Perth’s Best Historical Tours: Top 5 Picks
So, Perth, right? It is that lovely Australian city that’s positively bursting with sunshine, scenic views, and surprisingly, a whole bunch of seriously interesting history. It is that much more than just a pretty face, I tell ya. That being the case, peeling back those modern layers reveals stories that are both amazing and definitely insightful. What’s really the best way to get into all that juicy historical stuff, though? Well, very arguably, a historical tour could be the ticket, so you are able to see all those cool spots and actually get some context from people who really know their stuff. If you’re very inclined to take a walk down memory lane while in Western Australia’s capital, I reckon you should keep reading for the scoop on what the absolute best tours around are!
1. Fremantle Prison Tour: Behind the Walls
You see, if spooky stories, convict history, and generally creepy vibes happen to be right up your street, a tour around Fremantle Prison might very well be something that’ll just blow you away. You see, this spot used to function as a real, working prison from way back in 1887 all the way ’til 1991, and still holds tales aplenty within those big old walls. Actually, the guides really do an absolutely stellar job of painting quite the picture of daily existence for inmates – which is really not very fluffy and pleasant, I suppose. That being the case, tales range from daring escapes (some ended better than others!) all the way to the downright grim, like executions. If you’re seemingly brave enough, very seriously contemplate trying out the night tour; many people swear it turns up that fear factor just a little! Is that tour worth your time? Read our review: Fremantle Prison Tour Full Review and Details. Check prices and book a tour (Find Your Spot).
2. Two Feet & A Heartbeat: Perth City Walking Tours
This is actually an approach that might be more up your alley if walking at a relaxed pace is your thing, and if you appreciate really well-thought-out tours. You see, the tours on offer from “Two Feet & A Heartbeat” aim square and true at people who want to explore the city’s past without having to go too fast. The guide just seemingly goes with you, highlighting cool landmarks and even those lesser-known spots, and peppering the jaunt with fascinating facts that, truthfully, you just definitely would not have gotten on your own. This outfit appears to really earn the praise they get for presenting very engagingly while maintaining just very real professionalism! Is that tour something that appeals to you? Here is our review: Perth City Walking Tours Full Review and Details. Click this link to See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Secure a Walking Tour).
3. Rottnest Island Historical Tour: A Deeper Look
Okay, so Rottnest is almost synonymous with super cute quokkas. Many may forget, though, that it also boasts some very gripping history that’s arguably a little more complicated than just pretty animals and scenery. This tour really goes into all those historical layers of this little isle, discussing topics like its Aboriginal heritage (that bit tends to be emotional), early European colonization attempts, and then how it functioned as both a prison *and* a military spot during the two world wars. Seeing these layers adds an absolutely remarkable sense of significance to the place whenever one explores the island; you’re seeing way more than just another vacation backdrop, that’s quite probable. Wondering if the tour hits the right spots? We can help, right here: Rottnest Island Historical Tour Full Review and Details. Go this way to View tour details & book now (Check availability).
4. The Perth Mint Tour: Strike it Rich with History
A tour that actually sparkles? Possibly very tempting, I’m thinking. It may well surprise you, but gold actually does feature in some major bits of West Australia’s past, I’m sure you can guess, meaning the Perth Mint has stories to tell that actually strike one as more remarkable than just monetary ones! A mint that’s actually still actively operating is the draw card here. Here’s where it becomes super neat: really watch pure gold get poured right before your very eyes and then you actually gaze upon these truly amazing collections of coinage too. The Mint’s tour happens to be a bit quirky, yet also very informative and arguably ideal if you just really are trying to learn more regarding the state’s gold rush happenings, the effect it all had, and even Western Australia’s financial comings and goings generally speaking. Still need convincing? Here’s more: Perth Mint Tour Full Review and Details. Learn More & Book Tickets now (See tour options).
5. Fremantle Tram Tours: A Relaxing Ride into History
This one works fantastically if one wishes to relax while soaking in the scenery and local stories, all while being on wheels! Get this, these charming tram tours traverse all across Fremantle while featuring the best possible points of interest: classic architecture, very bustling port areas and those adorable historical neighborhoods. A really amazing pre-recorded commentary (so still plenty of learning going on!) accompanies what you’re looking at; yet at the same time, it keeps things nice and chill. Hop aboard to just have that comfy introduction to Freo’s story without definitely wearing out your feet – because isn’t that exactly what we’re here for anyway?! Getting around has never felt better – here’s why: Fremantle Tram Tours Full Review and Details. See Availability & secure a spot on the tram (Reserve a Seat).