Getting to Perth

Perth is the most isolated major city in the world. It takes three days to drive here from the nearest Australian city on the eastern coast. The quickest option is to fly directly into Perth. For a more scenic and leisurely trip however, consider taking the train. Buses also run to Perth, but the journey is very long. Driving your own car can be an amazing odyssey, if you have the time.

By car

There are only two interstate routes which connect Perth to the rest of Australia: the 2,389km route from Broome in the north and the 2,708km drive from Adelaide. While the drive across the country is an amazing and adventurous journey, it is extremely long and isolated, so drivers should be well prepared.

By rail

A train ride across the Nullarbor Plain from the east is one of the great train journeys on the planet. The Indian Pacific line makes the three-day run from Sydney to Perth on Mondays and Thursdays, and from Adelaide to Perth on Tuesdays and Fridays. The trains are comfortable, well-equipped and offer a unique way to experience this amazing country. TransWA trains also cover routes in Western Australia, if you’re already in the region.

By bus

Greyhound Australia operates regular daily buses from Sydney to Adelaide (60 hours) and weekly services from Adelaide to Perth (36 hours). The staggering duration of a bus trip puts off all but the hardiest budget travellers.

By air

Perth International Airport handles regular flights from all of Australia’s capitals as well as from a number of direct international destinations. Qantas, Qantaslink and Virgin Blue operate most of the domestic flights on a daily basis.

Perth International Airport

Perth International Airport is just 12kms from the city centre and offers the quickest and most convenient way to get to this isolated destination. The modern efficient airport has two terminals, which handle domestic and international flights respectively. 

The international terminal, on the eastern side of the airport, has four floors and handles regular flights from around the world. Among the many carriers which service Perth, Cathay Pacific, Air New Zealand and Qantas are among the leaders. The domestic terminal, on the western side of the airport, serves domestic flights operated by Qantas, Skywest and Virgin Blue as well as other international carriers. An inter-terminal bus shuttles passengers between 05:00 and 17:00.

The airport’s terminals have all the usual facilities which a traveller might need. ATMs, currency exchange offices and a bank can be found in the main terminal areas as well as restaurants, a newsstand, gift shop and duty-free shopping. An airport information desk is located in the Arrivals Hall to assist passengers (tel: +61 8 9478 8888). Customer service officers wearing bright gold jackets are also on hand in the International Terminal to assist.

Perth International Airport transportation

Perth’s city centre can be easily reached by taking the shuttle bus, which runs frequently between both terminals and city hotels (tel: +61 8 9277 7958). Transperth public buses also service the airport, but they won’t drop you off directly at your hotel. Many hotels in Perth provide free shuttle services; inquire with your hotel if this service is available. 

Taxis are available 24 hours from both terminals. They offer the most convenient and quickest way to get to your hotel from the airport. If you rent a car, the drive to the city centre is well-signed along the Great Eastern Highway. The journey should take around 20 minutes.