Stone Town is the old quarter of Zanzibar City, a maze of narrow lanes, carved wooden doors, mosques, churches and markets. Its mix of Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian and European influences earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 2000. Most visitors spend one or two nights here before heading to the beach.
What to see
- The carved doors. Hundreds survive, some with brass studs and inscriptions from the Koran. Their style shows whether the owner had Arab or Indian roots.
- The old slave market and Anglican Cathedral. The cathedral was built on the site of East Africa’s last open slave market, closed in 1873. A memorial and exhibition tell the history.
- The House of Wonders (Beit al-Ajaib). Built for the sultan in 1883, it was the first building in East Africa with electricity and a lift. Part of it collapsed in 2020 and restoration is ongoing.
- The Old Fort. Built by the Omanis in the 1690s, now a cultural centre.
- Darajani Market. The busy main market for spices, fish, fruit and everyday goods.
- The Freddie Mercury house, where the Queen singer lived as a child. It is now a small museum.
Forodhani Gardens at sunset
Every evening, food stalls open in the waterfront gardens. Try grilled seafood, sugarcane juice and Zanzibar pizza, a thin folded pancake filled with egg, vegetables or meat, or with banana and chocolate.
How long to stay
One full day is enough for the main sights with a guide. Two nights let you add a spice tour or a boat trip to Prison Island.
Etiquette
- Dress modestly: cover shoulders and knees in town. Swimwear is for the beach only.
- Ask before photographing people.
- Respect prayer times and avoid entering mosques unless invited.
- During Ramadan, do not eat or drink in the street in daylight.
Getting around
Stone Town is best on foot, and the lanes are easy to get lost in. A local guide helps you understand the history and find hidden corners. Read is Zanzibar safe and see our Stone Town and beach trip.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a unique mix of cultures, and one or two nights is enough to see the highlights.
Clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Swimwear is for the beach only.
A street food from Forodhani Gardens: a thin dough folded around egg, vegetables, meat or cheese, or sweet fillings like banana and chocolate.
