Freemantle is an absolute must-visit while in Perth! Just a short and convenient train ride from Perth Station, the journey takes you straight into the heart of this vibrant port city. Known for its rich history, lively arts scene, and coastal charm, Fremantle offers something for everyone. Explore its fascinating museums, including the UNESCO-listed Fremantle Prison, stroll through the bustling Fremantle.
Fremantle’s history dates back to April 1829, when the ship HMS Challenger arrived near the mouth of the Swan River. The settlement was established under the leadership of Captain Charles Fremantle, who formally claimed the land as a British colony. In honor of his role in securing the territory, Captain James Stirling, the first Governor of Western Australia, named the new port settlement ‘Fremantle.’ Over time, Fremantle developed into a thriving maritime hub, playing a crucial role in Western Australia’s colonial expansion, trade, and immigration. Today, its rich history is reflected in its well-preserved heritage buildings, museums, and vibrant port culture.
First Stop: Freemantle Prison Tour
Freemantle Prison Tour was my favorite attraction of the day. It was my first stop of the day and they offer a variety of tours such as Convict Prison, Behind Bars, True Crime, Tunnel Tours, and TorchLight Tours. It's been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010 as it is the longest cell block in the Southern Hemisphere.
I took the Behind Bars tour at Fremantle Prison, which provided a fascinating and eye-opening look into the more modern era of the prison's history. The tour shed light on the harsh conditions that inmates endured right up until the prison's closure in 1991, following riots that drew attention to the inhumane living standards.
Constructed entirely from limestone, the prison lacked any form of air conditioning, making the scorching Australian summers unbearable for prisoners. Perhaps even more shocking, modern plumbing was never installed, meaning that inmates relied on the degrading "bucket system" for sanitation—something that remained in place until the very day the prison shut its doors. The tour also offered insight into the daily lives of prisoners, from the best and worst jobs available behind bars.
I’d definitely go back for another tour, as there’s so much more to learn about this historic site. The Torchlight Tour seems like a thrilling way to experience the eerie atmosphere of the prison at night, while the True Crime Tour dives deep into the infamous criminals who were once locked up here.
Next Stop Freemantle Market:
The next stop is Freemantle Market which is only a few steps from the prison. They have many vendors, food stands, and a great place to buy souvenirs for friends and family. It's a great place to grab a quick snack!
Yo-Chi
Right around the corner from the Freemantle Market was a Yo-Chi Place which is the Australian Frozen Yogurt. Everyone I've talked to swears by Yo-Chi, so I had to try it!
While their Açaí flavor that I tried was quite different than to what I was used to, the highlights was discovering their passion fruit sauce, which instantly transported me back to my time in the Dominican Republic. The tangy sweetness was just as I remembered, adding a tropical burst of flavor that paired beautifully with the creamy frozen yogurt.
Next Stop: WA Shipwreacks Museum
The Shipwreck Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history, offering fascinating insights into Australia’s most infamous shipwrecks. Home to relics from vessels like the Batavia, the museum showcases incredible artifacts, recovered treasures, and gripping stories of survival and tragedy at sea. Best of all, the entire museum—and much of Fremantle’s historic district—is free to explore, making it an easy and worthwhile stop while wandering through this charming port city.
A few minutes to from the Shipwreck Museums is the Round House which was founded in 1831. It is much smaller than the Freemantle Prison and was used as a lock up from 1857 to 1900. Tragically, it is also the place where Indigenous people from all over WA were held before being transported to prison on Rottnest Island.
Last stop of the day: The WA Maritime Museum
Just a few minutes from the Round House and conveniently located right next to the train station, the WA Maritime Museum is a fantastic stop for anyone exploring Fremantle. This museum is packed with fascinating exhibits showcasing Western Australia’s rich maritime history, from historic boats to deep-sea exploration artifacts.
One of the best things about visiting this summer is that admission is completely free, making it an easy and budget-friendly addition to your itinerary. Whether you're interested in naval history, shipwrecks, or the role of Fremantle as a key port city, there’s something here for everyone.
It’s also a great spot for families, as the museum offers plenty of interactive and kid-friendly activities. From hands-on exhibits to coloring stations and drawing paper available at the entrance, children can engage with history in a fun and creative way.
One of the coolest features of the museum is the view from the windows, where you can spot an old submarine docked outside, giving you a glimpse of Australia’s naval past. Inside, you’ll also find a rare preserved MegaMouth shark—one of only three in existence!
Your next Freo Visit:
If you ever find yourself back in Fremantle or staying in the area, I can’t recommend YogaLab enough. The studio has a sleek, modern feel, and the carefully curated music creates the perfect atmosphere for yoga. But what truly sets it apart is the instructor—their deep knowledge of anatomy and the practice itself shines through in every session. Their passion is evident, making class both engaging and transformative. If you're looking for a great place to stretch, unwind, and deepen your practice, this is definitely the spot to check out!
Fremantle is a city full of history, charm, and plenty of things to see and do. Whether you're exploring its fascinating museums, strolling through the markets, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. I had an incredible time discovering just a fraction of what Fremantle has to offer, and I know I’ll be back for more!
If you’re a local or have visited before, let me know—did I miss any must-see spots? I’d love to hear your recommendations for my next trip to Freo!
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