Our Ultimate Fremantle Guide: Top things to do in Fremantle, WA

Where is Fremantle?

Fremantle, Western Australia, is a seriously cool city. It’s chock full of cafes, architecture, beaches, and a quirky, relaxed vibe that makes you sort of never want to leave- a bit like a Byron Bay of Australia’s west coast. It’s also the jumping-off point for Rottnest Island, one of the most beautiful spots in the state. Oh, and there’s also a prison- a prison built in the 1850s by the convicts who would be later be kept there. Yikes.

A visit to Fremantle is one of the best things to around Perth, and it’s certainly worth a few days if you’re road-tripping up the coast. Or, it’s close enough to be an easy day trip from Perth, if you’re short on time.

Here’s our Fremantle guide to help you make the most out of your time in this awesome city!

How to get to Fremantle

Travel from Fremantle to Perth is easy, at a distance of only 23km- it’s quickly reached by train from Perth Railway Station, the central station in town. You’re there in about 30 minutes, and it’s cheap and easy. Or, for a more scenic route, take the ferry- Perth to Fremantle via water is a relaxed way to cruise around. However, the ferry to Fremantle is more of a relaxed sightseeing trip than a commuter ferry. It takes about an hour and 15 minutes, but if fun if you’re not in a hurry. From Fremantle, Perth is also a quick drive, although I’d recommend the train for convenience and avoiding traffic.

Once you’re there, it’s pretty easy to explore the main attractions on foot. There’s plenty of accommodation in Fremantle, with something for any budget, so it’s easy to set up camp for a few days or more.

Here’s our guide to some of the top things to do in Fremantle:

Fremantle guide to the city’s attractions

Fremantle Prison

As a massive history buff, and, let’s be honest, a fan of the macabre, I really enjoyed visiting Fremantle Prison. It’s one of my top recommendations when it comes to local attractions. Fremantle Prison is a fantastic example of the reality of convict life at the time, which was brutal and unrelenting, with boys from as young as 12 or 13 locked up with hardened career criminals, murderers, and worse. Women and young girls were sent here too, albeit in a separate area.

Being a convict state, prisoners started arriving in the port of Fremantle in 1850- many for what we’d now consider completely insignificant crimes. Such was life in England at the time- stealing linen, bread, or unladylike activities were enough to get you sentenced to ‘transportation beyond the seas’. This generally meant a set term (or life imprisonment) in the Australian colonies, now that America had won its independence and could no longer be used as a British penal colony.

The prison population continued to grow, and a new facility was essential to security. Seeing as convicts were the main source of labour in the colony, it should come as no surprise that they were forced to build their own prison. Seriously hard to imagine how anyone could toil all day, knowing each additional stone was one step closer to harsh imprisonment.

 

Fremantle Prison opened in 1855, with a cruel, crowded, and dangerous life awaiting them. Unbelievably, it operated as a prison up until 1991. It’s now a tourist attraction. You can walk through on your own, but to best understand the place, try to time your visit to go on one of the guided tours- some are even led by former guards, and the tours offer insightful commentary and incredible anecdotes about life in the prison. You can also visit for night tours- more on that below.

Read more about prison tours and visitor info.

Round House

Round House is another cool historic place in Freo. Built in 1831, it’s now the oldest building in the state. Originally built as a prison facility, it’s since been used for storage, police lock-ups, and other functions before being given to the City of Fremantle in 1982.

Entry is by gold coin donation, and it’s a small facility, so it doesn’t take too long to explore. Architecturally, its round structure is unique and a design not seen often in Australia. They also fire a daily cannon at 1 pm, so that would be a good time of day to visit.

Looking for more fun places to visit in WA?

WA Maritime Museum

I love maritime museums- Australia has some of the best, I’d say, thanks to their rich maritime history and love of the coasts and oceans. Fremantle’s WA Maritime Museum has a lot to explore, so it’s worth a few hours. Special exhibits are regularly changing, but you can find fascinating info on shipwrecks (of which there have been many in this region), maritime history and archeology, and stories of the intrepid people who navigated the waters of the area. If you’re unsure about what to do in Freo on a rainy day, this would be a good option, and it is kid-friendly as well.

The WA Shipwrecks Museum, also part of the Western Australia museum network, is another great one to visit if you want to learn more about, well, shipwrecks of course.

Beaches in Fremantle

The beaches of the region are gorgeous- although it’s not really thought of as a beach destination, Bathers Beach, South Beach, and Port Beach are some of the best for a swim. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Rottnest Island.

Cheer on the AFL

Fremantle locals are avid supporters of their local AFL (that’s Australian Football League) team, the Dockers. Aussie rules football is crazy popular in certain parts of the country, including Victoria and WA. If you’re visiting in season (March-Sept), try to tag along to a game.

Even if you don’t understand what’s going on, I guarantee it will be a lot of fun, and the enthusiasm of the crowds is infections. However, the Dockers technically play at Optus Stadium, in Perth, but the women’s AFL team, Fremantle AFLW, train and play at Fremantle Oval- so consider cheering them on!

