Perth - The World's Most Isolated Big City

The city of Perth lies at Australia's west coast at the Indian Ocean. With about 1.65 million inhabitants and an area of 5,386 km², it is the capital of the state of Western Australia and the fourth biggest city in the whole of the country. Distinct geographical features are the Swan River, which is almost 70 kilometres long, and the foothills of the Darling Ranges. Since Perth is the only big city in a circuit of over 2,000 kilometres, it is often called the "most isolated big city in the world". The nearest metropolis is Adelaide, which is about 2,100 kilometres away. The Mediterranean climate in the region causes hot, dry summers and mild winters. In addition, Perth's inhabitants enjoy many hours of sunshine.

Perth was founded by the naval officer James Stirling in 1829 and named after the Scottish city of Perth at the request of the Colonial Secretary Sir George Murray. Many buildings you see in the metropolis today, such as the Town Hall (1867) or the Government House (1864), were built by convicts which were sent to Western Australia in droves in the 19th century. Other historical buildings in the city are the Old Courthouse (1836), the city's oldest building, the Perth Mint, the oldest still operating mint in the country, and St Mary's Cathedral (1836). Perth's oldest cultural sight, however, are the bells of the Swan Bell Towers, whose existence can be traced back to the 14th century. In addition to the historical buildings, futuristic complexes like the skyscraper Central Park, which is the highest building in Perth, or the BankWest building characterise the cityscape. In addition, there is a great number of museums and galleries like the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA) or the Western Australian Museum. Other popular sights in the Western Australian capital are Perth Zoo, the Aquarium of Western Australia and Kings Park with its Botanic Garden. The latter is home to almost 2,000 local plant species and has an area of about 400 hectares, which makes it one of the largest city parks on earth.

Despite its reputation as the world's most isolated big city, Perth offers a wide range of entertainment facilities. The multicultural atmosphere of Chinese, Indian, Indonesian, Italian, Portuguese and South African influences cannot only be felt in the city's lively music and cultural scene but also in its culinary landscape. The Central Business District and the district of Northbridge are popular destinations for a culinary experience and an eventful evening. Numerous clubs, bars, pubs and restaurants string together in these parts of the metropolis. In addition, the districts of East Perth, West Perth, Subiaco, Frementle and South Perth offer several restaurants. The latter is the ideal destination for a relaxed dinner because you can marvel at the impressive panoramic view of the city while eating in one of the restaurants on the banks of the Swan River here. Afterwards, travellers can go dancing and partying in one of the many bars or discos in Northbridge. The historical port cities of Fremantle and Subiaco, on the other hand, invite visitors to interesting shopping trips on the Fremantle Market and the Midland Sunday Market. Other shopping facilities are located in the city centre, which contains the Central Business District. You find an abundance of shopping centres, luxurious boutiques, art galleries and souvenir shops here.

Due to its position at the banks of the Swan River and at the Indian Ocean, Perth is a great destination for water sports fans. Its numerous sandy beaches do not only offer turquoise blue sea water but also ideal conditions for surfing and sailing adventures. In addition, swimming, snorkelling, diving, canoeing, fishing and sunbathing are among the most common leisure activities at Perth's coast. Popular bathing locations near the city centre are Cottesloe Beach, City Beach, Scarborough Beach and Trigg Beach. Many water sports fans are drawn to the nearby Rottnest Island. Divers get their money's worth exploring shipwrecks, colourful coral reefs and small bays. The island, which has an area of 19 km², is also a great destination for animal lovers. Besides whales, dolphins and sea lions, you can watch the delightful quokka here, which is a member of the marsupial family. Travellers who want to explore the Australian heartland east of the capital can visit the many national parks in the vicinity and the Perth Hills. Countless hiking trails (e.g. the Railway Reserve Heritage Trail) as well as cycling and travel routes through the hilly landscape, vineyards and eucalyptus forests are great retreats for those who want to escape city life for a moment.

Due to its Mediterranean climate and the mild temperatures in winter (June to August), Perth is a great holiday destination at any time of the year. Most travellers arrive at the city's international airport (PER), which is about 20 kilometres away from the city centre.