What to do
Stone Town Zanzibar: What to See and How Long to Spend
Why it is a World Heritage Site, what to see and how to plan a day.
By Luciano Baetz · Updated · 3 min read
Stone Town is the historic centre of Zanzibar City, listed by UNESCO. People searching for Stone Town Zanzibar usually want to know whether it is worth it and how long to allow: it is, and a day is enough. It lies on the west coast of the island, near the airport, and is the main cultural outing of a beach holiday.
Why is Stone Town a World Heritage Site?
UNESCO listed the town in 2000. For centuries it was a trading port on the Indian Ocean, and you can see it in the mix of Swahili, Arab, Indian and European influences in its architecture, from coral-stone houses to wooden balconies and large carved doors.
What to see in Stone Town
- The alleys: the best plan is to get lost on foot in the narrow streets, among old houses and shops.
- The carved doors: one of the town's symbols, in worked wood with metal details.
- Darajani Market: to see everyday local life, with fruit, fish and spices.
- Forodhani Gardens: on the waterfront, with food stalls at the end of the day.
- The Old Fort: an 18th-century stone building by the sea.
- The former slave market and Anglican cathedral: a site that recalls the island's slave-trade past, with great historical weight.
- Freddie Mercury's birthplace: the Queen singer was born in Stone Town, and the house is a popular stop.
- Other historic sites: check opening times, entry fees and the state of visits before you go, as some buildings may be under restoration.
A day in Stone Town
- Morning: arrive early, wander the alleys and Darajani Market before the heat.
- Midday: lunch on a terrace and a visit to the Old Fort or the former slave market.
- Late afternoon: sunset on the waterfront and dinner at Forodhani Gardens.
How long to allow
Half a day gives a first impression. With a full day you have time for the market, lunch and sunset by the sea. Transfers to Stone Town take one to two hours from the resorts in the north and on the east coast. Many hotels organise the excursion.
Tips
- Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered): it is a majority-Muslim town.
- Ask permission before photographing people.
- Bring comfortable shoes and water.
- Arrange a local guide through the hotel and confirm the price first.
For more ideas, see things to do in Zanzibar and choose your hotel under Zanzibar hotels.
