Written by Simon on 21/04/2025

How to Control Your Budget on a Vacation in Perth? 6 Money-Saving Tips

Budget

Perth, the sparkling gem of Australia’s west coast, boasts a warm and pleasant climate, stunning beaches, and a rich cultural heritage that attracts visitors from around the world. From the magnificent Swan River to the historic Fremantle Market and the ancient indigenous culture, Perth offers something for every traveler. However, as a major city in Australia, the cost of travel in Perth can be relatively high, especially during peak seasons. Accommodation, dining, and entertainment costs tend to rise significantly.

For budget-conscious travelers, the challenge lies in how to have a fulfilling vacation without breaking the bank. Here are some tips on how to control your expenses and still enjoy a fantastic holiday in Perth.

1. Plan Ahead and Control Accommodation Costs

Accommodation is one of the largest expenses for travelers in Perth. Prices can vary greatly depending on the season, location, and type of accommodation. To save money, the key is to book in advance. Peak tourist seasons, such as Christmas and Easter, often see a rise in accommodation rates, while prices tend to be more affordable during off-peak seasons.

Money-Saving Tips:

• Book accommodation a few months in advance through online platforms like Booking.com, Airbnb, and Agoda. By doing so, you can secure better rates and more options.
• If you’re a backpacker or don’t mind sharing space, consider staying in hostels or shared accommodations (e.g., shared rooms on Airbnb). These options are often much cheaper than hotels and also offer the opportunity to meet fellow travelers.
• If you’re staying for an extended period, renting a vacation home or short-term apartment can be more economical, as long stays usually come with discounts.

Additionally, suburbs like Fremantle and Cottesloe offer many affordable accommodation choices. By staying a little further out from the city center, you can enjoy lower rates while still being close to the major attractions.

2. Use Public Transportation to Cut Down on Travel Expenses

Perth’s public transportation system is very convenient, with buses, trains, and ferries making it easy to get around. Compared to taxis or rental cars, public transport is not only environmentally friendly but also much more budget-friendly.

Money-Saving Tips:

• Use Transperth’s public transport system, which includes buses, trains, and ferries. Download the official Transperth app to check real-time bus and train schedules to save time.
• Get a “SmartRider” card, which works like a transport card and offers discounts compared to purchasing single tickets.
• There are also many free bus services in the central business district (CBD). Take advantage of these free buses to travel between major attractions easily.

If you’re planning to do a lot of sightseeing in Perth, you can also buy a 3-day or 7-day public transport pass (like the “Visitor SmartRider” card), which allows unlimited travel on buses and trains during that period at a discounted price.

3. Opt for Free Attractions and Immerse Yourself in Nature and Culture

Perth is renowned not only for its modern city architecture but also for its abundant natural beauty and cultural heritage. Fortunately, many of the city’s top attractions are free to visit, allowing you to enjoy nature and culture without spending much.

Free Attractions in Perth:

• King’s Park and Botanic Garden: One of Perth’s largest urban parks, this is an ideal place to connect with nature and relax. The park features a wide variety of plant species, including local and international plants, and offers several walking trails for hiking and cycling. Visitors can enjoy a picnic while taking in panoramic views of the Swan River and the city skyline. Best of all, this park is entirely free to access.
• Fremantle Market: One of Perth’s most historic markets, Fremantle Market offers a blend of local culture and history. The market is free to visit, and you can experience local culture by interacting with the vendors, watching street performances, and sampling multicultural foods. It’s a great place to discover Perth’s vibrant local scene, especially on weekends.
• Swan River: As one of Perth’s most iconic landmarks, Swan River offers a scenic spot to relax and enjoy the city’s beauty. You can stroll along the riverbanks or cycle along the dedicated paths, all for free. Whether you’re watching water birds or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, Swan River offers a tranquil experience.

Additionally, Perth’s surrounding beaches are excellent free attractions. You can sunbathe, swim, or enjoy free water activities at beaches like Cottesloe Beach or Mettam’s Pool. With so much to do for free, Perth’s natural and cultural offerings can easily fill your itinerary without eating into your budget.

4. Bring Your Own Snacks and Drinks to Cut Dining Costs

Perth offers a variety of dining options, including high-end restaurants and popular cafes. However, eating out frequently can quickly drain your budget. To save money, try preparing your own snacks and drinks during the day, especially when you’re exploring.

Money-Saving Tips:

• Visit local supermarkets like Coles and Woolworths to purchase simple foods like fruit, sandwiches, nuts, and bottled water. These can save you money, especially when you’re visiting attractions far from the city center.
• If you’re staying in accommodations with kitchen facilities (such as Airbnb or vacation rentals), consider cooking your own meals using fresh local ingredients. Not only will this save you money, but it’s also a great way to experience the local food scene.
• If you plan to dine out, consider having lunch instead of dinner, as many restaurants offer special lunch deals that are more affordable than their dinner menus.

5. Look for Discounts and Vouchers for More Cost-Effective Activities

In Perth, you can take advantage of discounts and special offers for attractions and activities. Many tourism websites, activity providers, and local businesses offer discount vouchers, which can help you experience more at a lower cost.

Money-Saving Tips:

• Search for and buy discount or combined tickets online in advance. Attractions like the WA Museum, Art Gallery, and the Perth Zoo often offer discounted tickets for students, seniors, or groups.
• Check with local tourist information centers like the “Perth Visitors Centre” for details on discounts, or use apps like “Groupon” to find deals.
• Certain popular activities, such as Swan River cruises, wildlife parks, and water activities, often have limited-time discount tickets or special packages that allow you to experience them for less.

• Perth is a vibrant city, and its rich festivals and cultural events offer visitors an excellent opportunity to experience the unique charm of the city. Whether it’s the arts festival, concerts, or food festivals, these events are not only full of local flavor but also most can be enjoyed on a low budget, and many are even free.
• Money-Saving Tips:
• Perth International Arts Festival and Perth Film Festival: Perth hosts these well-known cultural events every year, with many free exhibitions, street performances, and free film screenings. For example, during the Perth International Arts Festival, various locations in the city offer free street art exhibitions and interactive performances, providing visitors with a rich cultural experience.
• Street Markets and Craft Markets: Perth has many street markets and local craft markets, such as the famous Fremantle Market. Here, visitors can buy handmade crafts, fresh produce, and souvenirs, but it is also a great place to experience Perth’s local culture. Especially on weekends, these markets often feature free or low-cost music performances, dance activities, and food stalls, where visitors can enjoy the vibrant local atmosphere.
• Art Galleries and Museums: Many of Perth’s art galleries and museums offer free entry or discounted tickets at certain times. For example, the Art Gallery of Western Australia and the Perth Museum regularly host free exhibitions or offer discounted tickets, ensuring that visitors can enjoy rich artistic and historical culture without spending a lot of money.

Perth’s cultural events not only allow you to deeply experience the city’s art, culture, and history but also provide opportunities to enjoy unforgettable travel experiences at low or no cost. By checking the event schedules in advance, you can take advantage of these opportunities to make your trip both enriching and budget-friendly.

By following these 6 tips, you can enjoy an amazing yet budget-friendly vacation in Perth. From planning your accommodation and transport wisely to choosing free attractions, taking part in local events, and cooking your own meals, you can make the most of Perth’s natural beauty, cultural offerings, and leisure activities without overspending. With a little flexibility and smart planning, you can have an unforgettable experience in Perth that fits your budget.