20 Things To Do In Fremantle | Australian Traveller

The vibrant city of Fremantle is a truly unique WA destination, where cosmopolitan bars, world-class restaurants and charming cafes meet laid-back vibes and salty beach culture.

Add to that the colourful tapestry of colonial, convict and Indigenous history, heritage buildings, vibrant street art and the fact that Rottnest (and its famous quokkas) are only 25 minutes away,  and you’ve suddenly got a lot to choose from.

To help you map out an unforgettable Fremantle experience, here are 20 things to do in the preeminent port city.

1. See the Fremantle Markets

No trip to Fremantle would be complete without a visit to the iconic Fremantle Markets. The building originally functioned as a wholesale food market selling an eclectic mix of fresh produce, reflective of the many migrants who had moved to the port city.

a couple browsing through the fruit stalls at one of the Fremantle markets — Fill your basket with fresh local produce. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Today, you can soak up the market’s vibrant atmosphere with over 150 stalls, selling fresh produce, coffee, jewellery, homewares and clothes, as well as having a bustling food hall section where you can get breakfast or lunch.

a band performing in one of of the Fremantle markets — Stroll around the bustling Fremantle market scene. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

2. See the Fremantle Roundhouse

The Roundhouse is the oldest public building in WA. Opened in 1831, just 18 months after settlement, it was built to hold convicts. Today, the Round House is a tourist attraction that is free to enter for the public. Don’t miss the firing of the cannon at 1pm each day.

3. Sip sunset drinks at Bathers Beach

Bathers Beach is where the heritage of Fremantle meets the ocean, with the stretch of white sand just a sandy-footed stroll from some of the oldest public buildings in Western Australia.

a couple holding hands walking along the Bathers Beach at sunset — Go for a sunset stroll on the sandy Bathers Beach. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

It also happened to become Australia’s first licensed beach in 2016 – meaning you can take a seat on one of the inviting sun loungers and order a drink right on the sand.

people relaxing on sunloungers with a drink in hand at Bathers Beach — Stay for a sundowner. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

4. Enjoy the sunset at Monument Hill

Monument Hill is home to the Fremantle War Monument, which commemorates World War I and II, the Korean War, the Malayan Emergency and the Vietnam War. It’s surrounded by beautiful rose gardens and sprawling lush lawns, and offers (almost) 360-degree views of Fremantle and even out to the Perth CBD. It’s a beautiful spot for an evening picnic to watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean.

5. Have Little Creatures experience

If you like your beer, then a tour of the iconic Little Creatures brewery is a must. You’ll learn about all things brewing, the legendary Little Creatures story, and what ingredients they use. You’ll also enjoy a tasting of all the Little Creatures beers and ciders.

a couple ordering tap beers at Little Creatures Brewery, Fremantle — Order beers on tap at Little Creatures Brewery. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Once you’re done, take advantage of the brewery’s free bike hire and explore Fremantle on two wheels. Bikes are available outside the main brewhouse.

the beer production room at Little Creatures Brewery, Fremantle — Tour the iconic Little Creatures Brewery. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Tours are every day at 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, and 3pm and Fridays at 6pm.

6. Freo Farmers Market

The Fremantle Farmers Market runs every Sunday morning from 8am – 12pm at Bruce Lee Reserve in neighbouring Beaconsfield. Expect stalls from local farmers, bakers, small producers and local artists; as well as live music, coffee stalls and activities for kids.

7. Go book-shopping

Fremantle is home to arguably some of Perth’s best bookstores. New Edition on High Street is a sophisticated store housed in a heritage building, The Chart & Map Shop has every travel book you could imagine, while Bill Campbell Books and Elizabeth’s both sell extensive ranges of second-hand books. And if you’ve got little ones, WA’s most magical children’s bookshop Paper Bird is tucked away in a delightful heritage building in the west end. It’s Perth’s only specialist children’s bookshop, and is a whimsical, imaginative space for little ones to explore.

