Things to do in Zanzibar Town

Activities, attractions and tours

A large, ornate, white, geometric structure with intricate patterns and a central glass window.
A park with large trees, a gazebo, and people sitting on benches.
A market stall with handmade masks, colorful textiles, and jewelry.
A large sail hanging from a wooden structure in an indoor setting with tiled floors and columns.
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Things to do

From Zanzibar: Selous Game Reserve Day Safari with Flights

From Zanzibar: Day Selous Game Reserve Safari with Lunch

HK$3,527
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
From Zanzibar: Day Selous Game Reserve Safari with Lunch
Stone Town Guided Tour: Culture, Slave Market & Spice Market

Stone Town Guided Tour: Culture, Slave Market & Spice Market

HK$149
per adult
Stone Town Guided Tour: Culture, Slave Market & Spice Market
Picture 6 for Activity Zanzibar: Stone Town, Spice Tour and Prison Island Day Trip

Zanzibar: Stone Town, Spice Tour, Prison Island with Lunch

HK$392
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Zanzibar: Stone Town, Spice Tour, Prison Island with Lunch
Stone Town Historical Walking Tour

Private Stone Town Cultural & Historical Walking Tour - Zanzibar

HK$157
per adult
Private Stone Town Cultural & Historical Walking Tour - Zanzibar
Picture 4 for Activity Zanzibar: Stone Town tour with Guide

Zanzibar: Stone Town Historical Cultural Walking Guided Tour

HK$196
per adult
Zanzibar: Stone Town Historical Cultural Walking Guided Tour
Zanzibar: Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank Tour with Lunch

Zanzibar: Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank Tour with Lunch

HK$431
per adult
76% of travellers recommend
Zanzibar: Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank Tour with Lunch
Zanzibar: Transparent Kayak and Drone

Zanzibar: Transparent Kayak and Drone (with Pickup Included)

HK$357
per adult
Zanzibar: Transparent Kayak and Drone (with Pickup Included)
Stone Town Private Walking Tour

Stone Town Private Walking Tour

HK$196
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Stone Town Private Walking Tour
St, Joseph Charch

Stone Town Private Tour with Slave Market Tickets

HK$235
per adult
Stone Town Private Tour with Slave Market Tickets
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Top places to visit

1. 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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A historical building with a sign reading "East Africa Slave Trade Exhibit".

2. 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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A coastal town with a marina filled with various boats, a promenade with people, and lush greenery.

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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An amphitheater surrounded by historic buildings and palm trees.

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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A historic building with a beige facade, arched windows, and a cross on top.

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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A historical building with a balcony, columns, and a sign reading "Makumbusho Kuu Beit El Aajab National Museum".

What to do in Zanzibar Town

Stay near popular Zanzibar Town attractions

A historical building with a sign reading "East Africa Slave Trade Exhibit".

Slave Market

8.6/10 (487 reviews)
An Anglican cathedral now stands on this site where slaves once suffered before being sold into harsh servitude.
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Where to stay in Zanzibar Town

Find the best Zanzibar Town areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Zanzibar Town
Learn more about Zanzibar Town
A historic building with a large wooden sign, palm trees, and a scooter parked in front.

Stone Town

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 House of Wonders.

A tropical beach with clear turquoise waters, a thatched-roof hut, and a pier extending into the sea.

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.

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