Fremantle Markets: Everything You Need To Know + Tips For The Best Day Out!

Whether you’re a Perth local or a visitor to Western Australia from interstate or overseas, exploring the Fremantle Markets is a must on your next day out in Fremantle. 

The markets are bursting with local flavour and culture – you’ll find a huge range of vendors selling everything from delicious fresh produce to unique handmade crafts and souvenirs, all topped off with vibrant live entertainment and mouth-watering food. Read on for all the info you need to make your next trip to the Fremantle Markets a great one.

What is Fremantle Markets?

Fremantle Markets is a vibrant indoor market located in the heart of Fremantle in Western Australia. With over 100 years of experience, the market has a rich history.

It’s home to over 150 vendors, has an exciting atmosphere and is a bustling hub of activity and culture. 

Housed in a heritage-listed Victorian building on the Corner of South Terrace and Henderson Street, it’s an impressive sight. You’ll see people stopped for photos of the building from all angles. 

The market features plenty of stalls selling a wide variety of products including fresh produce, handmade crafts, clothing, jewellery, souvenirs, toys, and plenty of unique items. There’s plenty to see and do at the Fremantle Markets.

How To Get To Fremantle Markets

Fremantle Markets is conveniently located in the heart of Fremantle on the corner of South Terrace and Henderson Street, making it easily accessible to visitors and locals alike.

Fremantle Markets can be easily reached from Perth city by train. Visitors will want to catch the Fremantle Line from Perth Station to Fremantle Station. The journey takes about half an hour and is quite pretty – passengers can get a spectacular view of the operating port as the train enters Fremantle. 

From Fremantle Station, it’s an 8-minute walk to the Markets. If you’re keen for a walk you will get the opportunity to spot some of Fremantle’s iconic limestone buildings and structures and wander through the famous ‘Cappuccino Strip’ where you’ll find plenty of boutiques, bookstores, cafes, restaurants, bars as well as street performers and a vibrant atmosphere – you won’t regret taking this scenic route!

If the walk isn’t for you, there are a number of busses that operate between the train station and the markets but I recommend catching the free Fremantle Blue CAT bus that runs every 20 minutes. The Station is Blue Stop 1 and the market is Blue Stop 3. It operates on a loop so you can hop on and off to see other popular Fremantle spots like the boat harbour, Cappuccino strip and the Esplanade Hotel. 

Visitors wanting the freedom of travelling by car can take the 30-minute drive from Perth CBD. There are ticketed car parks close to the markets, but keep in mind that these fill up fast, particularly during the weekend. 

Best Things To See And Do At Fremantle Markets

There’s fun for the whole family at the Freo Markets – truly something for everyone. Read on for my top picks on the best things to see and do at Fremantle Markets. 

Stock Up On Your Fresh Produce

Personally, I find nothing more wholesome than waking up early on Saturday Morning and heading out to a farmers market with a coffee to wander around and pick out my fruit and veggies for the week, and Freo Market is the perfect spot for this!

Wander through the fresh produce stands and enjoy the vibrant colours and fresh smells of the produce direct from the farm at stalls like Chi Chi Fresh. The fruit and veggies are amazing quality and inspire me to cook more healthy meals at home. 

Have An Iris Photo Taken

They say the human iris is more individualised than your fingerprint, so If you’re looking for a unique gift for a loved one, how about an iris photo? 

A photo of your eyes is taken and reviewed before being printed to be hung as wall art or even made into jewellery like a necklace, bracelet or earrings! The photos look absolutely stunning, with so much texture and dimension. The best part is it’s printed on the spot, which only takes about 10 minutes. 

Grab a Souvenir Of Your Trip

If you’re visiting Australia, Fremantle Markets is the perfect place to go for your mementos or souvenirs. There are plenty of unique and even handcrafted products that will help you remember your holiday. 

You’ll be the envy of all your friends if you purchase an Australian icon – the Akubra hat! Originally made from rabbit fur felt as far back as 1874, Akubra hats are an Aussie outback staple. 

Stunned Emu Designs offer hilarious, vibrant illustrated designs featuring native Australian wildlife, grab a mug, teatowel or wall art to remember your Australian trip. There is also a wide range of other Australian souvenir stalls, everything from handpainted boomerangs to stuffed animals. 

Eat All The Sweets!

Do you have a sweet tooth? Fremantle Markets is for you! Aside from the popcorn and imported sweets already mentioned, your mouth will be watering as you walk past the displays of tasty sweets like macarons, expertly decorated cupcakes, waffles with ice cream (yes please!), gelato and heaps more! 

Stock Up On Fresh Coffee

Personally, I love trying unique coffee beans and the range available at the supermarket just doesn’t cut it for me. Luckily Freo Markets has the answer with The Coffee Connection!

The Coffee Connection roasts its own beans and with bean flavours like Chocolate Macadamia and Ole Chocolate Mole you certainly won’t be bored! You can also grab a takeaway coffee to enjoy as you stroll through the markets. 

Shop For Bath Products and Skincare

Looking to spoil yourself or a loved one? Why not check out the bath product and skincare stalls at Fremantle Markets? 

Corrynne’s Natural Skincare offers a huge range of soaps, essential oils, scrubs and gift packs. The soaps smell divine and would make a great gift for that special someone and be sure to ask for a tester if you want to smell any of their products – you won’t be disappointed. 

There are plenty of stalls selling everything from artisan soaps to locally-made moisturisers and skincare, be sure to check them out!

For The Kids

If you’re bringing the littlies along they’re in for a treat! There’s plenty for the kids to see and do. There are toy vendors – things like lego style toys, plushies, cartoon character merch, puzzles and more! 

