinks. The average drink costs AU$15-22.

Common Modes of Transportation in Perth

Getting around Perth is convenient with multiple options, ideal for students living in student accommodation in Perth.
1. Buses - Cover the city and suburbs. The average fare is AU$3.50 per ride. Students enjoy 50% discounts.
2. Trains - Connects Perth CBD to outer suburbs. The average fare is AU$4.50. Concession cards are available.
3. Taxis & Rideshares (Uber, Ola) - Convenient for late-night travel. Short trips cost AU$15-25.
4. Cycling & Walking - Perth has bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly streets. Bike-share programs are available at many campuses.
5. Ferries - Operate along the Swan River for leisure and commuting. The average fare of ferries is AU$10-15.

Cost of Living in Perth

The cost of living in Perth is moderate for students, offering a balance between city life and affordability. Here is a detailed breakdown of the same.

Attractions in Perth

Perth presents urban culture alongside stunning natural beauty. Perth presents urban culture alongside stunning natural beauty. Some top places to visit in Perth include:
1. Kings Park & Botanic Garden - Panoramic views, walking trails, and native flora.
2. Cottesloe Beach - Iconic beach perfect for swimming, sunsets, and picnics.
3. Elizabeth Quay - Waterfront precinct with dining, events, and leisure activities.
4. Fremantle Markets - Lively market offering local produce, crafts, and street food.
5. Perth Zoo - Home to native and exotic wildlife, ideal for family visits.
6. Swan River - Offers boating, cycling, and riverside walks.

Best Places to Stay in Perth as a Student

Choosing the best suburbs in Perth is crucial for students seeking comfort, affordability, and proximity to universities. Here are some of the best neighbourhoods:
1. North Perth - Close to UWA and Curtin. There are lively cafes and parks in this area. The average rent here is AU$1,300-1,700/month. The top properties here are Campus Perth & Juno House.
2. South Perth - Riverside living, close to Perth CBD. The rent goes up to AU$1,400-1,800/month. Top properties include Yugo Perth City & 241A Gloucester Street.
3. West Perth - Ideal for students seeking proximity to CBD, nightlife, and dining. Average rent is AU$1,500-1,900/month. The top property here is 112A Drummond Street.
4. Subiaco - Trendy suburb with shopping and cultural hubs. The rent here is AU$1,350-1,750/month.

From riverside living to city-side energy, Perth has a neighbourhood for every kind of student, all you need to do is pick your vibe and settle in.