Best things to do in Fremantle, Perth Offer expired Best things to do in Fremantle, Perth Sitting at the mouth of the Swan River and forming part of greater Perth, Fremantle is a port city with a personality all of its own. Locals call it “Freo”, and once you roll in with your campervan, you’ll quickly understand why people speak about the area with so much affection that it has garnered this little nickname. The mix of heritage streets, Victorian-era buildings, lively cafés, buzzing Fremantle Markets, and breezy beach-to-brewery culture gives Fremantle an atmosphere that instantly puts you in holiday mode. One of the biggest standouts here is Fremantle Prison, Western Australia’s only UNESCO World Heritage-listed prison and home to the fascinating Fremantle Prison tours. Add to that coastal strolls, street art, craft beer, family-friendly dining, and a strong creative identity, and you’ve got a destination that easily earns a place on any Western Australia travel itinerary. If you’re planning a road trip through Western Australia or picking up your campervan hire in Perth, Fremantle is one of the best places to start. In fact, it recently earned the title of Australia’s Top Tourism Town 2025, cementing its reputation as one of the country’s must-visit coastal hubs. Throughout this guide, we’ll cover the top things to do in Fremantle, where to stay, how to get around, what Fremantle weather is like, and why so many travellers agree that, yes, Fremantle is absolutely worth visiting. Getting to Fremantle by campervan If you’re starting your trip in Perth, getting to Fremantle by campervan is straightforward and ideal for travellers who want an easy first day on the road. From the city centre, Fremantle sits roughly 18–23 kilometres away, which translates to about 20–30 minutes of driving, depending on traffic. It’s close enough for a smooth arrival day yet far enough to feel like you’ve properly begun your road trip adventure. Most travellers pick up their campervan hire from the Apollo Perth branch, located in Redcliffe near the airport. Once you hit the road, you can choose from two popular routes. The first hugs the coast, with a drive past Cottesloe and Leighton Beach, which is perfect if you want a scenic start and a chance to stretch the legs by the ocean. The second follows Stirling Highway, offering a direct, efficient run into the heart of Freo. Both are camper-friendly and easy to navigate, even if it’s your first time driving a motorhome. Parking a larger vehicle in Fremantle is manageable with some planning. Around the CBD and harbour areas, you can expect timed or paid street parking, but there are wider bays around Fishing Boat Harbour that tend to be easier for bigger setups. That said, the rules here are constantly changing, so it is best to check out the Perth parking webpage as well as download the EasyPark app, which gives the most up-to-date availability of parking as well as fees, so you can plan your trip. If you’re thinking about expanding your road trip before or after Fremantle, you can explore more ideas through Apollo’s itineraries, such as the South West Perth to Esperance road trip, the Perth to Adelaide self-drive road trip, or the Perth Return Road Trip Itinerary, all easily adapted for family travel in a campervan. Where to stay: Fremantle campervan accommodation options When you’re travelling by campervan, choosing the right place to base yourself can make all the difference. This part of Perth offers several excellent options for travellers wanting to stay close to the best things to do in Fremantle, from the buzzing Freo markets to waterfront restaurants and the iconic Fremantle Prison. Below are some of the most reliable and well-located places to stay in Perth for families exploring the area by camper, campervan, or motorhome. Fremantle Village The Fremantle Village caravan park is the only caravan park within the City of Fremantle. Just 10 minutes from central Freo, it offers powered sites, amenities, and a mix of cabin accommodation if you’re travelling with extended family. It books out early during school holidays and long weekends, so planning ahead is essential (especially if your road trip includes festival dates or big events on the Fremantle calendar). Discovery Parks – Coogee Beach A consistently popular pick for families wanting a beachfront stay, Discovery Parks – Coogee Beach offers direct beach access, shaded powered sites, and a laid-back atmosphere. You’re around 10–15 minutes from Fremantle, making it easy to spend the day exploring before returning to a peaceful coastal base. Discovery Parks – Woodman Point Set inside a coastal reserve just south of Fremantle, Discovery Parks – Woodman Point is perfect for families wanting space to unwind. Facilities include a pool, play areas, and easy trails leading directly to the beach. It’s a great match for travellers planning a travel itinerary that mixes nature with city attractions. Booking Tip: Fremantle can be extremely busy during weekends, school holidays, summer, and large events. It’s worth reserving your spot early and using the thl Roadtrip App to manage bookings, find holiday parks, and cross-check facilities along your journey. Best things to see and do in Fremantle With its mix of heritage charm, waterside dining, hands-on history, and laid-back coastal energy, there’s no shortage of things to do in Fremantle. Whether you’re exploring Perth in a campervan, stretching your legs after a long WA road trip, or starting your holiday with a fresh coffee, Fremantle combines old-town atmosphere with a modern, youthful feel. From the iconic Fremantle Markets to the dramatic stories inside Fremantle Prison, this is one city where you can easily fill a day, a weekend, or more. Markets, old towns & maritime vibes A visit to Fremantle isn’t complete without exploring its lively old-town pocket. This area blends local produce, buskers, indie shopping, and waterside boardwalks, making it an ideal first stop for travellers arriving in Freo with a campervan or motorhome. Fremantle Markets The Fremantle Markets run Friday to Sunday, housed inside a heritage-listed hall that’s been a community hub since 1897. Inside The Hall, you’ll find handmade crafts, homegrown labels, and weekend entertainers bringing the atmosphere to life. Out in The Yard, the focus shifts to fresh produce and street-style bites, making it a perfect first stop for a late breakfast or an early lunch. Current opening hours are: Friday, Saturday & Sunday: 9am–6pm (the Yard is open at 8am) It’s a welcoming, family-friendly space and an easy introduction to what locals love about Freo. Cappuccino Strip Just a short walk away sits the famous Cappuccino Strip on South Terrace. Known for its Italian roots, café culture, and buzzing weekend energy, it’s a great place to settle in and people-watch. Families often stop here for brunch before exploring the rest of town. Fishing Boat Harbour & Bathers Beach For ocean views, follow the paths down to Fishing Boat Harbour, where boardwalks, public art, and classic fish and chips shape the experience. It’s an easy place to spend an afternoon, and Bathers Beach next door is ideal for a quick dip or a sunset swim before returning to your camper for the evening. Heritage & culture hits Fremantle is one of the best places in Western Australia to dive into local history without it feeling heavy or formal. Everything is close together, family-friendly, and easy to pair with a day of casual wandering. Fremantle Prison The highlight for many visitors is Fremantle Prison, the state’s only UNESCO World Heritage-listed prison. The guided tours range from the classic Convict Prison walk-through to Behind Bars, True Crime, and even underground tunnels tours. During school holidays and long weekends, the popular torchlight tours often sell out, so it’s worth booking ahead. WA Maritime Museum & WA Shipwrecks Museum Down at the waterfront, the WA Maritime Museum offers exhibits including Australia II, while the nearby WA Shipwrecks Museum tells the gripping story of the Batavia and early European exploration. Both are easy to pair with a harbour walk and offer a great mix of indoor learning and outdoor exploring. The Round House & West End For a quick heritage wander, head to The Round House in Fremantle’s historic West End. It’s a short walk with lovely coastal views, making it perfect for a family photo stop before you continue along the waterfront. Beaches & short walks Fremantle is small enough that you’re never far from the coast, and most beaches are just a few minutes’ drive in a campervan. Here are some of the must-visit beaches to check out when you’re exploring Freo. South Beach, Port Beach & Leighton Beach Each of these spots offers easy parking, calm water, and plenty of room for families. South Beach is known for its grassy picnic areas, Port Beach is great for a quick swim close to town, and Leighton Beach is one of the best sandy stretches for a relaxed morning walk. Bathers Beach Artworks Trail & Esplanade Park Families will also enjoy the Bathers Beach artworks trail, which links the coastline with public art, small galleries, and viewpoints. Esplanade Park is another favourite, with plenty of green space, playgrounds, and shaded walking routes that suit younger kids. It’s a fuss-free way to unwind between attractions without leaving Fremantle’s central area. Where to eat in Fremantle Food is a big part of the Fremantle experience, and it’s one of the easiest ways to understand why so many people fall in love with this coastal city. Whether you’re spending a full day ticking off things to do in Fremantle or winding down after exploring in your campervan, Freo’s dining scene is relaxed, creative, and very