Perth Layover Guide (PER)

What are you looking for in PER?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Perth Airport (PER) is an international airport located in Perth, Western Australia. It’s situated about 10 km (6 miles) from downtown Perth. The airport officially opened in 1944. Perth is the fourth-largest city in Australia and is known for its sunny climate and relaxed lifestyle. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, beautiful beaches, and easy access to nature, making it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors.

Can you leave Perth Airport (PER) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
Yes, you may exit Perth Airport during a layover, but you must clear Australian immigration and hold a valid visa. Eligible passengers may transit without a visa if meeting strict criteria (remain in transit lounge and depart within 8 hours). Otherwise, apply for a Transit visa (subclass 771) or visitor visa. (more info)

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Kings Park and Botanic Garden Explore sprawling native gardens, picnic spots, and breathtaking city and river views at Kings Park. Discover the Lotterywest Federation Walkway skybridge, vibrant, majestic wildflower displays, and tranquil, towering bushland paths. (Time required: 2–3 hours / Airport to here: Airport Line train to Perth Station (~20 min) then 10 min walk, or taxi (~20 min))
• Elizabeth Quay Stroll along scenic Elizabeth Quay waterfront precinct, admire art installations, ride the Bell Tower ferry, and relax at vibrant riverside bars and cafes overlooking the Swan River and Perth skyline. (Time required: 1–2 hours / Airport to here: Airport Line train to Elizabeth Quay Station (~18 min), or taxi (~20 min))
• Historic Fremantle Explore historic Fremantle, wander through the vibrant markets, marvel at heritage architecture, and sample craft beer at the iconic Little Creatures Brewery. Discover maritime history at the Fremantle Prison site. (Time required: 3–4 hours / Airport to here: Fremantle Line train to Fremantle Station (~35 min), or taxi (~25 min))
• Cottesloe Beach Relax on golden sands at Cottesloe Beach, swim in crystal-clear Indian Ocean waters, and enjoy vibrant sunsets. Nearby renowned cafes serve fresh seafood, making it a perfect seaside escape. (Time required: 2 hours / Airport to here: Taxi (~25 min), or train to Cottesloe Station (~35 min) plus 5 min walk)
• Swan River Cruise Embark on a Swan River cruise from Perth CBD to South Perth, enjoying panoramic views of city skyline, riverside mansions, and parklands. Ideal for a relaxing break before your flight. (Time required: 1.5–2 hours / Airport to here: Train to Perth Station then 5 min walk to Barrack Street Jetty, or taxi (~20 min))
• Perth Cultural Centre Immerse yourself in arts and culture at Perth Cultural Centre, home to the Art Gallery of WA, WA Museum Boola Bardip, and State Library. Explore contemporary exhibitions and public programs. (Time required: 2 hours / Airport to here: Airport Line train to Perth Station (~18 min) then 5 min walk, or taxi (~20 min))
• Perth Zoo Discover exotic wildlife at Perth Zoo, home to lions, orangutans, and Australian marsupials. Wander through breathtaking themed habitats, enjoy keeper talks, relax in lush parkland settings close to the city. (Time required: 2–3 hours / Airport to here: Taxi (~25 min), or train to Elizabeth Quay then bus, approx. 30 min total)
• The Bell Tower Visit The Bell Tower at Barrack Square to see bells from London, enjoy interactive exhibits, and capture panoramic river views. A blend of history, architecture, and unique sound heritage experience. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: Airport Line train to Elizabeth Quay Station (~18 min) then 5 min walk, or taxi (~20 min))

Things to Do in Perth Airport (PER)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
The Aspire Lounge in Terminal 1 International and Otherside Brew Lounge in Terminal 2 offer comfortable seating, natural light, complimentary food and beverages, and free Wi-Fi. Both lounges feature contemporary local design, quiet work zones, and aviation views. Access via airline memberships, day passes, or pay-as-you-go entry ensures relaxation before departure. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
Perth Airport’s first on-site hotel, Pullman Perth Airport, is scheduled to open in 2027 with 240 rooms, rooftop dining, gym, sauna, and meeting facilities. Until then, nearby airport precinct hotels including Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza and ibis Styles provide complimentary shuttles, spacious rooms, and business amenities within a short drive of terminals. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
Smarte Carte sleeping pods at Terminal 1 International offer private rest capsules that can be booked by the hour or overnight, complete with pillows and blankets. Quiet seating zones and Service Animal Relief Areas in T1 and T4 provide peaceful spots for rest before security. Pods include secure baggage lockers for added convenience.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Perth Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi throughout all terminals. Passengers can connect for up to three hours per session by signing in with an email address. The airport app and web portal offer seamless reconnection. High-speed internet access supports streaming, browsing, and communications for work or leisure during layovers and waits.

SIM/eSIM Card: Prepaid SIM and eSIM services are available at Vodafone, Optus and Telsim outlets in Terminal 1 International Arrivals. Plans cover national data, calls, and international roaming. Friendly staff assist with activation and top-ups, while eSIM options enable instant digital installation. Pay-as-you-go and daily plans suit short trips and extended stays. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Taxi ranks are located outside all arrival halls, operating 24/7 with accessible and wheelchair-friendly vehicles available on request. Flat rates to the Perth CBD apply, with alternative metered fares for regional destinations. Rideshare services like Uber and Ola pick up from dedicated zones. Payment options include cash and card for convenience.

Train: The Transperth Airport Line links Airport Central station to Perth CBD in around 18 minutes, with services every 12 minutes on weekdays and 15 minutes on weekends. Trains operate from just before first flight to after last arrival. Fare payment via SmartRider cards or the Transperth app. (more info)

Bus: Transperth bus routes connect Airport Central to suburbs including High Wycombe and Oats Street. Services run at regular intervals, with journey times varying by route and time of day. Standard Transperth fares apply, payable via SmartRider or paper tickets. Bus stops are adjacent to the train station for seamless intermodal transfers. (more info)

Shuttle: SkyBus operates direct coach services between Perth Airport and the city centre 24/7, departing every 30 minutes during peak times. Coaches feature luggage storage, comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi. Tickets can be purchased online or at airport kiosks. Hotel shuttle services also link terminals to nearby accommodations on pre-booked schedules.

Car rentals: Major car hire companies including Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Thrifty and Enterprise are based in the Rental Car Precinct, reachable via free shuttle buses from terminals. Counters provide pickup, drop-off and one-way rental options. Booking online in advance secures best rates. Vehicles range from compact cars to SUVs and vans for every need. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Perth Airport offers Short-Term, Long-Term, Premium and Regional parking across multiple car parks. Short-Term spaces are close to terminals, while Long-Term options include undercover and saver rates with free shuttle buses every 15 minutes. Premium parking provides undercover, VIP spots. Online booking secures discounted rates with free cancellation up to two hours prior.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

Electronic lockers and attended baggage storage by Smarte Carte operate 24/7 at all terminals. Electronic lockers allow self-service secure storage for up to six weeks via one-time PINs. T1 International baggage service handles oversized items like surfboards and golf clubs. Fees vary by size and duration, payable by card at locker terminals. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Perth Airport (PER) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks