Fremantle, Australia

Sharing plates built around freshly baked sourdough are the star at this beloved warehouse restaurant on Pakenham Street. The open kitchen and communal long tables give the space a wonderfully convivial energy that encourages lingering over good food and wine. Seasonal vegetables, house-cured meats, and whipped butter on warm bread make every visit feel like a genuine celebration.

This plant-based cafe in the heart of Fremantle proves that healthy eating can be deeply satisfying and full of bold, exciting flavours. Colourful bowls, raw desserts, and cold-pressed juices are prepared with care and served in a relaxed, welcoming space. Even committed meat eaters leave impressed by how inventive and delicious the entirely plant-based menu truly is.

A Fremantle institution since 1903, Cicerello's serves legendary fish and chips right on the waterfront at Fishing Boat Harbour. There is something deeply satisfying about eating crispy battered fish outdoors while sea lions laze on the docks just metres away. The casual, no-fuss atmosphere and generous portions make it a must-visit experience for first-timers and locals alike.

This craft beer bar and kitchen is a warm and unpretentious spot beloved by Fremantle locals for its rotating tap list and excellent pub food. The menu focuses on comfort dishes done with real care, from loaded burgers to slow-cooked specials that pair beautifully with a cold local ale. A relaxed courtyard garden out back makes it one of the nicest spots in the city to while away a sunny afternoon.

This grand Victorian hotel sits at the heart of Fremantle, offering sweeping views of the harbour and easy walking distance to the markets. Rooms blend heritage charm with modern comforts, and the rooftop pool is perfect after a day of exploring. Friendly staff and a buzzing courtyard bar make it a genuinely memorable place to rest your head.

Tucked into a beautifully restored limestone building, these self-contained apartments give you the freedom to live like a local in one of Freo's most beloved neighbourhoods. Fully equipped kitchens mean you can cook fresh produce picked up from the nearby market. The warm, earthy interiors and quiet courtyard create a genuinely homey retreat in the middle of the city.

Named after a historic convict ship, this boutique hotel weaves Fremantle's rich maritime past into every corner of its design. Exposed brick walls, locally crafted furniture, and curated artwork from West Australian artists give each room real personality. Its location on the famous Fremantle cappuccino strip means great coffee and vibrant street life are just steps outside your door.

Housed inside a beautifully converted 1850s flour mill, this intimate bed and breakfast is one of the most unique places to sleep in all of Western Australia. Original limestone walls and soaring timber ceilings create an atmosphere that feels both historic and wonderfully cosy. Hosts serve a generous homemade breakfast each morning that sets you up perfectly for a full day in Fremantle.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most compelling historic attractions in Australia, offering a raw and honest look at the country's convict past. Guided tours wind through original cell blocks, solitary confinement areas, and a remarkable underground tunnel system carved by convict labour. The candlelit torchlight tours held in the evenings are especially atmospheric and not easily forgotten.

Operating since 1897, these bustling indoor markets are the beating heart of Fremantle on weekends, filled with fresh produce, artisan crafts, vintage clothing, and street food from around the world. The ornate Victorian building itself is worth admiring, with its distinctive red brick facade and beautiful heritage signage. Arriving early means you get the best pick of local cheeses, handmade jewellery, and warm pastries straight from the oven.

Sitting right at the edge of the harbour, this striking modern museum tells the story of Western Australia's deep and fascinating relationship with the sea. Highlights include the submarine HMAS Ovens, which visitors can actually board and explore, and the original hull of the famous Australia II racing yacht. The interactive exhibits are thoughtfully designed for all ages, making it a rewarding visit for families and history lovers alike.

South Beach is a relaxed and beautiful stretch of white sand just a short walk or cycle from central Fremantle, popular with families, swimmers, and sunset chasers. The sheltered waters are calm and clear, making it ideal for a gentle swim even on breezy days when the Indian Ocean can feel feisty elsewhere. Grabbing takeaway food from a nearby cafe and watching the sun dip below the horizon here is one of the great simple pleasures Fremantle has to offer.