Stone Town Hotels, Zanzibar Town

Top reasons to visit Stone Town

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Stone Town is renowned for its rich history and architecture, showcasing a blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences.
• Vibrant Markets: Experience the bustling local markets where you can taste delicious street food and shop for unique handicrafts.
• Historic Landmarks: Explore iconic sites like the Old Fort, House of Wonders, and the Sultan's Palace that narrate Zanzibar’s storied past.
• Stunning Beaches: Relax on beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters and soft sands, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
• Cultural Experiences: Engage with local theatre performances, traditional music, and the warm hospitality of the locals.

Find great hotels in and around Stone Town

Discover the charm of Stone Town with a range of accommodation options, from inviting hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts. Whether you're seeking a beachfront getaway, family-friendly facilities, or a base for business travel, you'll find the perfect spot to unwind. Notable options include the Island Stone Town Hotel, Seafarers Loft, and the luxurious Park Hyatt, ensuring a memorable stay in this historic and vibrant destination.

• Tembo House Hotel: Nestled in the heart of Stone Town, this 4-star hotel is ideal for those seeking a unique blend of beachside relaxation and family-friendly amenities. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, Tembo House Hotel boasts direct access to the beach and features a nearby natural hot spring, adding a touch of relaxation to your stay. Families will appreciate the variety of services, including an arcade game room, a children’s pool, and a shared playground, ensuring that younger guests are entertained while adults unwind by the beach.
• Paradise Beach Resort: Located 25.7km from Stone Town, this 3-star resort is a haven for adventure seekers and families alike. Offering direct beach access, Paradise Beach Resort presents a wealth of recreational activities, from onsite snorkelling to nearby horse riding and fishing excursions. With a focus on family-friendly fun, the resort provides a children’s club and babysitting services, allowing parents to indulge in some well-deserved leisure time while ensuring their children are well cared for.
• Turaco Spice Tree, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel: This 4-star hotel, rated 8.8 out of 10, combines luxury with family-friendly offerings in the vibrant Stone Town. With direct beach access, Turaco Spice Tree is perfect for those wanting a serene coastal escape. Families can take advantage of amenities such as in-room babysitting services and a first aid kit for peace of mind. The hotel’s atmosphere is enhanced by its rich cultural influences, making it a delightful choice for travellers seeking both comfort and character.

Where to stay near Stone Town

Stone Town, Zanzibar offers a captivating blend of rich history and vibrant culture, perfect for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Explore the labyrinthine streets, where you'll discover charming trading towns and friendly locals. Nearby, the serene atmosphere invites relaxation and romance, making it an ideal getaway. Experience the essence of Zanzibar Town, from its historical sites to secluded beaches, ensuring an unforgettable vacation in this unique part of Tanzania.

• Zanzibar Town: As the vibrant heart of Zanzibar, Zanzibar Town is a bustling city where history and culture intertwine. Home to the ancient Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this area is characterised by its narrow winding streets, intricately carved doors, and rich Swahili architecture. Visitors flock here year-round for its stunning beaches, outdoor activities, and family-friendly experiences. From water sports to relaxing at local resorts, the city offers a plethora of attractions, including beautiful beaches and lush parks, making it an ideal base for exploring the magic of Zanzibar.
• Ng'ambo: Just 805m from the historic Stone Town, Ng'ambo presents a charming blend of culture and romance. This village captivates visitors with its laid-back atmosphere and cultural experiences. With a peak in tourist arrivals from December to February, it’s an excellent spot for those seeking a quieter beach experience while still being close to vibrant local life. Ng'ambo is dotted with theatres and historic sites, offering a glimpse into the island's fascinating past, making it a perfect destination for culture enthusiasts.
• Mwembeshauri: Located 1.1km from Stone Town, Mwembeshauri is a quaint village that provides a peaceful retreat for beach lovers. Although it is less frequented by tourists compared to its bustling neighbours, Mwembeshauri offers a serene escape with beautiful sandy shores. Ideal for those seeking a relaxing beach experience, visitors can enjoy sunbathing or swimming in the warm Indian Ocean. Its proximity to Stone Town allows for easy access to the rich cultural tapestry of Zanzibar while providing a tranquil atmosphere to unwind.

