For anyone who has little to no knowledge of Western Australia, you may have never heard of Fremantle. Even if you have visited WA chances are that you may just have taken a ferry from Fremantle for a day trip to Rottnest Island and would have completely missed exploring the charm of Fremantle. A day trip to Fremantle from Perth is a must if you have less time in WA. But as a local, I can say that you will need full 2 days to completely feel and absorb the atmosphere of the city because there are plenty of things to do in Fremantle Australia, and a lot of tourist attractions to see.
Fremantle is a lovely port city in WA with laid-back vibes and a lot of history, especially maritime history. The architecture of the facade, outside high tables, live music on the street, lined-up cafes, and European vibes are what describe Freo (as it’s fondly called by the locals) best and these are also some of the best reasons you should visit Fremantle for.
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Useful Info for Visting Fremantle
Best Time to Visit Fremantle Australia
The best time to visit Fremantle is Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May). Though you can visit in the summers, the temperature can be unbearable in the afternoon hence spring and autumn are the best times. Winters are mostly rainy and cold so avoiding June to August would be the best idea if you are a fan of cold weather.
For best weather: End of September – End of November and Mid March – Mid May.
For fewer crowds and decent weather: March & June
For the least amount of crowds but cold weather: July & August
In December, January & February, the afternoon temperatures are uncomfortably hot.
Getting to Fremantle Australia
Fremantle is a 30 min drive from the city of Perth and it’s well connected with a direct train line and bus services from the city hence it’s the easiest to get to. Take a train from your nearest station and hop on to the Fremantle line, Fremantle train station is the last stop. If you have any confusion then Transperth is here to help.
If you have more time and are willing to take a scenic route then a ferry from Perth to Fremantle is also a good option. For people coming by car, there is enough affordable street parking available in Fremantle and to check where to park, click here.
Getting Around Fremantle Australia
Getting around Fremantle is also pretty easy as it’s the best town to explore on foot or by bike. You can hire a bike from Fremantle Visitor Centre. There are plenty of charming streets with buzzing bars, cafes, markets, street art, and live music that you would want to stop by and check in.
You can also choose to explore the city by free Fremantle CAT bus that completes regular circuits and stops at major attractions and shopping places. Another great way for tourists is to take a Fremantle Tram Tour which is very educational with the commentary but this tour gets temporarily suspended at times so you will have to check their website whether the trams are up and running before you visit.
A self-guided audio tour is also a great way to explore this city at your own pace without any time restrictions. You can commence your self-guided tour from any point.
Things to do in Fremantle Australia
1. Wander through the Fremantle Markets
Established in 1897, Fremantle Market is one of the top tourist destinations in WA and the most famous landmark in Fremantle that has earned a reputation for itself. This busy indoor market is located on South Terrace & Henderson St and sells almost everything from the freshest of fruit and veg, clothes, local produce, handicrafts, and a lot more.
With over 150 stalls, you can easily wander inside for 2-3 hrs enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. It’s easy to see why it is so popular and among the best things to do in Fremantle. There are also a number of artists performing right outside the freo markets making the environment even more happening.
SUVARNA’S TIP: The best part of Freo market is its food stall so when you are in the market inside the food area, don’t forget to try the burger at Eggspot, dutch mini pancakes & a fresh drink from Roogenic.
OPENING HOURS: Fremantle Markets is open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9 AM – 6 PM and is closed on weekdays. It is also open on public holidays.
GOOGLE LOCATION: Fremantle Markets
2. Fremantle Round House
While the Roundhouse in Fremantle may not look like an Instagrammable spot in Fremantle but it definitely should be on your list to see when you visit the city. Built-in 1831, the roundhouse is the oldest public building in Western Australia that’s also heritage-listed. It has 8 cells and was used as a prison for colonial and indigenous prisoners until 1886. After that Fremantle prison was in control of keeping the prisoners and the roundhouse continued to be used as a police lockup.