family-friendly. You don’t need a long list here, just a few top spots that consistently deliver. A favourite for visitors and locals alike is Manuka Woodfire Kitchen, known for its wood-fired cooking and seasonal menu. The flavours feel rustic but thoughtful, and it’s a great pick for a date night or a later family dinner. If you prefer something more casual with a coastal atmosphere, Gage Roads Freo Brewery sits right on the water with views back across the port. It’s ideal for relaxed lunches, easy dinners, and letting the kids stretch out between courses. Another dependable option is Bread in Common, an industrial-style eatery with a warm, open feel and a menu built around in-house-baked bread. The shared-plate setup works especially well for younger families or groups travelling together in a camper or motorhome. If you’re visiting on a market day, you can also graze your way through the Fremantle Markets, where food stalls offer everything from bao buns to fresh juices. It’s convenient, good value, and perfect when you want something quick before heading back out to explore. Local produce & coastal dining Fremantle’s coastal location makes it a natural hub for fresh seafood and relaxed waterside meals. If you’re travelling by campervan and spending the day hopping between beaches, markets, and heritage sights, stopping for a meal by the harbour is one of the most rewarding things to do in Fremantle. The classic choice is grabbing fish and chips at Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour, where waterfront boardwalks and sea breezes help set the tone. Kids in particular love the huge marine-life tank displays at Cicerello’s, making it an easy family favourite on any travel itinerary. For sundowners, the waterfront comes alive as the day cools down. Venues along the boardwalk and at Bathers Beach (such as Bathers Beach House or Gage Roads) offer great spots to watch the light shift across the water. These venues lean into the relaxed Fremantle feel, making them the perfect end to a beach-heavy day. Weather in Fremantle: what to expect year-round Understanding Fremantle weather helps you plan the best things to do in Fremantle during your stay, especially if you’re travelling in a campervan and want to make the most of your time outdoors. Summer (December to February) Expect hot, dry days with average maximums around 27–28°C. Fremantle’s famous afternoon sea breeze makes the heat more manageable, especially with regular ocean dips. If you’re staying in powered sites, it’s worth booking shaded spots early. Autumn (March to May) Autumn brings mild days, cooler evenings, and ideal conditions for walking tours, harbour strolls, and browsing the Freo markets. It’s a comfortable, reliable season for families. Winter (June to August) Winter is mild but noticeably wetter. Showers come and go, but it rarely feels too cold to explore. This season is great for pairing indoor attractions (like museums) with scenic inland drives, waterfalls, and greener landscapes. Pack layers and a rain jacket. Spring (September to November) Spring offers sunny days, low humidity, and gentle breezes, which are perfect for beach time, harbour sunsets, and day trips to Rottnest. It’s one of the best times of year to experience Fremantle’s mix of outdoor and cultural activities. Plan your trip: how to get there & best times to visit Fremantle works well as a day trip from Perth or a 2–3-night base for Rottnest, beach hopping, and exploring the western side of the city. It’s only 18–23 km from the Perth CBD, taking roughly 20–30 minutes by road depending on traffic, making this an easy addition to any road trip or campervan hire adventure. With the Fremantle Markets operating from Friday to Sunday, many visitors plan their stay around market days. Weekends also fill quickly, especially for Fremantle Prison tours, so booking ahead is recommended. Whether you’re planning a quick coastal escape or building a longer Western Australia road trip, travelling with Apollo makes it easy to explore Fremantle at your own pace. You can browse Apollo’s range of campervans, and download the handy thl Roadtrip App for campsite searches and travel tips for exploring the beautiful Western Australia. Quick answers Is Fremantle worth visiting? Yes, absolutely. It’s compact, heritage-rich, beach-adjacent, and was recently crowned Australia’s Top Tourism Town 2025, making it a favourite for travellers of all ages. Why is Fremantle famous? Freo is known for its port-city history, Fremantle Prison (a UNESCO World Heritage site), lively markets, breweries, and maritime museums. What do locals call Fremantle? In true Aussie fashion, the locals call it “Freo”. If you are looking to dive a little deeper into the local culture, the city also has a traditional name, Walyalup, used by the Whadjuk Nyoongar people, the traditional owners of the land.