There’s plenty to see and do in Perth. The CBD is famed for its parks, diverse architecture and stunning views of the Swan River. It’s also packed with cafes, bars and restaurants, and brimming with art and culture.

But if you’re planning a quick trip, your choice of hotel can make or break your stay. You’ll be able to plan your trip wisely with our guide to exploring the tiny but mighty city.

Stay: Parmelia Hilton Perth

Once you arrive in Perth, you’ll likely want to get settled and drop off your bags before getting stuck into the sights and sounds of the city. Spend the night at Parmelia Hilton, an upmarket hotel that acts as a gateway to the city, close to Kings Park, Elizabeth Quay, Perth Arena, Northbridge and, of course, Perth’s city centre. Along with well-appointed rooms, the hotel also has an on-site restaurant specialising in top Western Australian produce, a bar that’s perfect for people-watching, as well as an outdoor pool and a fitness centre.

Never miss a Perth moment. Make sure you're subscribed to our newsletter today.

SUBSCRIBE NOW

Do: Art Gallery of Western Australia

Check in to the hotel before you arrive by using the Hilton Honors app. You’ll unlock a digital key, making it a quick stop to drop off your bags. Then, it’s an easy walk from the hotel to the Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA), part of the Perth Cultural Centre. The gallery celebrates art from Australia and abroad, with ongoing exhibitions featuring Indigenous traditional and contemporary art, and other Western Australian art. Alongside the gallery’s prized permanent collection, current highlights include a participatory exhibition for all ages (developed with disabled artist Bruno Booth), abstract works by some of WA’s most historically important and lesser-known artists, finalists of this year’s Richard Lester Prize for Portraiture and more.

Lunch: Flora & Fauna

After all that art, you’ll be ready to re-fuel. Flora & Fauna is your next stop –perfect for a bite to eat and a just a few minutes walk away from AGWA. It's a tiny little spot, with mostly outdoor seating - but don't be fooled by its size. The bite-sized cafe packs a punch, with an entirely vegetarian menu - and every menu items comes topped with edible flowers, in a tribute to the owner's previous job as a florist. Choose between more indulgent options like the Canadian-style french toast, which comes topped with fruit and maple syrup, or go for the chickpea salad if you're looking for something lighter. There's also a daily selection of treats and cakes as well as juice, coffee and 40 flavours of whole-leaf tea.

Do: Kings Park and Botanic Gardens

A trip to Perth wouldn’t be complete without a wander through Kings Park. Now that you’re suitably full, head over to the 400-hectare park and botanic gardens – just a stone’s throw from the city centre – is home to over 300 native plants and 80 species of birds, a treetop walk and the State War Memorial. At any time of year, you’ll find calming views and opportunities to connect with nature. The 750-year-old Gija Jumulu (a giant boab) is a highlight, while the spiralling DNA Tower offers sweeping views as you climb to its 15-metre-tall peak.

Dinner: No Mafia

A full day of walking around Perth’s CBD will get your appetite going – so dig into a bowl of comfort food at casual Italian eatery and wine bar No Mafia in Northbridge. The cosy diner serves some of the best Italian food in the city, with antipasti and house-made pasta as its focus. The spaghetti with prawn butter is a show stopper, while the Roman arancini is a familiar classic done well.

Nightcap: James St Bar & Kitchen

Round out the night with a stop at James St Bar & Kitchen at Double Tree by Hilton, also in Northbridge. The team at this lively haunt knows how to mix a drink, while the casual setting lets you wind down before it’s time to head back to your hotel. Try one of the signature cocktails (the Milky Way, served with chocolate and fairy floss, doubles as a dessert) or leaf through the extensive menu of beers, wines and spirits. There’s also a rooftop bar, so you can take in nocturnal views of the city skyline.

This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with Hilton. When a great location is a must for your weekend getaway, it matters where you stay.