Fremantle is one of Western Australia’s most popular destinations, known for it’s maritime history, iconic Fish & Chips, bustling markets and pretty town centre. Beyond that, Fremantle is incredibly easy to get to from Perth, and many often include the port city in their Perth itinerary and it’s easy to see why.

A laid back and beautiful day in Fremantle can be quite the highlight, and this is a guide that encompasses all there is to do and see in this city by the harbour.

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What to Do

Roam around Cappucino Strip

Cappucino Strip is the main thoroughfare in Fremantle, and is where you’ll find most of the activity surrounding Fremantle.

Many restaurants line this strip, including those with alfresco dining options, making it a lovely place to enjoy a wonderful atmosphere with many locals and travellers alike hitting the streets.

If you’re more into breakfast and coffee spots, there are many in Fremantle too.

Some popular ones downtown include Duck Duck Bruce, Bread in Common, Moore & Moore Cafe, Hush Specialty Coffee, and The Attic.

Visit the Fremantle Markets

The Fremantle Market Hall has stood at the same spot since 1897, and is a must see when in Fremantle.

Open only on the weekends (including Fridays), but incredibly busy when it is, you’ll find fresh local produce, interesting stalls selling all sorts of knick knacks, indigenous products and many food vendors. The Markets attract a large footfall every weekend without fail.

It’ll take you at least 2 hours to browse through everything, especially if you stop to enjoy a bit of food and drink and indulge in a spot of shopping.

The Markets are an unforgettable experience and most definitely one not to be missed.

Take in Stunning Views from The Roundhouse

The Roundhouse is a historically significant building as it was originally built as a prison dating as far back as the 1830s.

In front of The Roundhouse is a deck where you can get some absolutely stunning views of the harbour and Bathers Beach down below.

Enjoy Bathers Beach

If you know anything about Western Australia, you’ll know that it is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, bar none.

Read: The Best Beaches of Western Australia

With crystal clear waters, plenty of sunshine and soft, fine sand, you’d be forgiven for giving small beaches a miss when great ones are just a drive away.

Bathers Beach is one such small strip of sand.

It remains the only beach in Central Fremantle, so if you need one just close by, be sure to drop by Bathers Beach, which also remains a quality beach if not a particularly big one.

Learn About Fremantle’s Maritime History

Naturally, given it’s significance as a port city, Fremantle is home to two major museums dedicated to the subject— namely the WA Maritime Museum and the WA Shipwrecks Museum.

The Maritime Museum houses vessels and boats that explain Western Australia’s relationship with maritime trade, and is open daily from 9:30am to 5pm, apart from specified public holidays.

The WA Shipwrecks Museum is a maritime archaeology museum, and you’ll find relics from shipwrecks past along Western Australia’s coastline. Likewise, the museum is also open daily from 9:30am to 5pm, save for certain public holidays.

Enjoy Western Australia’s Iconic Fish & Chips

Fish & Chips seem to be synonymous with Fremantle, and you can enjoy a plate of this fried goodness right along the iconic Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour at either Kailis Fish Market Cafe or Cicerello’s Fremantle.

Kailis was founded in 1926 and Cicerello’s has been around for more than a hundred years since 1903, and you’ll of course be able to find much more than just fish & chips, with crab, abalone, lobster and prawn on their menus in either grilled or fried variants.

How to Get to Fremantle from Perth

There are many ways you can get to Fremantle from Perth.

If you’re in Western Australia on a road trip (and you absolutely should be), a drive from Perth’s city centre will take a short 30 minutes.

If you’re looking to get on public transport, trains from Perth station will take you to Fremantle. Just look out for the Fremantle line and expect to pay AUD4.90 for a one way ticket (though you can return with the same ticket within 2 hours).

You can also take the bus from Perth which will also terminate at the Fremantle Railway Station, however the bus is slower than the train as it winds through many suburbs before eventually reaching Fremantle.

Last but not least, cruises do depart from Perth bound for Fremantle, if a trip on the Swan River tickles your fancy.

Naturally, this will be one of the more expensive means of transport.

Overall, if you’re in Perth, Fremantle is not to be missed. Try to time your visit during the weekends, as the city will be much livelier then, plus you’ll get to see the Fremantle Markets which are an absolute must.