Stone Town hotels in Zanzibar Town

Top reasons to visit Stone Town

• Historic Architecture: Stone Town is renowned for its stunning architecture, featuring narrow streets, intricate wooden doors, and a rich blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences.
• Vibrant Markets: Explore bustling local markets where you can experience the lively atmosphere and sample delicious street food, spices, and handmade crafts.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture through theatre performances, art galleries, and historical museums that showcase the region's heritage.
• Idyllic Beaches: Relax on nearby picturesque beaches, perfect for sunbathing and enjoying water sports.
• Welcoming Atmosphere: The friendly locals and enchanting surroundings create a warm, inviting environment for families and solo travellers alike.

Find great hotels in and around Stone Town

Discover the charm of Stone Town with a variety of accommodation options tailored to every traveler's needs. From luxurious stays at Park Hyatt to the cosy atmosphere of Seafarers Loft, you'll find the perfect base for your beach getaway or family adventure. Enjoy the unique blend of culture and comfort in hotels and bed and breakfast establishments, ensuring a memorable vacation experience in this historic enclave of Zanzibar.

• Tembo House Hotel: Nestled in the heart of Stone Town, Tembo House Hotel is a charming 4-star establishment that offers a unique hot spring-themed experience. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this family-friendly hotel is ideal for those seeking a beach getaway. Guests can enjoy direct access to the sandy shores, along with amenities such as a nearby natural hot spring. For families, the hotel provides a variety of children's activities, including an arcade game room and a foosball table, ensuring a fun-filled stay for younger guests.
• Paradise Beach Resort: Located 26km from Stone Town, Paradise Beach Resort is a delightful 3-star hotel that caters to families and adventure seekers alike. With its direct beach access, guests can immerse themselves in a variety of water sports, including snorkelling, horse riding, and windsurfing, either onsite or nearby. The resort also features a children’s club and babysitting services, making it an excellent choice for families. The blend of relaxation and adventure makes this resort a versatile option for your holiday.
• Turaco Spice Tree, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel: This 4-star hotel, rated 8.8 out of 10, is a standout choice in Stone Town, boasting a beautiful beachfront location. Turaco Spice Tree is tailored for families, offering both comfort and convenience. The hotel includes essential amenities for children, such as in-room babysitting services and safety features like window guards. Guests can enjoy a relaxing stay while being close to the vibrant culture and history of Stone Town, making it a wonderful base for exploration.

Where to stay near Stone Town

Stone Town, a captivating neighbourhood in Zanzibar Town, offers a rich tapestry of historical and cultural experiences. Wander through its narrow streets lined with charming architecture, explore bustling trading towns, and relax on nearby idyllic beaches. The atmosphere here is a delightful blend of the romantic and the friendly, making it perfect for families or solo adventurers alike. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the unique vibes of this enchanting region.

• Zanzibar Town: Nestled on the western coast of the stunning Zanzibar Island, Zanzibar Town is a vibrant city that serves as the heart of the region. Home to the historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the area is a treasure trove of culture and history. Visitors are drawn here for its beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and family-friendly experiences. The bustling markets, traditional dhow boats, and the iconic Forodhani Gardens, where locals gather for evening food stalls, add to the lively atmosphere. Accessible theatre and water sports options ensure that there's always something to do, making Zanzibar Town an essential stop on your journey.
• Bububu: A charming city located a mere 8km from Stone Town, Bububu offers a serene escape with its stunning beaches and rich cultural experiences. Renowned for its beautiful sunsets, this area is perfect for those looking to relax and soak up the local culture. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from exciting water sports to leisurely beach strolls. The local theatre provides a glimpse into the vibrant arts scene, while nearby monuments reflect the region's rich history. Bububu is a delightful destination for travellers seeking a blend of relaxation and cultural immersion.
• Kama: Situated 13km from Stone Town, Kama is a lively city that perfectly marries beach relaxation with cultural exploration. With an emphasis on entertainment, visitors can explore bustling public markets and take part in guided tours that unveil the area's history. The stunning beaches invite you to unwind, while historic forts and monuments nearby offer a glimpse into the past. The vibrant theatre scene adds a unique flair, making Kama an appealing choice for those looking to experience the local lifestyle while enjoying beautiful coastal views.

