Zanzibar Travel Guide
Stone Town, Zanzibar: Sights & Tips for the Old Town
By Haji, your local · updated on 09.10.2026 · 6 min read
Part of our complete Zanzibar travel guideStone Town is the old town of Zanzibar City and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000: a labyrinth of narrow alleys, carved wooden doors, markets and history between Arabia, India, Africa and Europe. One day is enough for the main sights, but one to two nights are nicer, so you can experience the city in the morning and in the evening too.
The key sights
- The carved wooden doors – each tells of the origin and status of its builders.
- The former slave market with the Anglican cathedral and memorial.
- Darajani Market with spices, fruit and fish.
- The Forodhani Gardens with the night market by the harbour.
- The Old Fort by the sea.
- Freddie Mercury's birthplace.
More background is provided by Zanzibar: History & Culture and the overview of Zanzibar Sights.
How much time do you need?
For a first impression, half a day with a guide is enough. If you really want to feel the old town, stay one to two nights: early in the morning, when the alleys are still empty, and in the evening at the night market. The most convenient way to combine the old town with a spice farm is Stone Town & Spice Farm. The boats to Prison Island & Nakupenda also start from here.
Safety and clothing
During the day Stone Town is easy to explore; at night you are better off staying on busy routes. Stone Town has a Muslim character: covered shoulders and knees are respectful. Everything else in Is Zanzibar Safe?.
Getting there and location
Stone Town is only about 15–20 minutes from the airport and is perfect for the first or last night of your trip. You book the transfer separately: Zanzibar airport transfer.
Stone Town plus beach – in which order? I will plan the right route for you for free.
Frequently asked questions
What must you have seen in Stone Town?+
The carved doors, the former slave market with the cathedral, Darajani Market, the Forodhani Gardens with the night market, the Old Fort and Freddie Mercury's birthplace.
How many days do you need in Stone Town?+
One day is enough for the highlights. One to two nights are worthwhile to experience the old town early in the morning and in the evening too.
Is Stone Town dangerous?+
Not during the day. In the evening you should stay on busy routes and avoid empty alleys. The German Federal Foreign Office advises particular caution in Stone Town.
How far is Stone Town from the airport?+
About 15 to 20 minutes by car.