Perth’s Transperth train network is straightforward, affordable, and covers far more ground than most visitors realise. With eight lines, 85 stations, and fares starting at just $2.80, trains are the quickest way to explore beyond the CBD. Whether you’re catching a flight, heading to Fremantle for the day, or discovering hidden neighbourhoods, here’s what you need to know.
Perth Rail Map
Map controls: click to drag, scroll to zoom
The Eight Train Lines: Where They Go and Why They Matter
Transperth’s network radiates from Perth Station in the city centre. Each line is colour-coded (see the above map), making navigation intuitive even on your first trip.
The Fremantle Line: Beach and Heritage
This is the most popular line for tourists. It runs from Perth Station through Leederville to Cottesloe Beach and terminates in historic Fremantle. Peak frequency is every 10 minutes; off-peak every 15-20 minutes.
The Yanchep Line: Retail and Recreation
Runs north from Perth Station through Subiaco (Perth’s first underground station, opened 1998) and Leederville to Yanchep. It’s the busiest line with frequencies as high as 5 minutes during peak hours between Perth and Whitfords.
The Mandurah Line: Southern Coastal Escape
Running south from Perth Station, this line serves suburbs through to the coastal town of Mandurah. Peak frequency is 15 minutes, off-peak 20-30 minutes.
The Midland Line: Heritage and Rural Appeal
Heads east from Perth Station through Northbridge and Guildford. Offers heritage experiences and semi-rural scenery. Peak frequency 15 minutes, off-peak 20-30 minutes.
The Airport Line: Getting In and Out
From Perth Station, it reaches Airport Central (serving Terminals 1 and 2) in just 15 minutes. A 280-metre elevated Skybridge connects the station directly to the terminals. For Terminals 3 and 4, exit at Redcliffe Station and catch Bus Route 292. Frequency is 10 minutes peak, 15 minutes off-peak.
The Armadale Line: Suburban and Stadium Access
Runs southwest from Perth Station through to Armadale and Byford, and serves Perth Stadium directly, making it essential for events. Peak frequency 20 minutes, off-peak 30 minutes.
The Thornlie-Cockburn Line: Newest Route
Opened in 2025, this line connects Thornlie to Cockburn Central where it joins the Mandurah line. Peak frequency 10 minutes, off-peak 15-20 minutes.
The Ellenbrook Line: Northern Growth Corridor
Runs from Perth Station through West Leederville to Ellenbrook with 10-minute peak frequency and 15-20 minute off-peak.
Understanding Fares: The 2026 Go Anywhere Fare
Perth’s fares changed on 1 January 2026. The Go Anywhere Fare means a single journey costs the same whether you’re travelling one zone or nine.
Single Journey Fares
- $2.80 with SmartRider Autoload (most economical)
- $3.50 cash or card payment
SmartRider: Your Key to Savings
SmartRider is a reusable contactless card. Standard SmartRider gives 10% discount; with Autoload enabled, an additional 20% applies for a total saving of 30%. For tourists staying a few days, SmartRider saves significant money compared to individual card purchases.
Daily and Family Caps
- DayRider: $7 – unlimited travel all day on any train line
- FamilyRider: $7 – off-peak unlimited travel for a family group
A DayRider pays for itself after three journeys, making it excellent value for exploring multiple destinations in one day.
Concessions and Free Travel
Seniors travel free during off-peak hours: 9am-3:30pm and after 7pm on weekdays; all day on weekends and public holidays. Children under 14 travel free when with a paying adult.
How to Get to the Airport in 15 Minutes
The Airport Line is faster and cheaper than taxis or rideshare from the airport to the CBD.
For Terminals 1 and 2
- Exit baggage claim and follow signs to Airport Central station
- Use SmartRider or buy a single ticket ($2.80-$3.50)
- Trains depart every 10 minutes during the day, 15 minutes off-peak
- Arrive at Perth Station in 15 minutes; Elizabeth Quay is two stops further
For Terminals 3 and 4
- Take the Airport Line to Redcliffe Station (3 minutes from Airport Central)
- Catch Bus Route 292 (connector bus runs every 12 minutes during peak times)
- Total journey time: approximately 30 minutes from Airport Central
More details on airport transfers inc. comparison table here.
Top Tourist Destinations by Train
Fremantle and Cottesloe
Take the Fremantle Line from Perth Station. Cottesloe (approximately 30 minutes) is famous for its beach and Sculpture by the Sea. Fremantle (approximately 45 minutes) features historic jail, vibrant markets, heritage buildings, and waterfront dining. Check the Rottnest Island Day Trip Guide if you plan to continue by ferry from Fremantle.
Subiaco
Subiaco station on the Yanchep Line is Perth’s first underground station. The precinct above features excellent restaurants, bars, independent shops, and galleries.
Swan Valley
Take the Midland Line to Guildford, a short ride from the edge of the Swan Valley wine region. The valley is 25 km from Perth CBD with 30-minute drive from Guildford.
Perth Stadium and Events
Perth Stadium is accessible via the Armadale and Thornlie-Cockburn lines with the station integrated directly into the venue. Transport is typically included in event tickets.
Accessibility and Safety
All Transperth trains and stations are designed for accessibility. Each station is designated as either Independent Access or Assisted Access. CCTV monitoring, emergency communication buttons, and regular staff patrols are in place across the network. For specific accessibility needs, call Transperth on 13 62 13.
Insider Tips
- Get a SmartRider: the 20% Autoload discount more than pays for the card during a week-long visit
- Buy a DayRider for $7 if you’re planning four or more journeys in a day
- Peak times (7-9am and 4-7pm weekdays) are crowded; off-peak is quieter
- Seniors travel free off-peak: 9am-3:30pm and after 7pm weekdays, all day weekends
- The WA Museum Boola Bardip at Perth Cultural Centre is an easy stop on the train network
- Whiteman Park is accessible by bus connections from the Yanchep line at Whiteman Park
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a single Transperth train journey cost in 2026?
The Go Anywhere Fare allows travel anywhere on the network for $2.80 using SmartRider Autoload, or $3.50 with cash or card. This replaced the previous zone-based system.
What’s the fastest way from Perth CBD to the airport?
The Airport Line from Perth Station reaches Airport Central (Terminals 1 and 2) in 15 minutes. Redcliffe Station plus Bus Route 292 connects to Terminals 3 and 4.
How frequently do trains run?
Peak hours (7-9am and 4-7pm weekdays) range from 5-15 minutes depending on the line. The Yanchep line is fastest at 5 minutes between Perth and Whitfords during peak. Off-peak frequency is typically 15-30 minutes.
Can I take the train to Fremantle and Cottesloe?
Yes. Both are on the Fremantle Line from Perth Station. Cottesloe is approximately 30 minutes; Fremantle approximately 45 minutes.
Are Transperth trains accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes. All trains and stations are designed for accessibility. Stations are designated as Independent or Assisted Access. Call 13 62 13 for details before your journey.
How do I get to Optus Stadium for events?
Perth Stadium station is directly adjacent to Optus Stadium, served by the Armadale and Thornlie-Cockburn lines. Transport is typically included in event tickets.
Is there a day pass for trains?
Yes. DayRider is $7 for unlimited all-day travel on any Transperth service. FamilyRider is also $7 for off-peak family group travel. Both are available at station machines or Transperth InfoCentres.
Which line should I take to visit key tourist spots?
Fremantle Line: Fremantle and Cottesloe. Yanchep Line: Subiaco and Leederville. Armadale Line: Perth Stadium. Airport Line: airport connections. Mandurah Line: coastal Mandurah. All lines pass through Perth Station.