Things to do in Stone Town

Shopping

Close to the waterfront, the bustling Darajani Market offers vibrant local crafts and spices, while the elegant Stonetown Gallery showcases exquisite artwork. For a more contemporary experience, head to The Zanzibar Curio Shop, where unique souvenirs await to remind you of your visit.

Recreation

Discover the tranquil atmosphere of the Zanzibar Serena Hotel Spa, where you can indulge in traditional treatments and rejuvenating massages. Enjoy the serene surroundings and skilled therapists, ensuring a relaxing escape from daily life. Nearby, explore the vibrant local markets for an authentic taste of Stone Town's culture.

Adventure

Discover the rich history of Stone Town by exploring the Old Fort and the House of Wonders, both offering fascinating insights into Zanzibar’s culture. Wander through the narrow streets to find local markets and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, sampling street food and artisan crafts along the way.

Nightlife

In Stone Town, the nightlife buzzes with energy at venues like Tatu, where you can enjoy live music and vibrant cocktails. For a more laid-back evening, visit the Old Fort, which often hosts cultural performances under the stars, immersing you in the local atmosphere.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Stone Town

To save money on your trip to Stone Town, consider visiting during the off-peak months of April to May and November, as prices are generally lower. Booking your accommodation about a month in advance can yield the best rates, especially on Saturdays, which are the least expensive days. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and type, and look for last-minute deals to snag additional savings. Combining your hotel with flights and activities in a package can also lead to significant discounts, ensuring a more economical stay in this beautiful location.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Stone Town are April to May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Stone Town about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Stone Town is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Stone Town is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear at the top. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel reservations in Stone Town with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Stone Town

Stone Town, a charming destination in Zanzibar, is ideal for beach lovers and families seeking outdoor adventures. Its rich history and culture can be explored through various attractions, including historic sites, urban parks, and museums. Whether you wish to immerse yourself in the local culture or enjoy a family-friendly experience, Stone Town and the surrounding areas offer a plethora of engaging activities for every traveller.

• Forodhani Gardens: This urban park offers a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Situated by the waterfront, it transforms into a lively night market where you can savour local dishes, such as fresh seafood and Zanzibari specialities, while enjoying the beautiful sunset over the Indian Ocean.
• Slave Market: A significant historic site, the Slave Market provides a poignant insight into Zanzibar's dark past. Visitors can explore the site and learn about the history of the slave trade, fostering a deeper understanding of the island's cultural heritage.
• Old Fort: This historic fort, built in the late 17th century, showcases the rich cultural tapestry of Zanzibar. Visitors can wander through its walls, enjoy art exhibitions, and attend performances, making it a hub of cultural activity in Stone Town.

Best time to go to Stone Town

The best time to visit Stone Town can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Stone Town falls in March, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Stone Town falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	82.6°F (28.1°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	82.9°F (28.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	81.0°F (27.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
May	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	78.1°F (25.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	76.8°F (24.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	77.0°F (25.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
September	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	80.8°F (27.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
December	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Stone Town

Flying into Stone Town, Zanzibar, is convenient via Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ), situated 6km away. Notable hotels nearby include the 5-star Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel, which is 2km from the airport and offers a range of airport transport services. The Zanzibar Serena Hotel and Park Hyatt Zanzibar, both 8km away, provide various transportation options as well. For those considering DAR es Salaam (DAR), located 79km from Stone Town, the 5-star Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel and Hyatt Regency Dar Es Salaam are excellent choices, offering shuttle services. Pemba Island (PMA) is another option, 122km away, with nearby accommodations like Fundu Lagoon.