The removal of the Roundhouse has been suggested a number of times in the 1920s since its usage keeps on changing but it was saved by the Fremantle city council. It is open to the public and is run by volunteers. The recommended donation amount is a gold coin (And no, I am not talking about a real gold coin. A one-dollar or two-dollar coin covered in gold color is called a gold coin in Australia) but you can donate as much as you want.
OPENING HOURS: Daily: 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM
GOOGLE LOCATION: Fremantle Round House
3. Fremantle Prison
The Fremantle Prison is Western Australia’s only UNESCO world heritage-listed building and former Australian prison. The Prison was built by convicts in the 1850s and was used continually as a place for punishments like flogging and hangings until 1991. After its closure, the WA state government preserved the Prison for future generations and for its history. Today, Fremantle Prison is one of the largest surviving convict prisons in the world.
One of the best things to do in Fremantle today is to step inside the prison and have the feel of convict life on a range of fascinating guided tours. “Convict Prison”, “Behind Bars” and “True Crime” tours highlight convict and prison life, and daring escapes. Adventurous visitors can have more fun by descending 20 meters below the prison to explore the labyrinth of tunnels by foot and by boat on a fascinating Fremantle Prison Tunnel Tour. You can also step into the darker side of the Prison’s history at night on a spooky “Torchlight Tour”.
In addition to its guided tours, Fremantle Prison also has a Prison Gallery, an onsite cafe, and a gift shop. Paid parking is also available on site.
OPENING HOURS: Daily: 9 AM – 5 PM and Closed Good Friday & Christmas Day.
GOOGLE LOCATION: Fremantle Prison
4. The Esplanade Park
Esplanade Park is a public park and playground situated on Marine Terrace opposite Esplanade Hotel. Ideal for people of all ages, this park has a small playing area for kids and a lot of trees that provide shade making it a lovely picnic spot. The park also includes Fremantle Youth Plaza which is a great place for older kids for skateboarding as it has a skate park and climbing frames.
One of the popular Fremantle attractions that can be found at the Esplanade park is Fremantle Eye which is also known as the Fremantle Ferris wheel. This 40 m high Ferris wheel has 24 enclosed gondolas and the ride is about 7-8 min but it is one of the most fun things to do in Fremantle. The standard tickets are $12 AUD for adults and $10 AUD for kids and the special tickets cost $20 AUD for a couple and $60 AUD for a private gondola.
GOOGLE LOCATION: Esplanade Park
5. Explore the Iconic Cappuccino Strip
If we are talking about the best things to do in Fremantle then it will be a crime not to include the iconic Cappuccino strip of Fremantle. Situated in the section of South Terrace from the corner of Bannister Street to Parry Street in Fremantle is popularly known as the Cappuccino Strip. Don’t get fooled by its name as it’s not a place for only coffee lovers instead it is buzzing with cafes, restaurants, and pubs.
You will also find numerous clothing shops by local designers and plenty of bookstores. Being a foodie delight, the best way to discover the food scene is by taking a 3-hour Food Lover’s Walking Tour. Taste local specialties while eating and drinking at a number of very authentic bars and restaurants.
6. Learn about the Maritime History of Fremantle
WA MARITIME MUSEUM – As a working port city, Fremantle has a fascinating maritime history. The Western Australian Maritime Museum is located on Victoria Quay and is especially popular with its stunning maritime design. The museum is home to some iconic vessels from WA’s maritime history such as the internationally renowned Australia II yacht, an Oberon class submarine, and many more. The maritime history is also well documented through a series of world-class exhibits and presentations.
Entrance Fee: $15 AUD for adults, Kids (0 – 15 years) for free, Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) for $30 AUD.
OPENING HOURS: Daily: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM; Closed on Good Friday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.
