If you find yourself with just a day and a half to uncover the treasures of Stone Town, Zanzibar, fear not! This whirlwind guide will help you make the most of your brief but enchanting stay on this historic island. With its spice-scented streets, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere, Stone Town promises a memorable experience.

Day 1: A Spice-Scented Welcome

1:00 PM – Check-in to Hotel and Quick Lunch at The Magical Secret Garden

Our adventure begins as we check in at the renowned Emerson Spice Hotel. Located in the heart of Stone Town, this charming boutique hotel offers comfortable accommodations and a glimpse into Zanzibar’s history. While we waited for our room to be ready, we indulged in a quick but delightful lunch at The Magical Secret Garden, part of Emerson Spice Hotel. Savoring the flavors of Zanzibari cuisine while surrounded by lush greenery and enchanting ambiance is a perfect start to our trip. The drinks and food are delicious; I could have stayed here all day!

3:00 PM – Spice Tour

Embarking on an aromatic journey through Zanzibar’s lush spice plantations, we spend from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM immersed in the world of cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and more. Engaging our senses, we touch, smell, and taste these spices right from the source. You can check out my detailed experience on the Spice Tour in my post “How I Became a Spice Girl in Stone Town.“

8:00 PM – Five-Course Seafood Dinner at Rooftop Emerson Tea House

As the day comes to a close, we ascend to the rooftop of Emerson Spice Hotel for a seafood extravaganza at the Emerson Tea House. Enjoying a five-course dinner with panoramic views of Stone Town under the starry night sky is a memorable experience.

Day 2: A Day of Discovery

8:00 AM – Breakfast and Walking Tour through Stone Town

Savoring a delicious breakfast at Emerson Spice Hotel, we take to the streets of Stone Town on a self-guided walking tour. Wandering through narrow alleys lined with intricately carved doors, visiting historic sites like the House of Wonders and the Old Fort, we immerse ourselves in the city’s rich history and culture.

11:00 AM – Quick Shower before checking out

We stop back at the hotel to freshen up before checking out. Since our flight doesn’t leave until 10 pm, the hotel kindly holds our bags, allowing us to explore Stone Town with ease.

12:00 PM – Last-Minute Explorations AND Lunch

Heading to local markets to pick up souvenirs, spices, and immersing ourselves in the bustling atmosphere of this historic town adds to our adventure.

5:30 PM – Dinner at Forodhani Gardens

We enjoy our final hours in Stone Town at Forodhani Gardens for a mouthwatering dinner experience, sampling street food delights, including the famous Zanzibar shawarmas, amidst the vibrant atmosphere of this popular waterfront market. (Jeremy had already been here the previous day while I went to the spice tour)

7:00 PM – Departure to the Airport

As the day draws to a close, we pick up our bags from Emerson Hotel bellhop and catch a cab to the airport at 7:00 PM for our 10:00 PM flight. Bid farewell to Stone Town, leaving with cherished memories of our brief but unforgettable journey.

Eating Dinner at Forodhani Gardens:

Every night after sunset, a wonderful street food market appears along the waterfront at Forodhani Gardens. You will find rows and rows of street food vendors eager to sell you their best dishes, including BBQ Seafoods, Schwarmas, juices, fruits, and Zanzibar pizza. Don’t fall for the first one trying to drag you over to their table. Look for the places with lots of locals, usually found furthest from the road and entrances. We tried a little bit of everything at these stalls, and to be honest, the best things were the shawarmas and Sugar Cane Juice (with ginger and lime). Some of the items have prices already listed like Schwarma’s and Zanzibar pizza. Schwarma is 3500 TZS (~$1.5) and Zanzibar pizzas are around 10000 TZS ($4). Everything is also negotiable within reason, of course. Jeremy ended up eating shawarmas most of the time we were in Stone Town because they were tasty and cheap. I absolutely think the night market is worth a visit, at least for a night.

Eating at Emerson Tea House:

The Emerson Tea House is a culinary gem offering a unique dining experience with stunning rooftop views. The tea house, which offers drinks, tea, and delicious Swahili cuisine, has 360 degrees of the city. It’s a traditional sit on the floor with comfortable Arabian-style cushions type of restaurant and is the perfect place to enjoy a sundowner. Dinner at the Tea House was included in our Room Rate (as hotel guests), but the à la carte cost for lunch tasting is $15, and $30 for the dinner tasting is well-worth it! Dinner here is a full-on cultural and culinary experience not to be missed. The views are stunning, the set menu is delicious, and the service is attentive and educational.

Is Stone Town Safe to Walk?

Stone Town is generally safe to explore on foot. While you may encounter individuals offering tours and souvenirs, a polite decline is usually sufficient. Haggling is common in markets, so feel free to negotiate prices.

Walking Tour through Stone Town:

Walking around Zanzibar’s famous Stone Town is an architectural delight. Stone town is the historic quarter where you can wander for hours through a maze of narrow streets, easily losing yourself in centuries of history. Don’t forget to admire the intricately carved wooden doors.

Do Girls Have to Cover Up?

Stone Town observes Muslim traditions, so it’s respectful to wear longer clothing that covers the knees and shoulders. While it’s not mandatory, it’s appreciated, and awkward stares may be avoided. Check out my post “What NOT To Wear in Stone Town, Zanzibar” for more details.

Spice Tour:

Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island, so a tour of a local spice farm is something you should not miss! Learning all about the spices was something I enjoyed way more than I was expecting to! Check out my detailed experience on the Spice Tour in my post “How I Became a Spice Girl in Stone Town.“

Where to Stay in Stone Town:

Stone Town, the capital of Zanzibar, offers accommodation for every type of traveler. While it’s not your typical beach getaway spot with palm trees and serene beaches, it’s a hub of culture and history, making it a must-visit for a day or two. After our week in the beachy Nungwi, we spent a fantastic day exploring Stone Town’s rich heritage.

Here are my top picks for hotels in Stone Town, catering to all budgets:

1. Budget-Friendly: Spice Palace Hotel or The Seyyida Hotel and Spa – For those watching their wallets but still wanting comfort and convenience, these hotels are a great pick. With clean, cozy rooms and a friendly atmosphere, it’s a steal at around $40-$60 per night. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on experiencing the vibrant life of Stone Town.
2. Mid-Range (Our Pick!): Emerson Spice Hotel – This was our home in Stone Town, and we couldn’t have been happier. Brimming with historic character and nestled right in the heart of the city, it’s an ideal base for exploring. The rooms are beautifully decorated, reflecting the rich culture of Zanzibar. Expect to pay between $100-$200 per night for this slice of history.
3. Luxury: Park Hyatt Stone Town – For those who love the finer things in life, the Park Hyatt is the epitome of luxury in Stone Town. Combining traditional elegance with modern luxury, this hotel offers an unrivaled experience. Within walking distance to all major attractions, it’s perfect for those willing to splurge around $400-$500 per night for an upscale experience.

Remember, Stone Town is more about the rich cultural and historical experience than beachside relaxation, so choose a place that lets you immerse in its unique atmosphere!