Plus there are Lolly and treat stalls galore! Popcorn in a ton of flavours that smells AMAZING at the Gourmet Popcorn Company, imported snack vendors (Reeces Cups anyone?). Sometimes there’s even Face Painting for a fun treat.

Just note that while prams are welcome in the markets, it can be a little hard to navigate with one due to the crowds. 

Have A Tasting

Looking for a new drop to enjoy? At Fremantle Markets you can try some of Western Australia’s finest spirits and wines. Swan River Distillery have a stall, I highly recommend the Australian Native Gin – it’s one of my favourites. Sin Gin and Purple Reign Wine also have a stall at the markets. 

Fremantle Markets also occasionally has special tasting events, like the Fremantle Markets Distillers Festival, where a bunch of local distillers get together to share expert information on gin, vodka and whiskey, the distilling process and best of all offer free tasting of their products. Keep an eye out for when the next one pops up. 

Enjoy Live Entertainment

Fremantle is the place to go for arts and culture on your Western Australia trip and the markets is a great spot to go to see some local talented artists. 

Buskers perform most weekends and can be found in Market Lane and Butler’s Pitch around the middle of the day. So grab a snack and enjoy the free entertainment as you wander around the markets.

Best Food To Try At Fremantle Markets

Fremantle Markets is a foodie’s dream! There is something here to suit every taste, here are some of the delicacies that shouldn’t be missed. 

Kachapas 

Hands-down my top pick, Kachapa’s cooks up fresh and delicious Latin food packed full of flavour. The empanadas and arepas seriously take me back to my trip to South America and are the best I have tried in Australia. 

Kachapas snacks are easy to eat on the go while wandering around the markets and it’s all topped-off with super friendly service. 

Acropolis Souvlaki

If you have a Mediterranean craving, check out Acropolis Souvlaki. Acropolis serves up authentic Greek yiros packed full of fresh flavours. They only use quality ingredients and locally sourced veggies so you can feel good about this one. Their yiros are hand-held too – perfect to grab on the go while exploring the markets.

Bratwurst Bar

Perhaps the perfect snack while meandering around the markets, the Bratwurst Bar offers authentic German Bratwurst served in fresh-baked bread rolls. They also cook up kranski and currywurst all in a hilariously oversized frying pan. Of course, you’ll also be able to grab all the usual add-ons like onions, sauerkraut and sauces. 

Muffle 

When it’s time for dessert, head to Muffle. While I haven’t personally tried this one, it’s on the top of my list! Muffle is super popular – on my last visit it seemed like everyone was carrying a waffle in a cone, smothered in ice cream and other sweet treats.

You can grab your food and head outside to have a seat in The Yard, just keep in mind this area fills up fast, particularly on busy days, however, most of the food is easy to eat standing up or on the go. 

Fremantle Markets Opening Times

Fremantle markets opens on the weekend. The two different sections, The Hall and The Yard have slightly different opening times.

The Hall Opening Times

The main market area, The Hall, is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday as well as Monday on public holidays from 9 am to 6 pm. 

The Yard Opening Times

The outdoor area, The Yard, is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday as well as Monday on public holidays from 8 am to 6 pm.

Best Time To Visit Fremantle Markets

Fremantle Markets are open Friday to Sunday as well as Monday on public holidays. 

Saturdays and Sundays are the most popular days to visit – keep in mind it can get very crowded. From mid-morning they get very busy, so the earlier you arrive, the better, especially if you want to explore while it’s relatively calmer and quieter. 

The best time to visit to see live music is between 11 am – 2 pm on Saturday and Sunday. 

Tips For Visiting Fremantle Markets

Here are some tips for making the most of your Fremantle Markets trip:

• Arrive early to avoid the crowds
• Bring cash as some vendors don’t accept card
• Wear comfortable shoes for the walk
• Bring a reusable shopping bag for your purchases
• Talk to the vendors to learn about their products and stories
• Ask if there’s a product you’d like to try before you buy – a lot of the vendors are prepared with samples
• Explore all the different areas – with over 150 vendors, there’s a lot to see!
• Remember parking can be limited, consider taking public transport

Other Markets in Fremantle

Looking for the best markets Fremantle has to offer? Here are some other options. 

E-Shed Market

The E Shed Market is another popular tourist destination on Victoria Quay in Fremantle. It’s located in a historic building that was once used as a cargo shed for the Fremantle Port. The E Shed Market is uniquely located on the harbour, so you can watch the ships pass as you shop.

At the E Shed Market, you’ll find over 100 stalls selling a wide range of products, such as clothing, accessories, jewellery, souvenirs, fresh produce, coffee, and local arts and crafts. You can also grab some food and enjoy it on the licenced alfresco terrace that overlooks the harbour.

The E Shed Markets is located on Peter Hughes Dr and is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday and public holidays from 9 am – 5 pm

Freo Farmers Market

Freo Farmers Market is a weekly market showcasing Western Australian producers, farmers and small businesses stocking artisan goods. 

There is also live music, an animal farm, face painting and craft workshops to keep everyone entertained. 

Freo Farmers Market is located on Bruce Lee Oval in Beaconsfield and is on Sunday 8 am – 1 pm during March to December, and 7:30 am – 11:30 am during January and February. 

Fremantle Markets FAQ:

Last Words on Fremantle Markets

Fremantle Markets is an iconic and beloved destination in Fremantle Western Australia that offers a unique shopping and cultural experience. With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere the market attracts visitors all over the world. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, handmade crafts, tasty treats or unique souvenirs you’ll find it at Fremantle Markets. 

More Weekend Inspiration

Looking for more great things to do in Perth on the weekend? Head out on a Lesmurdie Falls National Park hike, go on an iconic Perth picnic or Explore Bells Rapids.

If you need a little pampering try a Bodyscape facial, float session, or have a hydrafacial. 

Recommended: