You'll never have to worry about running out of things to do in Fremantle. But for those who want a quick snapshot, here is the quintessential list of top attractions. Don't worry if you can't fit it all in a single day, this is the kind of place worth taking a little extra time to fall in love with.

1. Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour

As Perth's premier destination for tourists and locals, the laid-back atmosphere of Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour is perfect for your next day out or holiday escape. Uniquely positioned between the ocean and the sea, the working harbour is surrounded by world-class restaurants featuring some of WA's freshest seafood as well as bars, entertainment and accommodation.

2. Fremantle Arts Centre

Housed in a gothic heritage building in Fremantle's east end, Fremantle Arts Centre showcases free exhibitions, and free and ticketed concerts and events from international, national and local artists. It's also home to Canvas Café, beautiful grounds, and the FOUND Shop, which sells the largest range of WA-designed wares.

3. Fremantle Markets

Step inside the Fremantle Markets and enjoy the distinctive atmosphere of over a hundred years of vibrant culture and heritage. Now boasting over 150 stalls, the Fremantle Markets is a must-see for locals and tourists alike. Aside from being a great place to shop, it's also one of the best places to purchase authentic street food.

4. Fremantle Prison

Built in 1857 and decommissioned in 1991, UNESCO World Heritage Listed Site, Fremantle Prison is one of Western Australia's most fascinating and significant cultural attractions. With a choice of intriguing day tours, spine-chilling torchlight tours and 'extreme heritage' tunnel tour adventures, there is something for everyone – you can even search for your convict ancestors on the fully interactive Convict Database.

5. Little Creatures Brewery

Little Creatures Brewery is something of a brewing institution at Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour. This is a fully operational brewery so don't be surprised to see giant tanks and brewers working, as well as the unmistakable aroma of beers mashing in. It's also the perfect place to grab a pint while the kids play in the undercover sandpit.

6. Rottnest Island

Fremantle is the gateway to Rottnest Island, Western Australia's very own island getaway, featuring a casual atmosphere, picturesque scenery and some of the world's finest beaches and bays. It's a special place for Western Australians and a popular destination for interstate and international visitors, it's a 25 minute ferry ride from B Shed on Victoria Quay. 

7. Round House

The Round House is the oldest public building in WA. The twelve-sided building was built in 1831 and was used until 1886 to house locals who were on the wrong side of the law. Today, visitors can take a tour and imagine the hardships faced by convicts, prisoners and gaolers alike.

8. WA Maritime Museum

Perched on the Indian Ocean's shore, the WA Maritime Museum houses several unique galleries that explore WA's relationship with the sea. Take a tour of the submarine HMAS Ovens and come and see the legendary America's Cup winning yacht Australia II and many other iconic vessels from WA's extensive maritime history. You'll also see WA's own tall ship the STS Leeuwin berthed alongside.

9. WA Shipwrecks Museum

The WA Shipwrecks Museum is the foremost maritime archaeology museum in the southern hemisphere and the most visited museum in Western Australia. Steeped in history, the galleries house hundreds of relics from ships wrecked along Western Australia's treacherous coastline, including the original timbers from the Batavia (wrecked in 1629). 

10. Esplanade Youth Plaza & Reserve

In the centre of Fremantle is the Esplanade Reserve - a large parkland area identified by tall Norfolk Pines. Inside its grounds you'll find the Esplanade Youth Plaza, Carriage Café, Tourist Wheel Fremantle and a large playground area, complete with a climbing frame for children to play on. It's an urban oasis.