Just 30 minutes southwest of Perth, Fremantle is a lively port city on the edge of the Indian Ocean. Perched at the month of the Swan River, the city has a long trading history and a striking old town — as well as a sleek, contemporary centre. A popular weekend escape from Perth itself, Fremantle brims with wonderful food markets, artisanal boutiques and buzzy cafés. Intimate and historic or lively and fun-filled, our Gurus have selected a gorgeous B&B, a heritage hotel and some hip waterfront properties.

Named for Captain Charles Fremantle, the English naval officer who founded the city back in 1829, the city is still home to some striking 19th-century buildings. Delve into the past with a tour of Fremantle Prison, or at the Western Australian Maritime Museum. The Fremantle area — originally called 'Walyalup' by the indigenous Noongar people — also has ceremonial and trading links which go back thousands of years. Guided city tours offer an insight into this rich cultural heritage.

Keen foodies will be thrilled to discover the Fremantle Markets, to taste freshly caught seafood at restaurants near the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour and to sip locally brewed craft beer. Head to Port and Leighton beaches for sunshine and sea swims, as well as the opportunity to snorkel, kitesurf and windsurf. Day trips to Perth come highly recommended, but the magic of the best places to stay in Fremantle is their tranquility — a real treat after a busy day in the city.

The Best Places to Stay in Fremantle

For a Boutique B&B

• Fothergills of Fremantle has six individually decorated traditional rooms — some with four poster beds — in a restored colonial house. Savour cheese and wine on the terrace, admire the house's impressive art collection and explore Fremantle on foot. A charming B&B choice for couples.

For Contemporary Cool

• Quest Fremantle is made up of studios and apartments with contemporary interiors, modern kitchens and all the mod-cons. Airy and close to the ocean, this swish city spot has meeting facilites and a gym, making it great for business or leisure trips.
• Tradewinds Hotel offers expansive Swan River views. Sophisticated rooms & suites have white & cream interiors with light wood, dark blue & black details and warm upholstery. A pool, buzzy restaurant & bar complete the picture at this stylish urban spot.

For Families and Groups

• Be. Fremantle is brilliant for families and groups, with multi-bedroom apartments and modern studios overlooking Fishing Boat Harbour. Interiors are fresh & airy, with white-on-white decor in relaxed sitting rooms & kitchens opening onto harbour-facing terraces. A smart waterfront stay.

For a Heritage Gem

• The National Hotel dates back to 1868. A carefully restored heritage landmark, the hotel now has 12 individually decorated guest rooms — the best with bathtubs & balconies. Live music evenings at the bar or rooftop sundowners are brilliant fun. A charming spot with an intimate feel and a real sense of history.
• Hougoumont Hotel fuses old and new to create a lovely boutique bolthole reflecting Fremantle's seafaring history. Small yet inviting guest rooms feature elegant pastel tones and have swish bathrooms. The craft brewery, sister eateries & event spaces make this a friendly spot for sociable travellers who will appreciate a heritage element.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Perth Airport and hop aboard a shuttle bus or take a 30 minute taxi to Fremantle.
• Fremantle is a great starting point for a coastal road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Summers (December to February) in Perth and Fremantle can be very hot, with temperatures rising above 30°C. Visit during the spring or autumn months for sunshine and pleasant temperatures. Winters (June to August) are cool and can be rainy.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Perth.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Western Australia.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Fremantle