Things to do in Zanzibar Town

Activities, attractions and tours

House of Wonders
Forodhani Gardens
Old Fort
House of Wonders
Old Fort
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Top places to visit

1. Forodhani Gardens

Known for its exciting food market, the Forodhani Gardens is a picturesque park that overlooks the Indian Ocean. It is an ideal place to learn about local culinary traditions and the region’s succulent seafood. Barter with vendors in the evening for food ranging from squid and lobster to Nutella pizza.
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Forodhani Gardens

2. Slave Market

The Slave Market of Stone Town has been inactive for decades, but memorials provide remembrance of the horrific acts that once took place here. Visit this site and reflect on the atrocities of the past as you stand in the shadow of the Anglican Church.
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Slave Market

3. Old Fort

As the oldest building in the Stone Town district, the Old Fort is among the most popular attractions. The Omani people built this protective fortress in the late 1600s to ward off attacks from Portuguese fleets. Take a tour of the high-walled structure and courtyard to learn about its many uses over the centuries.
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Old Fort

4. Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral, also known as the Anglican Cathedral, is a historic 19th-century remnant of early Christian architecture in East Africa. Made mostly from coral stone, the cathedral has a fascinating design that is a blend of Gothic and Islamic details. Learn about the intriguing history of the church, which was built on the location of the island’s biggest slave market to celebrate the abolition of slavery.
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Anglican Cathedral which includes heritage elements

5. House of Wonders

Stone Town’s House of Wonders houses the Beit El-Ajaib National Museum. Learn about the history of this structure on a walking tour.
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House of Wonders

What to do in Zanzibar Town

Popular places to visit

Shangani Beach

Shangani Beach

4.5/5(3 reviews)

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Shangani Beach during your travels in Zanzibar Town? Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

Shangani Beach
Forodhani Gardens

Forodhani Gardens

4/5(10 reviews)

Relax in this scenic tree-filled oceanside park that transforms into a lively and busy seafood market after the sun goes down.

Forodhani Gardens
Slave Market

Slave Market

4/5(30 reviews)

An Anglican cathedral now stands on this site where slaves once suffered before being sold into harsh servitude.

Slave Market
Old Fort

Old Fort

4/5(22 reviews)

Browse the stalls of the courtyard market and attend festivals in the amphitheater in the oldest site in the historic center.

Old Fort
Anglican Cathedral which includes heritage elements

Christ Church Cathedral

4/5(9 reviews)

Admire the coral stone design and see the museum and memorial of this church that was built to celebrate the end of slavery.

Christ Church Cathedral
Zanzibar Ferry Terminal

Zanzibar Ferry Terminal

Explore the waterfront in Zanzibar Town with a trip to Zanzibar Ferry Terminal. Visit the area's shops or amble around its beautiful beaches.

Zanzibar Ferry Terminal
House of Wonders which includes views and a bay or harbour

House of Wonders

3.5/5(4 reviews)

See one of the early buildings of Zanzibar’s modern development, with wide verandas overlooking the ocean and relics from the late 1800s.

House of Wonders
Darajani Market

Darajani Market

2.5/5(6 reviews)

You can find out about the history of Zanzibar Town with a stop at Darajani Market. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the shops in the area.

Darajani Market

Mbweni Ruins

You can learn about the history of Zanzibar Town with a stop at Mbweni Ruins. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.

Mbweni Ruins

Areas of Zanzibar Town

Old Fort

Stone Town

4/5(33 area reviews)

Stone Town is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Slave Market or Old Fort.

Stone Town
Bububu

Bububu

Frequently asked questions

Is Zanzibar Town worth visiting?
With a blend of culture and coastal beaches, there's no shortage of things to do in Zanzibar Town. When you're here, check out Shangani Beach, a must-see attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Zanzibar Town?
Shangani Beach and House of Wonders are two excellent places to start your getaway adventures. Remember to check out the dining and shopping options in Zanzibar Town while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Zanzibar Town?
The top tourist attraction in Zanzibar Town is Shangani Beach, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Zanzibar Town?
You can easily visit top attractions like Shangani Beach, House of Wonders and Beit el-Sahel with a three-day escape to Zanzibar Town. On average, most travellers book three days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stick around longer and venture to East Coast Zanzibar.
Is Zanzibar Town a walkable city?
It all depends on what you want to do and see in Zanzibar Town. Several attractions, like Shangani Beach and House of Wonders, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Zanzibar Town's best neighbourhoods, Stone Town is 0.80 kilometres away from downtown, while Ng'ambo is 0.32 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Zanzibar Town with kids?
Planning what to do in Zanzibar Town with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're taking a trip with toddlers or teenagers, there are many family-friendly sights to keep them happy here.

What to do in Zanzibar Town for adults?
Jaw's Corner and Malindi Mosque are just a few of the things to do in Zanzibar Town. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Zanzibar Town?
From visiting parks to strolling around vibrant neighbourhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in Zanzibar Town. If you're in need of ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Shangani Beach is a must for anyone looking to save on their travelling adventures.