Fremantle Bus Tours

See Fremantle by bus.

Tours & Experiences

Perth to Fremantle
Perth & Fremantle Small-Group Tour with Swan River Cruise
0

(0 reviews)
Sightseeing
From$200.00
6.5 Hours
Perth to Fremantle
Perth and Fremantle City Highlights Tour
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(0 reviews)
Sightseeing
From$153.00
4 Hours

Freemantle W.A.

Fremantle is a vibrant port city located at the mouth of the Swan River in Western Australia, approximately 19 kilometers southwest of Perth's central business district. Known affectionately as "Freo" by locals, this historic maritime town has evolved into one of Australia's most culturally rich and architecturally significant cities.

Founded in 1829, Fremantle is Western Australia's oldest settlement and served as the colony's original port. The city's remarkably well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture gives it a distinctive character, with limestone buildings and heritage streetscapes that transport visitors back in time. The iconic Fremantle Prison, a UNESCO World Heritage site, operated from 1855 to 1991 and now offers fascinating tours of its historic cells and tunnels.

The city's maritime heritage remains central to its identity. Fremantle Harbour continues to be a working port and the gateway for international cruise ships. The waterfront precedes a thriving cafe culture, with cappuccino strip along South Terrace offering alfresco dining and people-watching opportunities.

Fremantle's cultural scene is equally impressive. The weekend Fremantle Markets, operating since 1897, attract thousands of visitors who browse local produce, crafts, and international cuisine. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Fremantle Festival and Street Arts Festival, cementing its reputation as a creative hub.

The city boasts several beaches, including the popular Bathers Beach and South Beach, while Rottnest Island is accessible via a short ferry ride. The Fremantle Doctor, a cooling afternoon sea breeze, provides relief during hot summer months.

Today, Fremantle successfully balances its historic preservation with modern development, maintaining its bohemian charm while offering contemporary amenities. Its unique blend of working port, tourist destination, and residential community creates an authentic atmosphere that distinguishes it from typical Australian cities, making it a beloved destination for both locals and international visitors.

What to See

Historic Sites

Fremantle Prison – UNESCO World Heritage site offering guided tours including torchlight tours and tunnel tours beneath the prison
Round House – Western Australia’s oldest public building (1831), offering panoramic harbor views and the daily firing of the time gun
Shipwreck Galleries – Part of the Western Australian Maritime Museum, housing artifacts from historic shipwrecks including the Batavia

Markets & Shopping

Fremantle Markets – Historic covered markets (weekends and Fridays) with fresh produce, crafts, clothing, and street food
High Street & South Terrace – Boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants in heritage buildings

Beaches & Outdoors

Bathers Beach – Small sheltered beach near the harbor with the Bathers Beach House restaurant
South Beach – Popular swimming spot with grassy areas and playgrounds
Fishing Boat Harbour – Working harbor with fish and chips shops and waterfront dining

Museums & Culture

Fremantle Arts Centre – Contemporary art exhibitions in a Gothic-style former asylum
WA Maritime Museum – Showcasing maritime history, including Australia II (America’s Cup yacht) and submarine tours

Architecture & Streets

Wander the heritage streets admiring Victorian and Edwardian limestone buildings
Cappuccino Strip (South Terrace) – Alfresco dining and cafe culture

Day Trips

Take the ferry to Rottnest Island to see quokkas and pristine beaches

Most attractions are within walking distance in the compact city center.

Getting around by public bus service

Getting to Fremantle from Perth

Train (Recommended – fastest option) The Fremantle Line runs every 20 minutes from Perth Station to Fremantle Station, taking approximately 30 minutes. Cost: $2-4.

Bus Route 910 operates from St Georges Terrace in Perth to Fremantle every 15 minutes, taking about 55 minutes. Cost: $2-4.

Tickets Purchase tickets from machines at stations (cash or card) or get a SmartRider card for longer stays. All services are operated by Transperth – check their website for timetables.

Getting Around Fremantle

Walking Fremantle is very compact – most attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.

Route 532 Bus Route 532 buses run through the Fremantle CBD every 15 minutes in both directions, seven days a week. This replaced the old free CAT service but runs more frequently.

Free Bike Hire The Fremantle Visitor Centre offers free bike hire to explore the city. The CBD and waterfront areas are relatively flat with dedicated bike lanes.

Taxi/Rideshare Uber, Ola, and Didi are available if needed.

The Fremantle Train and Bus Station is centrally located, making it easy to start exploring immediately upon arrival.