Guide to Fremantle
Aboriginal name: Walyalup (pronounced Wal-ya-lup)
Wedged between Perth’s bustling shipping port and a working fishing harbour, there’s nowhere quite like historic and hipster Fremantle.
The port city of Fremantle, or ‘Freo’ to the locals, was historically Perth’s sister city. These days, the two are connected by suburbia and a 25-minute train journey. Wander through the UNESCO-listed streets to discover convict history, funky street art and al fresco cafés. This is where high-end travellers rub shoulders with backpackers, because Freo is eclectic, creative and has a coastal vibe all its own.
Top things to do in Fremantle
Take a walking tour of history and art
The best way to explore compact Freo is on a guided walking tour. Two Feet and a Heartbeat’s Convicts, Culture and Street Art tour is an introduction to Freo with colourful snippets of history and formative events woven through key sites.
Discover Fremantle’s convict past
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Fremantle Prison, where you'll hear rollicking tales of Irish escapees and cheeky bushrangers. Add drama by going at night for the spooky torchlight tour, or even the tunnels tour.
Eat fish and chips beside the harbour
The fishing industry is integral to Freo’s culture. Cicerello’s was started on Fisherman’s Wharf in 1958 by an Italian fishing family, and remains an icon. Grab a casual fish and chips lunch or go high-brow with a local lobster.
View the America's Cup winning yacht
Beside Fremantle Harbour, the WA Maritime Museum houses Australia II, winner of the 1983 America's Cup yacht race. Other maritime stories are presented too, and don’t miss the separate Shipwreck Galleries housing the Dutch wreck Batavia.
Dine in a prison warder’s courtyard
Part of the Warders Hotel built by convicts, restaurant Emily Taylor is named after a wrecked spice-trading vessel. Try the punchy dumplings or aromatic duck, dining in the breezy limestone-walled courtyard under Chinese umbrellas.
Bag souvenirs in a historic market
Since 1897, Fremantle’s weekend market has offered fresh produce on this site. The market also showcases souvenirs, from upcycled fashions to art. The streets outside host buskers, and food includes bao buns, curries and gozleme.
Enrol in gin school
In a warehouse in the historic west end, Republic of Fremantle distills spirits using verdelho grapes from the nearby Swan Valley. Join the crew for a hands-on gin-making lesson, a tour or enjoy a drink and meal in the restaurant.
Taste a Fremantle port-inspired brew
Australia’s craft beer scene is thriving, and it all started in Fremantle. Wander down laneways and heritage streets to taste what’s on offer at some of the city’s best microbreweries. Don’t miss Little Creatures, Gage Roads and Running with Thieves.
View WA’s Aboriginal Art
Aboriginal culture is alive and well in Fremantle, and Japingka Aboriginal Art sells diverse artworks, ethically sourced from leading artists based in various regions. Venture upstairs to the two galleries with their changing exhibitions.
