Search Hotels in Stone Town, Zanzibar Town

Top reasons to visit Stone Town

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Stone Town is recognised for its historical significance, with a unique blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences.
• Bustling Markets: Explore vibrant markets filled with local goods, spices, and handcrafted souvenirs, offering a taste of the local culture.
• Stunning Architecture: The town's intricate buildings and narrow alleys showcase its rich trading past and architectural charm.
• Beautiful Beaches: Relax on nearby serene beaches, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
• Local Cuisine: Savour delicious Zanzibari dishes at local eateries, providing a true taste of the island's culinary heritage.

Find great hotels in and around Stone Town

Discover the charm of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveller. From luxurious hotels like Park Hyatt to quaint bed and breakfasts, you’ll find the perfect base for your adventure. Whether you seek family-friendly amenities, business facilities, or a serene beach experience, Stone Town offers a delightful mix of lodging choices, including the unique Seafarers Loft and island-inspired hotels to enhance your stay.

• Tembo House Hotel: Set in the heart of Stone Town, the 4-star Tembo House Hotel offers a delightful blend of beachside relaxation and family-friendly amenities. With a commendable guest rating of 8.6, this property features direct access to the beach, allowing guests to enjoy sun-soaked days by the sea. Families will appreciate the variety of children's amenities including a foosball table, shared playground, and an arcade game room, ensuring the little ones are entertained. Additionally, the nearby natural hot spring offers a unique experience for those looking to unwind in soothing waters.
• Paradise Beach Resort: Located 26km from Stone Town, the 3-star Paradise Beach Resort is ideal for families and adventure seekers alike. With direct beach access, guests can indulge in various water sports, including snorkelling and fishing, or explore the surrounding area with horse riding and boat tours. The resort offers ample facilities for children, such as a dedicated children's pool and babysitting services, making it a suitable choice for families looking to combine relaxation with adventure.
• Turaco Spice Tree, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel: This 4-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.8 and is situated in the vibrant Stone Town area. Turaco Spice Tree is perfect for families seeking a beach getaway, offering direct access to the sandy shores. Children are well catered for with in-room babysitting services and safety features like window guards. The hotel’s serene atmosphere, combined with its proximity to local attractions, makes it an excellent choice for those wanting to explore the cultural richness of Zanzibar while enjoying a comfortable stay.

Where to stay near Stone Town

Stone Town, a vibrant neighbourhood in Zanzibar Town, offers a unique blend of historical charm and cultural richness. Explore the bustling markets and intricate architecture that tell tales of a rich trading past. Nearby, the serene beaches invite relaxation, while the friendly locals enhance the welcoming atmosphere. Don't miss the enchanting sunsets and romantic strolls through the narrow alleys, making Stone Town a perfect destination for family vacations and adventurous souls alike.

• Zanzibar Town: Zanzibar Town serves as the cultural and historical heart of the island, with Stone Town nestled within its bounds. This vibrant city offers a delightful blend of beach experiences, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly activities. Visitors can indulge in resort life or enjoy thrilling water sports. The town’s attractions include beautiful beaches, lush parks, and historic landmarks that reflect its rich heritage. Peak travel seasons in January to February and July bring a lively atmosphere, making it an ideal time for exploration.
• Ng'ambo: A charming village located a mere 805m from Stone Town, Ng'ambo is known for its cultural richness and romantic ambience. The village welcomes visitors seeking beach relaxation and cultural experiences. The peak travel season from December to February sees an influx of tourists, eager to enjoy the local theatre and explore historic sites. With its inviting beaches and significant historical places, Ng'ambo offers a unique experience that beautifully complements a visit to the more bustling Stone Town.
• Mwembeshauri: Situated 1km away from Stone Town, Mwembeshauri is another quaint village that promises a peaceful retreat. This area is popular for its stunning beaches, providing a serene environment for relaxation. Although it attracts visitors year-round, the peak travel periods in December to February offer ideal weather for beach activities. Mwembeshauri's laid-back charm and proximity to Stone Town make it a perfect spot for those looking to unwind while still being close to the vibrant heart of Zanzibar.

Things to do in Stone Town

Shopping

In Stone Town, visit the vibrant Darajani Market, renowned for its local produce, spices, and handcrafted souvenirs. For a more curated shopping experience, explore the Old Fort, where artisans showcase unique crafts and traditional textiles, making it an ideal spot for memorable gifts.

Recreation

In Stone Town, indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the serene Spa Zuri, where traditional techniques meet modern wellness. Explore the tranquil surroundings of the Zanzibar Serena Hotel’s spa, offering holistic therapies and soothing massages, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Adventure

Explore the narrow alleys of Stone Town, discovering vibrant markets and historic architecture. Visit the Old Fort for captivating views of the ocean and local art exhibitions. Sample local cuisine at the Forodhani Gardens night market for an authentic taste of Zanzibar's street food culture.

Nightlife

In Stone Town, the Livingstone Beach Restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music and stunning ocean views. Meanwhile, Tatu Restaurant serves delicious cocktails and a lively ambience, making it a popular spot for socialising after sunset. Don’t miss the bustling markets and street food stalls that come alive at night.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Stone Town

To save money on your trip to Stone Town, consider visiting during the off-peak months of April to May and November when prices are lower. Book your accommodation at least a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Saturdays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Thursdays are the most expensive. Use filters to find eco-friendly options and sort prices from lowest to highest for the best deals. Walking is a cost-effective way to explore the town, allowing you to enjoy its rich culture without the expense of public transport.

• 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: Book your hotel around Stone Town about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you wish to stay in. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save on costs by combining your hotel stay in Stone Town with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Stone Town

Stone Town offers a delightful mix of beach, outdoor, and family vacation experiences, with a rich array of attractions including historic sites, urban parks, and museums. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy family-friendly activities. Notable points of interest in and around Stone Town include the vibrant Zanzibar City and the enchanting streets of Stone Town itself, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and cultural enrichment.

• Forodhani Gardens: This vibrant urban park, located in the heart of Stone Town, offers a lively atmosphere where locals and tourists gather. Enjoy the sunset views, sample delicious street food from local vendors, and experience the community spirit of Zanzibar. The gardens are an ideal spot for relaxation amidst the bustling city life.
• Malindi Mosque: A significant cultural landmark, Malindi Mosque showcases exquisite Swahili architecture. Visitors can admire its intricate details and learn about the rich Islamic heritage of Zanzibar. The mosque's serene environment provides a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the local culture.
• Shakti Temple: This beautifully adorned temple is a testament to the Indian community in Zanzibar. Its vibrant colours and intricate carvings reflect rich traditions and spirituality, making it a fascinating place to explore the diverse cultural tapestry of the island.

Best time to go to Stone Town

The best time to visit Stone Town is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	82.6°F (28.1°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	82.9°F (28.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	81.0°F (27.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
May	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	78.1°F (25.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	76.8°F (24.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	77.0°F (25.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
September	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	80.8°F (27.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
December	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Stone Town

Travelling to Stone Town is convenient with the major airport being Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ), located 6km away. Nearby hotels include the 5-star Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel, just 2km from the airport, offering free airport transportation and a 24-hour shuttle on request. The Zanzibar Serena Hotel and Park Hyatt Zanzibar, both 8km from ZNZ, also provide accessible shuttle services. For those considering DAR es Salaam's Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), situated 79km away, the Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel and Hyatt Regency Dar Es Salaam are excellent options, both offering 24-hour shuttle services to the airport.