Friendly, cosmopolitan Fremantle is Western Australia’s chief port and is situated at the mouth of the Swan River just 19 kilometres west of the Perth CBD. A fabulously popular tourist destination, you can’t visit WA without spending time in this historic city as there are so many things to do in Fremantle!
Fremantle was founded in 1829 by Captain Charles Howe Fremantle in the name of King George IV, and convict labour was used to build many of the original buildings such as the Fremantle Prison and the Fremantle Arts Centre. With the arrival of the gold rush in the latter part of the nineteenth century, the town soon developed into a thriving port.
Today, much of the colonial architecture remains which makes Fremantle a beautiful and historic city. Full of colour with busy restaurants and bars trading all hours of the day and night, one of the most intriguing aspects of Fremantle is that it is still possible to walk down streets that have remained virtually unchanged since the mid-19th century. Fremantle is much more than an architectural time capsule and provides a unique opportunity for you to experience and enjoy a range of cultural activities in a relaxed, holiday atmosphere.
Browse through bookstores, local designer boutiques and the historic Fremantle Markets. Enjoy fresh, succulent seafood and watch the fishing boats come and go at the Fishing Boat Harbour, pizza and pasta along the Cappuccino Strip, world famous coffee at one of the many cafes, or visit one of the stylish microbreweries such as Little Creatures, who offer an incredible range of amber ales and stunning harbour views. Visit the Dining section for a choice of Fremantle restaurants and cafes.
Learn Fremantle’s history and visit a selection of museums such as the Maritime, Shipwreck or the Army Museum. Enjoy a free exhibition or live music at the Fremantle Arts Centre, a swim in the ocean, laze in one of the numerous shady parks, or even enjoy a wine with the sand between your toes at Australia’s first ever licensed alfresco beach, Bathers Beach House.
Western Australia’s only World Heritage listed building, the Fremantle Prison was used as a place of incarceration for 136 years and offer various tours with their experienced guides to learn about this rather uncomfortably recent prison history. Take a wander through Western Australia’s oldest public building at The Roundhouse and enjoy sweeping views over Fremantle, the Fishing Boat Harbour and the Indian Ocean. Take an historic tram ride through Fremantle with Fremantle Tram Tour where you can learn more about the city and its history. Please see below for a selection of attractions and activities and drop into the Fremantle Visitor Centre in Kings Square and ask the helpful staff. There are so many things to do in Fremantle!