Whether you prefer the train, taxi, shuttle, rideshare, or private transfer, Perth offers several convenient options for every type of traveller.
This guide covers everything you need to know about transport from Perth Airport to city, including travel times, fares, and the best option for your budget.
Quick Guide: Perth Airport to City
Perth Airport is located approximately 12 km east of the Perth CBD. It has two terminals:
- Terminal 1 (T1): International flights
- Terminal 2 (T2): Domestic flights
| Transport Option | Time | Cost (AUD) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Train (T1) | 15–20 min | $4.80–$5.50 | Fast, cheap, reliable | Luggage during rush hour |
Bus | 30–50 min | $4–$5 | Affordable | Slower, may require transfer |
Taxi | 20–30 min | $45–$60 | Direct, 24/7 | Expensive |
Rideshare | 20–30 min | $35–$50 | Convenient, app-based | Surge pricing |
Private Transfer | 20–30 min | Varies | Comfortable, door-to-door | More expensive |
Car Rental | 20–30 min | $50+ per day | Flexible travel | Parking, traffic |
Train From Perth Airport to City
The Airport Line train is the fastest and most affordable way to reach the Perth CBD. It is the best for solo travellers, budget travellers and light luggage.
📍Train route and Key Stops
- Trains operate from Airport Central Station (T1)
- Terminal 2 passengers can take a free shuttle to T1
- The train connects directly to Perth Station in the CBD
| Station | What It Connects To | Travel Time from Airport | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Airport Central (T1/T2) | Main airport terminal link | — | Direct walkway + lifts/escalators to terminals |
Redcliffe | Local bus routes & hotels | 3–4 mins | Good for nearby accommodation |
Bayswater | Joondalup & Midland Line interchange | 7–8 mins | Major transfer station |
Meltham | Residential area | 10–11 mins | Quiet stop, fewer services |
Mount Lawley | Café/dining precinct | 12–13 mins | Popular local suburb |
East Perth | Bus terminal & interstate rail | 14–15 mins | For regional connections |
Perth Station (City Centre) | CBD, shopping, hotels | 18 min | Final stop — closest to most city hotels |
💸Ticket Price and Where to Buy
- The train fare from Perth Airport (Airport Central Station) to the city is capped at the 2-zone rate, which is about AUD $5.00.
- If you use a SmartRider card, you get a discount, typically 10% off the cash fare.
- You can also use contactless payment (credit/debit card or mobile pay) on the station card readers, this usually gives you the same discounted fare as SmartRider.
Where to Buy Tickets:
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
Ticket Machines | Ticket vending machines available at Airport Central Station where you can buy cash tickets. |
SmartRider Cards | You can buy a SmartRider card at the airport (e.g., baggage services, info desks) or at Transperth retail outlets. |
SmartRider Top-Up | After purchase, you can top up your SmartRider at stations or through vending machines. |
On-Board Purchase | Buying a ticket onboard is not recommended — best to buy before travel. |
Airport Bus Services
Transperth also runs bus services connecting the airport to city. It is best for budget travellers who don't mind slower routes.
📍Bus route and Key Stops
| Bus Route | Description |
|---|---|
Bus 292 | Connects Perth Airport to Elizabeth Quay (City). |
Bus 37 | Serves major suburbs along the route and connects the airport to key city areas. |
💸Ticket Price and Where to Buy
| Payment Method | Fare / Price | Where to Buy / Pay |
|---|---|---|
Cash Ticket | ~AUD $4.70 for a 2-zone trip (Transperth standard fare) | Pay on board the bus. Transperth notes that no change is given, so you need to tender the exact fare. |
SmartRider Card | Provides a 10% discount off cash fare. | Buy at Smarte Carte on the ground floor of Terminal 1, or from Transperth retail outlets. |
Taxi Services
Taxis are available 24/7 at the designated taxi ranks outside both terminals. It is best for first-time visitors, business travellers and group travellers.
📍 Where to Get a Taxi
- The taxi ranks are located right outside the front of all terminals, just follow the signs when you exit arrivals.
- The main taxi companies serving the airport are Black & White Cabs and Swan Taxis.
💰Perth Airport to City Taxi Fare
- Taxi Fare: Usually AUD $45–$60, depending on traffic
- Payment: Cards, cash, EFTPOS accepted
⏱️ Travel Time
Journey Time: 20–30 minutes (depending on traffic)
Best Hotels in Perth
NO.1
Rideshare Options (Uber, DiDi, Ola)
Rideshare apps are widely available in Perth. Pick-up points are clearly marked at both terminals. It is best for budget-conscious travellers who still want a direct ride.