8. Explore Fremantle Prison

Fremantle Prison was built as a convict barracks in the 1850s and remained in use until 1991. It’s the most intact convict establishment in the nation and the first building in WA to be included on the World Heritage list.

the facade of Fremantle Prison — Once a convict barracks in the 1850s, Fremantle Prison remained in use until 1991. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

When it was in use, Fremantle Prison was a place of hangings, dramatic convict escapes and prisoner riots – making for a fascinating history lesson for visitors.

guests going down the underground tunnels at Fremantle Prison — Venture down the underground tunnels at the Fremantle Prison. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

You can take part in several captivating tours led by experienced tour guides who bring the intriguing folklore of the prison to life.

a man on a boat tour under a tunnel at Fremantle Prison — Explore a labyrinth of tunnels on a boat tour. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

9. Explore the WA Maritime Museum

Perched right on the waterfront, the Museum houses several unique galleries that explore WA’s maritime history. Exhibits range from leisure boats and handcrafted sailing boats to commercial pearl luggers. For sporting fans, the Museum is also home to the winning America’s Cup yacht, Australia II.

10. Embrace the cappuccino strip

Thanks to the strong Italian influence brought to Fremantle by European migrants, the stretch of South Terrace between Bannister and Parry Streets is famously known as the ‘Cappuccino Strip’ – a busy cosmopolitan mix of cafes, restaurants and bars.

people dining al fresco at the Cappuccino strip in Fremantle — Nab a table in one of the alfresco eateries. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

It was the first place in the state to introduce alfresco dining back in the 1970s, which visitors can now enjoy by dining at one of the many eateries with tables and chairs spilling out into the street.

the Cappuccino strip in Fremantle — The Cappuccino strip is a busy mix of cafes, restaurants, and bars. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

11. Sample the state’s best conti rolls

Thanks (again) to the Italians, Fremantle is home to Perth’s best Italian delis and consequently, the best continental rolls. Galati & Son’s on Wray Avenue is a neighbourhood green grocer serving daily handmade continental rolls. Lo Presti & Sons in East Fremantle have been serving continental rolls since the ’60s, and South Freo Continental on South Terrace is an Italian gourmet grocer and café.

12. Go beach-hopping

When it comes to white sand and turquoise waters, Fremantle has arguably more choice than any other area in Perth. To the north, Leighton Beach and Port Beach are low-key, family-friendly stretches of sprawling sand.

an aerial view of people on Leighton Beach — Enjoy the sunshine and turquoise waters at Leighton Beach. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/@ospreycreative)

In the centre of Fremantle is the iconic Bathers Beach, a much smaller but still very appealing location. And the bustling South Beach is a huge expanse of white sand, with dog-friendly sections and ample foreshore grassland.

an aerial view of the Bathers Beach in Fremantle — Set foot on the iconic Bathers Beach. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

13. Get fish and chips at Fishing Boat Harbour

Fishing Boat Harbour is a working harbour cushioned by restaurants boasting water views and seriously good fish and chips.

an aerial view of the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour — Take in scenic water views from the Fishing Boat Harbour. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Kailis is a stunning venue with a raw bar and BBQ fish counter; while Twin Fin offers a more casual, relaxed experience – or takeaway boxes enjoyed on the foreshore for sunset.

people dining at Kailis Fish Market, Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour — Enjoy fish and chips at Kailis Fish Market. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

14. Learn about distilling at the Republic of Fremantle

The Republic of Fremantle creates expertly crafted gin and vodka using WA ingredients, and they offer a range of tours, workshops and hands-on learning sessions for those keen on distilling. You can distil your own gin at Gin School, sip and learn at Cocktail School, take a guided tour of the distillery (with tastings) or book a gin or negroni tasting flight in their bar.

15. Visit Fremantle Arts Centre

Fremantle Arts Centre is a hub of creative and cultural activity, and a place for artists, musicians, writers, thinkers, and curators to share their art with the world. Check their website to see what exhibitions they have on at any given time. And during summer, they transform their lush outdoor courtyard into a live music venue, offering free Sunday music with food trucks and pop-up bars.

the exterior of the Fremantle Arts Centre — Check out cultural exhibitions at Fremantle Arts Centre.

16. Pop over to Rottnest Island

WA’s island paradise Rottnest is only a 25-minute ferry ride from Fremantle. Ferries depart from Northport at Rous Head in North Fremantle and B Shed at Victoria Quay in Fremantle.

a couple enjoying dinner at Rottnest Island — Enjoy dinner with a view at Rottnest Island. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Set sail in the morning, hire a bike to explore, enjoy a pub lunch with a view at Hotel Rottnest, and jump on the late afternoon ferry home.

a couple enjoying lunch on Rottnest Island — Unwind with a tipple or two. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

17. Take in a festival

Fremantle might well be the festival capital of the state, with its year-round program of music, theatre, visual art, food and cultural festivals. Annual highlights include the Fringe Festival in February, the Perth Festival in March, the Fremantle International Street Arts Festival over the Easter long weekend, 10 Nights in Port held each winter, the Blessing of the Fleet in October, Beerfest and Fremantle Running Festival in November, and the Fremantle Christmas festival in December.

