Things to do in Zanzibar Town

Activities, attractions and tours

House of Wonders
Forodhani Gardens
Old Fort
House of Wonders
Old Fort
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

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.
Learn more
Slave Market

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.
Learn more
Forodhani Gardens

3. 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.
Learn more
House of Wonders

4. 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.
Learn more
Old Fort

5. 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.
Learn more
Anglican Cathedral showing heritage elements

What to do in Zanzibar Town

Popular places to visit

Slave Market

Slave Market

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

Slave Market
Stone Town is a great place to roam and see a side of Africa that is seldom seen. A place where cultures have mixed and co-exist. It is somewhat in decay and not very well kept, but it is extremely interesting to visit the sights and experience Stone Town while looking for souvenirs and just observing the Swahili culture and Zanzibar architecture. Amazing sunsets by the harbour! #GoldenHour #blue

Shangani Beach

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

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

Forodhani Gardens
House of Wonders

House of Wonders

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
Old Fort

Old Fort

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 showing heritage elements

Christ Church Cathedral

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

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

Malindi Mosque

Malindi Mosque is just one of the places to see in Zanzibar Town, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the shops in the area.

Malindi Mosque

Hamamni Persian Baths

Learn about the local history of Zanzibar Town when you take a trip to Hamamni Persian Baths. Stroll along the seaside or visit the shops in the area.

Hamamni Persian Baths

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 House of Wonders.

Stone Town

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

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.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia