Planning a day trip to Fremantle and want to know what you should add to your itinerary? Then you’re in the right place! I worked in Fremantle, or Freo, as the locals call it, for two years, so over that time I’ve seen and explored more than my fair share of this fabulous area.
Freo is a place that really does have it all: History? Check. Beach? Check. Some of the best beer in WA? Also check!
So, without further ado, let’s dive into some of the top things to do in Fremantle that’ll guarantee you a great day out.
1. Tour the Historic Fremantle Prison
If you’re a history buff, Fremantle Prison is an essential visit. This UNESCO World Heritage site was built by convicts in the 1850s and operated until 1991, making it one of the most intact convict sites in Australia!
There are a few different tours you can take, and you can even spend the night inside the prison thanks to the YHA Fremantle Prison that’s taken over the old women’s section of the prison. It’s actually one of the cheapest places to stay in Freo.
I highly recommend the Torchlight Tour – it’s easily one of the best things to do in Fremantle at night. It involves a guided tour of the prison under the dim light of handheld lanterns, which sets a spooky vibe right from the start. On the tour, you’ll explore various parts of the prison, including the main cell block, solitary confinement cells, and the gallows. Spooky!
2. Shop & Eat at the Fremantle Markets
If you love the blend of history, culture, and shopping ‘til you drop, then Fremantle Markets is the spot for you. Established in 1897, these markets have been at the heart of Fremantle’s social scene for over a century. The historic market hall is a creative hotspot with over 150 stalls, and you’ll find everything here from homegrown fresh produce to local art.
There’s an infectious energy at the markets that’ll really help you to “get” Fremantle. Whilst you’re here, don’t miss picking up a coffee and a fresh pastry from one of the bakery stalls – they’re absolutely divine and the perfect accompaniment to your shopping and exploring.
3. Take a Dip at Bathers Beach
Bathers Beach is a standout in Fremantle because it’s the only beach in the city where you can enjoy a drink on the sand. Located right in the heart of Fremantle, you can soak up the sun on the beach and then cool off with your favourite beverage, legally, thanks to Bathers Beach House, the bar right on the sand.
Admittedly, this is far from the prettiest beach in Perth, but it’ll do the job – especially since there aren’t any other beaches in central Fremantle! It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring, especially as the sun sets.
4. Sip a Coffee on Cappuccino Strip
The Cappuccino Strip, officially known as South Terrace, is a staple in Fremantle for anyone keen on coffee, casual eats, or just a laid-back afternoon. It got its nickname from the cluster of Italian cafes that popped up there years ago and has since become a favourite meeting spot and one of the top places in the city to grab a coffee.
It’s not the newest or the flashiest place in town, but the Cappuccino Strip is still holding its own, and new venues are popping up along it all the time. In summer, the pavements are covered with people hanging out and enjoying their drinks in the sun – it’s part of what gives Freo its lovely laid-back vibe.
Gino’s is one of the oldest and most famous spots on the strip and has sat on its corner since 1983! My favourite, though, is Best Wishes, which has some of the best coffee in Fremantle as well as mouth-watering bagels. Yum!
5. Dive into the WA Shipwrecks Museum
The WA Shipwrecks Museum is an absolute treasure trove and, what’s more, it’s free to enter! Housed in an 1850s-era building, the museum is home to the famous Batavia wreck, reconstructed piece by piece to tell its dramatic story.
The Batavia, launched in 1628 by the Dutch East India Company, was on its way to the Dutch East Indies (Indonesia) to trade spices when it struck a coral reef off the coast of WA in 1629. The disaster led to a brutal mutiny when a passenger seized control and orchestrated a reign of terror among the survivors, until the ship’s commander, who had travelled to Jakarta for help, staged a dramatic rescue.
Of course the Batavia wreck is the museum’s shopstopper, but I always find something new among the relics and remnants of ships that once sailed the Indian Ocean here. This museum does a fantastic job of making history accessible and interesting thanks to its well-preserved artefacts. That’s why it’s one of the top things to do in Fremantle with kids!
6. Explore Freo’s Craft Beer Scene
Exploring Fremantle’s craft beer scene is an absolute must-do, especially if you enjoy a pint with a view. One of my favourites is Little Creatures Brewery, a Fremantle staple right by the water where you can sip on a Pale Ale and munch on their brilliant burgers and pizzas. The brewery also has a fantastic open hall where you can see the brewers at work, so you know the stuff you’re drinking is as fresh as can be.
Further along the port is the massive Gage Roads Brew Co., an essential stop if you’re spending a day in Fremantle. The craft beer here is as spectacular as the setting, and I’m a sucker for their Ginger Beer, although the Single Fin Summer Ale is probably their most popular.
7. Stroll Through Esplanade Park
It’s almost impossible to go on a Fremantle day trip and not walk through Esplanade Park at least once. It’s home to the iconic Fremantle Ferris Wheel and also has plenty of shady spots perfect in summer for a family picnic or chilling with a book.
Fremantle hosts numerous festivals throughout the year and, when it’s festival time, Esplanade Park is often the centre of the action, with a selection of funfair attractions and food stalls arriving here.
8. WA Maritime Museum
Just around the corner from Gage Roads Brew Co. is one of my favourite museums in WA- the WA Maritime Museum! The exhibits here range from leisure boats and sailing yachts to commercial pearl luggers and the highlight – a stunning replica of the Australia II, the yacht that won the America’s Cup in 1983.
I always find the submarine tour particularly fascinating. Getting to step inside the HMAS Ovens, a real Cold War-era submarine, is incredibly cool. You really get a feel for the cramped spaces and tough conditions submariners dealt with. It’s not something you see every day!
One Day in Fremantle
That’s my roundup of must-visit spots in Fremantle! Although it’s a fair drive from the city centre Freo is always worth the journey – especially in summer.
If you have more time in Fremantle, I highly recommend taking the ferry from the Fremantle pier to Rottnest Island. It’s one of the most beautiful places in WA! You can read all about what to expect on that day trip here.
