The first settlers arrived in Australia at Fremantle. That's why it has a pretty impressive prison that you can visit to learn a bit more about this city of Western Australia which is much less known than other regions in the country.
If Perth is on your list of places to visit in Australia, don't miss the chance to visit Fremantle, a city which has retained its authentic architectural character. Many buildings here date back to the colonial period, and the British influence is clear to see.
Fremantle is an attractive city where it's enjoyable to walk and explore the streets, the harbour or head along the coast. During my trip, I stopped at a covered market, housed in a beautiful building with many shops. I even found an excellent crêpe seller, a treat after 4 months in Australia!
To round off the day, I took a break in a pub called 'Little Creature', which is well-known in the city for its beer brewed in its own micro-brewery. There's a terrace overlooking the port where you can play boules!
You simply can't go to Perth without visiting Fremantle. Just 30 minutes from the capital of the South West, this dynamic city, with colonial facades, will awaken your senses. Music can be found everywhere in Freo, home to artists such as John Butler Trio. Freo has a rich and vibrant music scene. If you're not around during one of the many festivals held throughout the year, you can always listen to live music almost anywhere, in bars or even in the streets. Fremantle is also a feast for the eyes. It's an artistic city with street art as well as modern and aboriginal art galleries.
For me, Fremantle is a beautiful aside to Perth. At the weekend, I really enjoyed the covered market where I got lost in the maze of more than 150 stalls. They have handmade jewellery and cosmetics, mixed in with fruit and vegetables - absolutely everything. You can grab a bite to eat and just enjoy yourself. I found that, in Fremantle, they take the time to live - they enjoy life. It is a city made for pleasure-seekers, a place that is a tad hippy and you should believe the hype!
As for its historical side, at the end of the main High Street, you can head up to the Round House - a former prison built in 1831 that has a lovely view over the sea. Aboriginal prisoners were locked up there before being sent to Rottnest Island, which, by the way, I suggest you visit during your trip to Australia. Boats to the island leave from Fremantle. On Rottnest Island, you can get around by bike. There are beautiful beaches and pine forests, which are home to quokkas (small wallabies) - the emblem of the island. Finally, a little further out from Fremantle, I recommend South Beach. And if you're a thrill-seeker, on the outskirts of the Melville area you can go cliff-jumping into the Swan River, just like I did!!