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Get InspiredAfricaTanzaniaZanzibar UrbanwestZanzibar

Zanzibar

Zanzibar Urban/West, Tanzania
City·Historical, Cultural, Vibrant
Zanzibar
Photo by Humphrey M from Unsplash
Zanzibar
Photo by Med J from Unsplash
Zanzibar
Photo by Danai Tsoutreli from Unsplash
Zanzibar
Photo by Alexander Osipenko from Unsplash
Zanzibar
Photo by Crispin Jones from Unsplash
Zanzibar
Photo by Humphrey M from Unsplash
Zanzibar
Photo by Med J from Unsplash
Zanzibar
Photo by Danai Tsoutreli from Unsplash
Zanzibar
Photo by Alexander Osipenko from Unsplash
Zanzibar
Photo by Crispin Jones from Unsplash

Zanzibar City, the largest city on the island of Zanzibar, is a captivating destination that offers a blend of history and modernity. The city is divided into two main parts: Stone Town, the historical core and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Ng'ambo, a modern area that developed post-revolution. Visitors can explore the narrow streets of Stone Town, marvel at its unique architecture, and enjoy the vibrant local culture. Ng'ambo provides a contrast with its modern buildings and bustling atmosphere. Situated on the west coast of Unguja, Zanzibar City offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean and serves as a gateway to the rest of the Zanzibar Archipelago.

Zanzibar City, the largest city on the island of Zanzibar, is a captivating destination that offers a blend of history and modernity. The city is divided into two main parts: Stone Town, the historical core and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Ng'ambo, a modern area that developed post-revolution. Visitors can explore the narrow streets of Stone Town, marvel at its unique architecture, and enjoy the vibrant local culture. Ng'ambo provides a contrast with its modern buildings and bustling atmosphere. Situated on the west coast of Unguja, Zanzibar City offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean and serves as a gateway to the rest of the Zanzibar Archipelago.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site: Stone Town

  • Rich historical and cultural significance

  • Coastal city with beautiful ocean views

  • Blend of historic and modern architecture

  • Gateway to the Zanzibar Archipelago

Before you go: Zanzibar essentials

  • Close access to beautiful beaches and ocean activities.

  • Rich cultural heritage with Stone Town as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • A mix of historical and modern architecture.

Getting Around

Zanzibar City is best explored on foot, especially Stone Town with its narrow streets.

Local Cuisine

Try the local delicacies such as Zanzibar pizza and fresh seafood at the Forodhani Gardens night market.

Best For

History enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

Currency

TZS TSh

Average Cost

$50-$100 p/day

Languages Spoken

Swahili, English

Cultural Etiquette

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, to respect local customs.

Safety

Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and avoid walking alone at night.

Best time to visit Zanzibar

June-OctoberDecember-February

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit Zanzibar City with pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

Best Season

Summer

Summers are warm and humid, perfect for beach activities but expect larger crowds.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers mild weather and is ideal for exploring the city and its cultural sites.

Best Season

Winter

Winters are warm, making it a popular time for tourists; book accommodations in advance.

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Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

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Location

Zanzibar, Zanzibar Urban/West, Tanzania

Where to stay in Zanzibar

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Park Hyatt Zanzibar

4.6(1,6 K)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Polished, Calm, Historic Leaning
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Chuini Zanzibar Beach Lodge

4.2(281)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Serene, Lush, Secluded
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The Seyyida Hotel & Spa, Stone Town Zanzibar's Boutique Hotel

4.2(369)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Traditional, Historic, Central
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Upendo House - Stone Town

4.3(364)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Stylish, Intimate, Peaceful
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Balcony House Zanzibar

4.1(160)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Social, Central, Simple
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Hotel Verde Zanzibar - Azam Luxury Resort & Spa

4.6(2,2 K)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Polished, Calm, Upscale Leaning
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Golden Tulip Zanzibar Resort

4.1(1,1 K)
Zanzibar, Mkoa wa Mjini Magharibi
Relaxed, Airy, Coastal Leaning
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Zanzibar Beach Resort

4.0(1,3 K)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Casual, Tropical, Laid Back

Food & drink in Zanzibar

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Old Castle Zanzibar

4.5(102)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Elegant, Warm, Sophisticated
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Beach House Zanzibar

4.4(1,6 K)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Stunning, Buzzy, Upscale Leaning
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Archipelago Waterfront Cafe Zanzibar

4.4(662)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Welcoming, Scenic, Relaxed
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Sharazad The Door Restaurant & Cafe

4.5(103)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Charming, Cosy, Oasis Like
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Lukmaan Swahili Restaurant

4.2(5,6 K)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Casual, Lively, Welcoming
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The Box by Ashley.Maybe

4.8(140)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Lively, Welcoming, Social Leaning
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The 5th Restaurant

4.6(108)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Relaxed, Scenic, Airy
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Cape Town Fish Market Zanzibar

4.4(3,4 K)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Buzzy, Scenic, Casual Leaning

Things to do in Zanzibar

Zanzibar 1 Day Scuba Diving beginner course and Lunch
From $200

Zanzibar 1 Day Scuba Diving beginner course and Lunch

5.0(1)
Duration: 6h
Zanzibar
Full day in the protected Chumbe Island
From $200

Full day in the protected Chumbe Island

4.5(2)
Duration: 7h
Zanzibar
Mnemba Island Snorkeling & Dolphin Watching Tour in Zanzibar
From $47

Mnemba Island Snorkeling & Dolphin Watching Tour in Zanzibar

Duration: 5h
Zanzibar
Spice Farm Tour and Jozani Forest Private Tour in Zanzibar
From $75

Spice Farm Tour and Jozani Forest Private Tour in Zanzibar

4.0(2)
Duration: 7h
Zanzibar City
Luxury NAKUPENDA SANDBANK and SPICE FARM TOUR ( Lunch included )
From $165

Luxury NAKUPENDA SANDBANK and SPICE FARM TOUR ( Lunch included )

5.0(13)
Duration: 3h 45min
Zanzibar City
Luxury Starfish Adventure+ Blue Lagoon +Snorkeling + The rock restaurant
From $130

Luxury Starfish Adventure+ Blue Lagoon +Snorkeling + The rock restaurant

Duration: 9h
Zanzibar City
Authentic Street Food Tours in Stone Town, Zanzibar
From $40

Authentic Street Food Tours in Stone Town, Zanzibar

4.7(75)
Duration: 2h 30min
Zanzibar
Zanzibar Deep Sea Fishing & Local fishing.
From $301

Zanzibar Deep Sea Fishing & Local fishing.

3.8(13)
Duration: 6h
Zanzibar
Explore on Viator

Attractions in Zanzibar

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Place
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ZANZIBAR TOURS

4.9(303)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Informative, Engaging, Culturally Rich
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Zanziphoria | Zanzibar Tours

5.0(112)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Informative, Engaging, Local Focused
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

TO THE HILL KIDICHI SPICE FARM

4.9(284)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Educational, Immersive, Cultural
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Friendly Taxi & Tours

4.9(252)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Friendly, Personalized, Informative
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Lost & Found Hostel

4.3(223)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Colorful, Relaxed, Social
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Zanzibar Spice Community Shop

4.1(4,2 K)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Vibrant, Aromatic, Authentic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Gos tour in #zanzibar. Get your guide for slave market & Stone town city

4.4(526)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Sobering, Educational, Reflective
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The Forodhani of Zanzibar

4.4(879)
Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Lively, Authentic, Buzzy

Natural & historic sites near Zanzibar

Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park

Protected Area · Serene, Green, Natural, Educational