Rottnest Island

Ok, Rottnest Island is technically not in Fremantle- however, it’s the departure location for the ferries to and from the island. You might be in Fremantle specifically to visit ‘Rotto’, but if you’re not, definitely add on a trip.

The stunning, (nearly) car-free island is best explored on a bicycle, and is famous for sparkling blue and teal beaches, and, of course, the quokkas. These small marsupials are native to the island and are extremely curious, and always appear to be sporting a cute smile. They are wild animals, so of course respect their space, but they’re very used to humans, so you’re likely to see quite a few all over the island- they are adorable.

Here’s how to plan a day on Rottnest Island.

Fremantle cemetery

Fremantle Cemetary’s Heritage Walk Trail is the best way to learn more about this historic resting place. Since 1899, it has been the final resting place for many, and the trail takes you past some of the notable men and women who were laid to rest there.

Fremantle’s architecture

Another of my top things to do is simply just stroll through town and enjoy the incredible architecture. From Art Deco buildings, heritage convict-era architecture, or Victorian style pubs, I was blown away by the gorgeous styles. I’ve written more on Fremantle architecture here, but if you enjoy design, you’ll love unique structures such as the Round House or the gorgeous pubs, complete with wraparound verandas, latticework detailing, and even the street art murals found on the sides of many buildings.

Check out Visit Fremantle to see what’s on in Fremantle today.

Fremantle Markets

The Fremantle Markets have been operational for over 100 years, a pretty impressive feat. They’re open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, along with public holidays, and are set in a gorgeous heritage building, designed in the Federation Romanesque style. The building itself is listed as a heritage property by the National Trust of Australia.

Pop in for a look- there are over 150 vendors, offering fresh produce, baked goods, crafts and local goods, arts, and a visit is a fantastic way to support the local economy.

The South Beach Sunset Markets are also fun to check out- they occur Saturday evenings from 5-9 pm at South Beach. There’s usually live music as well, so it’s a really fun way to relax and grab a bite to eat.

Little Creatures

I love this brewery. One of the first craft beers in Australia, Little Creatures occupies prime warehouse and restaurant space on the waterfront. You can tour the brewery, or simply relax with a cold, refreshing pils and get a bite to eat.

The food there is excellent and the atmosphere is relaxing and inviting. Actually, just writing this is making me wish longingly I was back there right now…sigh.

Esplanade Park

A serene and sprawling public space close to the waterfront, Esplanade Park is great for picnics, sunbathing, or a spin on the giant Skyview (Ferris) wheel. There are playgrounds for the kids, majestic Norfolk pines, and it’s close enough to the city that it makes a nice respite from the workday, with local workers and tourists alike enjoying a quiet moment in the park before returning to the real world.

Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour

Still a working commercial port, Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour is a lovely waterfront pier, offering amazing seafood restaurants, bars, and entertainment. It’s also fun to see all the boats and trawlers in port.

Esplanade Park and Little Creatures are all extremely close together, so it’s easy to visit all three together.

Fremantle Arts Centre

There are always lots of creative and entertaining happenings at the Fremantle Arts Centre. Check their website to see what’s on when you’re in town, as it’s a great place to catch some local theatre, music, or laughs. They also offer a range of courses, as well as artists’ space, if you want to try your hand at something crafty, such as printmaking, drawing, or ceramics. Special classes for kids are available too.

The building itself is historic and worth a look (like many in Freo!)- it’s set in a Gothic 1860’s structure, originally opened as the ‘Convict Establishment Fremantle Lunatic Asylum and Invalid Depot’.

Things to do in Fremantle at night

The sun is setting and the night’s growing near in Fremantle. What to do? Whether you’re after something haunted, something entertaining, or something cold and frothy, you can probably find it here.

There are plenty of things to do in Free at night! As mentioned above, the South Beach Sunset Market is a cool thing to go to, if you’re in town on a Saturday evening. Little Creatures is also worth a visit, however, some other great things to check out include:

Fremantle Prison’s Torchlight Tour

Visiting Fremantle Prison at night is amazing, if you don’t spook too easily! Their Torchlight Tour takes you through the facilities after hours, complete with haunted happenings, ghoulish stories, and tales of some of the horrible events over its history. Would I say the prison is haunted? Yes.

Looking for more haunted places to explore in Australia? If you’re heading to the East Coast, check out Cockatoo Island and Manly’s Q Station.

Bars in Fremantle

Whether you’re after an old, sprawling heritage pub, or something nouveau and trendy, there’s a lot of great options for drinking in Fremantle. There’s also a vibrant live music scene, so you’re likely to find something happening most nights of the week. A few bars that might be worth a visit:

To see what’s on in Freo while you’re there, have a look here.

Newport Hotel, Fremantle

This huge complex is actually several bars in one, including a Polynesian-themed establishment. They regularly have DJs, live music, and special events. If you’re looking for some excitement, it’s likely to be found here.

