Stone Town is just a fraction of the whole of Zanzibar City, the capital of Zanzibar. While Stone Town is the main historic area, Zanzibar City boasts modern buildings, shops, restaurants, beach resorts, and international offices.
You may be surprised by the fantastic beach experiences you can find not far from the city center. There are many high-quality resorts with reasonable prices located just a 10-minute drive from Stone Town. Or you could spend a day at the pool in places like Zanzibar Beach Resort or the Mbweni Ruins, even if you’re staying elsewhere.
Some of the best-known neighborhoods of Zanzibar City are: Chukwani, near to the airport; Mbweni, with beautiful beaches; Mlandege, with big offices and modern buildings; and Bububu, with busy local life and great beaches.
Main Historical Sites in Zanzibar City
In addition to lush gardens, ocean views, and easy access to Stone Town, Zanzibar City is home to many palace ruins. The most well-known palaces are Mbweni, Mtoni, and Maruhubi. The old palace of Princess Salme, now called Salme Gardens, is less known, but beautifully restored.
Tours from Zanzibar City
All tours can be paid and booked online. Full refund before 24 hours and always free rescheduling.
Stone Town Tour
A walking tour through the past and present of Stone Town. This atmospheric and mystical town is the cultural and historical heart of Zanzibar.
2.5 Hours • Private Tour • From $50
Spice Tour
A Zanzibar classic! Get familiar with spices, herbs, and exotic fruits. The Spice Tour is one of our most popular excursions in Zanzibar, the Spice Island.
3 Hours • Private Tour • From $45
Zesty Zanzibar
This favorite tour includes a visit to a local organic spice farm and a walk through a nearby village. Learn about local life and try your hand at traditional cooking.
3.5 Hours • Private Tour • From $45
Culinary Stone Town
Savor local treats, including a full lunch, while learning about Stone Town and daily life in Zanzibar.
2.5 Hours • Private Tour • From $45
Zanzibar Music and Art Tour
Meet painters, carpenters, henna artists, and musicians as we unlock the cultural, historic, and musical secrets of Stone Town and beyond.
4 Hours • Private Tour • From $80
Jozani Forest
Jozani Forest is best known for its red colobus monkeys. Let’s follow in their footsteps and walk across a mangrove boardwalk.
3 Hours • Private Tour • From $50
Zanzibar Full-Day Cruise
This magical journey will take you on an exploration of the Indian Ocean from Fumba fishing village to the Menai Bay conservation area.
6 Hours • Private Tour • From $130
Prison Island
This boat trip will take you to the historic Prison Island. See the island’s giant tortoises and snorkel in the surrounding corals.
3 Hours • Private Tour • From $50
Chumbe Island
Chumbe Island is one of the best snorkeling and nature spots in Zanzibar. This tour is a bit of luxury, with a delicious three-course meal after your snorkel in the protected Chumbe marine park.
8 Hours • Private Tour • From $140
Hotels in Zanzibar Urban Area
All reservations made through us are the same price as you would get directly form the hotel – no booking fee added.
Mbweni Ruins Hotel
This beach resort is build next to Mbweni Palace ruins. The environment is very relaxing.
Price: High-end
Zanzibar Beach Resort
This hotel is very near to town, but feels like far away. Great pool area for day visits!
Price: Mid-range
Maruhubi Beach Villas
Maruhubi offers affordable prices near to town with good facilities – like terraces and a swimming pool.
Price: Mid-range / Budget