Zanzibar City, Tanzania - Travel Guide
By MupDay - the planner that does the research for you.
Updated: 2026-08-16
Zanzibar City is the vibrant heart of Zanzibar Island, blending rich history, lively culture, and tropical beaches. Visit to experience the winding alleys of Stone Town, bustling markets, and unique Swahili heritage.
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Top things to do in Zanzibar City
The must-see places in Zanzibar City include Stone Town, The Rock Restaurant (Pongwe), Prison Island (Changuu Island), Forodhani Gardens, Jozani Forest (Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park) and more. Here is the full list, with a short note on each:
- Stone Town · Stone Town
A UNESCO World Heritage site with narrow alleys, historic markets, and unique Swahili-Arab architecture.
- The Rock Restaurant (Pongwe) · Pongwe
An iconic restaurant perched on a solitary rock in the ocean, a unique dining experience.
- Prison Island (Changuu Island) · Offshore
Historic island with a giant tortoise sanctuary and a beautiful beach for swimming and snorkeling.
- Forodhani Gardens · Stone Town
A beautiful waterfront park, famous for its lively night food market.
- Jozani Forest (Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park) · South Zanzibar
Home to rare red colobus monkeys, a mangrove forest, and local wildlife.
- Nakupenda Beach · Offshore
A beautiful sandbank that appears and disappears with the tides, perfect for swimming and picnics.
- Lukmaan Restaurant · Stone Town
A popular local restaurant serving traditional Swahili dishes at affordable prices.
- Spice Farm Tour · Rural Zanzibar
A sensory experience to discover the origins of Zanzibar's tropical spices.
- House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib) · Stone Town
The largest and tallest building in Stone Town, formerly a palace and now a museum of history and culture.
- Emerson on Hurumzi (Rooftop Tea House) · Stone Town
An upscale rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of Stone Town and stunning sunsets.
- Menai Bay Conservation Area
- The Peace Memorial Museum
- Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe) · Stone Town
An ancient 17th-century stone fort, now hosting markets, events, and a tourist information center.
- Darajani Market · Stone Town
Zanzibar's main market, offering an authentic experience of spices, seafood, and local produce.
- Old Slave Market
Frequently asked questions
What are the must-see places in Zanzibar City?
Stone Town, The Rock Restaurant (Pongwe), Prison Island (Changuu Island), Forodhani Gardens, Jozani Forest (Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park), Nakupenda Beach
When is the best time to visit Zanzibar City?
Any season works - MupDay plans around opening hours and the weather, and rebuilds your days as you add or remove places.
How do I plan an itinerary for Zanzibar City?
Pick places in MupDay and it auto-builds a day-by-day route with no zig-zag, weather-aware.
