410 Hotels in Zanzibar City, Mjini-Magharibi (Zanzibar Urban/Wes

Where to stay

Hotels in Zanzibar City

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At a glance

Climate

Tropical

Languages

Swahili and English

Local currency

TZS (TZS)

Local time

21:15 (GMT+3)

Ideal trip length

4–10 days

Cost level

3 of 5 · our research

Suggested area to stay

Stone Town

Tap water

Bottled water recommended

Tipping

Appreciated for good service

What this place is for

History

95 · Outstanding

Culture

90 · Outstanding

Food

90 · Outstanding

Family 70 · Good

Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.

Food to try

Zanzibar Pizza Pilau Urojo Mishkaki

When to visit Zanzibar City

How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.

Best months: August Busiest: Jun-Oct, Dec-Feb

Jan

90

Hot & dry
Feb

85

Hot & dry
Mar

60

Hot, start rains
Apr

30

Heavy long rains
May

40

Heavy long rains
Jun

80

Warm & dry
Jul

90

Warm & dry
Aug

95

Warm & dry
Sept

90

Warm & dry
Oct

70

Warm, short rains
Nov

65

Warm, short rains
Dec

85

Hot & dry

90

Jan Hot & dry

85

Feb Hot & dry

60

Mar Hot, start rains

30

Apr Heavy long rains

40

May Heavy long rains

80

Jun Warm & dry

90

Jul Warm & dry

95

Aug Warm & dry

90

Sept Warm & dry

70

Oct Warm, short rains

65

Nov Warm, short rains

85

Dec Hot & dry

Things to do in Zanzibar City

7 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.

Best in the morning

4 places

Stone Town Walking Tour

Stone Town 3 hrs

Explore the labyrinthine alleys, historic buildings, and vibrant markets of a UNESCO site.

Outdoors Good for children

Spice Farm Tour

Central Zanzibar 2.5 hrs

Discover the island's rich history as a spice trade hub and taste fresh spices.

Outdoors Good for children

Prison Island Tour

Changuu Island 4 hrs

Visit giant tortoises and relax on a beautiful beach with snorkeling opportunities.

Outdoors Good for children

Jozani Forest Red Colobus Monkeys

Jozani 2 hrs

Observe the rare red colobus monkeys in their natural habitat.

Outdoors Good for children

Best in the evening

2 places

Sunset Dhow Cruise

Stone Town Coast 2 hrs

Enjoy a traditional dhow boat ride with stunning sunset views over the Indian Ocean.

Outdoors Good for children

Forodhani Gardens Night Market

Stone Town 3 hrs

Savor local street food, fresh seafood, and vibrant atmosphere as the sun sets.

Outdoors Good for children

Any time of day

1 place

House of Wonders

Stone Town 1.5 hrs

Admire the largest and tallest building in Stone Town, a historic sultan's palace.

Indoors Good for children

Zanzibar City itineraries

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First-timer highlights

3 Days in Zanzibar City — First-Timer Highlights

Uncover the magic of Stone Town, pristine beaches, and unique wildlife on this unforgettable island escape.

This itinerary is crafted for first-time visitors eager to experience the essential highlights of Zanzibar City and its surroundings. Dive into the rich history of Stone Town, explore vibrant markets, encounter unique wildlife, and relax on stunning beaches, all while savoring the island's distinctive culture and cuisine.

3 Days 14 Stops

See the full plan