tourist spot in muscat oman

Must-see attractions in Muscat

Mutrah Souq

Many people come to Mutrah Corniche just to visit the souq, which retains the chaotic interest of a traditional Arab market albeit housed under modern…

Grand Mosque

Quietly imposing from the outside, this glorious piece of modern Islamic architecture was a gift to the nation from Sultan Qaboos to mark his 30th year of…

Sultan’s Palace

If you stand by the harbour wall on Mirani St, the building to the right with the delightful mushroom pillars in blue and gold is the Sultan’s Palace. On…

Mutrah Corniche

Mutrah stretches along an attractive corniche of latticed buildings and mosques; it looks spectacular at sunset when the light casts shadows across the…

Bait Al Zubair

In a beautifully restored house, this much-loved privately owned museum exhibits Omani heritage in thematic displays of traditional handicrafts, furniture…

National Museum

Housed in an imposing new building in the heart of Old Muscat, the National Museum makes a fitting consort for the Sultan's Palace opposite. The emphasis…

Just outside Al Bustan Palace Hotel, opposite the imposing parliament buildings, a small roundabout is home to Sohar, a boat named after the hometown of…

Marina Bandar Al Rowdha

Apart from offering a full range of boating amenities, Marina Bandar Al Rowdha is a popular launching point for a range of water sports, including fishing…

Ghalya's Museum of Modern Art

This delightful little museum, which encompasses both a modern art gallery and an old furnished house, encapsulates something of the excitement of the new…

Sultan’s Armed Forces Museum

Despite the name, this excellent museum is far more than just a display of military hardware. The collection is housed in Bayt Al Falaj, built in 1845 as…

Al Jalali Fort

Guarding the entrance to the harbour to the east, Al Jalali Fort was built during the Portuguese occupation in the 1580s on Arab foundations. The fort is…

A road runs along the edge of Qurm Nature Reserve towards the Crowne Plaza Muscat hotel, giving access to a long, sandy beach – a popular place for…

Bait Al Baranda

Housed in a renovated 1930s residence, this museum traces the history – and prehistory – of Muscat through imaginative, interactive displays and exhibits…

Mutrah Fort

Built by the Portuguese in the 1580s, this fort dominates the eastern end of Mutrah harbour. Used for military purposes, it has at long last reopened to…

Marsa Plaza

The open-air heart of Al Mouj residential and tourism complex, this delightful shaded public space is by the marina and catches the sea breeze. The avant…

Al Sahwa Park

This perfectly manicured park offers a peaceful retreat from the city. The carefully trimmed trees offer shade, while fragrant shrubs make for a redolent…

Al Mirani Fort

Sixteenth-century Al Mirani Fort was built by the Portuguese at the same time as nearby Al Jalali Fort. Although closed to the public, its presence looms…

Mutrah Gold Souq

A visit to Mutrah Souq wouldn't be the same without a stroll through the narrow alleys that house the glittering gold shops. The bridal gold, worked into…

Bait Al Maqham

Open on the whim of the gatekeeper, this fortified residence buried in a plantation in Bawshar is worth visiting for the location. Close to the city's…

Fish Market

Despite being the capital's main port, Mutrah feels more like a fishing village. The daily catch is delivered to market, by the Marina Hotel, from sunrise…

Natural History Museum

The Ministry of National Heritage houses the small but quaint Natural History Museum. The museum is illuminating about the local flora and fauna, and…

Planetarium

The Planetarium offers exciting free shows approximately once a month, helping to navigate the night sky. Visit here before heading out to the desert if…

PDO Oil & Gas Exhibition

Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) is responsible for much of the rapid growth of infrastructure throughout the country, as outlined in the interesting…

Parliament Building

This elegant building, completed in 2013, is home to the two houses of the Majlis Ash Shura, Oman's parliament. It is not open to the public, but it does…

Al Riyam Park

Beyond Mutrah Fort, the Corniche leads to the leafy Al Riyam Park, with fine views of the harbour from the giant ornamental incense burner. There is a…

Omani-French Museum

With galleries detailing relations between the two countries, this museum provides an interesting snapshot of mostly 19th-century colonial life in Muscat…

Children’s Museum

Children love this small museum (in a well-signposted domed building near Qurm Park) as it has been designed to be specifically intuitive and tactile with…

This large and attractive park boasts a lake and shade for picnics. A fun park called Marah Land sits alongside, inviting families to make a day of it.

Muscat Gate Museum

Straddling the road between the Corniche and the old walled city, this museum, with the original gates used until the 1970s to keep land-bound marauders…

The restored Portuguese watchtower on a promontory out to sea, halfway along Mutrah Corniche, affords a view of the ocean and the grand sweep of Mutrah's…

Kalbuh Bay Park

Kalbuh Bay Park juts into a sea that's boiling with sardines. Located at the end of the Corniche, it makes a good pausing place on a hike between Mutrah…

Ruwi Clock Tower

This modern clock tower, opposite Muscat's Chamber of Commerce, has become one of the landmarks of Ruwi. It presides over a pleasant park that attracts…

Set inside the attractively landscaped Qurm Park, this funfair (with Ferris wheel and an ever-growing number of rides) is a local favourite. Restaurants,…

Qurm Nature Reserve

Protecting a rare stretch of mangrove, this reserve is closed to visitors. That said, it's possible to sit in adjacent coffee shops and do some…

Burj Al Sahwa

Marking the approach to the capital's main military camp, this attractive roundabout with its seafaring murals and proud clock tower has become a major…

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Places To Visit In Muscat

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1. Mutrah Corniche

18 km from city center 1 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

Mutrah Corniche is a promenade stretching for 3 kilometres along the waterfront and is lined with restaurants, cafes, and markets. You can see the views of the Oman Port and harbour on one side and the beautiful rock formations of the Hajar Mountains and the Portuguese watchtowers on the other. The northern end of the corniche has a fish market and a dhow harbour. The eastern end of the harbour is dominated by the Mutrah Fort. The Fort is generally closed for visitors. However, its flank can be climbed for more great views of the harbour.

2. Grand Mosque Muscat

2 km from city center 2 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat is Oman's biggest mosque with an area of 416,000 m2 and has a capacity of over 20,000 worshippers; 8,000 people can fit inside and the courtyard can easily hold up to 12,000 people. This mosque is one of the few mosques in Arabia which allows entry for non-Muslim visitors. The mosque is a wonder of modern architecture and is a fusion of Omani, Islamic, and Middle-Eastern architectural styles.

3. Royal Opera House, Muscat

7 km from city center 3 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

The Royal Opera House is Oman's premier destination for music, arts, and culture. The complex consists of a theatre, auditorium, landscaped gardens, an art centre, and cultural markets and can accommodate up to 1100 people. The Royal Opera House has been ordered to be built in 2001 by Sultan Qaboos of Oman, who is a huge enthusiast of classical music and art. The house officially opened in 2011 and serves as a centre for excellence in the arts and enriches its heritage by culturally diverse programs and events.

4. Wadi Bani Khalid

129 km from city center 4 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

Being one of the most famous Wadis of Oman, Wadi Bani Khalid is popular for its large pools of emerald green water surrounded by tall palm trees. Unlike other wadis in Oman that are dry in the summer months, Wadi Bani Khalid is known to have a constant flow of water throughout the year. The rocky canyon and cliffs of the Hajar Mountains make it breathtakingly beautiful and is often touted as the "desert paradise". Located just 2.5 kms from Muscat, this is a favourite amongst hikers and is also a famous picnic spot.

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Stunning Muscat, Jebel Akhdar Tour

Dubai and oman tour package, discover oman: 3 nights muscat package with dolphin watching, classic oman package: muscat with wahiba sands & wadi bani khalid excursion, alluring oman muscat tour package with sunset dhow cruise, arabian adventure in oman: muscat & wahiba sands with camp stay, 5. yiti beach.

29 km from city center 5 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

Located around 28 kms from the city centre Muscat, Yiti Beach is one of the secluded and lesser known beaches in Oman. It is well-known as a camping site outside the city of Muscat with small cliffs, coves, rocky edges, and a fairly isolated environment that’s ideal for parties or couples who’d enjoy their privacy. The beach has gorgeous soft sand and clear waters with fishing, swimming, camping, and simple day-trip picnic opportunities available.

6. Bait Al Zubair

19 km from city center 6 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

Bait Al-Zubair is a private museum located in old Muscat city and contains relics from Oman’s military, social, and cultural past. It opened its doors to the public in 1998 and is founded and funded by the Zubair family. The family’s extensive collection of Omani artefacts such as weapons, khanjars, jewellery, household items and costumes are considered to be the finest privately owned collection that offers an insight into Arab and Omani heritage.

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7. Al Alam Palace

20 km from city center 7 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

Al Alam Palace, also known as Sultan's Palace and the Sultan Qaboos Palace, is one among the six royal residences of Sultan Qaboos located in Muscat. It looks out to the Gulf of Oman. The ruling monarch’s residence was built in 1972 which holds a history of 200 years. The palace is known for its flamboyant Islamic architecture which is surrounded by lush green garden and the Mutrah Harbour. This official residence is used to receive distinguished guests who visit the country.

8. Al Mirani Fort

19 km from city center 8 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

Al Mirani Fort in Muscat was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. It, along with neighbouring Al Jalali Fort, looks out to the Gulf of Oman and would guard the port of Muscat in the past. The Mirani Fort and Al Jalali Fort are located on either side of the palace. Although closed to the public, visitors can view this fort from outside. This fort was extremely instrumental in the downfall of the Portuguese. The fort has many ancient war tools on display.

9. Bimmah Sinkhole

91 km from city center 9 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

Also called Hawiyat Najm, Bimmah Sinkhole is located in the ‘Muscat governorate’ of Oman. Situated between the towns of Bimmah & Dibab, it is ideal for swimming and enjoying the beautiful landscape of the region. The local municipality has created the Hawiyat Najm Park that surrounds the Bimmah sinkhole as a form of protecting the attraction. Visitors passing through the area often stop here for a few hours of respite from the scorching sun.

10. Al Jalali Fort

20 km from city center 10 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

The massive Al Jalali Fort, also known as Ash Sharqiya Fort, was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Interestingly it once used to be a prison which has been converted to a heritage private museum. Being located on the harbour, the Al Jalali Fort offers a beautiful view of the entire city of Muscat. The only entrance to this place is through a steep flight of stairs in the front. The entry to this fort is strictly by permit only. You can apply to the Ministry Of National Heritage through the contact page on their website.

11. Amouage Perfumery, Muscat

12 km from city center 11 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

At Amouage Perfumery and Visitor Centre in Muscat, you’ll get a chance to witness how this world-famous company creates their amazing fragrances from scratch. Starting from obtaining ingredients from their in-house facilities to distilling, filtering and packaging, this tour will give you a close-up look at everything that goes behind producing Amouage’s signature products. The factory tour is free and quite informative. After the tour, you’ll also get to visit the Amouage factory’s own shop that allows you to sample their large range under one roof and even get to purchase some Amouage Perfumes.

12. City Centre Muscat

16 km from city center 12 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

Muscat City Centre, also known as City Centre Muscat, is a shopping mall located on Sultan Qaboos Road, Seeb, Muscat. It houses 142 international and local brands offering a wide variety of products and services, providing you with multiple shopping options. It is one of the leading destinations for shopping and lifestyle in Oman. The Muscat City Centre is located 3 km away from Muscat International Airport, giving you easy access for your last minute shopping!

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Muscat

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Dolphin Watching in Muscat - Your Guide For a Fulfilling Aquatic Experience

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13. Qurum Beach

9 km from city center 13 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

Qurum Beach, at the edge of the Qurum Nature Reserve, stretches for four kilometres along the Muscat coastline, in the heart of Muscat city. Its shallow waters and comparatively longer duration of high tides make it a family friendly location. The clean waters of the Gulf of Oman are perfect for rejuvenation and relaxation, away from the hustle and bustle of the city life.

14. Al Araimi Boulevard

24 km from city center 14 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

Al Araimi Boulevard is a destination for leisure shopping that has been designed in the lines of Westfield, London. The mall occupies a large area measuring 187,000 square meters spread over two floors in the prime location of Al Khoud within Muscat. More than 200 retail stores are open for business here at present with a family entertainment centre occupying the remaining 6,000 square meters. A 10-screen cinema greets the movie buffs inside the mall with 4D cinema being the main draw. Families find it convenient to do their household shopping at the Carrefour hypermarket and to drop into any one of the casual restaurants to enjoy their dinner.

15. Mutrah Souk

17 km from city center 15 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

Mutrah Souq is one of the oldest markets in the Arab world. This antiquity has perhaps increased its beauty, magic and allure. Mutrah Souk or Al Alam Souk has been named after darkness because the crowded stalls and lanes do not allow the sun rays to infiltrate through during the day and the shoppers need lamplights to see where they were going. The market used to be a source of supply for Omanis where they could buy their needs in the 1960s for simpler life requirements.

16. City Centre Qurum

9 km from city center 16 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

City Centre, located just off Al Illam Streetin Muscat, is one of the top shopping destinations for residents of Qurum. Termed as a ‘lifestyle destination,’ City Center first opened its doors in Qurum in 2008 and has been witnessing a steady stream of visitors ever since.

17. Muscat Grand Mall

1 km from city center 17 out of 17 Places To Visit in Muscat

Situated in the heart of Muscat city, the Muscat Grand Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in the city. It has been designed to witness a convergence of modern brands and departmental stores and other outlets along with traditional Arabic souk at the place. The panoramic oasis present at the centre of the mall makes up for a good photography spot. Being close to the Arabic Sea, one can clearly observe a panoramic view of the sea from the top floor of Grand Muscat Mall.

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The Top 15 Things to Do in Muscat, Oman

The historic city of Muscat is diverse, with loads of ancient edifices and modern buildings. It is a perfect blend of old and new. From the masterful contemporary Opera House to the 400-year-old Mutrah Fort, the city offers a mixed array of architecture for history buffs and the like to devour. It offers pristine beaches, decadent dining offerings, and a host of activities to learn about Omani culture. An eclectic mix of Arabian adventures and stunning treasures awaits travelers during a visit to Muscat.

Stopover at Mutrah Fort

Mutrah Fort sits on top of a rocky, narrow hill overlooking the Sultan Qaboos Tourism Port. Visiting the fort is a rite of passage for any tourist visiting Muscat. Its comprised of three circular towers, which still hold old cannons that were used for protection in the past. Visitors can also enter the castle located at the fort during the week. It can be reached via Mutrah Souq towards the office of Wali Mutrah, and then turning right towards the fort.

See a Show at the Royal Opera House Muscat

The contemporary Royal Oman Opera House Muscat was the brainchild of the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. The Opera House serves as the main focal point of cultural exchange to Oman. It hosts diverse artistic performances and educational programs. From the iconic American jazz artist Chick Korea to the annual military music concert that takes place in celebration of Oman’s National Day, the Royal Opera House is a fantastic architectural marvel to enjoy.

Find Treasures at Mutrah Souk

Once the local trading place for merchants before they set sail to the China and India trade routes, Mutrah Souk is now one of Muscat’s top market places. Visitors can barter for Arabian gems, including dazzling antiques, traditional Omani clothes like dishdashas, and its famed silver jewelry. Don’t leave the market without purchasing or eyeing a traditional Omani Khanjar dagger, which is still worn by men for ceremonial occasions. It is located near the Mutrah Fort.

Dine at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa

The Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa is set near a rural mountainside and the glistening Gulf of Oman. It has several romantic and family-friendly settings for not only relaxing but dining. Bait Al Bahr offers fresh seafood by the Gulf of Oman. Decadent choices include a mixed seafood platter of grilled lobster, prawns, and kingfish. If you’re interested in a more traditional Omani setting, then Al Tanoor, located at the Al Bandar Hotel on the Shangri-La complex, is the choice for you. It offers live cooking stations and an Arabian tent backdrop.

Visit Al Alam Palace

Coined the “Flag Palace,” Al Alam Palace is located in the center of Old Muscat. It is one of the six royal residences and the ceremonial palace of His Majesty the Sultan. While the palace is not open to tourists, the sparkling blue and gold structure is worth visiting to take a stroll on the palace grounds and snap a few pictures.  Neighboring government buildings include the Ministry of Finance and the National Museum, which is located across the road.

Stroll Through the Oman National Museum

Ekrem Canli / CC BY-SA / Wikimedia Commons

As the flagship cultural center of Oman, the Oman National Museum is the foremost place to visit to take a peek into Omani heritage. Opened in 2016, the museum faces the Al Alam Palace, and in its own right, has a grand design that fits its surroundings. It offers state-of-the-art conservation facilities, a UHD cinema, more than 7,000 objects, 33 immersive digital experiences, and discovery areas for children. 

Drop by the Beach

Muscat is home to stunning beaches for you to lounge by or take a walk along. Located on the northern coast, Shatti Al Qurum is the most famous beach in the region. It is near the upscale Diplomatic District, which you can’t miss with the glistening white buildings and country flags from around the globe flowing in the wind. Smoke shisha overlooking the beach at one of the cafes along the path or dine at the Crown Plaza. The white sandy Sifah Beach, located on the eastern coast of Muscat, is another favorite of locals and ex-pats alike. It’s great for camping or a day visit.

Toast to the Good Life

Muscat offers a range of bars for the party-goers to indulge in masterful cocktails. The world-famous Polynesian lounge  Trader Vic’s sits adjacent to the Intercontinental Hotel. Who doesn’t enjoy a drink that comes in a coconut? Another stand-out is Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar, located in the W Hotel . The pool lifestyle concept offers an outstanding backdrop of a sunken bar and infinity pool for relishing a finely mixed cocktail.

Observe Culture at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

The most iconic landmark in all of Muscat is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque . The Mosque holds up to 20,000 worshippers and covers around 416,000 square meters. It also houses a library that contains 20,000 reference volumes in science, Islamic culture, and a mesmerizing chandelier, which is one of the largest in the world.  Non-Muslims are allowed to visit the mosque every day, except on Fridays, from 8:30 until 11 a.m. It’s imperative to dress modestly as well; women should cover their heads.

Enjoy Fine Dining

Courtesy of The Chedi

The dining scene in Muscat is made up of a mix of Omani traditional cuisine and delicacies from around the world. Ubhar restaurant prides itself on providing the highest level of Omani hospitality and culture. With its modern design and fusion of Omani dishes, Ubhar delivers a great option from more conventional restaurants. Next, with a name like The Restaurant, located in The Chedi hotel, it undoubtedly stands on its own merit. The Restaurant provides the most elegant setting, with its crystal chandelier-lit dining room and commanding bay windows—delight upon your choice of Middle Eastern, Indian, Asian, or western cuisine.

Cruise on an Omani Dhow

A dhow is a traditional Arabian wooden boat, which dates back to being used through the generations in Oman. The spectacular vessels are available for sunset cruises, dinner cruises, or even private charters for tourists. Dhows generally pass top tourist locations like the Sultan Palace, Al Bustan Palace , a Ritz-Carlton Hotel, and Qantab. Several tour operators are available from Muscat Yacht Club, located at Marina Bander Al Rouda.

Eat Traditional Food at Bait Al Luban

Anthony Bourdain put the famed  Bait Al Luban  restaurant on the map after he visited Oman. ‘Al Luban’ translates to frankincense, which is a source of kindness and soothing atmosphere in Omani culture. Bait Al Luban offers an assortment of traditional Omani foods, including shuwa, a unique Omani specialty of meat slathered in a copious blend of oil and spices, wrapped in palm leaves, and cooked over hot flames underground for hours.

Snorkel in the Arabian Sea

With a host of pristine beaches to choose from, Muscat is a prime snorkeling destination for water enthusiasts. Coral Ocean Tours offers half-day trips where you can experience not only snorkeling with sea creatures but also a bit of dolphin watching! Oman is an emerging snorkeling destination, becoming one of the top choices in the world.

Shop 'til You Drop

One thing Muscat does not fall short of is shopping mall options. Oman Avenues Mall is one of the largest malls in Oman, composed of more than 72,000 square miles. It is made up of 150 international and regional brand shops, as well as having a gym, cinema, children’s entertainment center, and a bowling alley. If you don’t get enough of your shopping fix at Oman Avenues Mall, then head to one of the oldest malls in Muscat, City Centre Muscat . It is home to more than 220 international lifestyle brands, 24 international dining outlets such as Nando’s and Buffalo Wild Wings, as well as 10-screen VOX Cinemas, the largest in Oman.

Behold Bait Al Zubair Museum

Opened in 1998, Bait Al Zubair is one of the first heritage and cultural centers in Muscat. It houses one of the largest permanent art collections and artifacts in the country. The immaculate building is a sight to see, as it was one of the first recipients of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos’ Award for Architectural Excellence. It is made up of six separate buildings, a garden with a miniature Omani village, and an aflaj irrigation system (an ancient Omani water channel). 