GOOGLE LOCATION: WA Maritime Museum
WA SHIPWRECKS MUSEUM – Located on Cliff Street and housed in an 1850s-era Commissariat building, Western Australia Shipwrecks Museum is another maritime museum that should be on your list of things to do in Fremantle. It houses the original timbers of Batavia which sank in 1629 along with countless artifacts from the Dutch shipwrecks Zuytdorp, Zeewijk, and Vergulde Draeck. There are a number of galleries inside that you can explore and learn all about the history of WA’s coastline.
Entrance Fee: Free
OPENING HOURS: Daily: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM; Closed on Good Friday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.
GOOGLE LOCATION: WA Shipwrecks Museum
7. Enjoy A Swim
If you are looking for some free things to do in Fremantle then nothing can be better than being at the beach & chill after a long day of adventure or even for lazy afternoons. Being a relaxed city, one of the things to do in Fremantle is to take a leisurely walk by the beach and go for a swim at any of the 4 main beaches.
Each beach is unique and offers different activities. The four main beaches are Bathers Beach, Port Beach, Leighton Beach, and South Beach.
Bathers Beach is Fremantle’s local favorite beach because it’s close to some of the main attractions in the city and it also offers sun loungers. It is WA’s first licensed beach area so sip a cocktail and enjoy the beauty of the beach while lounging on your sunbed.
Port Beach and Leighton Beach are favorites among windsurfers, kite surfers, and surfers. The small waves at both beaches make it safe for swimming and are patrolled by the Fremantle Surf Life Saving Club during some time of the year.
8. Eat Fish & Chips at Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour
Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour is a fully operational fishing port and a must-visit place when in Fremantle. Being close to Esplanade park, it’s hard to miss this place. The vibrant and lively atmosphere of Fishing Boat Harbour makes it a popular place that is always buzzing with people. It is a hub for waterfront restaurants majorly serving seafood and a few bars. Take a stroll around the harbor and don’t forget to enjoy fish and chips (one of the things to do in Fremantle) at one of the eateries at Fishing Boat Harbour.
9. Sip Craft Beer at one of the many Breweries
Fremantle is heaven for beer lovers and sipping on a craft beer coming directly from the brewery is a must-do in Fremantle.
Little Creatures Brewery
Titled as the best brewery in Fremantle, Little Creatures Brewery is the one you just can’t miss. If you want to try a bit of everything then sample a tasting paddle that includes 10 of their best beers. Their hugely popular beer is available everywhere but the setup and the environment in their Fremantle brewery is unmissable. If you love getting behind the scenes then daily tours of the distillery are also available.
OPENING HOURS: Daily: 11 AM – 11 PM
GOOGLE LOCATION: Little Creatures Brewery
Gage Roads Freo Brewery
This newly opened (January 2022) brewery is located inside a massive 100 m long former cargo shed on the Walyalup waterfront so basically, they have turned the historic A Shed at Victoria Quay into a brewery. Gage Roads Freo Brewery is a whole vibe in itself with a beer garden, play area for kids, fresh local food & an outside sitting area where you can sit by the water & watch the container ships go by.
Even if you are not a fan of beer, I highly recommend going there & drinking a glass of wine or a cocktail, just to enjoy the vibe of the place. This place is already a huge competitor to Little Creatures.
OPENING HOURS: Daily: 11 AM – 11:30 PM except for Tuesday (11 AM – 4 PM)
GOOGLE LOCATION: Gage Roads Freo Brewery
Other breweries worth checking out – There are a few other good breweries and micro-breweries too in Fremantle including the Monk, Sail and Anchor, and Beerporium. If you happen to be in Fremantle in November make sure to check out Fremantle Beer Fest held on the grounds of the Esplanade Reserve.
10. Escape to Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island is a paradise for people living in Western Australia as it is located only 19.7 km away and a 25 min ferry ride from Fremantle. Though not exactly in Fremantle, it is still considered one of the best things to do in Fremantle Australia because of its close proximity to the city. Hop on to any one of the 2 ferries operated by Sealink Rottnest Island and Rottnest Express that departs daily from Fremantle to reach this stunning car-free island.
