Perth Airport Layover? Guide & Tips

Top 5 Layover Ideas for Perth Airport

Perth Airport, with its IATA code PER, is one of the busiest airports in Australia. If you find yourself with a long layover here, there's no need to worry. The airport and its surrounding areas offer a variety of activities to keep you entertained. Here are the top 5 layover ideas for Perth Airport.

1. Explore the Airport's Amenities

Perth Airport offers a range of amenities that can keep you occupied during your layover. You can enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes, shop for souvenirs or luxury items in the duty-free shops, or relax in one of the airport lounges. There's also free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, so you can catch up on work or stay connected with friends and family.

2. Visit Kings Park and Botanic Garden

If you have a bit more time, consider leaving the airport to explore some of Perth's attractions. Kings Park and Botanic Garden is just a 20-minute drive from the airport. Here you can enjoy stunning views of the city and Swan River, walk among the treetops on the Lotterywest Federation Walkway, or explore the diverse range of flora in the Western Australian Botanic Garden.

3. Take a Swan River Cruise

Another great way to spend your layover is to take a cruise on the Swan River. Several companies offer cruises that depart from Barrack Street Jetty, which is about a 25-minute drive from the airport. On the cruise, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, see iconic landmarks, and possibly spot some local wildlife.

4. Explore the Perth Cultural Centre

The Perth Cultural Centre is a vibrant hub of arts, culture, and heritage. Here you can visit the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the State Theatre Centre of Western Australia, or the Western Australian Museum. The Cultural Centre is about a 20-minute drive from the airport.

5. Relax at City Beach

If you're looking to relax during your layover, head to City Beach. This beautiful beach is about a 30-minute drive from the airport. Here you can take a dip in the Indian Ocean, soak up the sun on the sandy beach, or enjoy a meal at one of the beachside cafes.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through PER Airport:

Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of PER's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
Surf to your heart's content. Jump on Perth airport's internet (free!)
For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near PER to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If you have an extended layover of 12 to 48 hours at Perth Airport, consider exploring some of the nearby attractions. The city of Perth and its surroundings offer a variety of activities and sights that can be reached within a reasonable distance from the airport. Here are some ideas for what you can do during an extended layover.

1. Discover the Historic Fremantle

Fremantle, located about a 30-minute drive from the airport, is a port city known for its maritime history and Victorian architecture. You can explore the Fremantle Markets, visit the historic Fremantle Prison, or enjoy a meal at one of the many cafes and restaurants in the area. If you're interested in maritime history, don't miss the Western Australian Maritime Museum.

2. Visit the Pinnacles Desert

If you're up for a bit of a drive, consider visiting the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park. The park, located about a two-hour drive north of the airport, is home to thousands of limestone pillars that rise from the desert floor. It's a unique and otherworldly landscape that's definitely worth a visit if you have the time.

3. Explore Rottnest Island

For a truly unique experience, take a ferry to Rottnest Island. Known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and the adorable quokkas, it's a great place to relax and explore. The ferry ride takes about 90 minutes each way, so this is a good option if you have a longer layover.

4. Wander Around Swan Valley

Swan Valley, located just a 20-minute drive from the airport, is Western Australia's oldest wine region. Here you can visit wineries, breweries, and distilleries, enjoy delicious food, or take a relaxing walk along the Swan River. It's a great way to spend a day if you enjoy good food and drink.

5. Visit Cottesloe Beach

If you haven't had enough of Australia's beautiful beaches, head to Cottesloe Beach. This popular beach is about a 40-minute drive from the airport and is a great place to swim, sunbathe, or just relax and watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean.

Updated on: November 22, 2023

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