by Dawn Teh
posted on 21 November 2024
If there’s one town in Western Australia that perfectly blends laid-back coastal vibes with a vibrant hipster scene and convict-era colonial history, it’s quirky Fremantle (or “Freo” as the locals affectionately call it). With plenty of things to do in Fremantle, filling up your itinerary isn’t so much of an issue. It’s figuring out how to narrow down your list to make the most of your time at this lively port city.
We’ve listed the top 10 attractions and activities to help you plan your time here, whether you’re into discovering heritage landmarks, soaking up the sun at pristine beaches, or sampling local craft brews with waterfront views of Fremantle Harbour.
An overview of the 10 best things to do in Fremantle
- Explore Fremantle Arts Centre
- Eat your way through Fremantle Markets
- Take a day trip to visit quokkas on Rottnest Island
- Experience a guided tour of Fremantle Prison
- Visit the WA Maritime Museum
- Sip craft brews at Fremantle’s iconic breweries
- Make a splash at one of Fremantle’s top beaches
- Chow down on classic fish and chips at Fremantle’s Fishing Harbour
- Stroll along the white sand of Bathers Beach
- Watch the sunset from Monument Hill
Before you go: What you need to know about Fremantle (WA)
- How to get to Fremantle: Just 30 minutes by car via Kwinana Fwy then Leach Hwy from Perth City, or a 25-minute train ride from central Perth. You can also take a bus or even ride a ferry along the Swan River. It’s a 35-minute ride if you’re coming from Perth Airport.
- Best time to visit Fremantle: Spring (Sep–Nov) and Autumn (Mar-May) are best for mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
- What you’ll love about Fremantle: A great mix of beaches, rich colonial history, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and foodie destinations.
- Driving conditions in Fremantle: Roads are sealed here. But traffic can be busy, especially near main attractions; parking spots may be limited. Many dedicated bike lanes make it a cyclist-friendly town.
- Best vehicle to hire in Fremantle: Compact cars are ideal for city driving, but an SUV can be useful if planning to explore nearby coastal areas or national parks.
- Accommodation and camping options in Fremantle:
- Budget: The Fremantle Hostel (from $35/night)
- Mid-Range: Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges (from $200/night)
- Luxury: Warders Hotel (from $450/night)
The 10 best things to see and do in Fremantle
This quirky Western Australian suburb is bursting with character, history, and coastal charm, making it a must-visit destination with plenty to see and do. From historic landmarks to vibrant markets and beautiful beaches, here are the top 10 things you won’t want to miss in Fremantle.
1. Explore Fremantle Arts Centre
- Travel time and distances from Fremantle: Located right in Fremantle city centre along Finnerty St.
- Ideal activity length: 1–2 hours, or longer if you’re attending a concert or workshop.
- Cost: Free general entry; ticketed events and workshops vary in price.
- Bookings: No bookings required for general entry; check online for event and workshop bookings.
- Best for: Art lovers, culture seekers, families, and music enthusiasts.
Set in a Gothic-style building from the 1860s, the setting of The Fremantle Arts Centre is a vibe on its own. Within its historic walls, you’ll find rotating exhibitions from local and international artists, live music events, and creative workshops that shine a spotlight on community talent.
2. Eat your way through Fremantle Markets
- Travel time and distances from Fremantle: Located right in the heart of Fremantle. Enter through South Terrace, Henderson St, William St, or Parry St.
- Ideal activity length: Plan for 1-2 hours to eat some of the amazing food on offer at its many stalls. Don’t forget to explore the quirky stores where you can pick up unique souvenirs too!
- Cost: Entry is free, but be ready to spend on delicious food, handmade crafts, and unique finds.
- Bookings: N/A
- Best for: Couples, families, foodies, and shoppers who love artisanal goods and unique souvenirs.