Things to do in Stone Town

Shopping

In Stone Town, visit the Darajani Market for a vibrant local shopping experience, offering spices, textiles, and handmade crafts. The Forodhani Gardens night market is ideal for sampling local street food and picking up unique souvenirs, all amidst the historical charm of the town.

Recreation

The Zenji Wellness Retreat offers rejuvenating spa treatments with traditional African therapies, set against a tranquil backdrop. Experience yoga sessions on the rooftop, providing stunning views of the Indian Ocean, while indulging in healthy, locally sourced cuisine to nourish both body and spirit.

At the Mtoni Marine Centre, unwind with beachside yoga classes and meditation sessions. Explore the coral reefs through snorkelling or diving excursions, immersing yourself in the vibrant marine life and natural beauty of Zanzibar, creating a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

The Spice Island Hotel offers holistic wellness experiences, including aromatherapy and massage treatments. Guests can join cooking classes featuring local spices, promoting health and well-being while enjoying the rich culinary heritage of Zanzibar in a serene environment.

Adventure

Explore the vibrant markets of Stone Town, where you can haggle for spices and handmade crafts. Discover the rich history at the Old Fort, and wander through the narrow streets filled with Swahili architecture. Enjoy sunset views from the Forodhani Gardens, a lively spot for local street food.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Forodhani Gardens, where you can enjoy local street food and live music. Visit the Old Fort for cultural performances, or unwind at the Tatu Restaurant for a relaxing atmosphere with cocktails and stunning views of the ocean.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Stone Town

For a budget-friendly trip to Stone Town, consider visiting during the low seasons of April to May and November when accommodation prices drop. Booking your hotel about a month in advance or checking Expedia for last-minute deals can also save you money. Saturdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Thursdays are pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter for eco-friendly hotels and package deals that combine accommodation, flights, and activities for additional savings. Lastly, explore local attractions on foot or use public transport to keep costs down.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Stone Town are April to May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Stone Town about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Stone Town is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Stone Town is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to choose your budget, preferred location, and other criteria. You can easily sort the results by price, displaying the most affordable hotels at the top. Additionally, you have the option to filter your search by hotel type—if you check the Eco-certified option, you'll find a selection of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some dollars by combining your Stone Town accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Stone Town

Stone Town is an ideal destination for beach and family vacations, offering a mix of historic sites, urban parks, and museums. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while exploring the vibrant streets of Zanzibar City and Stone Town. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or rich cultural experiences, this unique town has something for everyone to enjoy.

• Hamamni Persian Baths: Experience the serene ambiance of the Hamamni Persian Baths, a historic site that reflects Zanzibar's rich cultural heritage. This beautifully restored bathhouse invites visitors to appreciate its intricate architecture and learn about the traditional bathing customs that once thrived here.
• Malindi Mosque: Discover the Malindi Mosque, an architectural gem nestled in Stone Town, showcasing stunning coral stone craftsmanship. This mosque not only serves as a place of worship but also provides insight into the local Islamic culture and its historical significance.
• Shakti Temple: Visit the Shakti Temple, a vibrant testament to the Indian community in Zanzibar. Adorned with colourful motifs and intricate carvings, it offers a unique glimpse into the local spiritual practices and the cultural fusion that characterises the island.

Best time to go to Stone Town

The best time to visit Stone Town can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Stone Town falls in March, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Stone Town falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Stone Town

Flying into Stone Town, Zanzibar is convenient with Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) located 6.4km away. Notable hotels nearby include the 5-star Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel, just 1.6km from the airport, which offers a variety of transportation services, including a 24-hour airport shuttle. The Zanzibar Serena Hotel and Park Hyatt Zanzibar, both 8.0km from the airport, provide accessible transport options as well. Alternatively, you can fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam, situated 78.9km away, with nearby 5-star hotels such as Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel and Hyatt Regency Dar Es Salaam, both offering comprehensive airport transfer services.