Strange Company, West End

This popular bar is not only architecturally stunning, but delivers with tasty tapas, local beers on tap, and creative cocktails.

South Beach Hotel, South Fremantle

Well-made pub food, with weekly specials, set in another sprawling old pub- a classic Aussie experience.

The National Hotel, Fremantle

Another architecturally stunning pub…I sense a theme here…

The National is a grandiose corner pub, with a beautiful rooftop bar, great food, and live music nightly. It’s also a hotel, in the sense that it offers accommodation, and the rooms are modern and quiet. Click here for current rates.

There’s also more incredible small bars in Fremantle, perfect if you want something more intimate. Look for The Aardvark basement bar, Holy Smokes, Whisper Wine Bar, or Ronnie Nights, to name a few.

Fremantle accommodation

There’s plenty of hotels in Fremantle- but have you ever stayed *in* a prison?

It’s the most backpacker-friendly accommodation in Fremantle, but it’s also the most unique- in fact, we included it on our list of the most unique hotels in Australia. But yes, the Fremantle Prison YHA is set within the (former) World Heritage Listed Fremantle Prison, and you can spend the night in former cells- they now lock from the inside, not the outside.

They offer both private and dorm rooms, and the YHA are clean, quiet, and welcoming, with rooms available for families. Seriously, how often can you say you spent the night in an 1850’s prison? Give it a go for at least a night, as you’re not likely to have the opportunity again, provided you stay on the right side of the law.

Click here to learn more about the Fremantle Prison YHA.

If doing hard time isn’t your idea of a holiday, don’t worry- there’s a lot of other fabulous places to stay. Here are some of our top recommendations:

Best hotels in Fremantle

Tradewinds Hotel– This gorgeous hotel, in East Fremantle, overlooks the Swan River, only a few minutes from the city’s main attractions. We love it for its luxury rooms at a reasonable rate, outdoor pool, and its fun outdoor lounge and dining areas.

The National Hotel– Included above as a top pub, the National also offers modern accommodation in the heart of the city.

Hougoumont Hotel Fremantle– A fairly recent addition to Fremantle’s hotel scene, the Hougoumont opened in 2013. However, it’s set in the facade of the former Duke of York Hotel, opened in 1901, just off South Terrace.

Inside, the rooms offer a minimalist luxury- the rooms are, believe it or not, made out of former shipping containers, a nod to Fremantle’s roots as a port city. However, it still feels spacious, and you’re in close proximity to all the happenings in town.

Esplanade Hotel Fremantle – by Rydges– From an aesthetic point of view, it’s hard to beat the Esplanade. This spectacular corner property stuns with white latticework verandas, balconies, and white and pastel colouring. Now part of the Rydges family, the hotel has a great outdoor pool and is a good blend of modern amenities and traditional design.

Click here to find more hotels in Fremantle.

Or, here are some of the best Airbnbs in Fremantle. 

Looking for Fremantle events?

Fremantle restaurants

Cappuccino Strip

From street food to fine dining, there’s no shortage of delicious food. Fremantle has a thriving cafe scene- so much, there’s an area known as the Cappuccino Strip. Stroll along South Terrace, one of the main streets in town, and you’ll find seemingly endless cafes, along with Italian restaurants. Some of the best coffee in Fremantle, if not the whole state, can be found along South Terrace.

There are also lots of eclectic bookstores, gift shops, and unique businesses to explore, and it’s certainly a great spot to pull up a chair and watch the world go by.

Best restaurants in Fremantle

Something for every taste can be found here, but a few suggestions to look out for are:

Bread in Common

Set in a restored 1898 warehouse, Bread in Common offers local produce and meats in a communal table setting. Share plates, sandwiches, cheese platters, and dips and spreads mean you’re not likely to leave unsatisfied.

Manuka Woodfire

Head chef and owner Kenny McHardy offers up delectable wood-fired oven pizzas, along with tasting menus serving fresh and local cuisine. It’s been included in 2020’s GoodFood Guide- for good reason.

Duck Duck Bruce

One of the best cafes in Fremantle, and it’s also dog-friendly. We love the menu, especially with inclusions such as ‘beans beans good for the heart’, ‘it’s not easy being green’, ‘we’re going to need a bigger boat’, all Australian brunch dishes with a twist. Kermit would be proud.

Run Amok

Run Amok is all about the hotdog. Bratwurst, veggie dogs, complete with coleslaw and french fries- you’ll find it all in this family-run restaurant in South Fremantle.

Habitue

This charming spot in North Fremantle has cozy outdoor seating, with a hearty menu, including fresh market fish, confit duck leg, and chargrilled octopus. The modern Australian menu is so great, you might find yourself there two nights in a row.

So, is Fremantle worth visiting? Absolutely! Either as a day trip from Perth or for a weekend away, this little town is definitely worthy of a visit.