The iconic Fremantle Markets truly capture the town’s unique spirit with a melting pot of cuisines and distinctive wares. From the Turkish delights at Palace Patisserie to the Greek flavours of Acropolis Souvlaki and fresh Asian dishes at Viet Kites, stepping into the markets feels like a round-the-world culinary adventure. Be sure to stop by “The Yard” section, where you’ll find fresh local produce to complete the experience.
3. Take a day trip to visit quokkas on Rottnest Island
- Travel time and distances from Fremantle: About a 30-minute ferry ride.
- Ideal activity length: Plan for a full day to explore the island, meet the quokkas, and enjoy the other attractions on Rottnest.
- Cost for ferry tickets: $84.50 per adult, $42 per child (4-12yrs), family and concession rates available.
- Bookings: You can purchase ferry tickets at the Victoria Quay ticketing office. But booking online in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Best for: Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience one of Western Australia’s most beloved animals and scenic spots.
Come and meet Western Australia’s most famous celebrities: the cute and cuddly quokkas, affectionately dubbed “the world’s happiest animals” by the internet. Beyond the quokkas, Rottnest Island boasts scenic beaches, snorkelling spots, and hiking trails, along with stunning views from Wadjemup Lighthouse, making it perfect for a full day of adventure. As a car-free island, you can explore by foot, bike, bus tour, or private cart, adding to its laid-back charm.
4. Experience a guided tour of Fremantle Prison
- Travel time and distances from Fremantle: Located right in the heart of Fremantle along Fothergill Street
- Ideal activity length: Plan for 1-2 hours to fully enjoy the guided tour and explore additional exhibits.
- Cost: Entry to parts of the prison (like the Prison Gallery, Convict Depot, and Museum) is free. Tickets generally range from $20 to $30 for adults, with discounts for children, seniors, and group bookings.
- Bookings: Bookings are required for tours
- Best for: History buffs, families, and anyone interested in heritage sites and immersive experiences.
Explore the fascinating history of Fremantle Prison, a World Heritage-listed building dating back to the 1850s. This convict-built site reveals stories of infamous inmates, daring escapes, and daily prison life, brought to life by knowledgeable guides. Explore the many areas of the facility, including prison cells, parade grounds, and chapel. For an extra-creepy experience, try the torchlight tour held in the evenings, adding a chilling edge to this historic landmark’s rugged past.
5. Visit the WA Maritime Museum
- Travel time and distances from Fremantle: Located on Victoria Quay within Fremantle town.
- Ideal activity length: Allow 1-2 hours to explore the museum’s exhibits.
- Cost: $15 for adults, free for children 15 years and under, concession and family passes available.
- Bookings: Tickets can be purchased at the door, but online booking is recommended.
- Best for: History enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in maritime heritage and shipwrecks.
From Indigenous seafaring traditions to the famous racing yacht Australia II, The Maritime Museum offers an immersive journey into Western Australia’s nautical past. Here, you’ll find boat models and even a Cold War-era vessel that tell tales of exploration, resilience, and survival on the open sea. With engaging exhibits and interactive displays, the museum provides a hands-on experience for all ages.
6. Sip craft brews at Fremantle’s iconic breweries
- Travel time and distances from Fremantle: Located around Fremantle, these breweries are easily accessible by foot or a short drive from anywhere in town.
- Ideal activity length: Allow 1-2 hours to relax, sample beers, and enjoy the atmosphere.
- Cost: Prices vary but expect to pay around $10-$15 for tasting paddles or individual brews. Some offer brewery tours as well.
- Bookings: Not required, but booking ahead is recommended for group visits or peak times.
- Best for: Beer lovers, couples, and anyone looking to experience Fremantle’s local flavours and lively atmosphere.
Fremantle’s craft beer scene is a must for visitors, with iconic spots like Little Creatures Brewery offering an authentic taste of pale ales and seasonal specialties crafted on-site. Other local favourites include Gage Roads Brew Co and Running With Thieves, each bringing unique brews and atmospheres to the mix. Pair your beers with some hearty pub grub, and you’re in for an afternoon of delicious flavours and enjoying Fremantle’s laid-back charm.
