Main Highlights

1. The Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe)

• Built in the late 1600s by the Omani Arabs to defend against the Portuguese, this thick stone structure is the oldest building in Stone Town.

• Today, it houses a cultural center with local art exhibitions, souvenir shops, and occasional live music or dance performances.

• The courtyard is often buzzing with activity, and it’s a great place to catch a glimpse of local talent and buy handcrafted items.

2. House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib)

• Once the ceremonial palace of Sultan Barghash, this grand building was the first in East Africa to have electricity and an elevator—hence the name “House of Wonders.”

• The architecture is striking, with massive doors and balconies, though it’s currently under renovation due to structural damage.

• When open, it hosts exhibits on Zanzibari culture, maritime history, and Swahili civilization.

3. Sultan’s Palace (Beit al-Sahel)

• Situated right on the seafront, this whitewashed building was home to Zanzibar’s sultans during the 19th century.

• Inside, the museum displays personal belongings of the sultans, royal furniture, and documents that reflect the grandeur and turmoil of Zanzibar’s royal past.

• Notably, you can learn about Princess Salme, a rebellious Zanzibari princess who eloped with a German merchant and wrote a fascinating memoir.

4. Freddie Mercury’s House

• Although not a formal museum, this building marks the birthplace and childhood home of rock legend Freddie Mercury.

• There’s a plaque outside, and some souvenir shops nearby capitalize on the Mercury connection, selling T-shirts and memorabilia.

• A brief stop here allows fans to reflect on the artist’s global legacy and his lesser-known roots in Zanzibar.

5. Darajani Market

• The bustling central market where locals shop daily. It’s chaotic, colorful, and full of life.

• The spice section is especially aromatic, filled with the scents of cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and more.

• You’ll also see tropical fruits, seafood, meat stalls, and household goods, giving you a taste of real Zanzibari daily life.

6. The Anglican Cathedral & Slave Market

• One of the most powerful and emotional sites in Stone Town. This cathedral was built by British missionaries in 1873 on the site of the old slave market.

• You can visit underground slave chambers, where men, women, and children were once held in horrific conditions.

• The altar of the church stands where the whipping post once was. A monument and museum nearby tell the story of Zanzibar’s dark past as a slave-trading hub.

7. Spice Shops & Local Bazaars

• Stone Town is known for its Spice Trade legacy, and walking through its alleys, you’ll find numerous shops selling local spices, oils, soaps, and perfumes.

• Engage with vendors who often offer mini spice tastings, and explain the traditional uses of spices in Zanzibari cuisine and medicine.

• Ideal for picking up authentic souvenirs and learning more about Zanzibar’s nickname: “The Spice Island.”