Welcome to Perth, Scotland

A vibrant riverside city, where culture, heritage and contemporary living come together, Perth is a favourite year-round destination and the perfect base for exploring wider Scotland.
St Matthews Church

Set on the banks of the River Tay, Perth combines centuries of history with a thriving modern spirit. Discover a city rich in culture, from galleries, theatres and festivals to independent shops, cafés and award-winning restaurants. 

Explore beautiful parks and green spaces, uncover fascinating stories at every turn, and enjoy easy access to some of Scotland's most spectacular countryside. Whether you're visiting for a day or staying longer, Perth offers experiences that inspire, surprise and delight.


Events in Perth, Scotland

Perth hosts a vibrant programme of events throughout the year, celebrating the city's culture, history and creative spirit. Visitors can enjoy major annual events including Perth Highland Games, Perth Festival of the Arts and Scone Palace International Horse Trials, alongside a varied calendar of sporting events, exhibitions, music festivals. markets and community celebrations including the city's famed Christmas Lights Switch-On. 

Visitor Attractions and Things to Do

Perth is home to a wide range of visitor attractions, cultural landmarks and family-friendly experiences. Highlights include award-winning Scottish venues such as Perth Museum, Scone Palace, The Black Watch Castle and Museum, Perth Concert Hall and Perth Theatre. 

For hands-on experiences, book a tour around one of our distilleries, lose yourself in a day of art galleries and museums, or immerse yourself in the thrill of elite sporting action at Perth Racecourse. Families are well looked after too; from hitting the flumes at Perth Leisure Pool to canoeing down the Tay with Willowgate Activity Centre, there's plenty to keep them entertained and screen-free.

Green Spaces in Perth

Stay a little longer in Perth City and Towns

Whether you are planning a short city break, countryside escape or a longer stay in the heart of Perthshire, the Visit Scotland guide to Perth offers a wide range of accommodation to suit every kind of visitor. 

Find your perfect lodging, from stylish city centre hotels and welcoming guest houses to self-catering apartments, cosy B&Bs, and countryside lodges, and enjoy all that the area has to offer.

A round stone tower sits at the top of a sheer cliff face above a scenic landscape and the River Tay winding its way to Dundee.

Frequently Asked Questions About Perth

Perth is known for its rich history, riverside setting and vibrant mix of culture, shopping and food experiences. Often referred to as the gateway to Highland Perthshire, the city is home to historic landmarks, independent businesses, theatres, galleries and a thriving events scene.

Popular visitor attractions include Perth Museum, Scone Palace, The Black Watch Castle & Museum and Perth Theatre. Visitors can also enjoy riverside walks, galleries, leisure activities and nearby countryside attractions.

Perth is renowned for its delicious selection of cafes, restaurants, tearooms and bars. This love of good food and drink covers everything from award-winning restaurants to simple street food, seasonal cocktails to homegrown gins and beers.

Yes - Perth is well known for its independent shopping scene, with more than 120 family-owned businesses located across the city centre. Visitors can browse boutiques, galleries, speciality food shops, gift stores and artisan retailers alongside national brands.

Yes - Perth is ideally located for exploring both Highland Perthshire and the wider region. The city offers easy access to nearby towns, scenic drives, walking routes, castles, lochs and outdoor attractions while providing excellent transport connections and visitor facilities.

Perth is famous for its historic role as one of Scotland’s ancient capitals and for its strong cultural and civic heritage. It is well known for landmarks such as Scone Palace, the traditional crowning place of Scottish kings, as well as its connections to the River Tay and its long-standing reputation as a centre for trade, governance and craftsmanship.

Perth is a popular destination thanks to its combination of history, culture and easy access to some of Scotland’s most scenic landscapes. Visitors are drawn to attractions such as Perth Museum, The Black Watch Castle & Museum and Perth Theatre, alongside its independent shops, riverside walks and food scene. Its central location also makes it an ideal base for exploring Highland Perthshire, with castles, lochs, countryside and outdoor activities all within easy reach.

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