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Zanzibar City

Zanzibar City is the main city on the western coast of Zanzibar Island, known above all for Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Old coral stone buildings still stand there, and it's also known as the birthplace of Freddie Mercury.

Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Zanzibar City
Gateway airport
Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR)
Best season
Jun–Sep
Time zone
Africa/Dar_es_Salaam
Sights covered
14 places

Sights worth seeing

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House of Wonders

Attraction

House of Wonders

The largest and tallest building in Stone Town, Zanzibar, built as one of the palaces of the former Sultan Barghash bin Said. Standing on the waterfront facing Forodhani Gardens, it's regarded as one of Stone Town's signature landmarks.

Roman Catholic Diocese of Zanzibar

Temples & religious sites

Roman Catholic Diocese of Zanzibar

This Catholic diocese is based in Zanzibar City, Tanzania, and falls under the Archdiocese of Dar es Salaam. It offers a close look at the local Catholic faith community.

Malindi Mosque

Temples & religious sites

Malindi Mosque

Malindi Mosque is located near the harbor in Stone Town, Zanzibar. It's a modest landmark worth a stop while strolling through Stone Town.

Changuu Island

Nature

Changuu Island

A small island reachable by boat from Stone Town, once used as a prison to hold enslaved people, a painful chapter in its history. Visitors can explore these historical traces alongside clear waters.

St. Joseph's Cathedral, Zanzibar

Temples & religious sites

St. Joseph's Cathedral, Zanzibar

This Roman Catholic cathedral sits in the heart of Stone Town, Zanzibar, and ranks among the area's most notable historic buildings. It's a must-visit stop for anyone exploring Stone Town on foot.

Old Fort of Zanzibar

Heritage & monuments

Old Fort of Zanzibar

The oldest building on the waterfront of Stone Town, Zanzibar. Standing next to the House of Wonders and facing Forodhani Gardens, it's a natural stop on any walk through Stone Town.

Palace Museum

Museums & galleries

Palace Museum

A three-story building on the waterfront of Stone Town, Zanzibar, notable for its white walls with crenellated details. Located between the House of Wonders and the Old Dispensary, it's easy to visit alongside them on a Stone Town walk.

Bawe Island

Nature

Bawe Island

Bawe Island is a small island in the Zanzibar Channel, about 10 kilometers from Stone Town, Zanzibar. Its quiet, secluded atmosphere makes it a great place to relax.

How many days do you need?

Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.

Average temperature by month

5-year average

28° Jan
29° Feb
28° Mar
26° Apr
26° May
25° Jun
25° Jul
25° Aug
26° Sep
26° Oct
27° Nov
27° Dec

Getting there

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Getting around the city

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Zanzibar City Tours & Experiences Booking

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Local data

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Where to stay

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