8 Best Sights in Stone Town, Tanzania

A must-see in Stone town, this was the first Anglican cathedral in East Africa and its crucifix was carved from the tree under which explorer David Livingstone's heart was buried in the village of Chitambo. Built in 1887 to mark the end of the slave trade, the cathedral's high altar was constructed on the site of a whipping post. The moving and contemplative slave memorial and slave trade exhibit are sobering reminders of the ravages of slavery across East Africa and on the island. Nearby are underground chambers in which slaves were forced to crouch on stone shelves less than 2 feet high. It is recommended to take a guide with you as with such a poignant space you would want to get as much information as possible.

This gable-roofed structure, built in 1904 and also known as Estella Market, houses a sprawling fruit, fish, meat, and vegetable market. Goods of all sorts—colorful fabrics, wooden chests, and all types of jewelry—are sold in the shops that line the surrounding streets. To the east of the main building you'll find spices laid out in colorful displays of beige, yellow, and red. On Wednesday and Saturday there's an antiques fair. The market is most active in the morning between 9 and 11.

The scent of cloves hangs heavy in the air as stevedores load and unload sacks of the region's most valuable crops. Every day you'll spot dhows arriving from the mainland with deliveries of flour and other goods not available on the islands. Fishermen deposit their catch here early in the morning. This is a seedy area, so be cautious.

This pleasant waterfront park is a favorite spot for an evening stroll both for locals and tourists. Dozens of vendors sell grilled fish under the light of gas lanterns—not all the food is great, but the atmosphere is fantastic for a visit, especially during the evening hours.

Always try to smell the seafood before you eat it as some of it can be old, and don't be pressured by any of the vendors. You should look at everything before making your decisions.

Known as the House of Wonders, Beit el-Ajaib was the first building in Zanzibar to use electric lights, and this four-story palace is still one of the largest buildings in the city. Built in the late 1800s for Sultan Barghash, it was bombarded by the British in 1886, forcing the sultan to abdicate his throne. Due to a partial collapse in 2020, the palace is closed to the public though restoration efforts are underway. However, the building is still worth checking out for its architectural elements and historical significance.

With intricately carved wood balconies that make it resemble a wedding cake, this former dispensary shines again after being renovated by community groups. Built at the turn of the last century, it was donated to the city by an Indian merchant named Tharia Topan. Today it houses shops, galleries, and a small café. The views from the rooftop are lovely.

Built by the Portuguese in 1560, this bastioned fortress is the oldest structure in Stone Town. It withstood an attack from Arabs in 1754 and was later used as a jail; prisoners who were sentenced to death met their ends here. It has undergone extensive renovation and today is headquarters for many cultural organizations, including the famous Sauti za Busara and Mashariki Jazz and Folk music festival. There is also a craft market inside. Performances of traditional dance and music are sometimes staged during the week. Check the office and posters outside for details.

Built by French missionaries more than a century ago, this ornate church is based on the basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde, in Marseille, France. It's now one of the city's most recognizable landmarks, with twin spires that you'll see as you arrive in Stone Town. The front entrance is normally locked—head 'round the back to find a way in. If there are no private services on it is beautiful and serene to sit in for 10 minutes.