Things to Do in Stone Town: The Complete Guide to Zanzibar's Historic Centre

Stone Town: the historic heart of Zanzibar
For over a thousand years, Stone Town has been one of the busiest ports on the Indian Ocean — and you feel it the moment you start walking its narrow, winding streets. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is the city where African, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences meet at every corner, every carved wooden door, every whiff of spices drifting out of the markets. If you're planning a trip to Zanzibar in 2027, figuring out things to do in Stone Town is step one — because going to Zanzibar and staying only on the beach means missing half the experience.

The Sultan's Palace and the House of Wonders
Two of Stone Town's most iconic landmarks sit side by side along the waterfront: the Sultan's Palace, former residence of the Al-Said dynasty and now a museum, and the House of Wonders, one of the first buildings in the territory to have electricity and an elevator, instantly recognizable by its huge wooden verandas. Together, without needing many words, they tell the story of wealth and power that made Zanzibar one of the Indian Ocean's most important trading hubs.

The Old Fort and the former slave market
The Old Fort, built by the Omanis in the 17th century, is today a cultural space with craft shops and live performances — but its history, like that of the former slave market that also shaped the city, is an essential part of understanding Stone Town beyond the postcard version. It's worth setting aside time for that heavier layer of the visit, not just the pretty one.

Darajani Market: color, scent, and haggling
Darajani Market is the commercial heart of Stone Town — spices, fresh fruit, the day's catch, and local crafts, all on display, all within haggling distance (which here is common and expected practice, not rudeness). It's also the best place to understand why Zanzibar is still known today as the Spice Island.

Getting lost — literally — in Stone Town's streets
Stone Town's streets are narrow, winding, and deliberately confusing — they were designed that way, centuries ago, as a natural defence. The best way to experience them is to get a little lost on purpose, on foot, without rushing. For those who'd rather not risk it, there are always taxis, local buses, bicycles — or a local guide, who brings not just directions but also the stories you won't find written down anywhere.

What to eat in Stone Town
The local food scene deserves its own chapter: pilau (spiced rice) and seafood biryani are the most representative dishes, usually served in small family-run restaurants or at the street food stalls by the Forodhani Gardens in the late afternoon — an experience just as essential as any landmark.

Where to stay: Stone Town or the beach?
Anyone who wants to really experience Stone Town — not just pass through it — should consider spending at least one night here, in one of the historic or boutique hotels housed in the city's old buildings. Most travellers then move on to the northern beaches (Nungwi, Kendwa) or the southeast (Paje, Jambiani, Pingwe) for the rest of their stay — and it's exactly that combination, city plus beach, that makes Zanzibar such a complete destination.

Before you go: what to wear and how to get around
As in any majority-Muslim city, it's worth dressing modestly, especially near mosques. Beyond that, Stone Town is a small, walkable city with no major physical demands — the main challenge is simply not getting lost in its streets, which, honestly, is part of the fun.

Add Stone Town to your 2027 itinerary
A full day in Stone Town is the minimum to take in the city without rushing — and the perfect complement to any beach-focused Zanzibar trip. We're already putting together itineraries for 2027: get in touch and we'll help you find the right balance between history and beach for your trip. Before you book, also check our guide Is Zanzibar Expensive? What a Trip Really Costs in 2027 to plan your budget.

More about Zanzibar, and about us
This trip is organised by Vamos Fugir, a travel agency licensed by Turismo de Portugal (RNAVT no. 4155). For more inspiration and photos of Zanzibar, also visit our dedicated destination site, zanzibar.pt. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more tips and updates.