18. Go touring

Fremantle is a colourful tapestry of colonial, convict, and Indigenous history, paired with heritage buildings, vibrant street art and hidden laneways (that likely were used for horse-and-cart.) As such, there are a lot of tours on offer.

two people posing for a picture in front of Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre — Pay a visit to the iconic Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Take a self-guided walking tour , book a food-lovers walking tour , take a rickshaw bar crawl or get in touch with the Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre to find out when their next cultural tour is.

arts and crafts at Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre — Immerse in Indigenous art and history at Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

19. See the famous rainbow shipping containers

At nine metres high, 19 meters long and 66 tonnes heavy, Fremantle’s much-loved Containbow is not your average public art piece. Renowned Perth artist Marcus Canning constructed the piece from nine recycled sea containers, acknowledging Fremantle’s artistic as well as maritime heritage. Perched high on the hill on Canning Highway, the artwork overlooks the Swan River and the port, welcoming visitors to Fremantle whether they’re arriving by train, car or boat.

20. Grab dinner at Sunshine Harvester Works

Nestled in the east end of Fremantle, Sunshine is a food hall with a difference. There’s a diverse collection of local food stalls serving everything from burgers and pizzas, to dumplings and Asian street food. There’s even a craft brewery and distillery.

Stay the night in one of Fremantle’s best hotels.

From thundering waterfalls to ancient Indigenous art, Kimberley’s raw beauty will take your breath away.

Wild, pristine, and shaped by nature, the Kimberley Coast is one of Australia’s most spectacular landscapes. A remote and rugged frontier that remains a bucket list destination for many travellers. Its most breathtaking attractions – including Montgomery Reef, King George Falls and Horizontal Falls – are accessible only by sea or air, making a guided expedition cruise aboard Silversea’s luxury expedition ship, Silver Cloud, the ideal way to explore it.

From its intricate intertidal zones to ancient rock art, extreme tides and rare wildlife found nowhere else in Australia – or the world – this journey offers an unparalleled exploration of one of Earth’s last true wildernesses.

Why Silversea?

Silversea offers a 10-day expedition departing Broome, or an extended 16-day expedition voyage from Indonesia, including landings on the hidden gems of Palopo Sulawesi and Komodo. Accompanied by expert guides and specialists in marine biology, history and geology, guests gain a deeper understanding of the Kimberley’s dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage and extraordinary biodiversity.

Silversea offers one of the experiential travel industry’s leading crew-to-guest ratios. Along with all-suite accommodation (80 per cent with private verandah), 24-hour butler service, a swimming pool and four dining options. Silver Cloud also has an experienced crew of multilingual expedition guides and specialists in marine biology, history and geology to enhance your Kimberley Experience.

silversea cruise ship pool deck — Take a dip in the pool deck.

1. Koolama Bay

Before visitors see King George Falls, they hear them – a growing rumble in the distance, steady and foreboding as the Zodiac glides through the gorge, the sound echoing off sheer rock formations. At 80 meters tall, the twin cascades carve through the red cliffs, churning the waters below in a spectacular finale – but Koolama Bay holds secrets beyond its striking scenery.

Named after a ship that beached here following an aerial attack by Japanese bombers in World War II, the bay may seem desolate, yet it teems with life. With Silversea’s expert guides on their 10-day Kimberley itinerary, guests gain a sharper eye for its hidden wonders – rock wallabies darting across the cliffs, crocodiles lurking among dense green mangroves, and high above, the silhouette of a bird of prey circling the sky.

King George Falls at koolama bay excursion on Silversea Kimberley Cruise — Take a shore excursion to see King George Falls.

2. Freshwater Cove / Wijingarra Butt Butt

Connect with Country on a wet landing at Freshwater Cove, also known as Wijingarra Butt Butt. Considered one of the most special experiences on both the 16-day and 10-day Kimberley cruises, Silversea guests are welcomed by the traditional Indigenous custodians of the land, painted with traditional ochre, and invited to take part in a smoking ceremony.

Located on the mainland near Montgomery Reef, Wijingarra Butt Butt holds deep cultural significance to the local Indigenous community. Here, rock formations along the shore represent spiritual ancestors, and guests are guided to a nearby rock overhang filled with ancient art, where traditional owners share the stories and meaning behind these sacred paintings.

welcome to country on freshwater cove during silversea kimberley cruise — Take part in a smoking ceremony. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

3. Vansittart Bay (Jar Island)

Modern history, ancient culture and mystery converge in Vansittart Bay, which is also known as Jar Island. Here, the first thing to catch the eye is the dented, silver fuselage of a World War II-era C-53 plane – a striking relic of the past. Yet, the true cultural treasures lie just a short hike away where two distinct styles of Indigenous rock art – Gwion Gwion and Wandjina – can be found.

The Wandjina figures, deeply connected to Indigenous traditions, stand in stark contrast to the enigmatic Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) paintings, which date back more than 12,000 years. Significantly different in form and style, the two different styles create a striking juxtaposition, offering a rare glimpse into the region’s rich and complex past.

aerial view of Vansittart Bay, See it in you Silversea Kimberley Cruise. — Explore ancient Gwion Gwion rock art at Vansittart Bay. (Image: Janelle Lugge)

4. Horizontal Falls

Part illusion, part natural phenomenon, the Kimberley’s much-lauded Horizontal Falls aren’t a waterfall, but a tidal and geographic spectacle that visitors have to see to comprehend. Known as Garaanngaddim, the phenomenon occurs when seawater rushes through two narrow gaps- one just twenty metres wide, and the other seven metres in width, between the escarpments of Talbot Bay.

With each tidal shift, the force of the water creates whirlpools, furious currents and the illusion of a horizontal cascade as thousands of gallons of water are pushed and pulled in through the gap every six hours with relentless movement, making this one of the Kimberley ’s most mesmerising natural wonders.

Horizontal Falls are described as "One of the greatest wonders of the natural world". They are formed from a break in-between the McLarty Ranges reaching up to 25m in width. The natural phenomenon is created as seawater builds up faster on one side of the gaps than the other, creating a waterfall up to 5m high on a King tide. — Watch whirlpools and furious currents collide. (Image: Janelle Lugge)

5. Montgomery Reef

As the tide turns in Montgomery Reef, magic happens. With the Kimberley’s legendary tides varying up to ten metres, at low tide the submerged reef almost appears to rise from the depths: exposing up to four metres of the sandstone reef.

The impact is otherworldly: as the water drains, waterfalls cascade on either side of the channel, turtles left exposed scramble and dive, and fish leap in search of sanctuary in shallow pools. Meanwhile, the dinner bell rings for the migratory seabirds dugongs, reef sharks and dolphins that scavenge and feast in the area.

Using zodiacs, guests cruise through one of the world’s most significant inshore reef systems navigated by experienced guides, exploring the most intricate and fascinating parts of a 300-square-kilometre-wide biodiversity hotspot.

aerial view of boat going along Montgomery Reef — Witness seabirds, dolphins and reef sharks on the hunt.

6. Mitchell Falls by Helicopter

Experiencing the Kimberley by sea allows you to feel the power of the tides, but travelling by helicopter reveals the sandstone tapestry of the Kimberley, a landscape geologists believe is over 1.8 billion years old.

One of Silversea’s most popular optional excursions , guests who opt to fly into the interior from the onboard helipad soar up above the rust-coloured landscape of the Mitchell plateau, taking in one of Australia’s most scenic waterfalls: Mitchell Falls, a series of four emerald-coloured pools gently cascades into each other, before plunging down to the river below.

Seeing the landscape from above reveals a landscape weaved and shaped by the power of the freshwater wet season, juxtaposed to the constant lapping of the relentless and powerful tide on the coast.

aerial view of mitchell falls on silversea helicopter excursion — See emerald pools cascade into the river below. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

7. Indigenous Art Caves, Wandjina Art

The Kimberley Region of Western Australia is home to some of the most striking and significant

Indigenous rock art in Australia. Dotted throughout the landscape are caves, cliffs and rock overhangs depicting the striking, ethereal image of Wandjina, the rainmaker spirit and creation being central to many of the Dreamtime stories in this region.

Some of the paintings are regularly repainted by traditional custodians, while others are believed to be over 4,000 years old. Each artwork serves as both a cultural record and a living connection to the past, offering a rare opportunity to engage with the enduring traditions of the Kimberley’s Indigenous communities.

Freshwater Cover Rock Art the kimberleys — Walk among cultural records preserved in stone. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

See the best of this incredible part of the world on a Silversea Kimberley cruise. Book your 10- or extended 16-day expedition voyage at silversea.com

20 unforgettable things to do in Fremantle