Top stop: If you’re chasing big flavours and local flair in Fremantle, make a beeline for Young George. Affectionately known as ‘YG’, this East Freo favourite is a laid-back neighbourhood bar and restaurant where award-winning chef-owner Melissa Palinkas turns local produce and zero-waste dining into creative share plates. Housed in a restored 1905 building, it’s the go-to for cocktails, flavour-packed bites, and a taste of Freo at its best.
7. Make a splash at one of Fremantle’s top beaches
- Travel time and distances from Fremantle: Many beaches are within a 10-15 minute drive or short bike ride from central Fremantle.
- Ideal activity length: Plan for 1-3 hours, depending on how much sun and sea time you want.
- Cost: Free entry to all beaches; some paid parking may apply.
- Bookings: No bookings required.
- Best for: Families, beach lovers, swimmers, and relaxing by the ocean.
With options like South Beach in South Fremantle, along with Port Beach and Leighton Beach in North Fremantle, you’ll find plenty of waterside fun in this coastal suburb. South Beach is a family favourite with calm waters, shaded picnic areas, and a lively vibe from the nearby shopping/eating strip. Port Beach is a popular spot for snorkelling, surfing, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Leighton Beach is another family-favourite that has ideal conditions for kite surfing.
8. Chow down on classic fish and chips at Fremantle’s Fishing Boat Harbour
- Travel time and distances from Fremantle: Fremantle Fishing Harbour is a few minute’s drive from the town area.
- Ideal activity length: Allow 1-2 hours to enjoy a meal and explore the harbour’s scenic surroundings.
- Cost: Expect to pay $20-$30 per person for classic fish and chips, depending on your choice of restaurant and serving size.
- Bookings: Not typically required, though reservations are recommended for larger groups or during busy weekends.
- Best for: Seafood lovers, families, and anyone wanting a classic Fremantle experience by the water.
Here’s the question that’s perplexed the people of Perth for decades: Where’s the best fish and chips in Fremantle? The top contenders are Cicerello’s and Kailis in Fremantle Fishing Harbour. Locals say that Cicerallo’s is better for fish and chips while Kailis stands out for its seafood. Whichever you choose, the experience promises a hearty meal by the water, surrounded by views of the harbour’s fishing boats and calm ocean waves.
9. Stroll along the white sand of Bathers Beach
- Travel time and distances from Fremantle: The beach is a few minute’s drive from the town area.
- Ideal activity length: 1-2 hours to relax, swim, and enjoy the view.
- Cost: Free to access the beach; food and drinks are available for purchase at Bathers Beach House.
- Bookings: No booking required for the beach itself, but reservations at Bathers Beach House are recommended, especially for lounge seating.
- Best for: Couples, beach lovers, and anyone seeking a relaxed seaside experience with a drink in hand.
This beautiful beach with 300 meters of pristine white sand also has the distinction of being Western Australia’s only licensed beach. Stroll along the shoreline or kick back at Bathers Beach House, where you can sip cocktails and enjoy beachside service from comfortable lounges right on the sand. As the day winds down, take in stunning sunset views over the Indian Ocean—a perfect way to end a beach day in Fremantle.
10. Watch the sunset from Monument Hill
- Travel time and distances from Fremantle: Corner of High Street and Swanbourne Street in Fremantle.
- Ideal activity length: 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Cost: Free entry.
- Bookings: Not required.
- Best for: Sunset lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful, scenic view of Fremantle.
Perched high above sea level, this historic site not only provides sweeping views of the coastline and the city below but also features memorials dedicated to Australia’s servicemen and women, adding a sense of reverence to its beauty. Watching the sun dip below the horizon at this tranquil vantage point is a serene and memorable way to experience the town’s coastal charm.
Exploring Fremantle: Your complete guide to what to do in Fremantle
We’re not finished with Fremantle yet! Keep reading to discover even more unique and fun things to do in this bustling town.
Unique things to do in Fremantle
Fremantle is synonymous with quirky and creative. So if it’s unique experiences you’re after, there are plenty of distinctive attractions that showcase its character and charm.
