A week is enough time to properly split between Zanzibar's two very different sides: the history and food of Stone Town, and the white sand and turquoise water of the north and east coast beaches. This itinerary keeps travel time low by grouping days geographically, so you're not backtracking across the island.
Days 1–2 · Stone Town
Land at Zanzibar's airport and settle into Stone Town first — it's a short transfer and the jet lag-friendly way to start. Spend the first afternoon wandering the old town's alleyways, then catch the Forodhani Gardens night food market for dinner. On day two, take a walking tour that covers the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and the narrow lanes lined with carved wooden doors, then book a half-day spice tour on the edge of town — Zanzibar's spice plantations are the reason it was once called the Spice Island.
Day 3 · Prison Island & the harbour
A short boat ride from Stone Town gets you to Prison Island (Changuu), home to giant tortoises brought over from the Seychelles in the 19th century, plus decent snorkeling just offshore. Head back into town for a sunset dhow cruise along the harbour before your final Stone Town dinner.
Days 4–5 · North coast (Nungwi or Kendwa)
Transfer north — about an hour by road — to Nungwi or Kendwa, Zanzibar's two most popular beach towns. The water here is calmer and clearer than the east coast, and it's the better base for diving, kitesurfing, or just doing nothing at all. Nungwi has more restaurants and a livelier evening scene; Kendwa is quieter and known for its sunset views.
Days 6–7 · East coast (Paje or Jambiani)
Move to the east coast for a change of pace — this stretch has some of the best sand on the island and a laid-back, less built-up feel than the north. Paje is the kitesurfing hub if you want to try it; Jambiani is quieter and better for just relaxing before your flight out. Both make an easy final stop, since flights typically depart from Zanzibar's main airport near Stone Town.
Getting between the coasts
Most transfers on the island run 45 minutes to 1.5 hours by private car or shared shuttle. Book transfers a day ahead through your accommodation rather than trying to arrange them on arrival — it's cheaper and far less stressful than negotiating at the airport.
If you only have 5 days
Cut Stone Town down to one full day and pick just one beach base — north or east, not both. Trying to see both coasts in under a week usually means more time in transfers than on the sand.