Finding Free and Low-Cost Activities in Perth

You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy Perth. From the heart of the city, to the coast or hills, you can move freely and frugally. And, with a Thrifty rental car, you’ll have yet another low-cost part of your holiday, plus the convenience of tracking down and ticking off Perth’s incredible experiences. Where to begin? Right here. 

Explore Kings Park and Botanic Garden 

Kings Park is one of the world’s largest inner-city parks, and it’s completely free to enjoy. Wander through landscaped gardens filled with Western Australia’s unique native plants, take in city views from the Lotterywest Federation Walkway, or simply find a shady spot for a picnic. (Come in spring,  and watch as the park comes alive with wildflowers.) 

Swim or Stroll at Cottesloe Beach 

Cottesloe is Perth’s classic beach: golden sand, turquoise water, and a lively esplanade. Swimming is free, of course, and the grassy terraces overlooking the beach are a no-brainer for a no-cost picnic. If you time it right, the annual Sculpture by the Sea exhibition adds an outdoor gallery to the shoreline at no charge. 

Wander Fremantle 

A short drive from Perth, Fremantle is full of free fun. At The Fremantle Markets (open on weekends) the streets come alive with buskers and heritage architecture. If you’re happy to spend a little, the Fremantle Prison offers tours that dive into convict-era history, but it’s equally rewarding to soak up the port-town atmosphere with little more than a stroll and a coffee. 

Perth’s Free Cultural Attractions 

The Perth Cultural Centre in Northbridge is home to many free museums and galleries. The Art Gallery of Western Australia has a super impressive collection of local and international works, while the WA Museum Boola Bardip explores the state’s history and culture. For something more new-age Northbridge laneways are filled with murals and street art that change regularly. 

Day Trips on a Budget 

Some of the real magic lies beyond the city, and a rental car makes it easy to reach them. Here are a few to think about. 

• Swan Valley

• John Forrest National Park

• Serpentine Falls

Sunset at Scarborough 

Watching the sun set over the Indian Ocean is a Perth ritual, and Scarborough Beach is one of the best spots to do it. While you’re there, you may be lucky enough to catch some free entertainment at the foreshore, such as live music, skate demos and summer night markets. Add some fish and chips in the mix, and you’ve got a low-cost evening that feels perfectly Perth. 

All Perth, Low Price 

Perth is proof that a getaway doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. Here, you can hop from beaches to botanic gardens, national parks to vibrant markets, saving money while still having fun. And having a Thrifty rental car not only makes these incredible sights within reach—it also won’t cost more than it should.