Make short work of the long haul, and have a stopover in Perth

Perth's (Boorloo) status as Australia's western gateway continues to grow with a new Qantas direct service launching to Paris in July 2024, so now is the time to plan your dream stopover in Western Australiaas part of a European holiday.

Here's some inspiration for how you can explore Perth, so you can start booking right away.

Coastal vibes. Perth is renowned around the world for its coastline, and with 19 metropolitan beaches on our doorstep, along with our famous Indian Ocean sunsets, summer and autumn is the ultimate time to spend some extended time by the sea. Of course, we can't forget about Rottnest Island (Wadjemup). Famous for its laid-back atmosphere and home to 63 beautiful beaches and 20 bays, Rottnest Island is a unique island paradise located just a short ferry ride from the mainland. Alternatively, take the one of the world's shortest flight and travel to the island by seaplane to meet the world's happiest animal — the quokka. The A Class Reserve is a car-free zone, and hiring a bicycle is the best way to get around.

Event season.  WA plays host to an incredible range of world-class cultural, arts, sporting and culinary events throughout the year.  Last month, WA launched its Evernow Festival which will return in 2024; and an AFL match at the world's most beautiful stadium, Optus, is a must-do. Keep an eye out for the annual FRINGE World Festival (January to February) and Perth Festival (February to March), and Sculpture by the Sea in March.

Check out the Burswood Peninsula and climb the city's newest attractions. Situated on the Swan River (Derbarl Yerrigan), the Burswood Peninsula is another part of Perth which has had a huge makeover. With Optus Stadium as the centrepiece, the next big thing for locals is the Matagarup Zip & Climb. Admire 360-degree views from the 72-metre high platform at the top of the bridge, and then take the zipper 400 metres across the Swan River to Burswood Park. Time your stay to include an event at Optus Stadium, which recently launched its incredible roof-hang experience, Vertigo. Catch an AFL match from above on the stadium's rooftop experience, HALO.

Eat and drink your way around Perth and the Swan Valley. Some of the city's newest hotels are also home to some of the most talked about restaurants, such as Hearth at The Ritz Carlton, Santini Bar & Grill at QT Perth and Wildflower at COMO The Treasury. Other new and trending dining options include Tupi, Edward & Ida's, Miss MI, and Enoteca Centro; or check out Argyle and Lantern at Elizabeth Quay. For the ultimate in food and drink indulgence, the Swan Valley is the place to be – WA's oldest wine region is home to more than 40 wineries, six boutique breweries, cideries and distilleries, many of which have on-site restaurants or offer 'foodie' experiences.

Check out Fremantle's renaissance. While Perth city has undergone a massive transformation in recent years, Fremantle (Walyalup) is experiencing its own renaissance. There's plenty of hotels located within the port city, and the hottest new restaurants including Sailing for Oranges, Nieuw Ruin, Vin Populi and Gage Roads. Take a walking, cycling or foodie tour, check out the new restaurants or bars, and settle into the Freo 'vibe'. 

The near 17-hour flights will operate four days per week from 12 July next year. Services will move to three per week from mid-August 2024.

Qantas' Paris fares are on sale now and start from €1,449 EUR inbound and $1,899 AUD. For more information visit qantas.com.

Qantas also flies direct from Perth to London daily, and Perth to Rome seasonally.