Hotels in Stone Town

Unveiling the Enchantment of Stone Town: A Tapestry of Culture and History

Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Zanzibar, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and charm. Wander through its labyrinthine alleys, where the scent of spices fills the air and intricately carved doors tell stories of a bygone era. Key attractions include the historic Old Fort, the vibrant Darajani Market, and the hauntingly beautiful House of Wonders. Experience the rich Swahili culture through local cuisine and traditional music, all while soaking in stunning sunsets by the Indian Ocean. Stone Town is a romantic, off-the-beaten-path destination that promises unforgettable memories.

Discover great hotels in Stone Town

Stone Town offers a diverse range of accommodations, from quaint guesthouses to elegant boutique hotels. Many properties feature local architecture, vibrant decor, and easy access to the bustling markets and historic sites. Enjoy the unique blend of culture and comfort while soaking in the island's rich heritage. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Stone Town:

1. Dreams Hotel ZanzibarOpens in a new window: Dreams Hotel Zanzibar is a charming 3.5-star hotel that caters to frequent travellers seeking a seamless business-themed vacation experience. This property features a range of services and facilities designed to enhance productivity and comfort, ensuring a smooth journey. With elegant architectural design and a variety of inviting spaces for meetings, it stands out as an excellent choice for professionals. Guests appreciate the thoughtful amenities that foster a conducive environment for work and relaxation.
2. Island Paradise ApartmentOpens in a new window: Island Paradise Apartment is a well-appointed 3.0-star hotel tailored for business travellers. This property offers a Business Centre and a selection of services that streamline the travel experience. The stylish interiors and comfortable accommodations provide an ideal setting for those balancing work and leisure. The hotel is lauded for its attention to detail, ensuring that guests can focus on their business objectives while enjoying a comfortable stay.
3. SafariTentalow: SafariTentalow is a unique lodging experience that immerses guests in the beauty of nature while providing a range of dining options. Guests can indulge in complimentary buffet breakfast and enjoy exhilarating activities like game drives and safaris right onsite. This property is perfect for adventure-seeking leisure travellers who appreciate the thrill of wildlife encounters and the charm of open-air dining. The serene atmosphere and connection to nature make it a popular choice among those seeking distinctive and memorable experiences.

Top locations to stay in Stone Town

Staying near the Slave Market, Forodhani Gardens, and Old Fort offers a vibrant experience in Stone Town, Zanzibar Town, Mjini Magharibi Region, Tanzania. The Slave Market is rich in history and culture, Forodhani Gardens provides a lively atmosphere with dining and entertainment, while the Old Fort showcases historical significance and art. For first-time visitors, staying near Forodhani Gardens is ideal for its lively ambiance and convenience.

1. Near Slave MarketOpens in a new window: Staying near the Slave Market immerses you in a rich tapestry of history and culture. This area is not just about remembrance but also offers a vibrant atmosphere with bustling markets and cultural experiences. You can enjoy a variety of shopping opportunities, explore enlightening historical sites, and dive into the local dining scene. Evening strolls often lead to lively performances, making it a fantastic spot for those who appreciate cultural entertainment.
2. Near Forodhani GardensOpens in a new window: Forodhani Gardens is a delightful place to stay near, especially for those who love a lively outdoor atmosphere. This waterfront area transforms in the evenings with a vibrant night market, where you can savour local dishes and enjoy the beautiful sunset views. The gardens also serve as a cultural hub, hosting events and performances that showcase the local talent, making your stay not just relaxing but also engaging.
3. Near Old FortOpens in a new window: Nestled near the Old Fort, you'll find yourself in a historically rich area that's perfect for exploration. The fort itself is a fantastic landmark, offering insights into the region's past. The surrounding area is filled with charming shops and galleries, ideal for those keen on art and crafts. Plus, the proximity to local cultural attractions provides a unique blend of history and creativity, making your stay memorable.

Things to do near Stone Town

Stone Town is a vibrant tapestry of rich heritage and lively atmosphere, where you can wander through bustling markets, savour local delicacies, and dance to the rhythms of live music. With its stunning coastal views and opportunities for boating and diving, it’s a delightful blend of relaxation and exploration.

• Shangani BeachOpens in a new window – Relax on the soft sands of Shangani Beach, where the gentle waves invite you for a refreshing swim. Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline as you soak in the stunning coastal views and watch local fishermen at work.
• Slave MarketOpens in a new window – Step into history at the Slave Market, a poignant site that tells the story of Zanzibar's dark past. Explore the exhibits that detail the slave trade and its impact on the region, gaining insight into the resilience of those who suffered.
• Forodhani GardensOpens in a new window – Spend an evening in Forodhani Gardens, where the vibrant night market comes alive. Savour delicious street food, from grilled seafood to Zanzibari pizzas, while enjoying the sea breeze and the lively atmosphere created by locals and tourists alike.
• Old FortOpens in a new window – Discover the Old Fort, a historic fortress that has stood for centuries. Wander through its ancient walls and enjoy local art exhibitions and performances that showcase the unique heritage of Zanzibar.
• Prison IslandOpens in a new window – Take a short boat trip to Prison Island, where you can explore the ruins of the old prison and meet the giant tortoises that have made this island their home. Enjoy snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters, teeming with colourful marine life.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Stone Town

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking to explore Stone Town on a budget, April, May, and November present the most affordable times to visit, when hotel prices tend to be lower. An ideal stay of at least 4 to 5 days allows you to fully immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the area. During your visit, you can enjoy shopping, take guided tours of historical sites, visit museums, savour local dining experiences, and indulge in lively entertainment, including dancing and live music. This timeframe offers great value for money, ensuring you make the most of your cultural adventure.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to Stone Town, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of finding special offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you're more likely to see flash sales and exclusive promotions. Additionally, utilise the Smart Shopping tool available in the app to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you stay informed about any price drops or availability changes for your preferred accommodations.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on various factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay in a hotel in Stone Town. For those in search of a distinctive experience, boutique hotels can offer a more personalised touch and occasionally better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we might suggest more affordable dates to enhance your chances of securing the best deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying nearer to key attractions or city centres can provide convenience, but it often comes with higher expenses. For more affordable options, you might consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you wish to visit. Additionally, you could explore independent hotels located further afield, as they are usually more likely to be affordable and can offer a more authentic experience.

Best time to go to Stone Town

Stone Town has a varied climate due to its size, so the best time to visit depends on the region and your preferences for weather and crowds. February, November, and December are the peak travel months in Stone Town, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by no to light rainfall. On the other hand, May, June, and August tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.