This active port city south of Perth has preserved its 19th-century architecture, maritime museum, and historic prison. Local cafes line South Terrace's restaurant strip.
Located 30 minutes from Perth, Fremantle is a coastal city where 19th-century buildings line the streets and fishing boats fill the harbor. Walk through the Maritime Museum to see the America's Cup-winning yacht Australia II, shop at the 1897 Fremantle Markets where local vendors sell fresh produce and crafts, or join locals at the cafes along South Terrace. The city's five beaches, including Bathers Beach and Leighton Beach, are popular spots for swimming and wind surfing.
Getting to Fremantle
You can reach Fremantle from Perth Airport in 30 minutes by car or taxi. If you're coming from Perth city center, take a direct train from Perth Station - the journey takes 25 minutes. Once in Fremantle, you can explore most areas on foot, or use the free CAT bus that loops around the main attractions.
Food and Drink Scene
South Terrace, known locally as the 'Cappuccino Strip', has Italian cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating areas on the sidewalks. Little Creatures Brewery operates from a converted industrial building, where you can drink craft beers while looking out over the water. At the Fishing Boat Harbour, several seafood restaurants serve fresh fish caught by the local fishing fleet.
Museums and Culture
The WA Maritime Museum contains the America's Cup-winning yacht Australia II, and you can step inside a Cold War-era submarine. The Shipwreck Galleries displays artifacts from the 17th-century Dutch ship Batavia. The Fremantle Arts Centre, built in the 1860s with local limestone blocks, holds art exhibitions and concerts in its Gothic-style rooms and courtyard.
Beaches and Water Activities
The afternoon sea breeze, nicknamed the 'Freo Doctor', creates strong winds for wind and kite surfing at Port Beach and Leighton Beach. Bathers Beach is a five-minute walk from the city center, making it convenient for combining swimming with sightseeing. South Beach has calm waters and large grassy areas where families gather for picnics.
Markets and Shopping
The Fremantle Markets open Friday through Sunday in a Victorian-era building dating from 1897. Inside, you'll find stalls selling fresh produce, street food, local art, and handmade crafts. Market Street and High Street have independent boutiques selling Australian fashion and design items.
Aboriginal Culture
At the Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre, you can learn about the Whadjuk Noongar people, who have lived in this area for over 45,000 years. The center runs language classes, art workshops, and educational programs about the cultural significance of local sites to Aboriginal people.