- Sip top-notch coffee along Cappuccino Strip: After a smooth flat white or a sumptuous Aussie breakfast? The trendy cafes lining Fremantle’s Cappuccino Strip are the perfect spots to start your day, offering everything from artisanal coffee and fresh pastries to hearty brunches.
- Visit the Round House on the west end of High Street: Step into Western Australia’s oldest public building and learn about its fascinating history as a former jail as you take in panoramic coastline views.
- Snap a photo with the Rainbow sea containers: Don’t miss this eye-catching art installation near the Fremantle port, where colourful stacked sea containers create the perfect backdrop for a bold, memorable Fremantle photo.
Things to do in Fremantle for families
Need some kid-friendly activities in Fremantle that’ll keep the little ones busy? Here are some great attractions for all ages:
- Spend the day at the Esplanade Youth Plaza: With skate ramps, climbing structures, and a variety of play areas to suit all ages, there’s plenty of outdoor adventure for the whole family here.
- Paper Bird Bookshop: This children’s bookstore is a bookworm’s paradise, filled with enchanting books. Look out for the special cozy reading space hidden behind a “magical” wardrobe entrance.
- Enjoy the views on the Fremantle Tourist Wheel: Take in panoramic views of the city and coastline from up high on this iconic ferris wheel.
- WA Shipwreck Museum: Get up close to fascinating real-life shipwreck artifacts and displays that tell captivating tales of adventure, tragedy, and survival from centuries past.
Free things to do in Fremantle
Fremantle offers plenty of free activities to enjoy the city without spending a cent!
- Explore the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour: Wander along the docks and watch the fishing boats come and go, taking in the maritime atmosphere and ocean views.
- Spot local street art: Stroll through Fremantle’s streets and alleys to discover vibrant murals and graffiti art that add colour and creativity to the city’s character.
- Admire the Fremantle Town Hall: Enjoy this immaculately-preserved example of 19th-century Victorian architecture which continues to serve as a cultural hub in this suburb.
- Visit Bon Scott’s grave: Pay tribute to the legendary AC/DC singer at his gravesite located near East Fremantle.
Unusual things to do in Fremantle
Fremantle’s vibrant, offbeat side makes it a treasure trove of unconventional experiences. So if it’s unusual experiences you’re after, here are some places to explore that aren’t in the travel guide books.
- Challenge yourself at Escape Hunt: Put your group’s detective skills to the test with themed escape rooms that are both challenging and exciting.
- Discover independent bookstores: Step into Fremantle’s unique bookstores like The Chart & Map Shop and New Edition Bookshop. Explore carefully curated book selections that will spark your curiosity.
- Distill your own bottle of gin: Try your hand at crafting a personalised gin blend at The Republic of Fremantle, where you can choose custom flavours to create a unique bottle to take home.
Things to do in Fremantle at night
Fremantle comes alive at night with unique experiences that bring out the city’s charm and creativity.
- Join the spooky Torchlight Tour at Fremantle Prison: Explore the eerie corridors of this historic prison at night with chilling tales that add a thrill to the evening.
- Sip cocktails at L’Chaim Bar: Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in this cozy bar tucked away in the Fremantle Synagogue, blending great drinks with a dash of exclusivity.
- Connect with creatives at Kidogo Arthouse: Visit this beachfront art hub for evening exhibitions, live music, and special events where local artists showcase their work in a stunning historical setting.
Discover Fremantle by car
From compact cars to zip through Fremantle’s hipster alleys to comfy SUVs for a beach adventure, Turo has the perfect ride for you to explore the town on your own terms.
Ready to hit the road? Rent a car on Turo in Fremantle today.
Dawn Teh
Dawn, an ex-psychologist and avid travel writer, blends her expertise in human behaviour with her passion for adventure. Her writing reflects a unique perspective on personal growth, wanderlust and what it is that helps humans thrive. Her current mission is to live the van life and tour the Australian outback with her family.
