Zanzibar, the semi-autonomous Tanzanian archipelago in the Indian Ocean, has become one of the region's fastest-growing travel destinations, drawing an increasing number of European visitors. Improved flight connections, a growing selection of luxury resorts, and a reputation as a more affordable alternative to the Maldives or Mauritius are driving this trend.
The archipelago consists of two main islands, Unguja (commonly called Zanzibar) and Pemba, along with several smaller islets. It lies roughly 35 kilometres off the coast of Tanzania, across from the mainland city of Dar es Salaam.
Getting There from Europe
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), located about five kilometres south of Zanzibar City on Unguja, serves as the main gateway. Direct flights from Europe are available with airlines such as Air France, KLM, Edelweiss Air, and TUI fly. For indirect connections, travellers can use hubs like Istanbul, Doha, or Dubai via Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, or Emirates.
Italy is expanding access: Neos airline will operate a seasonal weekly service from Milan Malpensa to Zanzibar via Kilimanjaro from 14 July to 20 October. A significant development for UK holidaymakers is TUI's announcement of the first-ever direct flights from London Gatwick to Zanzibar as part of its winter 2027 programme. The twice-weekly service will run every Wednesday and Sunday from 3 November 2027 until 22 March 2028, offering a non-stop option for winter sun seekers.
Where to Stay
Accommodation ranges from boutique guesthouses in historic Stone Town to ultra-luxury beachfront resorts along the east and north coasts. According to Tripadvisor rankings, popular choices include the all-inclusive Meliá Zanzibar, the upscale The Mora Zanzibar, and TUI BLUE Bahari Zanzibar. Other well-regarded options are Hotel Riu Palace Zanzibar, Zuri Zanzibar, and The Residence Zanzibar, all known for their beachfront settings, spacious villas, and Indian Ocean views. Budget travellers are also well catered for, with affordable boutique hotels and beach lodges making Zanzibar considerably cheaper than many other Indian Ocean destinations.
Top Things to See and Do
Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its carved wooden doors, bustling markets, and maze of narrow streets that reflect centuries of Swahili, Arab, Persian, and European influence. The island is also known as the "Spice Island"; guided spice farm tours introduce visitors to cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg, which shaped Zanzibar's history.
Beach lovers can head to Nungwi and Kendwa for crystal-clear waters and spectacular sunsets, while the east coast offers excellent kitesurfing and quieter stretches of sand. The surrounding Indian Ocean is ideal for snorkelling, scuba diving, and dolphin-watching, with colourful coral reefs and abundant marine life. Many visitors combine Zanzibar with a Tanzanian safari, flying between the island and national parks such as the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Weather, Visas, and Insurance: Tips for Travellers
The best time to visit is during the dry seasons between June and October and from December to February. Zanzibar has two rainy seasons: the "long rains" (Masika) in April and May, and the "short rains" (Vuli) from November to December.
Most European travellers need a visa to visit Zanzibar, as it is part of Tanzania. They can apply for a Tanzania eVisa online before departure or, for many nationalities, obtain a single-entry tourist visa on arrival at major airports and ports. The standard tourist visa costs US$50 (€43.56).
One important extra requirement is that all international visitors (except residents) must purchase mandatory inbound travel insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation before arrival or on arrival, regardless of any other travel insurance they already hold. The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office warns that travellers may be refused entry without the correct insurance.
For those planning a broader European travel itinerary, the EU deal securing free cabin luggage and delay compensation for air travellers may be of interest. Additionally, travellers seeking alternatives to overcrowded capitals might explore how Europe's second cities are drawing visitors away from overcrowded capitals.