🚖 Taxi vs Grab
| Factor | Taxi | Grab / Rideshare (Uber, DiDi) |
|---|---|---|
Cost Estimate | ~A$45–$60 for a regular taxi ride from the airport to the city. Some maxi-taxis are more expensive (~A$65–85). | UberX or DiDi from the airport typically costs A$38–$55 depending on time, demand, and traffic. There’s also a A$4.50 airport pickup fee for rideshares. |
Availability | Taxis are available 24/7 from the taxi ranks outside each terminal. | There are dedicated rideshare pickup zones at the airport for Uber and DiDi. |
Convenience | Very straightforward, especially if you have a lot of luggage — meter-based fare means no surprises if traffic is predictable. | Convenient, app-based. You can choose different ride types (XL, comfort, etc.) depending on luggage or group size. |
Price Variability | Fare is metered, so it’s more predictable (plus airport levy). | Price can surge depending on demand, time of day, and ride type — so cost can vary more. |
Best For | Travellers who prefer a fixed, metered fare or who may not be familiar with ride apps. Good for groups or heavy luggage. | Travellers comfortable with apps, want transparency in pricing, or are looking for slightly cheaper / more flexible ride options. |
Private Airport Transfers & Shuttle Services
A number of private shuttle companies operate airport-to-hotel transfers. It is for travellers who are looking for comfort and convenience and travellers who are staying in hotels without easy public transport access.
- Private Transfers: Pre-booked cars or vans that meet you at arrivals
- Shared Shuttle Services: Economical for solo travellers or groups
⏱ Duration & Availability
- Perth City Airport Shuttle runs 24/7, so you'll always have an option to catch a shuttle at any hour.
- The shared shuttle from Perth Airport to the city typically takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic and the number of drop-off stops
- According to Perth City Airport Shuttle: their 24/7 service means they can pick you up from any terminal at nearly any time.
- For terminal transfers (between T1/T2 and T3/T4), Perth Airport provides a free shuttle:
| Time | Frequency |
|---|---|
06:00 – 22:00 | Every 20 minutes |
22:00 – 06:00 | Every 30 minutes |
Car Rental
Several major car rental companies operate at Perth Airport, including Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar, and Thrifty.
| Car Rental Company | Operating Hours (Daily) | Notes / After-Hours |
|---|---|---|
Avis | 06:30 AM – 11:30 PM | After-hours returns via key drop-box |
Budget | 06:30 AM – 11:30 PM | After-hours returns available |
Hertz | 07:00 AM – 10:59 PM | Check with counter for after-hours pickup |
Enterprise Rent‑A‑Car | 07:00 AM – 10:30 PM | After-hours returns possible depending on booking |
💸 Cost Range
| Car Category | Typical Daily Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
Economy / Small | ~ $34 – $65 |
Intermediate / Compact | ~ $50 – $80 |
SUV | ~ $60 – $140+ |
Full-Size / 4WD | ~ $90 – $250 |
Premium / Luxury | ~ $114 – $200+ |
Things That May Increase Cost:
- Optional insurance / excess reduction
- Additional driver fees
- One‑way rental fees
- Airport surcharges
Fly to Perth
Conclusion
Getting from Perth Airport to the city is easy, thanks to the city’s modern transport system. The train from Perth Airport to city is the fastest and most affordable method, while taxis and rideshares offer door-to-door convenience.
Travellers who prefer comfort or are staying far from the CBD may find the Perth Airport to city shuttle or private transfers more suitable.
Whether you're travelling for business or exploring Western Australia, this guide ensures you have smooth, stress-free transport from Perth Airport to city from the moment you land.
FAQ: Perth Airport to City
How do I get from Perth Airport to the city?
You can travel via train, bus, taxi, rideshare (Uber/DiDi), shuttle services, or car rental. The fastest and cheapest option is usually the Airport Line train.Where do I catch a taxi or rideshare at Perth Airport?
Taxi ranks and rideshare pickup points are outside arrivals at all terminals. Airport pickup fees may apply (~AUD $4.50).Are there car rental services at Perth Airport?
Yes, major providers include Avis, Budget, Hertz, Enterprise, SIXT, and others, with counters inside the terminals.What’s the best option for solo travellers?
The train from Perth Airport to city is fast, cheap, and convenient.