Fremantle is a port city in Western Australia near the Swan river that offers stunning views. Although it only has around 30,000 residents, Fremantle has a rich history dating far back to its declaration as a city in 1929. In fact, the first settlers in the area are Swan River colonists in 1829.
With its interesting past and location by the water, visiting Fremantle should be in your list to visit if you are in the area (Perth is only a 30-minute drive away). Here are five places you shouldn’t miss if you happen to be in the area.
1. Fremantle Market Hall
Speaking of historical past, the Fremantle Market Hall has been around since 1987. Housed in a majestic Victorian building, the market represents a vibrant culture and heritage that has been around for over 100 years. The market offers fresh local produce, products from independent and indigenous merchants, live music, and of course unique flavors. This place has so many things to offer that it definitely warrants a visit, from tourists and locals alike. Make sure to check their website for their opening times before visiting.
2. WA Maritime Museum
True to its geographical location as a coastal city, a port, and where the Swan River’s mouth lies, Fremantle houses the Western Australia Maritime Museum. The museum has a number of very interesting galleries that explore the city’s maritime past. It exhibits yachts, submarines, sailing boats, leisure boats, and many more historical vessels.
If you want to see these maritime transportations up close, the museum is open every day from 9:30am-5:00pm, but may vary during the holidays.
3. Fremantle Prison
If you want a to have a very unique travel experience, do not pass up on a guided tour at Fremantle Prison. The only World Heritage Site in Western Australia, it used to be a prison for convicts that came from Great Britain in 1855 but was ultimately decommissioned in 1991. Today, there are award-winning tours that explore the many sections of the prison including a torchlight tour during the night and a tunnels tour that explore the prison’s watery underground.
There are also exhibits with thousands of items, which include items from prisoners and workers.
The Fremantle Prison is a must-see that in hundreds of thousands visitors come every year. They include not only tourists but also locals, former prisoners and officers, and their descendants.
4. Bathers Beach House
If you want a break from the history and culture and just want to spend a day enjoying the sun, water, and good company, head on out to Bathers Beach House. It is truly an authentic beachfront restaurant since the white sand beach is only a few steps away. The Bathers Beach House serves fresh and local ingredients cooked in the most creative ways that you do not want to miss dining here while you’re in the city.
The beach house also celebrate special occasions and holidays that are worth checking out.
5. Rottnest Island Ferry Tour
If you’re already in Fremantle, a quick trip to Rottnest Island on a day tour is part of a lot of visitor’s to-do list because of the picturesque views the island offers. The ferry ride from Fremantle usually takes 25 minutes and tours that run for a whole day that include bicycles are a popular choice. Make sure to check with travel companies before planning a trip, though, because tours may vary depending on the season.
Fremantle is a quaint port city of Perth, but it has its own charms and incredible attractions that it definitely warrants a visit. For more great travel information and tips when visiting fremantle, check out these must see attractions in Fremantle too.