Rottnest Island is blessed with 63 beaches and 20 bays, one being more beautiful than the other. It is best explored on a bicycle and most popular for the native marsupials, the Quokkas are known for being the happiest animal on the planet. Don’t forget to take a selfie with these curious mammals.
If you want to make the best of your day trip to this island then take a Rottnest Island ferry and Bus tour that includes round trip ferry transfer to Fremantle or Perth with 1.5 hrs of a bus tour in an air-conditioned bus is the best option. It shows you all the must-see locations on Rottnest Island and also gives you enough time to explore the island on your own.
Read here on how to plan a day trip to Rottnest Island
11. Take a Look at the Street Art
If you are someone who enjoys street art then you will love this port city even more because there is no shortage of street arts in Fremantle. The city has been a melting pot of art for many years and so many local and international artists have contributed to the street art collection. Take a self-guided trail of the quaint streets that are now exploding in several colors.
Some of the old buildings in Fremantle are transformed into quirky and beautiful art pieces some of which appear to be 3D. The street art in Fremantle takes you around the globe as it depicts scenes from various countries like Africa, India, and France. From the giant numbat to the Alice in Wonderland wall, and to the masterpiece by the famous Fremantle artist, Horatio T Birdbath, the street art in Fremantle will blow you away.
12. Enjoy Fishing
Being a port city, there is no shortage of dropping a line in Fremantle to catch fish. North Mole and South Mole are the 2 best spots in Fremantle for fishing because of the warm waters of the harbor. There are many kinds of fish that you will find here like herring, and snapper but beware of the blowfish. The E-Shed wharf at Fremantle also offers great ranges of fishes like tailor, bream, skippy, and herring.
13. Watch the Sunset from Monument Hill Park
Monument Hill Park is located to the east of the center in Fremantle. It is a gorgeous park set high on a hill overlooking the harbor with lovely views of the city and is only a 20-minute walk from the Fremantle train station. It is a great vantage point in Fremantle and a good spot that offers plenty of space to set a picnic and enjoy the sunset.
There is also a historical site located on the high grounds of the hill, the Fremantle War memorial which is a beautiful tribute to the fallen soldiers and sailors who gave the ultimate sacrifice in WWI.
Entry to Monument Hill park is free with a lot of space at the public car parking.
14. Enjoy the Art at Fremantle Arts Centre
Housed in a gothic-style building built by convicts in the late 19th century, Fremantle Art Centre is the leading art organization in Western Australia. During its early establishment period, it served as Fremantle Lunatic Asylum, followed by a Women’s home, and later it was used by soldiers during WWII.
In 1973, Fremantle Art Centre was opened and the government funding started in 1978. Nowadays FAC holds art courses and offers various exhibitions and events throughout the year. From painting, drawing, ceramics, and jewelry, there is so much more here for everyone. Interested in art then definitely check out their art courses and also check what’s on in FAC.
15. Indulge in Freo’s Best Eats
When in Fremantle, you don’t have to worry about food. The city has a number of good restaurants & cafes to choose from to treat your taste buds. You can start your day with a healthy breakfast at Ohana Acai or have a hearty brunch with some drinks at Mr. Chapple. For dinner, the options are unlimited and varied. From Middle Eastern, fusion Indian, Mexican, or a burger from grill’d, you can’t go wrong with anything.
Some of Freo’s finest eateries that are worth mentioning are Duck Duck Bruce, Tonic & ginger, Bread In Common, and Lions & Tigers (if you’re looking for fusion Indian).
16. Experience the Nightlife in Fremantle
Seen enough of the day? Get ready to experience the night in Fremantle. As the sun sets Fremantle becomes alive with live music and crowds having fun. Hit the doors of the Duke of George, Mojos Bar, Who’s your mama, or L’chaim Bar, the choice is endless. Freo Social is also a great place with good music, good food & drinks.
If you feel like dancing the night away, there are a few nightclubs too; Metropolis is a great one with a dance floor and 8 bars. Experiencing the nightlife is a fun thing to do in Fremantle that will make you understand why Freo (as we locals call it) is loved so much.
