You'll want to explore some of Freo's excellent museums and other attractions, but don't forget to stroll the streets and admire the 19th-century hotels and warehouses, many painted in rich, historically accurate colors. Take time to wander down to the docks -- either Victoria Quay in the main harbor where pleasure craft dodge between tugs and container ships, or Fishing Boat Harbour, off Mews Road, where the catches are brought in.
Fremantle Trams (tel. 08/9433 6674; www.fremantletrams.comconducts hop-on/hop-off commentated tours around the main sights. The tours depart from Fremantle Town Hall eight times a day starting at 9:45am, with the last tour leaving at 3:05pm. Tickets cost A$24 adults, A$20 students, A$5 children, and A$54 for families of four, and include discount entry to the prison. The Friday-night Ghostly Tour includes a fish-and-chips dinner and a walking tour of Fremantle Prison. It runs from 6:45pm-10:30pm and costs A$60 adults and A$45 children under 15. You must book for this. On Sundays, the Highway to Hell Tour covers the local story of AC/DC lead singer Bon Scott (A$25 adults, A$10 children; check for times).
Freo's best shopping is for arts and crafts, from hand-blown glass to Aboriginal art to alpaca-wool clothing. Worth a look are the assorted art, crafts, and souvenir stores on High Street west of the mall; and the Fremantle Arts Centre . The Fremantle Markets, 74 South Terrace at Henderson Street (tel. 08/9335 2515; www.fremantlemarkets.com.au), are the oldest and best markets in Perth. Over 150 stalls sell local and imported handicrafts, jewelry, clothing, and inexpensive food. They're open Friday 9am to 8pm; Saturday, Sunday, and Monday holidays 9am to 5pm in winter and 6pm in summer (closed Good Friday and Dec 25).
The most popular watering holes are the Sail & Anchor, 64 South Terrace (tel. 08/9431 1666); the Norfolk, 47 South Terrace at Norfolk Street (tel. 08/9335 5405); and Little Creatures brewery bar and restaurant, 40 Mews Rd., in Fishing Boat Harbour (tel. 1300/722 850)). The happening "Cappuccino Strip" on South Terrace is good for people-watching -- and coffee, too.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
