If you’re looking for the perfect Perth 3-day itinerary on a budget, this guide covers exactly how to explore Western Australia’s capital without overspending. From stunning beaches and free attractions to cheap public transport and low-cost food options, this budget-friendly Perth itinerary helps you experience the best of the city while keeping your wallet happy.
Whether you’re a backpacker, family traveller, student, or budget-conscious explorer, this 3-day Perth itinerary is packed with free activities, affordable tours, and smart travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.
Day 1: Explore Perth City & Kings Park (Free + Low Cost)
Morning: Perth CBD Walking Highlights (Free)
Start your budget Perth itinerary with a self-guided walk through the city.
Top free attractions:
- Elizabeth Quay
- Cathedral Square
- London Court
- Bell Tower views (outside is free)
- Swan River foreshore
This lets you enjoy Perth’s history, culture, and waterfront without spending a cent.
Budget Tip:
Use the CAT buses—they’re completely free and loop around the city.
Late Morning: Perth Cultural Centre (Free)
Located in Northbridge, this area offers several free attractions:
- Art Gallery of WA
- WA Museum Boola Bardip (free general entry)
A perfect stop for budget travellers who love museums and culture.
Afternoon: Kings Park & Botanic Garden (Free)
No Perth 3-day itinerary is complete without visiting Kings Park, one of the world’s largest inner-city parks.
Free activities:
- Lotterywest Federation Walkway
- Tree-lined Fraser Avenue
- Iconic views of Perth skyline & Swan River
- Botanical gardens & nature trails
This is one of Perth’s best free attractions—ideal for photos, picnics, and sunset.
Evening: Northbridge Dinner (Budget-Friendly)
Enjoy cheap eats at:
- Chinatown
- Food courts
- Asian fusion restaurants
Northbridge offers some of Perth’s best meals for under $15–$20.
Day 2: Fremantle + Beaches (Cheap, Scenic & Full of Culture)
Morning: Visit Fremantle Markets (Fri–Sun)
Catch the train to Fremantle (cheap entry-level fare on Transperth).
Explore:
- Local crafts
- Street food
- Aboriginal art
- Fresh coffee + cheap snacks
This lively market is a highlight of any budget Perth itinerary.
Late Morning: Fremantle Prison (Optional Paid)
Choose the basic Behind Bars tour for the cheapest option.
If you prefer free, explore:
- Fremantle Round House
- Bathers Beach art installations
- Cappuccino Strip atmosphere
Afternoon: South Beach or Bathers Beach (Free)
Relax on one of Fremantle’s beautiful beaches. Bring a packed snack to save money.
Evening: Sunset at Cottesloe Beach (Free)
Take a short train ride to Cottesloe, one of Australia’s most iconic beaches.
Enjoy:
- Soft white sand
- Crystal-clear water
- Free sunset views that are world-class
This is a must for any 3-day Perth itinerary on a budget.
Day 3: Rottnest Island on a Budget OR Swan Valley (Affordable Options)
Choose between two great budget-friendly day plans:
Option 1: Rottnest Island on a Budget
Although Rottnest can be expensive, there are ways to visit cheaply.
Budget Tips:
- Go midweek for lower ferry prices
- Bring your own food
- Hire a bike instead of a scooter
- Stick to free beaches + lookouts
Must-See Rottnest Highlights (Free)
- The Basin
- Pinky Beach
- Little Salmon Bay
- Wadjemup Lighthouse viewpoint (outside free)
- Quokka spots & photos (iconic!)
This is an unbeatable adventure for nature lovers and perfect for your Perth 3-day itinerary.
Option 2: Swan Valley on a Budget
Just 25 minutes from Perth CBD, this region offers cheap or free experiences.
Affordable Things to Do:
- Free chocolate tastings at Margaret River Chocolate Co
- Browse Providore (free tastings)
- Visit Bells Rapids (free walking trails)
- Low-cost wine tasting flights
- Scenic river picnic
Swan Valley is perfect if you want a relaxed day without spending too much.
Where to Stay in Perth on a Budget
Top budget areas:
- Perth CBD hostels
- East Perth (affordable hotels)
- Northbridge (cheap food + nightlife)
- Fremantle (budget guesthouses)
Search for deals on:
- Booking.com
- Agoda
- Hostelworld
How to Get Around Perth Cheaply
- CAT buses (free) within the CBD
- Transperth SmartRider for discounted fares
- Ferries for scenic cheap transport
- Walking & cycling paths around the river
Perth is extremely budget-friendly if you use public transport wisely.
Estimated Budget for 3 Days in Perth
| Category | Budget Range |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $40–$120/night |
| Meals | $20–$40/day |
| Transport | $5–$10/day |
| Activities | Mostly free to $30 |
| Total (3 days) | $150–$350 |
This makes Perth one of the best budget travel destinations in Australia.
Final Tips for a Budget-Friendly 3-Day Perth Trip
- Plan activities around free attractions
- Travel with reusable water bottles (lots of refill stations)
- Book Rottnest and tours early
- Use Woolworths/Coles for cheap meals
- Travel off-peak for cheaper fares