Accommodation in Fremantle Australia
Though there are many accommodations to choose from in Fremantle, here are my suggestions based on rating and location. All of these accommodations are close to all the best things to do in Fremantle and are great places to stay at. If you don’t find them good enough then choose the best that suits your need from Booking.com.
The National Hotel (⭐ 9.7)
One of the top picks in Fremantle, The National Hotel is a beautifully restored hotel that provides accommodation with a restaurant, private parking, a bar, and a terrace. Only 300m away from famous Fremantle Markets, this hotel has spacious comfortable rooms with free wifi.
Warders Hotel Fremantle (⭐ 9.7)
This heritage-looking 5-star hotel provides accommodation with a bar, restaurant, and terrace. The hotel’s interior is modern and continental and à la carte breakfast options are available every morning. In addition to that, there’s free WiFi and private parking.
Hougoumont Hotel Fremantle (⭐ 9.7)
Another one of the top picks in Fremantle, this 4-star modern boutique Hougoumont Hotel offers affordable, luxury accommodation and is ideally located within walking distance from Fremantle train station. With a Complimentary light breakfast, bicycle hire, fresh fruit, unlimited bottled water, and free WiFi the facilities are amazing.
Esplanade Hotel Fremantle – by Rydges (⭐ 9.4)
This stunning hotel is located in the heart of Fremantle and offers 2 outdoor pools and a fitness center. They have 2 on-site restaurants and 2 bars serving international cuisine and craft beer on tap. In addition to that, there’s free WiFi and a parking facility.
Arundel’s Boutique Accommodation (⭐ 9.2)
Just a 4-minute walk from Fishing Boat Harbour, this Boutique Accommodation provides comfortable rooms and offers free Wi-Fi. Arundels Boutique Accommodation is an adult retreat and they do not have facilities for children, however, a family with children can book their self-contained cottages and apartments.
Map of things to do in Fremantle Australia
Here is the map of all the things to do in Fremantle that includes all the places mentioned above with all the bars and beaches too. Save this map and keep it handy for your visit to Fremantle.
Final Thoughts – Is Fremantle worth visiting?
There is no doubt that Fremantle is a lively city in Australia with absolutely no shortage of fun. With a lot of history involved and so many things to do in Fremantle, it won’t be wrong to say the capital city of Perth can look a bit dull in comparison. It’s a thriving tourist hotspot and local’s favorite city. It makes a perfect stop if you are road tripping along the coast. Whether it’s up towards Jurien Bay or Kalbarri or down towards beautiful Southwest Australia.
Interested in knowing more about Australia? Don’t miss these posts.
- How to Plan a Day Trip to Rottnest Island, Australia
- 3 Days Sydney itinerary: How to Spend 3 Epic Days in Sydney
- 15 Best Beaches in Australia You Need to See
- Perth to Kalbarri: An Exciting 4-Day Road Trip Itinerary
- Perth to Esperance: An Exciting 14-Day Road Trip Itinerary
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Amazing post! Rottnest Island seems so dreamy. I would love to visit there one day.
I’m looking forward to discovering WA and Freemantle looks like a great place to visit…especially Rottnest Island. I’ll save this for later. Thanks for sharing!
I had not heard of Fremantle but I have always wanted to visit Rottnest Island so it’s great to learn more about somewhere close by there for when I actually get to visit. The craft beer is calling my name, as are the markets. Looks like a lovely place
This brings me back to my time in Fremantle many years ago. Went on a day trip from Perth. Wanted to go to Rottnest island as well, but realized that it was beyond my budget. So I just spent time exploring and having fish n chips at the harbor. Really nice place to chill out at.
I loved Fremantle when I was there. My favourite place was the Maritime Museum then the coffee shops. I hope to get back there soon. Thanks for the inspiration.
Wow this looks like a beautiful place to visit, and great for photos too! I would love to have a stroll around those markets.