Fremantle Markets are housed in a market hall built in 1897 on the edge of Fremantle's old town, and they are one of the most popular places to browse in the port city. The venue says it has more than 150 stalls, selling a wide mix of fresh produce, street food from around the world, jewellery, clothing, art, souvenirs and gifts from local makers. The building itself, with its high roof and old brick walls, adds to the atmosphere, and buskers and musicians often play in the aisles. The markets are a place to wander, eat and shop without any entry charge, and many visitors come back several times in one trip. They are open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, so plan a Fremantle day around those days if you want to include them.
What to do
Start with a loop of the main hall, which holds the indoor stalls, and then explore the outdoor yard, which has more produce, food and general market stalls. Look for local specialities, including Western Australian honey, olive oil, spices and handmade soap, and for jewellery and art from Aboriginal and local makers.
Food stalls offer everything from fresh juice and crepes to noodles and paella, and there is plenty of choice for a snack or a long lunch. Children enjoy the animal displays and the festive atmosphere, and the buskers add music through the day.
Planning
Opening hours differ a little between the hall and the yard. The yard opens at 8 am on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and the hall opens at 9 am, with later closing on Friday, so confirm the current times on the markets' website before you travel. The markets also open on certain public holidays, and they close on Christmas Day, so check the calendar for the dates you plan to visit.
Fremantle is about 30 minutes from Perth by train, and the markets are a short walk from the station. Bring a bag and some cash, although many stalls take cards, and try to arrive earlier in the day to avoid peak crowds.
Fitting it in
The markets pair naturally with a morning at Fremantle Prison, a stroll along South Terrace for coffee and a look at the harbour and the Roundhouse. A weekend visit to Fremantle can also include a ferry to Rottnest Island or a pint at a waterside brewery.
If you only have one weekend day in Perth, Fremantle with the markets is one of the best ways to spend it, and it is a good choice for rainy weather because the hall is covered. Shoppers should allow at least an hour, and food lovers will want two or three.
Good to know
Weekends are busy, especially in summer and during school holidays, so a weekday visit to the rest of Fremantle plus a Friday evening at the markets can be a quieter combination. Look for seasonal events and special trading days, which sometimes bring extra stalls and entertainment. If you are buying souvenirs, ask makers about their materials and where items were made, since the range includes both local crafts and imported goods. Wear comfortable shoes, because the floors are hard, and carry a refillable bottle for the heat of the day.
What to expect
The experience
A free, self-guided wander through a covered market hall and an outdoor yard with food, crafts and souvenirs.
Best time
Friday to Sunday mornings, when the stalls are fresh and crowds are lighter.
How long
One to three hours, depending on how much you eat and shop.
Tips
Bring a bag and some cash, arrive early, and combine the visit with Fremantle Prison or a harbour walk.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Browsers, foodies and souvenir hunters spending a weekend day in Fremantle.
- Families
- Children enjoy the animals, the buskers and the snack stalls, and the hall is covered if it rains.
- Couples
- Share street food at the yard, then walk to the harbour for a sunset drink.
- Pair with
- Fremantle Prison, the Roundhouse and a coffee on South Terrace.
- Time needed
- One to three hours.
Good questions
When are Fremantle Markets open?+
They open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with the yard from 8 am and the hall from 9 am. Friday closes later in the evening, so check the current hours before you go.
Is there an entry fee?+
No, the markets are free to enter. You pay only for what you buy.
How old is the building?+
The market hall was built in 1897. It is one of the most atmospheric buildings in Fremantle.
What can I buy?+
Stalls sell produce, street food, jewellery, clothing, art, souvenirs and gifts from local makers. There is also entertainment from buskers and special activities for children.
How do I get there from Perth?+
Take the train from the city to Fremantle, which takes about 30 minutes, and walk a short way to the markets. Driving is also possible, but parking can be busy on weekends.