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21 best things to do in Muscat (Oman) + Map

Last updated on November 1, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Discover the 21+ best things to do in Muscat,  Oman to help you plan your itinerary!  All the amazing  places to visit in Muscat to choose from, depending on what you like: architecture, history, water, nature… A complete guide to plan your visit to Muscat with map, tips, photos and day trips. 

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Oman:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Oman: DiscoverCars

My favorite adventure from Muscat: Dolphin and Snorkeling

My favorite excursion from Muscat: Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole

My favorite places to stay:

• Muscat , the capital – see the best rated hotels or my favorite hotel: The Chedi
• Sur , for the turtles – see the best rated hotels
• Khasab , Musandam peninsula – see the best rated hotels
• Wahiba Sands , in the desert – see the best rated hotels or my favorite camp: Desert Nights Resort

Best things to do in Muscat – Short answer

In the article below, I am describing all my favorite things to do in Muscat in terms of Architecture, Nature, culture…

But if you want a short answer, I think the top 3 Must-do in Muscat Oman are:

• Touring the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
• Exploring the old town in the Muttrah area with the Souq and fish market
• Hiking in the hills to see the unique city from a higher viewpoint

VIDEO: one day in Muscat

And before I develop, you can watch this short video to give you a feel of what you could see in Muscat in just one day:

Some of those places to see in Muscat even made my list of top things to do in Oman !

More ideas and photos after the planning tips.

Where to stay in Muscat & Where to go – Map & Tips

Tourism map of muscat, oman.

It is not so easy to get oriented in the Capital City and find all the places to see in Muscat. The city is spread and separated by hills. To help you, I have drawn a map and collected information about transport options.

Below is a map I draw with the various touristic areas of Muscat and the main things to do in each.

Find all my favorite places (with GPS coordinates, tips and maps) in my travel guide eBook that helps you easily plan your Oman road trip :

Plan your dream trip in Oman thanks to my guide

• 8 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• 190+ pre-selected locations
• Tips to make the most of your time
• GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
• 100+ original photos to help you choose

How long to visit Muscat

Here are a few points to keep in mind when planning your trip to Muscat Oman.

• Several attractions in Muscat are only open in the morning
• The city is scattered
• I recommend staying at least 2 days to explore the city (hotel recommendation later in the article)

Best areas to stay in Muscat

You can stay near:

• Al Qurum beach to enjoy evening walks on the sands,
• or in Muttrah for more traditional restaurant and experience 
• The cheaper options are in the Ruwi area.

Muscat Hotel suggestions

• PRACTICAL  – The  Coral Muscat Hotel and Apartments  is a great location for a base with spacious facilities and with an apartment you can have more freedom –  Check out photos and book
• MODERN & GOOD VALUE  – The  Centara MuscatHotel is not near the beach so has good value deals with really good accommodations –  Check out photos and prices
• LUXURY  and CHARM – Located by the beach,  The Chedi Muscat  is displays Sumptuous decor and a unique atmosphere – it brings the local architecture styles with modern concept –  Check out photos and prices
• The WELL KNOWN BRAND  – The  Grand Hyatt Muscat  has a great location by the beach and all the facilities you could need –  Check out photos and prices
• CHEAPER OPTION BY THE BEACH  – The  Al Ferdous apartments  offer a great price alternative for those you still want to stay very close to the beach –  Check out photos and prices
• or  Check out the best rated accommodations in Muscat

Where to stay in Oman?

My favorites on a road trip:

• Muscat –  capital city –   see best rated accommodations
• Nizwa  – to explore the forts and hinterlands –  see best rated accommodations
• Sur –  for the turtles, beaches, wadis… –  see best rated accommodations
• Wahiba Sands  – for the experience of sleeping in the desert –  see best rated accommodations
• Salalah  – to explore the Southern lands –  see best rated accommodations
• Khasab  – to explore the Musandam Peninsula –  see best rated accommodations

ARCHITECTURAL TOP 3 – What to see in Muscat

#1 – sultan qaboos grand mosque.

If there is one place to visit in Muscat, it is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. It is an architectural masterpiece both from the outside and from the inside. It is the absolute top thing to do in Muscat.

Discover many more photos and Information to plan your visit in the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque  article.

#2 – Royal Opera House Muscat

Another recent building in Muscat is the Royal Opera House. With handcrafted decors all around, you might not even notice how technical the building is, but is it also a masterpiece in that sense. This is why the Opera is one of the main places to visit in Muscat either as a tourist or for a performance.

Discover many more photos and Information to plan your visit in the Royal Opera House article .

#3 – Forts and Palace

The heart of Muscat is around the Sultan’s Qasr Al Alam palace and the two 16th century Portuguese forts of Al Jilali and Al Mirani. They are not open to the public, but you can admire them from outside.

Discover many more photos and information to plan your visit in the Forts and Palace article.

Other Mosques

There are many more mosques in Muscat. Most of them are not opened to the non-muslims. However, you can go to Mohammed Al Ameen Mosque, well rated in trip advisor. 

BEACHES – 3 Muscat Beaches and water attractions

#4 – qurum beach.

Qurum beach (or by its full name Shatti al-Qurum) is the main beach in Muscat. It is a long stretch of Golden sand where locals come relax during the weekend. 

Inside Muscat, you can also find a small beach at Kalbuh, East of the old town corniche.

To find other Muscat beaches, you have to go a little out of town. You can enjoy: Qantab beach, Sifah beach, Bandar Jissah, Yiti beach…

#5 – Boat excursion to the Bandar Khayran Reserve or the coast

Another great thing to do in Muscat is to discover the shores of the South by boat. From the Al Rowdha Marina, you can take 2 or 3-hour tours including dolphin watch, snorkeling, or just enjoying the work of erosion during daytime or at sunset.

Discover many more photos and information to plan your visit in the Muscat Boat tours  article.

Or you can already book – see all boat tour options

#6 – Boat excursion to the Daymaniyat islands

And if you love snorkeling or diving, book a boat tour to the Daymaniyat islands. The rocky islets have turquoise waters and white sand beaches. Learn more in my article .

Or see Daymaniyat island tour options

Need to rent a car in Oman?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Choose a car with enough power for the mountain roads
• Consider their full coverage option – for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

CULTURAL – 2 Muscat Attractions

There are many other attractions in Muscat you should consider. Some are touristic, others are less, but here there are:

#7 – Fish Market

If you want to glimpse at the life of Omani people, the Fish market is a must place to visit. Active early morning, you can see the boats arriving, the fish being sold and then prepared. It is one of my favorite activities in Muscat but wearing closed shoes!!!

Discover many more photos and information to plan your visit in the Muscat Fish Market article.

#8 – Muscat old city and Souq

Not far from the Fish Market, you can walk through the old city and the Souq, especially the gold section.

Discover many more photos and information to plan your visit in the Muscat Corniche and Souq article .

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

NATURE – 4 highlights of Muscat Tourism

#9 – corniche.

Not far from the fish market, you can walk through the old town and the souk, especially the gold section. Next to the souk there is a long walking path along the water called The Corniche.

#10 – Muttrah – Riyam Hike – Unique thing to do in Muscat

If you want to move a little and capture some great views of the city, you can hike above Riyam. It is an original activity in Muscat to get away from the crowds. Discover many more photos and information to plan your hike in Muscat .

I think it is one of the most unique things to do in Muscat with the most scenic places.

#11 – Riyam Park

The Riyam park is great for a stroll. It includes 2 hills giving scenic views of mountains and the corniche. There are also a great playground for children.

In the photo, it is the green area under the Incense Burner Tower.

#12 – Qurum natural park & beach

Another classic is the Qurum Natural Park located in the Qurum residential area. A well-maintained park in the heart of the city. You can also drive in the hills behind the park for more views of Muscat.

MUSEUMS – 11 Places to visit in Muscat

When in Muscat and was not in the mood for museums, having just lost my brother . However, I have researched them intensively and collected a list of you. First some notes:

• Raters on Tripadvisor have placed Bait Az-Zubair and the Armed Forces Museums in the list of top things to see in Muscat.
• The National museum has now opened in its new building (since december 2015). Apparently it is really modern so it might make soon the top list.
• As those museums do not have official websites, it is difficult to make sure you have the proper opening hours. I did my best, but cannot ensure those are correct.

And here is the list.

#13 – Armed Forces Museum

• In Ruwi – Al Mujamma St
• Weapons, clothing, instruments and defence systems
• 8AM-1PM / 3PM-6PM

#14 – Bait Al Barandah Museum

• In Mutrah – Al-Mina St
• History of Muscat since its geological formation to the present
• Sat-Thur: 9AM-1PM / 4PM-6PM

#15 – Bait Az-Zubair Museum

• In Mutrah – Al Saidiya Street
• Omani artefacts and collectables: weapons, jewellery, clothing, household item…
• Sat-Thur: 9:30AM-6PM

#16 – Muscat Gate

• In Mutrah – On Al Bahri Road
• Oman’s history from the Neolithic times to the present + view of the Corniche
• Sat-Thur: 9:30AM-11:30AM / 4:30PM-7PM

#17 – Natural History Museum

• In Al Khuwayr
• In the Ministry of Heritage and Culture building – Oman’s geography and geology, flora and fauna
• Sat-Thur: 8AM-1PM

#18 – National Museum

• In the Center – Al Saidiya St
• Oman culture – jewellery, crafts and Omani ships

#19 – Oil & Gas Exhibition Centre

• In Al Qurum – Sayh Al Malih St
• Processes of formation, exploitation and processing of how crude oil and natural gas
• 7AM-12PM / 1PM – 4PM / Thur: 7AM-12PM

#20 – Omani Heritage Museum

• In Al Alam Street
• Relics of ancient civilizations: stone tombs, rock carvings, agricultural tools, stone necklaces…
• 9:30AM-1:30PM / 5PM-7PM

#21 – Omani-French Museum

• In Center – Qasr al-Alam St
• History and documents related to the relationship between France and Oman 
• 9AM-1PM most of the year + 4-7PM Oct to Mar

#22 – Planetarium

• Planetarium
• Sun – Thu: 8AM – 3PM

#23 – Currency Museum

• In Ruwi – In the Central Bank of Oman
• Succession of currencies circulated in the Sultanate of Oman, both paper and metal
• Sat- Wed: 8:30AM -12:30PM

Muscat sightseeing – how to get around (transport options)

My experience of taxis in Oman was not really good. Mostly because they only knew the major sights, but not the streets. Apparently, they do that part time, so their knowledge of the city is limited. But if you drive only between major sights, airports and main hotels it should be ok.

You have to agree on the price beforehand. There is a plan to introduce meters, but it is not yet implemented… Between the various areas of the city it should not be more than 5 to 10 OR.

Not really buses, the baisa buses are minivans not clearly marked. If you want to attempt it I recommend asking locals.

Tourist bus

Hop on Hop off Bus by BigBus – considering the spread of the city, it is quite practical. The first bus departs Mutrah Souq at 9am and buses depart every 30 minutes until 5pm (last return at Mutrah Souq at 6:45pm). Timings are subject to change, especially during Ramadan (and with Covid)

Driving in Muscat

I was really surprised how easy it is to drive in Muscat. The roads are in excellent conditions, people are courteous and calm. The old town is where sometimes there are traffic jams, but otherwise, I think it is a good solution. For more information, check out my article dedicating to Driving in Oman .

Organized tours / private guide

You can also join organized half day or day tours or book with a private guide . In that case, you just have to sit back, relax and follow the guide. For a full day private tour of the city, count 200 to 300 USD.

5 Day trips from Muscat

If you have some more days in Muscat but don’t want to go on a round trip one of the things to do in join a day trip. Many are possible and below is a selection of the best ones.

For guided day trips from Muscat, I wrote a dedicated article to help chose with my selection of the best destinations.

Sink Hole and Wadi Shab

Wadi Shab is one of my favorite locations in Oman. You can hike one hour through the canyon and finish by swimming. Absolutely stunning! If you have time this is a must do!

On the way back you can stop at the Sink hole; which is very easily accessed from the main road down to Sur. It is a hole in the ground filled with beautiful water and bordered by the sea on one side and mountains on the other.

Discover many more photos and information to plan your trip with dedicated articles to the Bimmah Sink Hole and Wadi Shab

See options & book

Jebel Shams

A classic among tourists stopping one day in Muscat on their cruise, is to get up to Jebel Shams, also known as the grand canyon of Oman.Discover many more photos and info to plan your trip in the Jebel Shams article.

See options and book

Nizwa is another large city in Oman. The drive will be 1h30min. In the center of the city, you can discover a beautiful Souq, the castle with many cultural displays and climb to the top of the fort for breathtaking views of the oasis. Discover many more photos and information to plan your trip in the Nizwa fort and Nizwa Souq articles

See options

Wadi Bani Khalid and Wahiba sands

If you don’t mind a longer day tour with a lot of driving, you can reach Wadi Bani Khalid and the sand dunes of Wahiba Sands. Plan 2h30 drive in each direction. Long, but it gives you 3 unique landscapes of Oman in one day: city, wadi and desert!

Discover many more photos and information to plan your trip in the Wahiba Sands  and Wadi Bani Khalid articles

Book a day trip from Muscat or an overnight stay – see options

Rustaq Loop

For those who love forts and castles, it is a 1h30 min drive to reach Rustaq from Muscat. Do some better planning than me and don’t go on a Friday. I was there at prayer time, all the local men were going inside but I could not…

You can also do many day trips to the surrounding beaches along the North and South coast of the many but less known wadis everywhere. The list would be too long.

Off road / Off the beaten path

And if you are adventurous, there are also other places to discover in a 4WD: the plateau of Salmah and its tombs, the village of Wakan…

Holidays in Muscat – Itinerary (2, 4 days or more)

2 days in muscat.

If you have only 2 days in Muscat, I recommend staying in the city rather and going on day trips. There is much to experience:

• Morning 1 –  explore the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
• Afternoon 1 – Hike between Riyam and Mutrah – if you can’t head by car to the forts and palace and visit a museum
• Morning 2 – explore the Mutrah Souq & Fish market
• Afternoon 2 – enjoy a boat tour to see the town from the distance of relax at the beach

Oman itinerary 4 days – based in Muscat

If you are lucky enough to have a little more time, I recommend alternating days in the city and day trips

• Day 1 – Grand Mosque and Hike
• Day 2 – day trip to Wadi Shab
• Day 3 – Mutrah Souq and boat tour
• Day 4  day trip Wahiba Sands or to some forts depending on your interests

Oman itinerary – road trip

However, I think the best way to experience Oman is to go on a road trip and stay in different cities. If you are looking for a practical travel guide to help you plan your trip in Oman, check out my Travel Guide eBook:

Muscat FAQs

Is muscat worth visiting.

Absolutely. It is nothing like other capital cities. The white houses between the bare hilly landscapes are mesmerizing.

What is famous in Muscat?

The most famous buildings are the Sultan Qaboos Mosque and the Royal Opera.

Is it safe to travel to Muscat?

Muscat is overall, a safe city. It is a capital city, so always use common sense and typical protection behavior. Omani people are welcoming and open. As long as you are respectful, there is no issue.

What to wear in Muscat

Like everywhere in Oman, you should cover at least your shoulders and knees (women and men). Muscat is more relaxed, but I think it is always better to show respect for customs.

Is Muscat better than Dubai?

Both cities are so different, there is no way to compare. I prefer Muscat, but it is because I prefer Nature to shopping, and quiet places.

Want to see more of Oman?

• Best Things to do in Oman – read article
• Best of photos from Oman – Landscapes – read article
• Where to stay in Oman –  read article
• Best days trips from Muscat – read article
• Planning a road trip in Oman – read article
• Driving in Oman – read article
• The impressive Wadi Shab – read article
• The Bimmah Sinkhole – read article
• The Ras Al Jinz turtle reserve – read article

Planning a trip to Oman?

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

And keep track of your own trip!

Want to see more of Oman’s beauty?

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Reader Interactions

January 14, 2016 at 4:25 AM

This is amazing! My friend is on her honeymoon at the moment in Oman and I was curious as to why – after reading this now I know!

January 14, 2016 at 12:59 PM

Ahah. When I was telling people where I was going, I had those who said ‘this is a country?’ and the others who were ‘what is there to see, desert?’. Yes Oman is beautiful and has a lot of variety. I hope your friend is having a great time. Thanks for your comment Laura.

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Discover the Enchanting Allure of Muscat, Oman

Unlock the wonders of Muscat in Oman with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the top attractions, immerse yourself in local experiences, and find practical information to plan your perfect trip.

The Muscat Travel Guide

Practical tips and advice for travelers visiting Muscat, covering topics such as visa requirements, local customs, transportation options, safety tips, and more.

Dive into the rich history, cultural heritage, and modern charm of Muscat, offering an overview of the city's landmarks, attractions, and unique features that make it a must-visit destination.

Comprehensive information on how to reach Muscat, offering insights into flight options, airport transfers, public transportation, and practical tips for getting around the city.

Explore a detailed accommodation guide, featuring a range of hotels, resorts, and guesthouses in Muscat, catering to different budgets, preferences, and locations within the city.

Discover an array of exciting activities, attractions, and experiences in Muscat, providing recommendations for cultural sites, outdoor adventures, shopping destinations, and more.

Delve into the culinary scene of Muscat, offering recommendations for top restaurants, local eateries, and must-try dishes, allowing visitors to indulge in the vibrant flavors of Omani cuisine.

Embark on unforgettable day trips from Muscat, highlighting nearby attractions, natural wonders, historical sites, and cultural experiences that can be easily accessed from the city.

Where To Eat

Where to stay, how to get there, about muscat, practical tips.

Find everything you need when traveling to Muscat, Oman with our comprehensive Travel Guide.

Welcome to our travel blog, your ultimate guide to Muscat, Oman and beyond! We cover everything from practical tips, insider information about Muscat's attractions, accommodation options, local customs, transportation, dining recommendations, and even exciting day trips, providing you with a wealth of knowledge to plan your perfect adventure in Oman's captivating capital.

What others have said about Muscat, Oman

” This coastal city on the Persian Gulf seemed to harness the beauty of ancient traditions that might be amiss in other more modernized Gulf countries ”

"Cultural treasures, unspoilt landscapes, pristine beaches, and natural wadis, Oman is the ultimate uncrowded destination. ”

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Places to Visit in Muscat

• Places To Visit

Muscat Places to Visit

Here is the list of best places to visit in muscat:, sultan qaboos grand mosque.

Mutrah Corniche

The Royal Opera House

Wadi Bani Khalid

Best of Dubai

Mutrah Fort

Qurum Beach

Bait Al Zubair

Best of Abu Dhabi

Mutrah Souq

Al Alam Palace

Qurum Natural Park

Al Mirani Fort

Best of Sharjah

Muscat Gate Museum

Al Jalali Fort

Omani And French Museum

Marine Science & Fisheries Centre

Top Experiences To Do in Marine Science & Fisheries Centre

Best of Oman

Al fahal island.

Al Bustan Beach

Bimmah Sinkhole

City Centre Qurum

People Also Ask About Muscat

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Things to Do in Muscat, Oman: Epic 1-3 Days Muscat Itinerary

Wondering what to do in Muscat , Oman’s capital? Whether you are planning on visiting Muscat in one day or staying a little longer before starting the Oman road trip , here is my perfect 1 to 3 days in Muscat itinerary. It will show you both the best places to visit in Muscat and unmissable things to do in Muscat . 

A humble capital of the Sultanate of Oman , Muscat is strategically positioned on the shores of the Gulf of Oman on an ancient trade route dating back to the days of Mesopotamia. Scenically wedged between the craggy Hajar mountains, shimmering sea, and dreamy desert, the capital Muscat has always played a significant role in the Middle Eastern world and attracted the interest of many powerful empires like Ottomans, Portuguese, and Persians. As a result, influences of which are still present in Omani culture and cuisine. 

Today’s Muscat, Oman is just as wealthy as its neighbor’s UAE cities Abu Dhabi and Dubai, or Doha, Qatar. Yet in Oman’s capital, you won’t find glittering skyscrapers rising above the clouds as in Dubai. In fact, there is a rule that limits high-rise buildings and defines landscaping, color code, and architectural style retaining uniformity of long-lived traditional Middle Eastern style. Domes, arabesque windows, and balconies still decorate even functional buildings and new villas.

The ancient forts and watchtowers, low-rise white-washed houses, and mosques characterize the skyline of Muscat, the city with ages-old traditions deeply rooted in daily life. One of the easiest to notice is the local dress code-Omanis still wear white dishdashas and embroidered kummas (traditional embroidered skull-caps) as daily attire. 

Muscat’s authenticity, simplicity, and kindness of local people are what keep me coming back to Oman’s capital (it is only 5 hour’s drive from Dubai , in case you are also based in the UAE). 

In this in-depth Muscat travel guide , you will get acquainted not only with the top places to see in Muscat but also with its hidden corners and fantastic viewpoints over the city. 

From Muttrah corniche, and lively souks to stunning Sultan Qaboos Mosque and Portuguese Forts, immensely beautiful beaches, and even city hikes, there is plenty of great things to do in Muscat. 

Apart from points of interest in Muscat, I also share tips on how to get around Muscat, the best time to visit Muscat, the best places to stay in Muscat for any budget, where to eat , and some miscellaneous interesting facts and handy tips. Last but not least, plenty of my travel photos of Muscat, Oman.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). This helps to keep my blog running and growing by creating more awesome free content for you.

1 to 3 days in Muscat itinerary: what to do in Muscat, Oman

Muscat quick links.

These are useful links to the best accommodation, cheap car rental in Oman, and top guided experiences and interesting day tours from Muscat, sim card tips.

• Where to stay in Muscat: Haffa House Hotel (budget); Fort Guesthouse (mid-range); Intercontinental Muscat (high-end); Chedi Muscat (luxury resort).
• Rent a car: The best way to move around Muscat is by car. Hire a car at the best rates using Discover Cars .
• Flights: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Oman from your location.
• Before You Go: Apply for an Oman visa easily at iVisa .
• Local SIM Card: Get a tourist pack of local data and calls at Muscat airport. Omantel provides the best coverage. Arriving by road from UAE ? You can buy Vodafone visitors pack in any hypermarket.

Top-rated guided Muscat experiences

• Best Dimaniyat Islands (5/5 GetYourGuide)
• Best Muscat City Tour (5/5 Viator)
• Best Desert Tour (5/5 Viator)
• Best Wadi Shab Tour (5/5 GetYourGuide)
• Best Nizwa & Mountain Tour (4.5/5 GetYourGuide)

How many days in Muscat? 

Most of the main attractions in Muscat can be visited in a day or two.  However, if you want to explore at a slower pace and also visit the outskirts of Muscat, or go on a day trip to visit Daminiyat islands or spectacular old forts, choose to stay for 3 or 4 days.

Best time to visit Muscat, Oman

Winter is a perfect time to visit Muscat, Oman. The temperatures in Muscat are pleasant during the months of December, January, and February staying between 25-30 degrees Celsius during the daytime. You can even encounter some clouds and rain.

Late autumn and early spring are shoulder seasons in most of Oman and also Muscat. Temperatures are still quite high but bearable in mid-October to November and March to mid-April ranging between 30-35 degrees Celsius during the day.

Summer months and early autumn as well as late spring should be avoided due to the heat. Temperatures can go up as high as 40-50 degrees Celsius making it physically very difficult to do any sightseeing in Muscat during the day and even in the mornings.

Also, traveling during the holy month of Ramadan is a bit trickier as restaurants shut down during the day when locals are fasting and only open after sunset. Everything is significantly slower, even some attractions might be closed during Ramadan. Moreover, Ramadan lasts 30 days, and its timing is not fixed but shifts every year. 

Related reads: planning a road trip to Oman? Check my one-week Oman itinerary (with options to extend to 10-14 days in Oman).

Where to stay in Muscat

Muscat is a very spread-out city. Thus, picking the right location is crucial. Here are my suggestions for the best accommodation in Muscat in the most popular areas.

The old part of Muscat is ideal if you want to stay within walking distance from the most interesting part of the capital (the famous old souk is located in Muttrah as well).

Fort Guesthouse $$–highly rated by visitors, superb location at the waterfront of Muttrah corniche and Fort, features a lovely terrace and humble Omani-style accommodation.

Located 10 minutes from Muttrah, the Ruwi area offers a lot of cheaper but decent accommodation options, with a good range of budget-friendly Indian and Pakistani restaurants all around.

• Haffa House Hotel – a decent four-star hotel for very reasonable prices. Although it is an old hotel and needs a bit of revamp, it is clean, has polite service and the location is convenient to drive to any direction for sightseeing. Make sure to request a non-smoking room (if that applies to you) when booking.

A polished area, popular among ex-pats, offers a range of more upscale accommodations, many of them with direct access to Qurum beach (known as the cleanest beach in town).

Intercontinental Muscat – located on the beach of Qurum this resort offers you a comfortable stay in rooms with sea or mountain views, access to the pool, gym, green gardens, saunas, in house restaurants. The popular waterfront-muscat area with trendy shops and nice restaurants is also close by.

Al Khuwair (near Sultan Qaboos Mosque)

• Grand Millenium Muscat  -a home away from home, located close to Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.

High-end accommodation in Muscat for a luxurious stay

• Al Bustan Palace  -located on the eastern side of the city, with a stunning coastline set against Hajar mountains, dreamy pools, and a stretch of private beach- is great for romantic getaways and the best beachfront views.
• Chedi Muscat – located closer to the airport side, one of the most beautiful hotels in Muscat featuring modern Arabic architecture, a beachfront, a 100-meter long pool, yoga, and pilates classes- a perfect place for relaxation.

Getting to Muscat

Many travelers will enter Oman’s capital through Muscat International Airport. 

If there is no direct flight from your destination, you will definitely find one from Abu Dhabi or Dubai, UAE. Sometimes it will be even cheaper to fly through Dubai or Abu Dhabi. 

Check the best flight combination from your destination using Skyscanner. Airlines like FlyDubai, OmanAir, and Emirates are very good and trustworthy.

One of the most popular ways to travel to Muscat, Oman is driving from Dubai, UAE. It takes 4.5 hours to reach Muscat from Dubai by car. Account for 30 minutes to an hour at the UAE-Oman border.

Read more about Everything you need to know when traveling to Oman from Dubai (or anywhere elsewhere in UAE). 

You can get to Muscat from Musandam by boat. Musandam is an exclave Governorate of Oman, separated from the mainland of Oman by the UAE.

Read more about traveling to and from Musandam on my Musandam travel guide .

Getting around Muscat, Oman

Muscat stretches along the coast for over 50 kilometers. Thus, it is a very “long” city if I can say so. Thus, commuting from one side of the town to the other can take up to 30 to 50 minutes by car, and on average around 15-20 minutes in the central areas.

Muscat may appear chaotically planned. It is composed of several different districts, all spread out quite far from each other. While you can easily walk around one area, you cannot walk between different areas due to the long distances or/and mountains separating them.

You need transportation to get between districts. The main artery of the city is Sultan Qaboos Street, a highway connecting all the districts in Muscat.

In this Oman itinerary, you will be visiting the following main areas: Muttrah , old Muscat , Ruwi, and Qurum , and Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque which is situated in a different area next to the main highway. 

Thus, what is the best way to get around Muscat? Below are the options you have, thus pick according to your travel style/time you have.

The best, easiest, and most efficient way to move around Muscat is by car. Muscat is one of those capitals where driving actually makes sense and is advisable to be able to quickly reach different locations. Traffic, although exist at peak time, is not too bad as, for example, in Dubai. Google maps work just fine to help navigate, and parking is fairly easy. 

Thus, if you are landing at Muscat Airport, I recommend picking up your car there and being completely independent for the rest of the trip. And did I mention, petrol in Oman is one of the cheapest in the world?  

If you are still looking for a great deal to rent a car in Oman, I recommend checking Discovercars which offers some of the lowest rates in the market.

I also crosscheck with the most popular car rental search engine Rentalcars if I cannot find a car, I am looking for Discovercars.

Top tip for parking in Muscat: you can find many places to park your car in Muscat for free. Even in Muttrah which can be a little harder to park at (especially free of charge), I found a convenient free spot in one of the backyards and kept on coming back there to park my car (refer to the map for exact pin location). 

Taxis are also a popular option for tourists to move around Muscat. However, if you are planning to drive around and see more than just one place, renting a car will be cheaper. 

Note that street taxis in Oman are unmetered and you have to negotiate the rate beforehand. In Muttrah you will be approached by local taxi drivers offering to take you to the main points of interest like the Grand Mosque or Royal Opera House.

Tip: if you are planning to use a taxi, the best way is to download Mwsalat or OTaxi app (aka local Uber) so you know the correct fare.

City buses are available, and also very cheap (200-500 baisas per ride, depending on the distance). Their network is covering the main areas around Muscat, which include the most popular tourist attractions (Grand Mosque, Opera House, Alam Palace, Muttrah, Ruwi).

You can also catch a bus from the airport to the Ruwi area in Muscat.

However, commuting by bus is significantly slower than by car. The frequency might be around every 20-30 minutes, and you might have to also change a few buses to get to your desired destination. For this reason, you must also be familiar with areas of Muscat and stay within walking distance of the bus stop if this is the way you plan to visit the capital. This travel method would best suit those who either have more time and/or are on a budget.

The bus system in Muscat is operated by Mwsalat company. You can check city timetables and bus stops with bus numbers here .

Places to visit in Muscat: 1 Day in Muscat Itinerary

1. sultan qaboos grand mosque.

A fine example of incredible modern Islamic architecture, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a must-visit place in Muscat, Oman.

The Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in Oman. The beauty of Sultan Qaboos mosque is simply unmatched. Defined by perfectly symmetric arrays of arches, elaborate latticework, intricate mosaics, and ornate carvings of flowers, the Sultan Qaboos mosque is one of the most impressive modern mosques I have ever visited.

If you love architecture, you will go crazy photographing its beautiful corners and intricate details, light and shadow game is also fantastic. 

Interesting facts about Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

It took 6 years to complete the mosque and it can host up to 20000 worshipers. The 24-karat gold-plated chandelier inside the men’s prayer hall holds 600,000 Swarovski crystals and is surrounded by 34 smaller versions found across the mosque.

Equally impressive is the hand-made prayer carpet weighing 21 tons. It took 600 Iranian artisans to complete in 4 years. The only prayer carpet that is even larger belongs to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Moreover, one of Gran Mosque’s 5 minarets (together they represent the 5 pillars of Islam) is 90 meters tall, making Sultan Qaboos Mosque the country’s tallest structure. As mentioned before, Oman has strict architectural guidelines, especially when it comes to the height of the building.

• Top tip: Visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque as early as 8 am and head directly to the main prayer hall. It is impossible to beat tour buses during the winter season, but at least you will be able to get a picture of the main prayer hall unobstructed by the crowds.
• Allocate 2-3 hours if you love photography. The territory is huge and there are so many beautiful areas and corners to take pictures of. However, there are also lots of visitors and it is tricky to get a shot without a tourist in it. Your best chance is to wait until 11 AM when people start leaving and then (quickly) photograph the mosque (almost) tourist-free (guards will start asking you to leave from 11 AM, but you can “buy” some time).
• Photography Tip:  Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandness of architecture. I used my  14-30 mm Nikkor Z  lens to capture the images shown above.

Things to know before visiting Sultan Qaboos Mosque in Muscat

• Opening hours  for non-Muslim visitors and photography  are from 8 AM- 11 AM every day except Friday .
• Entrance fee:  FREE
• How long should I spend here?  1 hour is a minimum, but you can easily spend 2-3 hours.
• Dress Code:  ladies must cover head to toe (including wearing a head scarf), men are not required to wear head cover, but must also wear long pants and long sleeve shirts.
• Etiquette:  leave your shoes at the door when stepping into the prayer halls.

Have lunch or late breakfast at Dukanah restaurant

After visiting Grand Mosque, if you feel hungry, I recommend heading for lunch or late breakfast at Dukanah restaurant, located in the Qurum area where most of the ex-pats live. The restaurant serves Omani food, more like breakfast, or lunch type of options are available. It is situated in a nice traditional mud house, making a visit a pleasant experience.

Dukanah is located next to Qurum beach. Thus take an opportunity to walk and see one of the best beaches in Muscat, lined with tall palm trees it is reminiscing of Salalah vibes. 

Planning on visiting the south of Oman, Dhofar region, and Salalah? Check my Salalah travel guide.

  2. Explore beautiful Muttrah- the heart of Muscat

If you only have one day in Muscat, visiting Muttrah is a must. Muttrah is where you will find a very old part of today’s Muscat. It is often called the heart of Muscat, although used to be an independent seaport town centuries ago before Muscat was formed of several villages.

Muttrah is an important ages-old port and a center of commerce until today. It is characterized by a beautiful Muttrah corniche lined up with white-washed tightly packed traditional houses, minarets of petite mosques, and 17th-century Portuguese watchtowers perched on top of the dark brown craggy hills of the surrounding area.

Muttrah is my absolute favorite part of Muscat. The unpolished district of Muscat, home to one of the oldest markets in Oman, Muttrah is where you can see poor Omani, Bengali, Indian and Pakistani residents running their daily errands.

I recommend dedicating at least half a day to exploring this unique quarter of Muscat. 

Things to do in Muttrah, Muscat

• See the real face of Muttrah by losing your way in its tangled alleyways

Although Muttrah has its pretty corniche, to me as a photographer, more interesting are the hidden corners of the tangled Muttrah’s alleyways. At a first glance, Muttrah appears as a tiny quarter of Muscat. Don’t be deceived though, once you wander behind the front houses of Muttrah corniche, it is easy to get lost.

Yet, this is a fun part of exploring and discovering the most interesting parts of any old town of this sort. What surprised me though is how worn-out and dirty is Muscat’s old town.

One can immediately understand that this is a poor part of the capital. A large number of houses are now either crumbling down or have fallen in disrepair. Yet arabesques seen on the balconies and windows, and ornate details on some of the front doors show that this part of Muscat saw the days of glory. 

Nonetheless, many of those worn-out homes are still inhabited by local families. Moreover, you cannot pass a single street without noticing dozens of stray cats living in survival mode.

While wandering around the maze of tiny streets you will get to see simple local people, kids playing football in the small courtyards, cozy mosques, many small shops ranging from groceries to mini gold factories, as well as hundreds of local ladies tailoring “boutiques” selling essentially exact same dresses made of sparkling colorful fabric. 

Meanwhile, the most random detail yet fascinating at the same time are the watchtowers which are not on the hill but rather on the street, hidden between the buildings. I come across at least two of them.

• The forbidden Shia quarter (Sur Al Lawatia) 

A part of the front row of well-preserved buildings on Muttrah corniche belongs to the secretive quarter of Sur Al Lawatia. This gated corner of Muttrah is inhabited by a closed community of Omani Shias. They are not keen on visitors wandering around their residential area the entrance to which is an arched open gate, yet guarded. 

The reason why this closed community doesn’t welcome visitors is not completely clear but some say because they want their women to be free walking around unveiled. 

I tried to take a peek inside and the guard allowed me to have a brief glimpse. No photos though. To be honest there is nothing that special about the place in terms of looks, it is more about it being forbidden that fascinates outsiders.

• Haggle and then find your way out of Muttrah Souk

The number one attraction for all the tourists visiting Muttrah is its over 200 years old market (Muttrah Souk). Muttrah Souk sells everything from traditional garments, souvenirs you don’t really need, Arabic perfume, frankincense incense, magic lamps, colorful lanterns, fabrics, local outfits, traditional Omani knives, and  kummas (Omani skull hats you see all the local men wear), lots of silver and gold jewelry, some of the really horrendous size and design but apparently very popular between wealthier locals. 

Muttrah Souk is a maze made of hundreds of very tiny alleyways, occupying a significant area of the old town. Naturally, the market is confusing for the first-timer. Ironically, the souk is practically unavoidable even when you try to skip walking through it while finding your way to other parts of Muttrah. 

To me, Muttrah Souq wasn’t the most interesting part of the old town. I much prefer Nizwa Souq in Nizwa town, north of Oman. The sellers in Muttrah can be irritating trying to talk you into buying scarves and perfumes. It reminded me of those seen in the Dubai textile market except they don’t apply funny and at the same time annoying methods of calling you Maria Shakira. 

For that particular reason, I was trying to avoid walking through Muttrah Souq when exploring parts of the town. However, it was virtually impossible as the market hugs the rest of the Muttrah old town from all directions. 

Yet if this is your first time in Muscat, you should still check Muttrah Souk out. It is a good place to get some gifts, but make sure to negotiate the price. 

Muttrah Souk Opening times: 9 AM-1 PM, 4 PM-10 PM daily.

• Watch the sunset from Muttrah Fort

Taking up the dominating position on the hills, Muttrah Fort is a historical building founded during Portuguese occupation in the 16th century. The fort itself is small and today the main charm of this defense building is the viewpoints over Muttrah corniche and old town.

I recommend climbing up its 200 stairs before sunset to see the town glowing in golden light. 

There is a cozy specialty coffee shop upstairs. You can grab an iced mocha and have a seat outside with a wonderful view over the corniche.

• Muttrah Fort opening hours: 8 am-9 pm daily. 
• Entrance fee: once free Muttrah Fort now costs 2 OMR for non-Omani visitors. 
• P. S. I have negotiated for paying for 1 ticket only. Omanis will often surprise you with their hospitality. Once they even offered to pay for the entrance to one of the historic forts when none of my credit cards worked (cash was not accepted). 

3. Have dinner at a local fish restaurant

End your day with a heartful dinner at a local fish restaurant Aroos al Bahar. This is a low-key eatery serving fresh grilled fish and seafood. You have to pick up the fish over the counter and then take a seat inside the restaurant or on their humble terrace. The prices are really good for simple but quality food. Expect to pay around 3-5 OMR for a fresh grilled fish (can be shared between the two). 

A word about Bait Al Luban restaurant

Bait Al Luban is more of an upscale restaurant in Muttrah corniche (just next to the above-mentioned Aroos Al Bahar). It serves Omani food and different curries. This is a heavily advertised restaurant (if you have read more blogs, chances are it was mentioned in 90 percent of them).

However, to me, it was a disappointment. Tourist flock to this restaurant like sweets on a conveyer in a factory. First of all, you need to book at least a day in advance. The food is okay, but nothing extraordinary for the price charged. I ordered prawn curry for almost 8 OMR and was served 6 small prawns in a large bowl of curry sauce-pretty unfair deal. I was told that meat dishes were quite dry. 

The only nice thing is the beautiful interior and the terrace seating with a corniche view (if you reserve well in advance).

Where to have great coffee in Muttrah

If you are like me, picky with your coffee, then I recommend the below coffee shop:

Bella Vista Café – it is a cozy cafe serving great specialty coffee. It is located on the corner of the roundabout at Muttrah Corniche. It was our go-to coffee shop during our 3 days in Muscat. 

Things to do in Muscat: Day 2 itinerary

1. wake up early for a fish market in muttrah.

If you like local markets, then Muttrah fish market offers an interesting experience. Located in a new building on Muttrah corniche, this fish market is a place where locals go to buy fresh fish and fruits. The sellers are locals as well. Mainly old charismatic Omanis. If you love people photography, you will definitely find interesting characters to photograph.

Wake up early to visit the market which opens at 7 AM. By 9 AM stalls are almost empty. 

2. Visit the royal part of historical Muscat- a walled old town

Just a 5-minute scenic drive east along Muttrah corniche following Al Bahri road you will reach the other part of what is also known as an old Muscat which once used to be a separate walled town. It actually continues all way to Al Bustan beach where the beautiful Al Bustan Palace resort is located.

Leaving Muttrah, and entering through what is known as Muscat Gate, you will immediately notice that buildings here are more polished, streets are cleaner, and architecture is grander. It is expected as Al Alam, Sultan of Oman palace, and the ministry of Finances are based in this area. 

Here you will also find all the museums dedicated to history and culture, including the above-mentioned Gate of Muscat, and a few big forts which you can only see from outside.

Dedicate up to 1.5 hours to walk around the area, or up to 3-4 hours if you are planning to also visit a museum or two. 

The main things to see and do in old Muscat:

• Al Alam Palace

Sultan’s Palace is possibly the second most famous building in Muscat after Sultan Qaboos Mosque. It used to be a home for the late Sultan Qaboos, and I believe now is a home (or one of the homes) for a new ruler of Oman, Haitham bin Tariq. You can only admire outside its gates.

The area in front of the palace is an eerie ceremonial boulevard. The grand empty space feels very different from the tiny streets of Muttrah.

Tourist buses come directly to Al Alam palace after visiting the Grand Mosque in the morning. If you come before 11 AM chances are you will have the space for yourself.

Nonetheless, to me, Al Alam palace was not the most interesting point on this Muscat itinerary, yet still a memorable one more for the contrast to Muttrah old town. I spent no more than 5 minutes in front of Al Alam Palace and took one or two pictures just to tick off the box. 

• Al Mirani Fort and the waterfront harbor

The waterfront area on the left of Al Alam Palace used to be home to the old harbor. Here you will also find the impressive Al Mirani Castle, also built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Sadly, the fortification was undergoing renovation during my visit, so I could only see it from outside. I bet it will be interesting fort to visit when the renovations are done. 

Another notable Fort out of reach to the public (and it has always been so as far as I am aware) is Jalali Fort. It is visible in the distance when walking along the waterfront. 

The waterfront itself is relaxing and a pleasant place to go for a stroll. 

• The National Museum of Oman

National Museum is Oman’s flagship cultural institution which showcases the cultural heritage of Oman from the first evidence of humans around 5 million years ago until the present day. I have not visited it yet, but the exterior of the Museum situated on the opposite side of Al Alam palace looks impressive, no less than a palace I would say. 

• Entrance fee : 5 OMR. 
• Opening hours : 10 am to 5 pm Saturday to Thursday, and 2 pm to 6 pm on Fridays. 
• Muscat Gate Museum (Al Bab Al Kabir) 

Recently renovated, Al Bab al Kabir used to be a gate separating Muttrah corniche and the walled city of old Muscat. Today it has been turned into a museum that shows how Oman has evolved through the years. Although the exhibition is small, the views from the terrace are pretty. 

• Opening hours : 8 am-1:30 pm, closed on Fridays. 
• Entrance fee: 1 OMR (foreigners), 500 baisas (Omanis), free for kids below 10 years old.
• Bait al Zubair Museum

Bait Al Zubair museum opened its doors in 1998 by the Zubair family. It houses the largest private heritage collection of various Omani artifacts and walks the visitor through Oman’s rich cultural history. The museum is formed of 6 buildings which are just as interesting as the collections inside. Bait Al Zubair is said to be one of the best museums to visit in Muscat.

• Entrance fee: 2.5 OMR.
• Opening hours: 9:30 am – 6 pm, closed on Fridays.

3. Head to Ruwi viewpoint for sunset

Ruwi is a little India of Muscat. Formerly a separate village, it was later connected to Muscat. If you have ever been to Dubai, the closest equivalent is Deira, Bur Dubai, and Satwa quarters.

Most of the Indian, Bengali, and Pakistani population live in Ruwi. In terms of location, Ruwi is very central- just 10 minutes by car from Muttrah. Also, a bus station connecting to other towns in Oman and also Muscat airport is in Ruwi.

Travelers on a budget can find some simple but decent accommodations and also bargain places to eat as there are countless West Asian restaurants around. 

I loved rough and messy Ruwi, mainly for street photography opportunities. However, my favorite spot is Yiti street viewpoint above Ruwi. A short but steep and windy road brings you to the craggy rock from where you can see the best, to my opinion, elevated view of Muscat. It is a unique sight of numerous white houses spilling between the brown rocks. 

It is a perfect place to watch both sunset and sunrise. Refer to the mao at the end of this post for exact coordinates.

Places to see in Muscat on Day 3 itinerary

Since the first 2 days covered the most popular places to visit in Muscat, day 3 in the Muscat itinerary is a bit of freestyle. I have included several sightseeing options to pick from, depending on your liking. 

Muscat is stretched over the beautiful coastline. A trip east along the coast to the capital’s outskirts will bring you to some wonderful secluded beaches surrounded by dramatic fjord-like landscapes. Meanwhile going up north of Muscat, you can sail off to pristine islands located within an hour from Muscat. Thus, for the first part of day 3 in Muscat, I suggest picking one of the below nature escapes.

1. Swim and snorkel around Ad Daymaniyat islands

Ad Daymaniyat is a Nature Reserve formed of nine pristine islands located 20km off the shores of Barka- a coastal city up north of Muscat. Islands are known for their crystal-clear waters and as a great spot for snorkeling with their bright-colored fish and sea turtles.

From May to October visiting Daymaniyat islands is prohibited due to marine life protection.

Since a special permit is required to enter the islands, the easiest way to visit Daymaniyat is by joining a day tour. Tour operators will handle all the logistics, permits, and food on your behalf.

• Daymaniyat snorkeling cruise from Muscat  is rated 5/5 on Get Your Guide, and alternatively,  this day tour  offers snorkeling and dolphin watching.

2. Visit Fjords of Muscat- Bandar Khairan (Khayran)

If you prefer something more off-the-beaten-path, then head to Bandar Khairan, located 30 minutes drive from Muttrah. This natural wonder in the outskirts of Muscat is known for its Fjord-like landscapes (somewhat similar to Musandam ).

Although you can get to the area with any car, accessing the small secluded beaches requires either hiking, a boat, or a 4WD. There are several coves dotted around the Bandar Khairan peninsula.

One of the easiest to access is marked as Bandar Al Khairam Beach for Tourism on Google Maps. Although to get to the shores 4 WD is required, you can also hike down the steep windy dirt path. The distance must not be more than a kilometer. There you will find some water activities to take on. You can go snorkeling (might have to bring your gear), while kayaking and boat paddling are available for rent.

NOTE: The are no food stalls or drinking water at the beaches, thus bring your own supplies. 

Recommended stops on the way to Bandar Khairan

Haramil fishing village.

The road to Bandar Khayran is very scenic, winding through the mountains. On the way, you can stop at Haramil fishing village -a quaint tiny town. There is not much to see but the views with many fishing boats lining the shore are beautiful. It is a very small local community, and locals are pleasantly surprised to see visitors.

Qantab Beach

Following the scenic road, another worthy detour is Qantab beach where you can either chill or go on a short boat ride with a local fisherman. 

The beach at Qantab fishing village, 30 minutes away drive south of Muscat, was one of the unexpected discoveries during our Oman road trip. Once we reached it, we were pleasantly surprised by the quiet beach featuring beautiful rock formations. It was one of those wild-type beaches with just a few local fishermen hanging around. I would have easily spent half a day reading a book and chilling on the sand.

We were approached by an elder Omani sailor named Solomon. He offered us to go on a private boat ride. We agreed. And it was a pleasant 30 minutes ride in a traditional motorized boat. We had a chance to see a natural stone arch and admire the beautiful coastline.

The private 30 minutes boat ride costs 10 OMR.

Once you are back in Muscat, there are other attractions I would like to suggest (depending on the time you have left, you may have to pick one).

3. Sunset Hike above Muttrah

Love hiking? Then you should definitely try at least one of several city hikes in Muscat. There are a few trails around the capital of Oman. One of the easiest and most scenic ones is the Muttrah-Riyam Park hike. This easy to lightly moderate marked path winds through the craggy hills starting in the parking lot near Riyam Park and finishing on the corniche of Muttrah. You will be surprised that hiking in town actually allows for a brilliant escape from the town and opens up to some great views over the Muttrah town and its corniche. 

• Trail distance: 3.7 KM
• Hike duration: 1.5 hrs
• Difficulty level: easy to moderate
• The trail is well-marked with yellow white and red line flags
• Proper hiking boots are recommended as the rocks are very slippery
• Kids-friendly (we saw families with young kids doing it).

Trailhead coordinates:  type in Google  [C38 Mutrah to Riyam Park Hike]  to get to the start of the trail. The starting point is behind one of the houses. You will see a stone staircase on the left-hand side going uphill-follow it to begin the hike.

4. Sunset stroll on Qurum beach

Alternatively, to hiking, you can visit Qurum beach during the sunset. It is said to have a beautiful atmosphere and you can also watch locals hanging around. 

5. Visit or watch a performance in Royal Opera House Muscat

Royal Opera House of Muscat is another grand modern architecture example in Oman and a venue for musical arts and performances. The building itself is a popular tourist attraction. Tours to visit interiors are also available. But probably the best way to experience the Royal Opera House is to actually go and watch a performance.

If you are curious about the architecture, you can definitely pay a visit. Still, if you have limited time, I suggest skipping it.

More activities around Muscat

Have more time in Muscat? Then I would recommend going on a day trip to visit Oman’s finest forts located fairly close to the capital.

1. Rustaq Loop

Rustaq Loop is a nice one-day road trip from Muscat that covers stops at 3 beautiful historical forts of Oman dating back between the 13-18th centuries (each built and renovated during different eras). In general, Omani forts are brilliant. Although they all follow similar architectural styles and have identical beige-hue colors, I never get bored visiting Omani forts. Each fort is unique in its own way and offers something awe-inspiring to see.

In Rustaq Loop (drive literally in a loop starting and finishing in Muscat), you will see the following forts: Al-Hazm, Rustaq, and Nakhal (or vice versa, depending on which side you start your drive from).

I recommend starting your day early to slowly visit them all. The full loop drive will take up to 3 hours, plus you need a couple of hours or so to visit each fort, depending on how much exploration you are keen to do. Omani forts are known for their many rooms and labyrinth type of planning, and they are really interesting to wander around. Moreover, being inside the fort offers a perfect escape from the hot Middle Eastern midday sun.

Forts’ opening hours are usually from 8 AM till around 5 PM daily. Opening times might be shorter on Fridays. However, on my recent visit to Al-Hazm Fort, it was open all day on Friday. The entrance fee depends on the fort. We paid 1 OMR for entering Al-Hazm fort, for example.

Update: currently Rustaq and Nakhal Forts are under renovation. Nakhal fort will be open for visiting in 2023 spring, while Rustaq is supposed to be finished by the end of 2023.

Tip: if you are traveling from Muscat to Dubai by road , Al-Hazm fort is on the way and is worth stopping by for an hour or two.

2. Nizwa Fort and Souk

17th-century Nizwa Fort is located in Nizwa mountain town. It is one of the most famous if not the most famous fort in the country. Adjacent to the fort is Nizwa market which is cozier and less touristy than the one in Muttrah. Although you can visit Nizwa Fort and Souk as a day trip from Muscat, I strongly suggest staying at least one night in Nizwa or around to see a different side of the mountainous part of the Sultanate.

• Nizwa Fort opening hours:  Saturdays to Thursdays: 8 am – 8 pm / Fridays: 8 am – 11:30 am, 1:30 pm – 8:00 pm.
• Entrance fees:  5 OMR ($13 USD) for adults / 3 OMR ($8 USD) for children.

Final thoughts about visiting Muscat

Is Muscat worth visiting? And why visit Muscat? Is Muscat a safe city to visit?

Many people treat Muscat as a jump-off point before they start their road trip around the Sultanate, or just as a layover between flights to other destinations.

However, underrated Muscat is not only a great place to visit for a city break filled with interesting sights but also a perfect introduction to the Sultanate of Oman. Historically and culturally rich Muscat is a very different and unique capital. It is laid back and relatively slow-paced, something you wouldn’t expect from the largest city in the country. 

Muscat is a huge contrast to flashy Dubai in UAE (although Dubai also has an old part hidden under the shades of skyscrapers).

Oman’s capital is a real city where you will find worn out charismatic old houses, locals driving taxis and serving people at restaurants, or haggling in the ages-old markets. 

Muscat also serves as a base for day trips to nearby destinations in Oman, like Bimah Sinkhole and wadi Shab, Daymaniyat islands, or Nizwa, for example. 

The not-so-obvious luxurious side of Muscat can be experienced by treating yourself to a stay in one of the wonderful resorts located on the idyllic shores of the Gulf of Oman. 

Thus, there are so many things to do in Muscat and it is a must-visit place in Oman for longer than just a day. 

Safety in Muscat

Last but not least, Oman is one of the safest countries to visit not only in the Middle East but also in the whole world. Even if you are a single female traveler, visiting Muscat, or Oman on your own is easy. Men pay respect to women and never ever did I feel uncomfortable or in danger wandering even the most remote corners of Oman and Muscat.

Accommodation in Muscat

Haffa House Hotel $-a decent four-star hotel for very reasonable prices. Although it is an old hotel and needs a bit of revamp, it is clean, has polite service, and the location is convenient to drive to any direction for sightseeing. Make sure to request a non-smoking room (if that applies to you) when booking.

Intercontinental Muscat $$$- located on the beach of Qurum this resort offers you a comfortable stay in rooms with sea or mountain views, access to the pool, gym, green gardens, saunas, in house restaurants. The popular waterfront-muscat area with trendy shops and nice restaurants is also close by.

Muscat, Oman Map

Click  here  to open and save my Muscat itinerary map which shows the exact locations of the points of interest mentioned in this Muscat guide.

I hope you are enjoying my free travel guides & tips. If yes, please consider supporting my work by buying me a coffee so I can continue creating more useful content from my favorite coffee shop in town. Thanks!

Oman travel essentials & useful links

Here are links to essential travel resources and services I always use when organizing my trips.

• Rent a car : The best way to explore Oman is by self-driving. Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars .
• Best flight deals: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Oman from your location.
• Accommodation: book your ideal accommodation on Booking .
• Travel Insurance: buy affordable travel insurance at SafetyWing . Alternatively, get  5% off  your insurance by using my link on  Heymondo , a travel insurance provider.
• Guided tours: book the best-rated guided tours in Oman on Viator .
• Local SIM Card: Get a tourist pack of local data and calls at Muscat airport or hypermarket. Omantel provides the best coverage.
• eSIM CARD:  Stay connected before you land.  Airalo  offers eSIM card with data up to 5 GB (30 days) data package for Oman.

More Oman travel blog posts

• Plan your Oman road trip with my Ultimate Oman Road Trip Itinerary .
• Renting a car and driving in Oman: everything you need to know.
• Traveling from UAE to Oman by road or vice versa? Check useful information about UAE-Oman land border crossing using this guide .
• Driving to Salalah? Make sure to also read my  Dubai to Salalah road trip planner .
• Plan your Salalah route with my  Ultimate Salalah Itinerary: the best things to do in Dhofar region, Oman.
• Plan your visit to Wadi Shab-one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Oman .
• Plan your visit to Musandam with my detailed Musandam from Dubai road trip guide.

Hi! I am a freelance photographer & videographer as well the creator of www.theroadreel.com. Born in Lithuania, and currently residing in the UAE, I have been traveling around the globe independently for over a decade. I created The Road Reel to share my passion for travel and photography through detailed road trips and city itineraries, and hiking guides, along with regular and drone photogragraphy tips.

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10 Best Things To Do In Muscat: A Perfect Muscat Itinerary

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2023

Categories Oman

Muscat is a sprawling city, with several interesting neighborhoods, each with their own character and Muscat highlights.

If you are planning a trip to Oman and are looking for things to do in Muscat, this extensive Muscat city guide is for you!

The best things to do in Muscat

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

This post has been created in collaboration with several other travel bloggers, who have shared their favorite Muscat sightseeing activity to create this post and inspire you to visit Muscat, Oman.

Muscat tourist map

All the activities in Muscat mentioned above can be found on the map below. I've also added the Muscat hotels in the different price ranges.

Click here for the interactive map

10 things to see and do in Muscat

Visit the sultan qaboos grand mosque, enjoy traditional omani food at kargeen.

• Go hiking in Muttrah

Stroll along Muttrah Corniche

Shop at muttrah souq, learn about oman in the national museum, go on an eco-dolphin watching tour.

• Visit Bait-Al-Baranda Museum
• Enjoy a show at the Royal Opera House

Relax at Shatti Al Qurum Beach

Top 5 tours in and around Muscat

• Muscat city tour (half day) : explore Muscat on a half-day tour of the traditional markets and city landmarks, such as the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Learn about the history and modern-day culture of the cosmopolitan city. Click here to book .
• Dolphin-watching tour : experience an amazing dolphin-watching tour off the coast of Muscat. Sail around Oman’s beautiful coastline and admire the crystal-clear waters while keeping your eyes peeled for pods of dolphins. Click here to book .
• Go snorkeling at the Dimaniyat Islands : enjoy a full day out on the water with this small-group snorkeling cruise to the Dimaniyat Islands. Look for fish, turtles, and other sea life in the pristine corals and bays. Click here to book .
• Take a day trip to Wadi Shab : discover Wadi Shab, a magical waterfall within a cave, and go for a swim in one of the pools. Marvel at the Bimmah Sinkhole on the way back. Click here to book .
• Visit Nizwa and Al Hamra : spend a day discovering Nizwa and experience a great hike in Al Hamra, one of Oman's most beautiful villages. Click here to book .

Things to know when planning a trip to Muscat

Muscat is the capital of Oman and is located in the north of this beautiful country, on the Gulf of Oman. With approximately 1.7 million residents it's the biggest city in Oman.

For anyone wondering ‘ is Muscat worth visiting ‘, I can say from personal experience: yes, absolutely!

The best time to visit Muscat is during the winter months (November-March). Winter does not mean cold in Oman, it means comfortable. The average temperature is usually below 30°C, contrary to the unbearable heat of the summer months (April to September).

Yes, you need a visa for Oman, unless you are a resident of the U.A.E., Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, or Saudi Arabia. Getting an Oman visa isn't difficult, you can easily apply for an E-visa onlin e. There is even a video tutorial to walk you through the process. Depending on the length of your visit, you will either need a 10-day tourist visa (5 OMR) or a 30-day tourist visa (20 OMR).

The currency of Oman is the Omani Rial (OMR) . Coins have a denomination of 5, 10, 25, 50, 100 baisas, and 0.25 and 0.50 rials. Banknote denomination is 100 and 200 baisas, and 0.50, one, five, 10, 20, and 50 rials.

Plan your trip to Oman like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best 4×4 rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ? Stay connected with an  Oman SIM card . ? Plan your journey with the  Oman Lonely Planet . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide or Viator . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

The best places to stay in Muscat

There are many excellent hotels in Muscat , from luxury resorts to very affordable accommodations for those traveling to Oman on a budget .

In the table below you can find my recommendations. More information about these hotels can be found further down in the post.

Note: in Oman, hotel rates vary considerably throughout the year. During high season, from November until the end of March, hotel prices are much higher than during the low (because scorching hot) season, which runs from April until October. Therefore, the prices mentioned above are a rough indication of the price per night to help you compare the different options. Use ‘click here' to see the latest prices on Agoda and Booking and book ahead to get the best deal.

How to get around Muscat

Muscat is a very spread-out city, due to the lack of high-rise buildings. Therefore distances between places to see in Muscat are large and it takes some time to get from one side to the other.

There are several ways to get around in Muscat:

• Public transport : there are buses in Muscat and they are very cheap. You can find timetables and routes here . Note that not all Muscat sights are close to a bus station, so some walking is definitely needed when getting around Muscat by bus.
• Taxi or microbus : there are many taxis and micro-buses in Muscat. Except for official Muscat airport taxis, taxis in Muscat don't have meters so bargaining is required, even then they are usually quite expensive.
• Rent a car : despite the fact that traffic is rather heavy in Muscat (unlike the rest of Oman, which is why it's a great place for a road trip), a rental car is the easiest way to get around the city. Roads and signage are generally good and parking is available at most sites and hotels.

What to wear in Muscat

Islam is the state religion in Oman and it's very important to dress appropriately, also as a tourist.

Omani men generally wear a dishdasha (an ankle-length collarless gown) and many women wear abayas (long black dresses).

While you don't have to dress as the Omanis do, please dress conservatively. Wear loose clothes, and long sleeves and avoid shorts.

Especially when visiting religious places, be sure to wear appropriate clothes and behave respectfully!

What to do in Muscat: 10 great attractions in Muscat

Jeff from Our Passion For Travel : a visit to Muscat is not complete without checking out the impressive Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Arguably the most impressive mosque in all of Oman, it was completed in 2001.

Its five minarets define the pillars of Islam, with the tallest reaching some 91 meters high.

Outside of the mosque, there are several pristine and meticulously maintained courtyards and walkways, each with its own impressive patterns.

Inside the mosque, you’ll find some interesting and beautiful pieces. At the time of opening, the mosque was home to the world’s largest chandelier.

Besides 600,000 Swarovski crystals covering its 14 meters of height, the chandelier is also covered with 24-carat gold plating. This chandelier is heavyweight by any standard, weighing in at 8.5 tonnes!

The big theme doesn’t end there. You’ll find what was once the world’s largest carpet in the Prayer Hall, which can hold 6500 worshipers. It’s 60 by 70 meters in size and took over four years to complete.

The mosque is beautiful inside and out, but so too are the people. If you seek out an Imam as we did, they’ll sit you down over some Omani coffee and dates and provide an overview of Islam, unravel any myths, and answer any questions you might have.

This unique experience comes at no cost to visitors and welcomes those from all faiths. 

Emily from Wander-Lush : if you are looking to sample traditional Omani cuisine at an Omani restaurant, Muscat has many excellent options.

Even if you’re traveling in Oman on a budget, I highly recommend splashing out for brunch at Kargeen, where you can sample some of the best national fares in the capital.

The name Kargeen translates to ‘ little wooden cottage ’. The locally-owned restaurant, which has been a Muscat mainstay since 1997, occupies a beautiful indoor-outdoor space with traditional timber and concrete architecture.

The smell of frankincense greets you as you enter the dining room, which is decorated in traditional style with ornate lighting and antique carpets.

In the cafe’s leafy courtyard, there are different kitchen ‘stations’ set up where you can watch chefs preparing  khubz ragag , traditional Omani bread. And that’s all before you sit down to eat!

Kargeen specializes in Omani and Arabic cuisine, served alongside an extensive range of western dishes. If it’s traditional food you’re interested in, don’t look past the Omani Breakfast .

It consists of bubbly  rukhal  bread served with zaatar, cheese, and honey, Omani-style eggs cooked up with tomatoes, more eggs, this time sweetened with date syrup, chickpea masala,  semya , and lots of Omani coffee or tea on the side.

Dishes are served in delightful little pots and enjoyed sharing style.

Kargeen is located on Al Bashair Street in Muscat’s diplomatic area, about a 15-minute drive from Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.

The café is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from 7 am – except on Fridays when it opens at 12 midday.

A breakfast set costs 6.600 OMR (roughly 17 USD) per person at the time of writing, but for the ambiance and the taste, I think it’s absolutely worth it.

Hiking in Muttrah

Rahma from The Sane Adventurer : when looking for things to do, Muscat is filled with plenty of adventurous activities to do right in the heart of the city.

One of the most popular activities to do is  hiking in Muscat  in the tourist hub of Muttrah, which ends with a panoramic view of the Muttrah corniche and the Arabian Sea.

It is a short hike (just 10km) and it can be completely done self-guided. The best time to do the hike is either during the sunrise or the sunset.

The starting point of the hike is right in front of the parking spot of Riyam Park in Muttrah. There is no signage to mark the start of the hike, but one can see stairs carved into the mountain which leads halfway to the top of the mountain.

Along the hike, regular hikers and locals have marked the direction on the rocks, so it is pretty easy to follow the trail and complete the hike.

As it's a relatively short hiking trail, all you need to carry is some water and maybe light snacks if you wish.

However, one important item to pack is water shoes ( or wear Teva's or similar sandals), as depending on the weather, there might be quite a few pools of water to cross between the mountains.

The hike ends near the Muttrah fort, which is on a cliff and offers great views of the Corniche road. It is also the best place to see the sunrise or sunset!

Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan : the Muttrah Corniche is a seaside promenade that stretches for three kilometers along the waterfront of Muttrah Bay.

It's the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, particularly at sunset! From the Corniche, you have superb views of the mountains as well as of Muttrah Fort (also mentioned above), which sits on top of a hill protecting the bay.

Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, it is now open to visitors as a tourist attraction and offers a different view of the bay that includes the corniche itself.

Muttrah is Oman's main port area, so you'll be able to watch the dhows unload their wares at the markets.

You may also spot one of the more prominent boats that are usually moored here, including his Majesty's dhow and a fully-rigged training ship named Shabab Oman .

You'll notice plenty of birdlife here, including huge flocks of seagulls. The water is quite clear, so if you look down you should be able to spot plenty of fish swimming in the bay too.

The Corniche is lined with mosques, restaurants, cafes, and latticed buildings. Most of the buildings are painted white, contrasting sharply against the dark hills.

Restaurants here serve various dishes, including traditional Middle Eastern cuisine and more international flavors. A meal at one of the restaurants with an outdoor terrace would be a perfect way to end your walk along the Corniche.

Muttrah is located in a small cove on the eastern side of Muscat. The main road runs right through it, and it can easily be reached by taxi.

Muttrah Souq is the traditional old city Souq and the best place to shop for souvenirs in Muscat.

Here you can find pottery, Omani silverware, frankincense, stacks of colorful kummah with intricate patterns (the traditional cap you will see many Omani men wearing in the streets), and much more.

A very typical Omani item is mandoos , beautifully decorated wooden inlay boxes that come in all sizes and are used to store jewelry and clothes.

Another interesting item that can be found in the Muttrah Souq is the khanjar , which is an Omani dagger.

This short curved sword shaped like the letter j has an important ceremonial function at national festivals, weddings, and other social events. So important that you can even find the khanjar on the flag of Oman!

The best time to visit Muttrah Souq (as with most souqs) is in the afternoon or early evening. You will find many Omani women browsing the Souq as well, so it's definitely worth noting which shops they prefer, as this is a good indication of quality wears being sold.

While I often find it quite exhausting to visit a Souq because of the pushy merchants, I really enjoyed visiting Muttrah Souq.

The shop owners are generally very relaxed and friendly, they will help you when you ask for it but they won't drag you inside their shops or try as with some other souqs I've visited.

Perhaps this is due to the fact that Muscat tourism hasn't fully taken off and there is a good balance between locals and tourists visiting the Souq.

In any case, a stroll around Muttrah Souq should be on your ‘ Muscat things to do list ‘.

The National Museum opened in 2016 and is a great place to learn about Oman. It traces the history of Oman through time, starting at the earliest human settlement in Oman.

This vast museum has 14 permanent galleries about various topics, such as maritime history, Oman currency, and an Armoury. You could easily spend half a day or more in this state-of-the-art museum.

There are interactive displays, videos, and welcoming knowledgeable staff that gladly tells you more about the museum and Oman.

The building itself is quite impressive as well, a landmark fit to hold the thousands of artifacts on display here.

Onsite there are a gift shop and a cafe, so you can enjoy a drink before heading to the next Muscat attraction on your itinerary.

Nabiha from Verses By A Voyager : Muscat is a city of rugged natural beauty with mesmerizing beaches and an abundance of incredible marine life. In fact, there are perfect dive spots very close to the city!

What's more, did you know that you can see dolphins just off the coast of Muscat, Oman ? Just a few kilometers from the Muscat port of Marina Rowdah, beautiful dolphins can be witnessed in pods, an amazing sight to behold!

Not only the sight of dolphins, but the entire boat trip to the sighting spot is very enjoyable and not to be missed on your Muscat itinerary.

There are plenty of boat trips organized from Marina Rowdah, which take you to the spot where dolphins are found in abundance.

Click here to book a dolphin-watching tour

The best reason to go dolphin watching in Muscat is that you can watch dolphins in their natural habitat, rather than in sea-life parks which are unethical to visit.

The best time for this activity is between April and August, as dolphins are most frequently seen during these months. The dolphin-watching Muscat tours last about 3 hours and cost 10 OMR (26 USD).

There are generally two trips every day, one at 8 am and the second one at 12 pm. Note that the 8 am trip is the best one for dolphin spotting.

In order to get to the marina, you can either take a cab (the fastest) or use public transport (the cheapest). Buses run from the city center, the trip is usually quite long but much cheaper than taking a cab.

Dolphin watching in Muscat is definitely a must-do activity when visiting the city during the summer months!

Learn about the history of Muscat at the Bait-Al-Baranda Museum

David from Surveys Fanatic : the Bait-Al-Baranda Museum is my favorite museum in Muscat! It's one of the best places in Muscat to learn about the history of the city.

While only a small museum, it still manages to cover the history of Muscat from 750 million years ago until the present day.

The story of Muscat begins with how the area was formed geographically. It's very interesting to learn about the tectonic plates around Muscat and how the surrounding Omani Mountains came to be.

In the Bait-Al-Baranda Museum, you will also learn about the founding of Muscat and how it developed over time. Much of it is shown through maps, which makes it easy to follow the story.

The exhibits are quite interactive, with many questions where you can guess the answer and subsequently read the explanations.

There is also a culture exhibit, with information on folk arts, clothing, and general information about the area. There are lots of informative displays and this museum truly is the best introduction to Muscat and Oman as a whole.

The Bait-Al-Baranda museum currently costs 1 OMR for adults and 500 baisa for kids. It is open Saturday to Thursday, from 9 am to 1 pm and 4 pm to 6 pm.

The museum is located on the seafront in Muttrah, just a short walk from the boardwalk and Muttrah Souq.

Visit the Royal Opera House 

Ania from the Travelling Twins : your first impression of Muscat will almost certainly be from the main city artery: the Sultan Qaboos Highway.

The city’s two most majestic buildings both face this road. One of them is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (mentioned above), and the other one is the Royal Opera House.

The Royal Opera House in Muscat was the first Opera house built in the Middle East. It's not only a beautiful modern building, but it also incorporates advanced technology for translation and engineering for transforming the auditorium.

The main lobby and auditorium are as impressive as the building’s exterior. Lavish interiors of carved and polished white stone and timber combine traditional and modern themes.

They will transport you to a time when a night in an opera was reserved for the rich and noble. If you want to visit the Opera today, dress smart and modestly and enjoy being part of the whole scene.

Important: be mindful of the dress code at the Royal Opera House, even during the day you may not be allowed inside if you are wearing shorts.

If you would like to see the interior, you can book a full tour of the Opera and see for yourself the royal box and all the advanced engineering systems.

Or just drop in during the day between 9 am and 11 am to see the outer hall and box office which will give you a taste of the opulent interiors.

After the performance, you can pop into a number of theater restaurants or cafes in the Galleria, or go for a stroll along Shatti beach, which is only a few hundred meters away. 

Elaine from Show them the Globe : Shatti Al Qurum is a lively beach in the heart of Muscat.

With its golden sands and clear waters, Shatti Al Qurum is one of the best beaches in Muscat. The beach is a popular spot for relaxing, swimming, and feeling the sand between one’s toes.

It’s a lovely walk along the coconut tree-covered promenade which lines the beach, where food and drink options include coffee shops, cafes, and BBQ areas.

Shatti Al Qurum is also a great spot to catch the sunset. The views are stunning as the sun slowly sets over the Gulf of Oman.

The beach is a magnet for locals and tourists alike. It gets crowded in the evenings as the Muscat temperatures cool and on Fridays when the weekend starts.

There’s usually lots of activity at Shatti Al Qurum, with groups playing sports such as volleyball and football. It’s also popular with families and was one of our favorite places to spend time in  Oman with kids .

Shatti Al Qurum is located in the residential Qurum district which is home to some of Muscat’s finest hotels, the incredible Muscat Opera House (mentioned above), and a theater.

This Muscat beach is most easily reached by car but is also accessible by bus. Make sure to bring sunscreen, water, and lots of patience to grab one of the highly coveted parking spots along the beach!

More Muscat places to visit

Here are some other interesting things to see in Muscat, if you've got some more time to explore this wonderful capital.

Al Alam Palace

One of the official residences of Sultan Qaboos. While the palace is not open to the public, you can explore the gardens around the palace and admire the beautiful building from the outside.

Al Jalali Fort

This impressive fort can be found in the harbor of Old Muscat, Oman.

Originally built by the Portuguese in 1580, it served different functions throughout the decades. The Fort was meticulously restored in 1983 and converted into a museum.

You have to apply for a permit to visit, but even if you don't intend to visit the museum it's still very worthwhile to admire this beautiful Fort (built on top of a rock) from the outside!

Oman Children's Museum

A great place in Muscat for families is the Oman Children's Museum.

Your kids will love this hands-on science museum, with many interactive displays (such as fake electric shocks, triggering a lightning bolt, and photographing your own shadow).

Where to stay in Muscat

Best budget hotels in muscat, mutrah hotel ☆☆.

Mutrah Hotel is a great budget hotel in Muscat and within walking distance of Mutrah Souq and the Corniche. The rooms are spacious and clean, the staff is very friendly and the breakfast is very tasty.

Book via Agoda | Book via Booking

The Secure Inn Hotel ☆☆☆

The Secure Inn Hotel is a nice option for those looking for a good but cheap hotel in Muscat. A new and modern hotel with onsite parking, large rooms, and a wellness area (hot tub and sauna).

Best 4-star hotels in Muscat

Levatio hotel ☆☆☆☆.

The Levatio is a beautiful 4-star hotel with an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and onsite restaurant.

There is also a spa, free parking, and currency exchange services. Rooms are nicely decorated, and have comfortable beds and tea-making facilities.

Hilton Garden Inn Muscat Al Khuwair ☆☆☆☆

One can never go wrong by staying at a Hilton Hotel. The Hilton Garden Inn Al Khuwair is a modern hotel with a tasteful design and an outdoor pool.

Rooms come with city or mountain views. For traveling families: there is a children's play area as well!

Best luxury hotels in Muscat

Al bustan palace ☆☆☆☆☆.

This is the most popular and best luxury resort in Muscat. For a bucket-list-worthy stay and to celebrate special occasions such as a honeymoon or wedding anniversary, this is the place to be.

While spending a night at Al Bustan Palace comes with a (hefty) price tag , you will experience Omani hospitality to its fullest.

With an onsite Six Senses Spa, the poolside BLU cocktail bar, and the Ritz Kids entertainment program for children, there is something for every family member to enjoy.

W Muscat ☆☆☆☆☆

Also an excellent 5-star hotel but more affordable is the W Muscat . With professional and attentive staff, beautiful design, an outdoor pool, and not one but five onsite restaurants, you will surely enjoy your stay at the W.

What to see in Muscat: in conclusion

I hope this Muscat guide will help you plan a trip to Muscat, Oman !

It's a beautiful authentic city, where you can eat great Omani food, visit lots of interesting sites and get to know the friendly Omani people. Let me know if you have any questions about planning a trip to Muscat!

This post was updated in December 2022.

Guide To Top Things To Do In Muscat Oman 2024

Let me tell you about all the things to do in Muscat. When I first heard of Muscat, I was immediately fascinated and wanted to visit the city. That much-anticipated trip finally happened over 10 years ago and I really got hooked, returning to the city at least twice a year.

Apart from the amazing atmosphere and the Omani hospitality, there are quite a few things to do in Muscat , but nothing that would justify my many return trips.

Muscat is a very spread out city and each area is quite different from the other, making it almost like many small towns within the city, each separated by the strikingly beautiful mountains that crisscross the city.

For that reason, most places to visit in Muscat are far apart from each other. But thank goodness, the city has great roads and a high-speed highway that makes distances seem short.

Having said that, hiring a taxi in Muscat can be very expensive for the same reasons I mentioned above. You can also opt for renting a car, which will make tourism in Muscat and the rest of Oman much more convenient.

To help you plan your trip, I’ve created this Muscat travel guide, with details of what to do in Muscat, structured in such a way that will help you make the best use of your time.

Top Things To Do In Muscat, Oman

When you plan what to do in Muscat, it’s important to remember the distances, as I mentioned before. With that in mind, you should visit those must-see Muscat attractions that make the city what it is on your first day.

Those are the historical attractions, markets and that piece of coastline that appears on almost every Muscat postcard, the corniche.

Muttrah Corniche

Muttrah Corniche is my favourite place in the city and once you’re there, you will understand why.

If you can see the place beyond the many cars, you will feel like time stood still here. The corniche itself is the seaside promenade that goes along the small bay that forms the port of Muscat.

As you walk along and enjoy the shade in the many small gazebos, you will notice that most of the houses here still keep their historic architecture.

Add to that the rugged mountains in the background and the iconic Muttra Fort. This is the best place to start your tour of Muscat.

Muscat Fish Market

Muscat Fish Market used to be one of those places that made you feel you were in a small village. It is now in a brand new building, shaped like a fish, next to Muttrah Corniche.

Even though it is a modern and air-conditioned, place, the old vibe is still there. As some would say, old habits die hard.

Muttrah Souq: A Gre a t Place To Visit in Muscat

It is true that Muscat has many shopping malls and Omanis nowadays prefer the convenience of having everything in one glitzy place.

But despite all that, Muttrah Souq is still going strong and is the best place to buy souvenirs in Muscat.

Here you can buy all things Arab and Omani, from shisha pipes to beautiful lampshades.

But Muttrah Souq is still a favourite among locals and they come here to buy everyday goods, fabric, clothes, house utensils and that quintessentially Omani item that I highly recommend you buy, as well: frankincense.

Old Muscat, is one of the most popular places to visit in Muscat, after Muttrah.

Here there are some of the main Muscat attractions, but the area itself is beautiful and lives up to its name.

Apart from the iconic buildings below, there are several forts, some small, others quite emblematic, such as Mirani and Jalali.

There are also a few small mosques and, once you get out of the main tourist area, I recommend you go for a walk to see how some Omanis live and lots of kids wearing dishdasha (the traditional Omani robe) playing on the streets.

See Also: Muscat to Dubai by Bus

Al Alam Palace

Al Alam is the main Sultan’s main palace, located on a quiet avenue in Old Muscat. The building is fairly modern and its gold and blue facade looks slightly kitsch to me.

Unfortunately, the palace is never open to the public, but you can get close to the main gate and snap a few shots.

It is very popular with locals, who come to the area, especially on the weekends.

There are two historic forts on each side of Al Alam Palace, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century.

If you walk to the seaside, you can see the palace from a different angle. Looking at it, it’s hard to believe that the Sultan is wealthier than the British Royal Family.

Omani-French Museum

This is not among the most famous Muscat attractions, but it’s well worth a visit, even if you’re not French!

The Omani-French Museum displays pictures and objects that show the long-standing friendship between both countries.

You can also see some gifts given by the French government to the Sultan, copies of old documents and letters. I really liked this museum and visited it twice in the last few years.

It’s right at the entrance of Old Muscat, on the way to Al Alam Palace.

National Museum of Oman

The National Museum of Oman, which opened in 2016, is the country’s new flagship museum.

This was my first trip to Muscat since its opening, so I was really looking forward to my visit. It’s located opposite Al Alam Palace, at the other end of the avenue.

The building itself is modern with very distinct traditional Omani aspects – in other words, even though it’s very modern, you can see the Arab architectural style.

The displays are very nicely set up and you can hire an audio guide to get extra information.

There are sections dedicated to Omani tradition, a room with miniatures of the most important forts in the country and another with crown jewellery. You can easily stay here for 2 or 3 hours without getting bored.

Entry to the museum costs only 5 Omani Rials (about 10GBP, 14USD) for tourists, OMR2 for residents and OMR1 for Omanis and GCC nationals.

Watch Spinner Dolphins

Just off the coast of Muscat, you can watch the small spinner dolphins. If you don’t have your own boat (well, we don’t right?) you can go on a full day dolphin watching cruise along the coast, where you can see these amazing mammals and other marine species and go snorkeling.

Tours include light refreshments and, while sightings are not guaranteed, they’re almost certain.

You can book your dolphin-watching cruise here .

On your second day, there are still a few things to see in Muscat, those concentrated far from Muttrah or Old Muscat. This is the modern Muscat that won’t always appear on postcards or on the cover of Muscat tourist guides.

Qurum Beach: Top Place To Vi s it in Muscat

Qurum Beach (Shatti Al-Qurm) is one of Muscat’s most popular areas with resident Western expats and is home to many embassies.

Qurum is also the longest beach in Muscat, where locals and tourists mingle and where you can see a tourist in a bikini and an Omani woman wearing a full-body attire.

In late afternoons, it’s common to see groups of Omanis playing football.

Nearby there is a shopping mall and a few cafes and restaurants. Walk down the so-called Love Road, between the beach and some mangroves, where young Omanis meet for a chat and show off their supercars.

Royal Opera House, Among the Top Muscat Attractions

The Royal Opera House Muscat was the first of its kind to open in the Middle East – since then, Abu Dhabi has its own opera house.

It’s located in the Shati Al Qurum district, not far from the famous beach. The venue hosts musical events that range from traditional Arab music to operas and popular music.

I highly recommend you attend a performance, but if nothing is on, you can still visit the interiors.

The guided tour will take you to the main auditorium, where you can see the stage or even some rehearsal, which I was able to see on my last visit.

There are exhibitions of customs used in performances here and elsewhere.

If you’re a Luciano Pavarotti or Michael Jackson fan, you will love the memorabilia on display.

If you prefer, you can also have dinner at the Opera House as part of an evening tour of Muscat, including hotel pick-up.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

The Grand Mosque took six years to be built, and once you come for a visit, you will understand why.

It is a mosque of superlatives and I recommend around two hours, so you can not only see the interiors but also enjoy the perfectly manicured gardens and find your favourite spot to take pictures.

Apart from the beautiful tiles that cover most of the interiors, the main feature is the Persian carpet, which took four years to be made and weights mere 21 tonnes.

The carpet also has 28 colours and different shades, all acquired from traditional vegetable dyes – interesting or not?

My favourite item, however, is the grand chandelier. It used to be the world’s biggest chandelier, with a staggering 14m, 8,5 tonnes and 1122 light bulbs.

But says the tale that the Emirati neighbours decided to hold themselves the record after coming and measuring both the chandelier and carpet.

With or without world records, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is definitely one of the top Muscat attractions.

Unlike some of the things to do in Muscat, visiting the Grand Mosque is free of charge. Non-Muslims are allowed to visit only in the mornings. It is closed to non-Muslims on Fridays.

Best Day Trips From Muscat

Most people travelling to Oman, spend only a few days in Muscat, visiting the attractions I’ve mentioned and enjoying the beach.

Many go on longer trips around the country, some as far south as Salalah, on the border with Yemen. Others prefer to take day trips from Muscat and visit the nearby attractions.

Having done quite a few of these myself, I’ll share with you some of the best day trips from Muscat.

Bear in mind that you will either need your own 4×4 car ( compare your car hire here ) or hire tours from Muscat with a company.

Some of these trips I did in my own car in the past, while more recently I travelled with Zahara Tours , whose services I really liked and I highly recommend.

My guide, Abdullah, was a typical Omani: professional, respectful and very friendly.

As a rule of thumb, tours in Oman are not cheap, no matter what company you speak to.

But since most people will only come to Oman once in a lifetime, I highly recommend venturing outside Muscat.

Bimmah Sinkhole: An Easy  Day Trip From Muscat

Bimmah Sinkhole is probably one of the most beautiful sinkholes in the world. It’s located less than one hour from Muscat and you can swim down there.

Even though they started developing the small park where the sinkhole is located, it’s important to take your own water and food, since there are no bars or restaurants there.

You can visit both Bimmah Sinkhole and Wadi Shab (below) in a small group tour or in a private tour .

Oman is famous for its desert and its wadis – dry riverbeds. But some wadis are a real oasis with water flowing all year round.

Wadi Shadi Shab is the nearest to Muscat and you just have to pay for the 2-minute boat ride to get on the other side.

Once there, you’re free to roam around the valley, surrounded by high mountains and in search of waterfalls (natural and otherwise), small pools and a landscape that will literally take your breath away!

You can visit Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole together in a small group tour or in a private tour .

Wadi Bani Khalid

Wadi Bani Khalid is 240km from Muscat (or around 3 hours by car). It is slightly more developed than Wadi Shab, with a large natural pool and many smaller pools as you walk in the valley.

If you have a guide, you can go visit the cave higher up.

You can book a private tour to Wadi Bani Khalid with our partners at Get Your Guide .

See Also: Best Places To Visit In Oman

Nizwa is the old Omani capital and it’s only 2 hours from Muscat. Whilst a new highway crosses part of the city, Nizwa has a few world-class attractions in its own right. It’s possible to visit the city privately or with an organised tour .

Start with a visit to Nizwa Fort, from where you can have great views of the city and the local souq, another great attraction.

Try to go very early on a Friday to see the goat market, where they sell livestock and you will feel transported to centuries back.

Nizwa is also a good base to visit some other attractions, such as Al Hoota Caves, with its huge stalactites and stalagmites formations, Al Bakhla and Jabrin Forts. In which case you will need to stay overnight.

Accommodation in central Nizwa is scarce, but I suggest Nizwa City Apartments for its location and cleanliness.

For something more upmarket (but far from the city centre), Golden Tulip Nizwa Hotel  is the best option.

Tours from Muscat to Nizwa include hotel pick-up, transport, lunch and entrance fees. On Fridays there is a very unique cattle market which is worth experiencing (not on during Ramadan and summer).

Best Places To Stay In Muscat

Perhaps one of the most difficult tasks you will have on your trip is choosing the best places to stay in Muscat.

I have written a full post on where to stay in Muscat , but for the sake of making things easier, I will share my three top hotels in Muscat , based purely on location.

Centara Muscat Hotel

This is a brand new hotel, opened in late 2017 and with spacious, modern rooms with lots of natural light.

The hotel also has a gym, rooftop pool, and two restaurants. Located in the Ghala district, it is relatively near the airport and very close to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.

Click here to check out their best prices .

The Chedi Muscat

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel with amazing service, right by the beach, this is the best place to stay in Muscat.

Located in Al Ghubra, just north of Qurm Beach, The Chedi Muscat offers three swimming pools and a beachside location.

It also has a fantastic restaurant serving the best of the Omani and international cuisines, luxury rooms and suites and service that no other luxury hotel in Muscat will offer.

Enter here to see their best prices .

Riyam Hotel

Riyam Hotel is located in Muttrah, only 1km from the Corniche. It is one of the best budget hotels in Muscat, combining the lowest prices with one of the best locations to stay in Muscat.

Click here to see their best prices .

What’s The Best Time To Visit Muscat?

Finding the best time to visit Muscat can be quite confusing. I’ve been there on several occasions and will tell you from experience.

The best time to visit Muscat is from late October to early April. Ideally, go between late November and early March, when temperatures are pleasant most of the day, around 25 degrees Celsius.

From May to September, the summer months, it is unbearably hot. Avoid it. Really. Just avoid it. One day, I left my hotel at 2am because I couldn’t sleep and went to a shisha bar nearby.

I was all comfortable in my air-conditioned room. But as soon as I got out of the hotel, I was hit by this heat wave, it felt as if I had just gone into an oven.

It was humid and the temperature was 34 degrees Celsius at 2am in May! You get the point.

Pedro has travelled to almost 120 countries and has made his nest in London. He has also lived in Spain, Australia, the US, Georgia and Turkey. A former hotel management professional, he loves exploring local cultures, is now learning his 8th language and has a soft spot for the Middle East and the CIS countries.

35 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Muscat, Oman

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Looking to explore one of the oldest cities in Oman? Muscat is a blend of Arabian tradition and history, with cutting-edge modernity and luxury, impressing tourists over the last few years!

Located in between the stunning mountains and the Gulf of Oman, Muscat offers just about everything, catering to different travelers and styles!

Explore the best beaches of Muscat, from sandy white shores to grassy lawns, and enjoy a walk through the lavish and educational Oman Botanic Garden, showcasing the local vegetation and plenty of shady areas to contemplate the beauty around.

Dig into the history of Muscat at the amazing museums, from the Bait Al Zubair Museum to the National Museum of Oman, breaking down everything from Muscat’s history, to its culture and even geology.

Enjoy incredible sea dishes, and traditional Muscat cuisine on a food tour, eating at the best restaurants, or eating with a local in a unique dining experience!

The list of the best things to do in Muscat is just beginning, so let’s continue and see what else you can get up to in Muscat!

1 – Explore cultural and historical antiquity at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Step inside the impeccable beauty of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, most commonly known as the largest mosque in Oman, and its impressive 91.5-meter high main minaret!

Wander through the cream color-marble grounds, and visit the towering 3-story high library, housing over 15,000 texts relating to the Islamic perspective in science, philosophy, culture, and more.

Although the mosque is open for visitors, there are certain times, rules, and dress to abide by, therefore consider booking a Grand Mosque tour to facilitate your entry to one of the most impressive sights in Muscat!

With your guide, you’ll learn the symbolism behind the 5 minarets, the geometric symmetry, handcrafted carpets, grand chandeliers, and more intricacies within the prayer hall, and the 40,000-square-meter complex!

• Grand Mosque tours

2 – See traditional Omani family items inside the Bait Al Zubair Museum

Immerse yourself in the culture and history of Oman at the Bait Al Zubair Museum , a cultural museum housed inside a historic home in the heart of Muscat, housing several pieces of physical artifacts.

From jewelry to weapons, traditional clothing, and other unique items typically found within an Omani household, today, the Bait Zubair Museum welcomes visitors from all over to explore its heritage through the museum’s detailed exhibits.

The museum was named after the Al Zubair family, meaning that a lot of the items inside belonged to the family and other families from Oman.

Inside the museum, there is a cafe that showcases an ancient wind tower that will give you an idea of how buildings were traditionally cooled during extreme heat.

3 – Book some epic snorkeling at the Al ‪Diymaniyat Islands

Fulfill your scuba diving dreams at the Al Diymaniyat Islands , a beautiful nature reserve located just off the coast of Oman, made up of a 9-island archipelago.

Explore a wide range of marine life, from colorful schools of fish, to sea turtles, and even a few sharks! Considered to be one of the best diving spots in the country and region, scuba diving at the Al Diymaniyat Islands is a must on your list of activities to do in Muscat! The islands themselves are a site to see with their rugged limestone landscapes mixed with white sand beaches!

Never scuba-dived? No worries! Check out an introductory scuba diving course and other beginner-friendly scuba diving opportunities in Muscat that will prep your skills and mindset for the ultimate underwater experience!

• snorkeling in Muscat

4 – Get a view of the impressive Al Alam Palace

Originating over 200 years ago, the Al Alam Palace is one of the 6 palaces that were historically built by the Sultan Qaboos, the Old Muscat ruling monarchy.

Located in Old Muscat, the Al Alam Palace is known as one of the most impressive palaces in Oman, both inside and out. It’s known as a government-owned building and is reserved for state visits and other important functions.

Though the palace is not open for visitors, it’s still an amazing site to take in, snap a photo or two, and walk along the only public space called the forecourt, where you can see the impeccable details of this palace through the iron fence.

Pro tip: avoid the strong sun, and visit the palace at night when it beautifully lights up!

5 – Plan a sunset walk along the Mutrah Corniche

Admire the elegance of the most prominent seaside promenade called the Mutrah Corniche, stretching for 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) with iconic views of the rugged mountains in the distance, beautiful buildings and mosques on one side, and the sea on the other.

Stop by for a coffee at one of the many coffee shops on the promenade, or make it to the decorative fountains and the fresh markets in search of the perfect snack to enjoy on your relaxing walk.

The Mutrah Corniche allows bikes as well as walkers, so it’s an active walkway brimming with life, especially during sunset where you can get a mix of mystical glows and shadows on the sea and the buildings.

The Mutrah Corniche is located near the Al Jalali Fort.

6 – Get panoramic views of Muscat from the Mutrah Fort

Originally built in the early 1500s, the Mutrah Fort was a defense structure that stretched out on the hills, with a great vantage point to historically help keep an eye out for any attacks.

Though the fort itself is nothing grand or large, it’s a platform with a few observation points to admire the city views any time of the day. From the fort, you can see the luxurious Mutrah Corniche, the beautiful buildings along the sea, and even a few historical elements of its war past including old cannons.

On a city tour, you’ll stop by this magnificent site, as well as a few other places around Old Muscat.

Entry is available and starts at 2 OMR for non-citizen adults, between 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM.

• city tours in Muscat

7 – Visit the best parks around to disconnect

Take your kids to Qurum Natural Park, where they can enjoy fun times at the small amusement park on-site called the Fun Zone ! For the parents, relish a scenic walk around the lake or an aromatic walk through the rose garden!

Plan a picnic at the family-friendly Al Sahwa Public Garden, and walk through the Islamic-style gardens nearby, as you make your way through to the Clock Tower, and other notable landmarks nearby.

Grab a coffee or lunch at one of the nearby restaurants at Ghubrah Lake Park, and walk along the open green spaces, and if you’re looking for a place to play some sports, this is the place for you!

Walk under the shady palm trees at Riyam Park, and admire the sea views during the week, and during the weekend, various open-air events attract locals! Check out the Riyam Censer, a large memorial in the shape of an incense burner, featuring amazing views from above!

Lastly, Seeb Beach Park is the park for water lovers, where you can enjoy tons of water sports at the lake, or relax on the beach for a moment or two!

8 – See the sites on a bus tour

Why walk around Muscat when you can hop on a bus and enjoy the sites from the comfort of your seat?

On a fun bus tour, relax and unwind as you keep ticking off sites to see from your list of things to do in Muscat, without tiring yourself! Choose from the list of routes, each one focusing on 10 landmark sites to see, lasting around 2 hours.

The beauty of bus tours is that they are also a great way to travel around the city, as you can hop on and hop off at any of the bus tour stops to transfer to a different route, showing you other sites in a different part of the city!

You’ll also be learning important information to appreciate all that you’re seeing!

• Muscat hop on hop off bus tours

9 – Learn about Oman’s greatest seafarer at the Oman Aquarium

Check out one of the largest aquariums in the Middle East, the Oman Aquarium , with over 86,000 square feet!  See a rich sample of the variety of sea life that resides in the turquoise-colored water of the Gulf of Oman and other international waters!

Along with learning about the crustaceans, eels, barracudas, and sharks, you’ll also take an imaginative journey through the life and work of the famous Omani seafarer, Ahmed Ibn Majid, whose adventures inspired the aquarium in great part!

Learn about Majid’s impressive routes through the Indian Ocean, Africa, and Asia, his studies and findings on different sea life through his books, and even how he helped explorer Vasco de Gama on a few routes!

Pro tip: Snorkeling and diving are permitted at the aquarium!

10 – Spend time learning the heritage and culture of Oman at the National Museum of Oman

Learn about the enriching culture and heritage of Oman through the impressive National Museum of Oman , featuring several exhibits sharing different perspectives and developments throughout Oman as a nation and society.

Check out the different permanent galleries, from the civilization of Oman to the prehistory and ancient history, the Renaissance, currency, and how Oman fits in and offers the world, plus other amazing exhibits!

General guided tours are available for groups of up to 14 people for 90 minutes, for 10 OMR in addition to the entry fee. However, if you’re looking for a private tour, those are available separately for 100 OMR for 2 hours.

Tickets for the National Museum of Oman start at 5.000 OMR for adult tourists.

11 – Plan a day trip to Wadi Shab

Only 1.5 hours from Muscat is the impressive site of Wadi Shab, a beautiful river with fluorescent turquoise colors, a scenic gorge hike, caves, and much more!

Book a Wadi Shab tour, many of which focus on a variety of activities, from a thrilling jeep tour from Muscat to Wadi Shab, traversing the rugged paths, the Oman countryside, the scenic Wadi Shab, to hiking the 1-hour trek through the stunning gorge!

Some tours may also stop at the famous Bimmah Sinkhole , a hole filled with blue transparent, turquoise waters, which is fed by the fresh water from the nearby ocean. Take a refreshing dip, and look out at the sandstone-colored rocks and even a waterfall and caves nearby!

After all the fun, enjoy tea or a refreshing beverage!

• Wadi Shab tours from Muscat

12 – Enjoy the sensory stimulation of the gardens at the Oman Botanic Garden

Stroll through one of the biggest botanical gardens on the Arabian peninsula and the world, featuring over 420 hectares of perfectly manicured gardens divided into various spaces.

From the global gardens with biomes housing special plants of different regions to impressive walkways designed by experts to take you on a sensory journey through dessert gardens, northern mountains, sand desserts, and wadis – your senses will be taken for a magical spin around the world through various plants.

Learn about the sustainable practices used at the garden, and check out the herbarium, all of which divulge a deep passion for plants and herbs. The Oman Botanic Garden is located 28 minutes from Muscat.

13 – Get ready for some dolphin watching

Enjoy the privileged views of witnessing some dolphins in their natural habitats on a memorable dolphin-watching cruise in Muscat!

Relish cool drinks and a fun boat ride along the Oman Coast, in search of the beautiful creatures, which are most active in the mornings and the evenings, swimming along the blue waters of the Gulf of Oman.

While you’re sailing and spotting, your guide will point you towards dolphin sightings, while also sharing information about the types of dolphins seen around the area, from the Indian Ocean bottlenose to the Indo-Pacific Humpback, and even the Rough-Toothed dolphin, and more!

Depending on your tour, you may also do some snorkeling, and get more close to the dolphins and other vibrant sea creatures of the Gulf of Oman!

Dolphin-watching cruises start at $52 USD.

• dolphin watching in Muscat

14 – Unload some stress at Marah Land

Blast off any tensions and tap into your inner child at Marah Land ! A fun, family-friendly amusement park located 13 minutes away from Muscat city center!

From children-friendly games to adrenaline-inducing rides, fun and interactive events, and over 30 different rides, you’ll find time flies by when you set foot inside one of Oman’s best theme parks, which also houses its unique and famous Ferris wheel, offering a splendid view of Muscat and it’s surrounding areas!

The amusement park also has indoor play areas for children, as well as a full food court, plenty of snack bars, clean bathroom facilities, and much more.

Marah Land is open daily from 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM, and best of all, entry into the park is free!

15 – Discover Muscat’s best beaches

Relax with the picture-perfect views of the rock arches and blue waters at the public yet secluded Yiti Beach! Although it’s a 40-minute ride from Muscat, the drive to this scenic beach is incredibly beautiful and worth the trip!

On the eastern coast of Oman is Ai Sifah Beach, a sandy beach with lounge chairs and natural palm umbrellas, and views of the rocky mountains in the distance! Bring a picnic, and a volleyball for some added fun!

Qurum Beach is on the northern side of the beach and features a grassy lawn, shady palm trees, and a soft breeze to accompany you as you embark on fun water sports like jet skiing! Want to relax? Bring a beach towel and set it under the palm trees, or go inside a seaside cafe!

16 – Wander along the Enchanting Forts of Nizwa on a day trip

Pay a visit to the large and circular Forts of Nizwas, a 17th-century fort built to protect the ancient city of Nizwa which was sought after by attackers for its prime location on the intersection of important trading routes.

The beautiful building has quickly risen in popularity to visit for its intricate construction, recent renovations, and amazing views from the top of the fort! Today, you can take a walk around the grounds, starting with learning about the construction, interior features like the seven wells, and the prisons.

Learn about different ways in which the Omani defended themselves, by looking at the pitfalls, and other creative traps set for intruders! Some tours also stop at Jabrin Fort , another incredibly preserved castle with amazing architecture and painted ceilings.

• Enchanting Forts of Nizwa tours from Muscat

17 – Traverse the peaceful desert on a Wahiba Desert Safari

Embark on the traditional Oman activity of joining a fun desert safari on the peaceful Wahiba Desert!

Enjoy the luxury of being transported in an air-conditioned car as you traverse Omani roads, until arriving at the site where you’ll do some desert safari, along with your professional guide and other like-minded tourist!

On a Wadi Bani Khalid tour from Muscat , you’ll get to hop on a special car designed for riding through the desert at Wadi Bani Khalid, where you’ll get to enjoy the special peace and tranquility of the desert with a jolt of adrenaline. After the thrill ride, you’ll get the option of hopping onto a scenic camel ride!

Wahiba desert safaris start at $187 and can last between 7-9 hours!

• Wahiba Desert Safari from Muscat

18 – Glance at the magnificent Al-Mirani and Al Jalali Forts

Gaze at the towering and impressive Al-Mirani Fort, a historic fort that was enforced by the Portuguese after they arrived in 1587, which was the first fort to use cannons in the country.

Built on a steep position on top of a mountain, the defensive structure gave optimal views from various perspectives against attackers. Located in the historic old port of Muscat, the fort is currently not open for visitors, however, it’s still a beautiful view to take in when you’re strolling in Old Town.

Near the Al-Mirani Fort, you can also stop by the Al Jalali Fort, another defensive structure with wide views of the Gulf of Oman. The Al Jalali Fort is open for visitors and even has a museum of Omani heritage inside, which requires a special entry.

19 – Take in the scene at the Muscat Fish Market

Along the famous Muscat Corniche is the traditional Muscat Fish Market, brimming with locals, an abundance of fish varieties, and a scene of daily life for the people of Muscat worth checking out!

If you want to get there before the crowds do, try to get there early in the morning, and even witness the fishermen carry in their freshly caught fish inside! You can even see a few fishermen out on the water casting their nets and catching their fish!

Once inside, observe the locals ask for their fish, and listen as they ask for the fish to be prepared, meaning that the fish gets gutted and cleaned in a unique way, ready to be cooked later on.

Pro tip: be sure to wear closed-toed shoes.

20 – Sign up for thrilling canyoning

Get a good grip as you sign up for some epic canyoning in some of Oman’s best-kept secret destinations, including Wadi Mibam and Snake Gorge!

Wadi Miban dazzles visitors with its contrasting colors between sandstone and rich turquoise colors of the water, and vegetation growing out of the crevices of the canyon for a touch of green!

Snake Gorge is also known for its wild aspect, tons of rock formations, water pools, and even a few natural water slides!

Though canyoning at these beautiful sites is one of the most exciting activities in Muscat, it’s better to do it right, and go with a professionally organized group to assist your transport there, and help you with proper gear!

Some tours include hiking, swimming, and refreshing yourself at a few canyon waterfalls!

• canyoning tours from Muscat

21 – Pop into a few other religious sites

Come observe as 400+ devotees flock to the temple on the weekends, at one of the oldest Hindu temples in all of the Middle East, the Shri Shiv Mandir. The temple complex opens at 5:30 AM daily and closes at 9:30 PM with a 5.5-hour gap in between.

Sri Krishna Temple is another Hindu temple complex featuring 3 smaller temples, which just like the Shri Shiv Mandir, has similar working hours, and hosts several religious celebrations annually, including Holi!

See the stunning Mohammed Al Ameen Mosque, a marble-made mosque that beautifully illuminates in blue and purple colors at night as the domes and minarets light up in golden yellow lights. Admire the interior carved woods, grand chandeliers, and more!

Take in the small details of the stunning Said Bin Taimur Mosque interiors, with decorations reminiscent of the Hagia Sophia in Turkey with grand geometric details, and warm colors.

Witness the entire Qur’an engraved onto the walls of the Masjid Al Zawawi, and interiors full of elegance, and beauty, and built to honor the death of the patriarch of the Al-Zawawi family.

22 – Get in some quality golf time at the best golf courses

Golf within the grass and desert landscapes at Ghala Golf Club, offering an 18-hole golf range, built within a dried wadi. Admire beautiful views of the mountains in the distance, and enjoy the rest of the golf course amenities from wifi, to a bar, and restaurant.

Admire the natural landscape of Muscat at the Ras Al Hamra Golf Course, featuring an 18-hole golf range, a good mix of vegetation, and rocky mountains, and only 18 minutes away from Muscat!

Al Mouj Golf is a beautiful golf course located on the coast of the Gulf of Oman, and offers golfers of all skill levels a good time, and even access to a private beach! Take in views of the verdant rolling green hills, sparkling sea, and mountains in the distance!

23 – Visit the Omani Grand Canyon at Jebel Shams on a day trip

Visit the highest mountain peak in Oman, Jebel Shams, named after the fact that this site is the first place in the country to receive the first streams of daylight.

Located in what is known as Oman’s version of the Grand Canyon, take a day tour to Jebel Shams from Muscat, and explore the beauty of this Omani landscape, with other fun activities like a 4×4 off-road ride, and reaching new heights to get amazing views of the valley, and more!

On your way to the Jebel Shams, you’ll also get to stop by a few other notable sites, like an old Persian village, and even see the talent of carpet weavers working their magic right before your eyes!

• Jebel Shams tours from Muscat

24 – Learn about Muscat through its other museums

Set inside the historic Bait Al Falaj Fort, the Sultan’s Armed Forces Museum is a fascinating museum that will take you through a brief history of Oman, and then on to the origins and development of the armed forces in the country, and notable wars fought throughout history.

See pieces of natural marine fossils and other marine findings at the Natural History Museum, housed inside The Ministry of National Heritage. Look deeply at the rich wildlife and vegetation of Oman, including looking at the specific geology and climate that impacts the growth of certain flora over others, and more!

A small yet interesting museum, check out the Bait Al Baranda Museum which goes even deeper into the history of Muscat, starting at the geological formation of the land on which Muscat sits through the help of interactive technology, and the history of the Sultanate of Oman.

Browse through the collection of photography, relics, maps, and more detailing life back in the 19th century, detailing the relationship between Oman and France at the Omani and French Museum.

Learn about the pre-historic era of Muscat at the Muscat Gate Museum, housed inside the historic gate located in Old Muscat. From there, see incredible views of the Corniche, the sea, and other surrounding buildings!

25 – Reel in the catch of the day on a fishing excursion

See what you’re fresh catch of the day is when you sign up for a fishing tour, taking you to the best fishing spots on the Gulf of Oman, while receiving helpful tips from the local fishers!

On your fishing activity, catch local fish and wildlife such as yellowfish tuna, sailfish, marlin, and more, while learning the fishing basics in case this is your first fishing experience (all skill levels are welcome!) as well as learn and adopt the local fishing practices.

Most experiences include ground roundtrip transportation, so no need to figure out how to get to the sight by yourself. You can also consider a morning private fishing experience, for a quieter experience.

Keep an eye out, you may even spot a few dolphins!

• fishing in Muscat

26 – Satisfy your Omani food curiosities on a food tour

Relish the vibrant flavors found in Omani cuisine on a filling food tour, taking you through the city to sample regional dishes at the best restaurants!

Sample dishes like Majboos (saffron-infused rice with spicy meat or chicken), try some of the best dates in your life while trying other varieties you may have never heard of, savor different types of Omani-styled bread, and sample Omani-style coffee blended with cardamom flavors, amongst other dishes!

Some food tours are hosted inside a host’s house, which offers an incredible opportunity to interact with locals in their homes! Try samples of these dishes, hear family traditions, and learn table manners all the while!

Food tours in Muscat start at $35 USD and typically last 2.5 hours.

• food tours in Muscat

27 – Catch a glimpse of the decorative Burj Al Sahwa

Take a look at the beautiful Burj Al Sahwa, a decorative roundabout considered a landmark in Muscat, with its murals that show off the city’s marine history and large, central clock tower.

Its location is 10 minutes away from central Muscat and is near the Al Sahwa Public Garden. Built in 1985, and designed in a traditional Islamic design, the Burj Al Sahwa has been a beautiful landmark for locals to take pride in, and visitors to admire, and even dare to cross the roundabout to walk around it!

28 – Hike up Jebel Akhdar on a day trip

Make it to Jebel Akhdar on a day trip from Muscat, known as the “Green Mountain” due to so much vegetation that grows on the mountain, and even a few fragrant rose gardens.

On an organized day trip, observe local villages like Birkat Al Mouz, situated at the bottom of the mountain, including a stop at the local Nizwa Souk. Afterward, trek up the mountain for a bit, and admire the spectacular views of the valley down below!

Learn about the UNESCO-protected ancient Afaj Irrigation systems that got water to the mountains from your guide and other fascinating info!

Depending on your tour, you’ll also stop by a few other spots, along the way, including the Nizwa Fort Oman! Jebel Akhdar tours start at $176 USD.

• Jebel Akhdar tours from Muscat

29 – Go shopping at the souks

Try fresh seafood dishes after shopping at Seeb Souq, located not too far from the Muscat International Airport and a few moments away from the Gulf of Oman! Admire the ancient tradition of carpentry work and other hand-made crafts created right before your eyes!

Enjoy a mix of new and old at the famous Mutrah Souq, near the Corniche! Walk around, and gaze at the detailed traditional clothes, people-watch as they shop for their houseware, and more! Be sure to bring cash, as cards are not always widely accepted.

Seen as a cross between a souk and a farmers market, check out the Souq es Sabt, where you can get an eye-full of colorful and fresh fruits and vegetables, accessories, and locally-made crafts that make for perfect souvenirs, sold by over 170 vendors!

30 – Enjoy an authentic Omani meal at the best restaurants

Enjoy a traditional meal in Muscat at Bait Al Luban Omani Restaurant , surrounded by traditional decor, and hosted by a professional staff. The menu features a culinary journey through Omani, so ask your waiter for their recommendation on what to start with!

Ubhar Restaurant is another traditional food gem to consider, where you can try something unique and local like a slow-roasted camel shuwa and other traditional dishes! Located 11 minutes from central Muscat, this restaurant is the perfect place to celebrate an important occasion!

For the best in seafood, consider Bait Al Bahr , offering incredible food, and beautiful views of the Gulf of Oman! From grilled, to pan-fried, or steamed, order from a wide variety of locally caught fish to enjoy! Reservations are recommended.

31 – Say goodbye to the day on a sunset cruise

Cruise through the warm waters of the Gulf of Oman on a traditional dhow boat and enjoy a variety of drinks as you take in the glow of the setting sun upon the water’s horizon!

See the city’s main sites like the Al Bustan Palace Hotel, the buzzing Mutrah Corniche, the Al Aalam Palace, and magnificent mountains in the background, with the city lit up on this 2-hour-long sunset cruise!

Make sure to bring your camera for the incredible scenery you’re about to see and to get your selfie on the dhow boat, which was traditionally used to explore the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea.

Sunset cruises start at $65 USD, and some tours offer hotel pick-up and drop-off.

• sunset cruises in Muscat

32 – Travel to space at the PDO Planetarium

Leave planet earth for a little bit, and check out the PDO Planetarium , a modern space dedicated to the learning of astronomy and space, with interactive performances to entice your senses!

Step inside the planetarium, and take a look through the giant telescopes to see the stars and planets, especially on clear nights! Explore the museum, and learn about the unique solar system and other mysteries of our galaxy!

Many of the shows are free, and are offered in both Arabic and English, and involve, stargazing, special astronomy programs, unique laser shows, and much more!

The PDO Planetarium is located 14 minutes from Muscat and is open from Sunday to Thursday, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Shows take place on the 1st Saturday and the middle of the month.

33 – Enjoy a night at the Royal Opera House Muscat

Culture and music lovers, you can’t miss out on booking tickets for a performance at the Royal Opera House Muscat , located in the Shati Al-Qurm district.

The stunning white auditorium dons an equally stunning interior with Arabian design and a seating capacity of 2,256 people. Offering a variety of performances, you can expect anything from opera, ballet, Arabic concerts, Fado, jazz, Indian music concerts, and family-friendly concerts.

No matter who you’re traveling with, a night at the Royal Opera House Muscat is one of the best things to do in Muscat that will satisfy everyone’s expectations!

Tickets can be purchased online after making an account. Once you arrive at the opera house, make sure to see the other amenities, including amazing dining options, and shopping!

34 – Feel enriched with an authentic Omani home dinner

Fuel your belly and your heart with a homemade and authentic dinner at an Omani household, where aside from the traditional and authentic dishes you’ll get to try, you’ll also get to talk to the hosts preparing the food, and even learning a few recipes to take back home with you!

Eat like a traditional Omani family, sitting on a beautiful carpet in a square, as you share delicious food, and learn to eat using Omani traditions and customs. Get a “taste” for the rich hospitality of the Omani people, and take this as an opportunity to exchange cultural backgrounds, and stories, and learn even more about Oman from the locals!

This authentic dinner experience usually lasts 3 hours and starts at $75 USD.

• dinners in Muscat

35 – Leave your hotel room to experience amazing nightlife in Muscat

Have dinner and drinks at the stunning Sama Terrazza Rooftop Lounge, located at the Park Inn by Radisson Muscat, offering spanning views of the city and the sea in the distance!

Start the night off strong heading to Rock Bottom, one of Muscat’s best-known bars/clubs, serving a good variety of drinks, and cocktails, while the sounds of DJ spins play throughout the night until the next day.

Dance the night away with your partner at Copacabana, located at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, playing a range of hip-hop tunes with a few top Arabian hits and more!

How to get to Muscat?

Plan to arrive at Muscat International Airport, where you’ll have the option of taking a 30-minute bus to Muscat, or you can opt for a taxi which can take around 10 minutes to get you to Muscat center.

The best way to plan for a smoother journey is to pre-book an airport transfer , which will take you directly to your hotel.

Where to stay in Muscat?

Be in the middle of nature when you stay at Jumeirah Muscat Bay , an excellent hotel with plenty of outdoor activities from hiking to swimming in the Gulf of Oman, and much more! At only 15 minutes away from Muscat, enjoy the opportunities to relish the best of both worlds!

Kempinski Hotel Muscat is located on the coast of Muscat, offering equal city and sea views! Enjoy the 5-star accommodations, sophisticated interiors, bright and clean rooms, and hospitable staff. Enjoy on-the-site restaurants and bars, and take advantage of the spa to give your body a little TLC.

Stay in the middle of everything when you book your stay at the Grand Millennium Muscat ! Stay within walking distance of some of the best shopping malls, including supermarkets! Relax in the evenings with a refreshing dip in the pool or a delectable dinner on the terrace.

• best hotels in Muscat

Visiting Muscat on a budget?

Stretch your travel budget a bit more with an informative and fun free walking tour in Muscat ! Follow the guidance of your local tour guide, as you follow them to explore Muscat’s most famous landmarks and a few hidden gems known to locals!

As a bonus, you’ll learn the lay of the land, and get insight and tips from a local!

Where to go next?

Now that you’ve seen all there is to do in Muscat, you’ll want to explore the surrounding area!

The best way to do that is to look into the multi-day trips from Muscat , offering everything from a private overnight desert safari where you’ll sleep under the stars, to a 4-day trip to explore the surrounding smaller villages for an in-depth immersive experience of Oman culture and traditions!

If you’re ready to explore beyond Muscat, make sure to check out other fun things to do in Oman , to continue your Arabian adventures!

Visit the Misfat Al Abriyeen, a 300-year-old mud village located in southern Oman, or enjoy a mountain trip to the Jabal Akhdar on a thrilling quad tour, or a little bit of hiking for those looking for a challenge!

Lastly, check out Bimmah Sinkhole, a stunning natural pool with turquoise blue waters in the middle of the desert for a refreshing swim!

Final thoughts

With so many amazing things to do in Muscat, it can be challenging to narrow it down to a select few!

From the exciting dolphin-watching cruises to walking along the scenic Mutrah Corniche, and getting the best Muscat views from the Nizwa fort, we hope you our list gave you more than enough inspiration to get you going!

Happy travels!

Places To Visit In Muscat: Famous Attractions That Offer A Never-Ending Expedition

Nestled between the serenity of nature, the ancient forts and some cultural sites, Muscat is a city of unique beauty and wonders. Enclosed within the captivating vista of the ocean and mountains, there are some of the best places to visit in Muscat that offers the most diverse experience. The sandy shores and the green lush beauty around the oasis lure travelers to explore and discover the warmth of Omani hospitality and beauty. Reflecting on the tradition and heritage of Oman, here are some of the most immeasurable attractions to add to your Muscat itinerary.

Top 13 Tourists Attraction In Muscat For Connecting With Its Beauty And Heritage

Muscat is a must-visit destination where you have an abundance of adventure and natural wonder. From the beaches, there are hills and the handpicked heritage sites, here are some of the top attractions you must visit on your vacation.

1. Mutrah Corniche

Watch the dhow reaching the shores while the crimson dusk envelopes the harbor at Mutrah Corniche. Being one of the most scenic and tranquil places to go to Muscat , the Corniche is spreading to an area of 3 kilometers. The waterfront is lined with a number of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy the scrumptious taste of cuisines and admire the serene view of the seafront.

There are watchtowers, fish market and dhow Harbor at this Oman port while one edge of the corniche is embarked with distinct rocks. Try some activities like ferry rides or you can even plan a family meal while exploring the corniche.

Famous For:

• Waterfront cafes
• Cruise and Ferries
• Luxury Al Said Yacht

Things To Do:

• Dhow Cruise
• Shop from the Souq and Markets
• Historical tour of the Fort
• Visit nearby attractions like Bait Al Zubair Museum

Facilities:

• Restaurants
• Market Place

Opening Hours: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM

2. Wadi Bani Khalid

The greens and emerald of the large pool at Wadi Bani Khalid make it a perfect Muscat sightseeing spot for travelers. Enclosed within the tall palm fringes, this is one of the most spectacular sights to embrace nature. Defining its topography, the rocky cliffs and canyons make it a paradise to explore. If you are an adventure enthusiast, Wadi Bani Khalid is surely the perfect location you must not miss. Get your hikers shoes and get ret ready to discover every corner on foot.

There are seating benches and bridges and restaurants for public use but nothing can ruin the beauty of this panoramic attraction.

• Natural pool
• Rigid cliffs
• Natural Boulders
• Hiking the terrains
• Swimming at the pool

Nearby Hotels:

• Sur Plaza Hotel
• Resort Sur Beach Holiday

Suggested Read: Best Hotels In Oman For A Joyous Stay

3. Yitti Beach

The secluded beauty of Yitti has made it one of the best beaches in Oman you can never miss to explore. Untouched by humans, the beach is surely one of the best places to visit in Muscat for those who enjoy solitude. The soft sands and the clear waters of the beach have made it perfect for strolling around and trying some water adventures like swimming.

Enjoy sundowners or plan an overnight camp stay to embrace every hue, from the crimson dusk to the tranquil shades of the water. But there are no facilities around so plan your visit wisely during the best time to go to Muscat to make your experience memorable.

• Camping site
• Lesser Crowd
• Soft sandy beach
• Picnic spot
• Water adventures like swimming
• Camping under the sky
• Family picnic

Facilities: N/A

• Sheraton Oman Hotel
• Kempinski Hotel Muscat
• Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa
• Al Bustan Palace A Ritz-Carlton Hotel
• Shangri-La Al Husn Resort & Spa

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Qatar On Your Next Trip

4. Al Mirani Fort

Built-in the 16th century, the Al Mirani Fort is one of the best places to visit in Muscat for understanding the history of the country. Not just Muscat, the Al Mirani Fort is one of the most visited attractions in Oman , offering visitors a glimpse of the past. Although the fort was built by the Portuguese, it had played an essential role in their downfall. Today, the fort exhibits a huge collection of artefacts and war tools for the public. Overlooking the Gulf of Oman, the fort contributes to the magnificent history and heritage of Muscat.

• History and Heritage
• Take a fort tour
• Visit the nearby Al Jalali Fort

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Entry Fees: Free

• Al Waffa Hotel Flats
• White Nile Hotel

Suggested Read: Fun Things To Do In Oman To Bring Out The Excitement in Every Tourist

5. City Center Muscat

A shopper's paradise, City Center Muscat is the best place to shop. Offering some of the exciting things to do in Muscat , the City Center mall is home to more than 142 global brands. You can shop the high-class fashion accessories, enjoy meals at some fancy cafes and add more entertainment to your holiday with VOX cinema and more. The short distance from the Muscat international makes the city center one of the best places to see in Muscat. List the best items you want to way and spend the day at entertainment center.

• Global Brands
• Cafes and Restaurants
• Entertainment
• Shop the best fashion brand
• Enjoy at the Magic Planet
• VOX cinema experience
• Costumer Service

Operational Hours:

Saturday to Wednesday: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Thursday to Friday: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

• Mysk Al Mouj Hotel
• Holiday Inn Muscat Al Seeb
• Oman Palm Hotel Suites

6. Mutrah Souq

The oldest Souq in Muscat, Mutrah Souq is surely one of the popular Muscat tourist attractions where you can shop your heart out. From Arabian art and handicrafts, to pieces of jewelry, pottery, the textiles and more, Mutrah Souq also offers quality fashion to shop, like surwal, lihaff and more. Stroll through the market to buy the best souvenir from the myriad of elements exhibited. The market was once used by the Omanis to trade and get a regular supply of required goods during the 60s.

• Omani Handicrafts
• Traditional Garments

Things to Do:

• Shop the Omani art and handicrafts
• Enjoy the traditional coffee
• Discover the excellence of Bedouin art

Operational Hour:

• 8 AM to 1 PM
• 4 PM to 10 PM
• Marina Hotel
• Naseem Hotel
• Sama Al Wasil Camp

Suggested Read: A Guide To Souqs In Qatar: Traditional Markets To Get Unique Treasures

7. Burj Al Sahwa Clock Tower

Located in the heart of Muscat Burj Al Sahwa Clock Tower is nothing lesser than a National Monument. Built to mark the 25th year of the renaissance, Burj Al Sahwa Clock tower is the best Muscat tourist places where you can discover the beauty of Omani murals. The tower reflects Oman as a powerful nation that is dedicated to modernization and development.

Rising to a height of 50 meters, the tower has four large clocks with intricate designs, Arabic Numerals and some mosaic art and motifs.

• Arabic Art and Motifs
• Architecture
• Learn about the history
• Try some photography
• Discover the beauty of art
• 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
• City Center Hotel
• Holiday Inn AlSeeb Muscat
• Bayan International Hotel

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kuwait, The Jewel Of The Middle East

8. Bait Al Maqham Castel

Despite being an offbeat place, Bait Al Maqham is one of the best places to visit in Muscat . With a closer distance from the main city of Muscat, the Bait Al Mqaham spreads to a vast area, covering up an entire region till one can discover the horizon. The remarkable beauty of this fortified residence is nothing lesser than a surprise where there is no influence of development, keeping its rustic charm alive.

Bait Al Maqaham offers a glimpse of the past plantation life, settled in the foothills of the Hajar Mountains, making it the best Muscat tourist attractions .

• Historical ruins
• Discover the history

Operational Hour: N/A

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In The Middle East For A Cultural Holiday Experience

9. Grand Mosque Muscat

Oman’s biggest mosque, the Grand Mosque Muscat spreads in a whopping area of around 4,16,000 square meters and can accommodate around 20,000 worshippers in one go. It is a great place to admire the perfect fusion of contemporary architecture with traditional Omani designs. Another intriguing part of the Grand Mosque is its chandelier and carpet which are second largest in the world which makes this mosque one of the most famous attractions in Muscat .

The white marble with fine mosaic patterns adds to the overall charm of this mosque. The whole mosque is divided into four main parts, one prayer hall which is exclusively for males, and another one is only for females called Musalla, ablution room and an Islam Center where worshippers can enjoy free refreshments.

Famous for: Architecture, chandelier and carpet which are second largest in the world

Opening Hours: 08:00 am to 11:00 am for non-Muslims all days of the week except Friday

Entry Fee: Free

Built By: Edgard Bali

Built In: May 4, 2001

Nearby Hotels: Grand Hyatt Muscat, Hilton Garden Inn Muscat Al Khuwair, InterContinental Muscat, The Chedi Muscat – a GHM hotel

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Jeddah: An Exciting Itinerary To Discover

10. Royal Opera House

One of the best Muscat tourist places is this iconic attraction, Royal Opera House that is a heaven for lovers of culture, art and music. This place enhances the diverse cultures and heritage through various events and culturally-rich programs. It is beautifully designed with landscaped lush green gardens, a theatre, an auditorium, luxury restaurants and cultural markets.

The complex is big enough to accommodate around 1100 people at a time. The architecture of this place is a blend of Italian and Islamic style with fine work of Omani desert stone rose. The rich aesthetics and interiors of the Royal Opera House will make you feel like you have entered a lavish place as the ceilings and walls are adorned with wood, gold and glass that looks classy and royal. Enjoy Muscat sightseeing to the fullest by taking guided tours of these attractions in the city to dig into the culture and history of this place.

Famous for: Classical musical performances, artistic plays, theatre plays and comedy shows

Opening Hours: Saturday to Thursday: 08:30 am to 05:30 pm

Entry Fee: Adults: OMR 3; Children: OMR 1

Built In: 2011

Nearby Hotels: Ramada by Wyndham Qurum Beach, Hilton Garden Inn Muscat Al Khuwair, Grand Hyatt Muscat, InterContinental Muscat

Suggested Read: Stunning Beaches In Muscat: A Perfect Amalgamation of Surf, Sand and Sun

11. Qurum Beach

One of the best tourist places in Muscat , the Qurum Beach offers a serene scape into nature in the heart of the city. Stretching around 4 km along the coastline, Qurum Beach offers enchanting views of the surrounding landscape. It is a great place to come over the weekends with friends or family and enjoy rejuvenation amidst the serene setting. Several thrilling adventures can also be enjoyed at this beach for a fun-filled beach vacation.

One can find finest of resorts in Muscat near the beach along with several cafes, restaurants and malls. So, a great time can be spend enjoying all of the major charms of the city at one place. The shallow waters of this beach make it an ideal spot for swimming even for children. There is also a famous Al Qurum Beach Resort in close proximity to the beach that offers a stay in air-conditioned rooms with a private balcony and views of the Arabian Gulf or Muscat city from some of the rooms.

Famous for: Picturesque coastline, peaceful ambience, Al Qurum Beach Resort

Things to Do: Watersports, long walks, photography

Nearby Hotels: Qurum Beach Hotel, Ramada by Wyndham Qurum Beach, Grand Hyatt Muscat, W Muscat, Crowne Plaza Muscat

12. Bait Al Zubair

One of the most famous attractions in Muscat is Bait Al Zubair which is a private museum giving insight into Oman’s rich history, culture and heritage. The artefacts displayed in this museum like jewelry, weapons, costumes, household items and khanjars tell a lot about the lifestyle and culture of the local people of Oman. Not just the displayed items but the architecture of the museum is an architectural gem having 5 buildings in total housing a gift shop, café and a garden.

Gallery Sarah is another highlight of this museum that boasts of modern pieces of art designed by local artists. The garden located inside the museum houses barasti, local herbs and frankincense trees. One can also find a small replica of Omani Village that shows how people used to live hundred years ago and also the use of Aflaj irrigation system at that time.

Famous for: Artefacts showing Oman’s rich heritage and culture

Opening Hours: Saturday to Thursday: 09:30 am to 06:00 pm; Closed on Fridays

Entry Fee: Adults: OMR 2; Children: OMR 1

Built In: 1914

Built By: Sheikh Al Zubair bin Ali

Nearby Hotels: Golden Tulip Headington Ruwi, Al Hadow Hotel, Nuzha Hotel Apartments, Riyam Hotel

Suggested Read: Places to Visit in UAE For A Luxury Holiday

13. Al Jalali Fort

If you are looking for sightseeing in Muscat options, then Al Jalali Fort should be on your itinerary. The fort was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese and is often visited with Al Mirani Fort which is constructed next to the Al Jalali Fort. Al Jalali Fort was built as a prison initially which was later converted into a museum for travelers to visit it and know about the enriching history of Muscat. The entry to the fort is through a permit only which can be taken from Ministry of National Heritage. The location of the Al Jalali Fort is scenic and one gets to enter the fort via a single entrance only which is through stairs. At some occasions, the fort comes to life when various shows take place at the fort with loads of fireworks and royal dhows sailing along the harbor.

Famous for: Rich history and ancient architecture

Opening Hours: 08:30 am to 04:00 pm

Entry Fee: Strictly by permit

Built In: 16th century

Built By: Philip I of Portugal

Nearby Hotels: Nuzha Hotel Apartments, Grand Hyatt Muscat, Golden Tulip Headington Ruwi, Hilton Garden Inn Muscat Al Khuwair

Suggested Read: Mesmerizing Places To Visit In July In The World To Refresh Your Mind

Visit Muscat to discover the history, heritage and panorama of Oman. With the listed best places to visit in Muscat , you can dig deeper into the cultural and political past of the country. Explore every nook and corner of the city for trying out adventure or some sightseeing that offers a unique glimpse of Oman. Pack your shoe and camera and get ready for a voyage where there will be wonders in every step. Muscat flights are available from every corner of the globe, making it easy to reach no matter where you reside.

For every traveler, the best attractions to explore in Muscat are:

• Mutrah Corniche
• Yitti Beach
• Wadi Bani Khalid
• Al Mirani Fort
• Bait Al Maqham

For a luxury and leisure experience, the best resorts in Muscat are:

• Grand Millennium Muscat
• Hilton Garden Inn Muscat Al Khuwair
• Muscat Hills Hotel
• Swiss-Belinn Muscat Oman
• Fraser Suites Muscat
• Golden Tulip Headington

Murtah Corniche offer travelers the best experience with activities like:

• Shopping from nearby Souq and Markets
• Historical tour
• Exploring- Bait Al Zubair Museum

Muscat is famous for an intricate beauty of architecture, the historical ruins, seafood and an authentic taste of Omani cuisine. You can learn more about the culture and heritage of Oman at some of the heritage places to visit in Muscat.

If you are visiting Muscat for two days, plan a tour to Burj Al Sahwa Clock Tower, shop from Mutrah Souq or discover the history of Al Mirani Fort and other attractions. You can even plan an overnight stay at Yitti beach to spend a splendid evening.

March and April are the best time to visit Muscat as the temperature during the months are cool and pleasant for sightseeing. You can even plan a tour from November to February but these winter months are mostly crowded.

Muscat International is the main airport in Muscat that is located at a distance of 32 km from the city center. It is the largest and busiest airport in Oman.

For an exceptional shopping experience in Muscat, you can shop from the best malls like the City center mall or the Mutrah Souq. With the best collection of antiques and handicrafts, the Mutrah Souq is one of the oldest Arab markets.

Anjali Bisht

Anjali is a passionate travel blogger and an enthusiast photographer travelling around the mountains to capture the best moments, discover and learn more about every nook and corner of the world.

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Home » Asia » Oman » 9 Cool Things to Do in Muscat in One Day

9 Cool Things to Do in Muscat in One Day

By Author Lance Longwell

Posted on Last updated: October 6, 2022

While searching for things to do in Muscat, we settled on taking a private taxi tour of the capital. Jumping into the taxi, the driver asked us in broken English, “Where you from?”

Laura replied simply, “the United States.” He had begun to drive away from the hotel to show us some of the local attractions in Muscat, but immediately stopped on the driveway before reaching the main road. He put the car into a park and turned around looking at us in shocked disbelief. “America?”

We nodded. We didn’t know if we were about to be on the receiving end of an anti-American political rant in this Islamic country.

He got a big toothy smile and said, “Welcome to Oman!” He proceeds to tell us that they get lots of Germans and some Brits, but never Americans. “You are the first Americans in Oman!”

We nodded, but knew it wasn’t true. Lance’s parents had visited Oman only a few years before. But this relative obscurity put it high on our list of places to visit in the Middle East and was precisely the reason why we had made the long drive through the desert to visit Oman.

Check current prices on Muscat hotels here.

Oman is an enigma for many westerners. When we told friends we would be coming here, the most common question we got was, “Where is Muscat, Oman?” It borders Saudi Arabia and Yemen at the base of the Arabian Peninsula and adjacent to the Sea of Oman. In a part of the world that that has been rocked by instability, terrorism, and general ugliness, Oman has been a pillar of calm.

Largely isolated until 1970, the country has a moderate, relaxed atmosphere while the cities in Oman provide an opportunity for sightseeing. The country has incredible scuba diving and broad, sandy beaches. The lure of an Oman vacation proved too much and we made our way here.

As we discovered, it’s a cool country. Here are our favorite points of interest in Muscat. In fact, the capital of Oman is fairy company city and most of these things can be done in a single day.

Things to Do in Muscat in One Day

The sultan qaboos grand mosque.

The Grand Mosque is the centerpiece of Muscat tourism. While located in the city, it feels like it is a bit outside the side and sits adjacent to the main highway. It is one of the largest mosques in the world (technically considered the 2nd largest by area). The carpet was the largest ever woven until a new one in Abu Dhabi was created. But the stunning Swarovski crystal chandelier is a sight to see! The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque really is one of the most beautiful places in Oman.

The Muttrah section of the city along the harbor is an excellent place to explore. Once a fishing village, it is now an integral part of Muscat. Most of the major attractions in this part of the city are all within a mile of each of other and can be easily explored on foot. They include:

The Muttrah Fish Market

Nearly all fish markets are the world have the same pulsing energy in the mornings as the fresh catch is delivered and buyers (from restaurants to locals) all show up to score the best pieces. In all the fish markets we’ve ever visited, we’ve never seen the variety (and abundance) of fish as at the Muttrah Fish Market.

The Muttrah Corniche

The Muttrah Corniche, a sidewalk along the harbor, runs for a mile or so from the fish market out to the Muttrah Fort. Along the path, there are sculptures as well as fountains and gardens that seem out of place in this arid landscape. It’s the perfect place to see the Sultan’s impressive yacht, as well as other exotic boats which may be in the harbor.

The Muttrah Souq

The Muttrah Souq is the market part tourist market and part local market. During our visit, it was packed with European tourists, mostly Russians and Germans, on a Middle Eastern cruise. There was also an old woman who appeared to shopping for Iranian saffron, so everyone uses the market.

For us, we went from silver store to silver store looking for necklaces for Laura. Finally, we found what we were looking for at the Mohammed Ali Murad Trading store. Visiting the Muttrah Souq is one of the top things to do in Muscat…and all of Oman for that matter.

The Muttrah Fort

On a rocky outcrop above the harbor is the Muttrah Fort. Dataing from the 1580s, this fort was one of nearly a dozen of military forts built along the Arabian coastline by the Portuguese. The fort is closed to the general public, but has incredible views of the corniche and the harbor.

Beyond the Murrah section (just to the south), lies the Al Alam Palace and the Government section of the city. There are number of museums in this area, but the real reason for visiting are the twin forts on opposing sides of the harbor:

The Al Jalali Fort

The Al Jalali Fort, like the Muttrah Fort, dates from the Portuguese period of Oman’s history. This fort guards the harbor of Muscat. It has a long history of battle and conflict: from the Portuguese, the Ottoman’s, and the Persians. It eventually became the primary prison for the Oman. Today, it is used for royal and governmental meetings and events, including hosting foreign dignitaries.

The Al Mirani Fort

Opposite the Al Jalali Fort, Al Mirani guards the Muscat harbor. This fort was built atop an original Islamic fortification and was completed in 1587.

Al Bustan Palace Hotel

Set into a remote cove at the base of the steep mountains as they plunge into the sea, the picturesque Al Bustan Palace Hotel, currently operated by the Ritz Carlton corporation, is one of the world’s most lavish hotels. It was originally built over 30 years as the location of the GCC conference, but it now mostly hosts European holiday makers who are visiting Oman. One of our favorite attractions in Muscat is visit the Al Bustan Palace for tea. It’s worth noting that the beach at Al Bustan Palace is among the best beaches in Muscat.

Al Qurum Park

The large Al Qurum Park is an oasis of green in the rocky and sandy environments of Muscat. While it is a chance to enjoy vegetation, Al Qurum Park is also the site of many festivals in Oman. This is a great chance to rub shoulders with the locals. During our time, we spent an evening at the annual Muscat Festival, which constitutes much of the nightlife in Muscat. It’s a cross between a state fair and cultural festival, and is one of the best things to do in Muscat at night if it is happening (usually for four weeks from mid-January to mid-February every year).

We walked through the festival and spent some time in the global village – a small expo with vendors from India, Morocco, Iran, Croatia and several other countries. The Muscat Festival also had a replica native Omani village. They were filming for TV, so it was brightly illuminated and looked surreal. Festivals like this are a chance to connect with the local culture.

Tips for Things to Do in Muscat

Visiting hours are Saturday-Thursday from 8:30am-11:00am. No visiting on Friday. Women must be fully covered (hair, neckline, etc.).

Muttrah Fish Market

Best hours to visit from 6:00am-10am.

Always open and available to walk along the harbor.

The Old Muttrah Souk (Al Dhalam Souq)

Hours are Saturday-Thursday from 9:00am-9:00pm and Friday from 9:00am-1:00pm.

Where to Eat in Muscat

There are some really excellent restaurants in Muscat. Two of our favorites were the local institution known as the Kargeen Caffe (odd location, but relaxed vibe and good food) and D’Archy’s Kitchen (a local favorite serving a range of international cuisines).

Where to Stay in Muscat

There are a number of great hotels in Muscat . We stayed at the Grand Hyatt Muscat .

Getting to Oman

We took the Mwasalat Dubai to Muscat bus . It was certainly an adventure and not an experience we recommend since the bus broke down in the desert.

Lance Longwell is a travel writer and photographer who has published Travel Addicts since 2008, making it one of the oldest travel blogs. He is a life-long traveler, having visited all 50 of the United States by the time he graduated high school. Lance has continued his adventures by visiting 70 countries on 5 continents – all in search of the world’s perfect sausage. He’s a passionate foodie and enjoys hot springs and cultural oddities. When he’s not traveling (or writing about travel), you’ll find him photographing his hometown of Philadelphia.

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Friday 21st of October 2022

Great article Now Muttrah fort in opened for public

Tuesday 23rd of July 2019

I love Muscat we lived there for 6 years, its a good place to live and great base to explore Oman

Saturday 15th of October 2022

@ania, where you live in oman

How to Spend Three Days in Muscat: An In-Depth Itinerary

Muscat is a city with a very long history. In fact, archeologists have discovered evidence that people have been living in the area since 6000 BC, though it wasn’t till later that the area grew in prominence, in large part thanks to its coastal location. 

It was its maritime promise that first attracted the attention of the Portuguese, who held sway over the city for two centuries, building a couple of notable forts that can still be seen today, perched atop cliffs, guarding the old harbor. 

In contrast to these very noticeable symbols of Oman’s past are the modern monuments built to emphasize its future. These draw on traditional Muslim design but utilize the most up-to-date structural innovations. 

Largely, these bold steps are the work of the late sultan, Qaboos bin Said, who was a beacon of forward-thinking light in an often depressingly conservative part of the world. Indeed, Muscat’s foremost architectural marvels, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the Royal Opera House, were both commissioned by him and given as a gift from this benevolent leader to the nation.

Compared to other Middle Eastern countries, most locals and expats living in Oman will tell you, quite rightly, that the sultanate is one of the more progressive places you can visit. 

Certainly, there are still restrictions regarding consumption of alcohol and proper attire (more on that at the bottom of the page), but on the whole, women are afforded a great deal more freedom. The country has a lax view of Islamic prohibitions on things like the cohabitation of unmarried men and women.

Oman is also unlike neighbors, such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia, in that it has consciously attempted to curb the unfettered growth of skyscrapers to preserve the country’s native aesthetic. In fact, there is a law banning buildings over a certain height, which is why Muscat’s tallest structure is the modestly tall 90-meter-high minaret of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. 

For visitors, this creates the strange impression of a city that has at once modernized and yet seems not to have grown up, literally. Of course, there are flashy malls with all the most desirable fashion brands – no one could deny that Muscat has its haute couture and mod cons – but these are held in check by a desire to preserve a certain respect for the nation’s heritage.

Perhaps this is why we can’t recommend Oman enough as a place to visit. The truth is it is woefully underexplored, but hopefully this Muscat itinerary will help open your eyes to the wonderful mixture of history, modernity and natural splendor that awaits.

How Many Days to Spend in Muscat

Muscat can probably be explored in a day, possibly a day and a half – though of course, if you want to spend some downtime relaxing on the beach, three days could fly by in an instant! However, the Omani capital is a great base to make day trips into the less-developed interior of the country, where some of the most interesting historical sights lie.

Bearing that in mind, we would suggest spending three days in Muscat, with the first day devoted to exploring the city itself; ranging from the old town center in the east to the modern hub in the west.

The second day can be used to travel inland, towards the impressive forts of Nizwa, which will give you a glimpse into the conflicts and culture that have defined Oman. As part of this excursion, you can also check out some of the country’s most impressive natural monuments, such as the mountain of Jebel Shams and Oman’s answer to the Grand Canyon.

Finally, finish up your trip with a day devoted purely to getting a taste of the wild beauty of the country with some hiking and swimming in the nearby Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole. 

Day One: From Mosque to Mutrah

Rather than delay pleasure like a child hoarding sweets, we often prefer to start city visits with a trip to the most impressive attraction. In the case of Muscat, this is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, which rises out of the landscape like a frosting-covered cake. 

Approximately 300,000 tons of sandstone were used to construct this beauty, which is not only the largest mosque in the country, but also has the tallest structure in Oman. The 90-meter-high central minaret is flanked by four further minarets at each corner of the building. This quintet is meant to represent the five pillars of Islam: faith, prayer, almsgiving, fasting (particularly during Ramadan) and pilgrimage (notably to Mecca).

This is not a centuries-old mosque of historical importance like you can find elsewhere in the world, but it is an apt symbol for today’s Oman. The building was opened in 2001 to coincide with the 30th year of Qaboos bin Said’s reign and was given as a gift to the people from the sultan. Its design draws on traditional Islamic concepts, nodding to the nation’s age-old culture, while at the same time showing off all the grandeur and modernity that the architects could muster.

Entrance is completely free, as is normal for most mosques. Make sure you dress appropriately before leaving your hotel, as visitors are expected to wear loose-fitting clothes that cover the arms and legs, while women must cover their hair.

Surrounding the mosque are some well-kept, if rather staid gardens. You can wander through these for a quiet moment of contemplation or hurry on towards the giant latticed dome. As you stroll about the exterior, keep an eye out for the numerous examples of Arabic script carved into the geometric patterns that adorn the walls and elegant arches. 

There are also many nods to the different Islamic aesthetic traditions that have flourished throughout history, from Egypt to Persia. Realistically, these are going to be hard for you to spot on your own, but we found the volunteers on-site very friendly, helpful and happy to answer a whole heap of questions while also highlighting some of the subtleties that we would definitely have missed on our own.

We have to confess to only sparing a brief moment for the women and children’s prayer hall, preferring instead to focus our attention on the piece de resistance: the main prayer hall, which can accommodate 6,500 worshippers. 

You’ll have to remove your shoes and store them on one of the shoe racks before entering – which only seems respectful, not just because the building is a mosque, but because you’ll be stepping across a carpet that allegedly took 600 Khorasan weavers four years to complete. That incredible amount of time is perhaps not surprising considering the carpet is composed of 1.7 billion knots and weighs a total of 21 tons. 

Those are some impressive figures, but the truth is you probably won’t be looking down but up, at what is the world’s second-largest chandelier. This dazzling light fixture, masterminded by Italian company Faustig, is made up of 600,000 gold-trimmed Swarovski crystals. 

These glitter off the turquoise geometric designs and stained-glass windows that line the dome. Worthy of the ballroom from Beauty and the Beast, this fairytale chandelier is mirrored by 34 miniature versions that are dotted throughout the hall.

Immediately facing the main doors to the prayer hall is an elaborate mihrab (a niche indicating the direction of Mecca), featuring honeycomb vaulting and brilliant blue ceramic tiles.

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is located in the modern part of Muscat where some of the city’s trendiest shopping malls have their addresses. Also situated in the new area, slightly further east, is the Royal Opera House. 

Even if you’re not a fan of this form of musical drama, the building itself is a grandiose stunner. Like the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, it’s a vision in white on the outside, while the inside features gleaming creamy marble accented with elaborately carved wood – we were particularly impressed by the fabulous high ceiling.

You can explore the opera house on one of the daily tours, but if you are an opera fan, book a ticket for an evening performance. The dress code is strictly business suits, dinner jackets or dishdashas for men, while women are expected to wear evening dress, lending a wonderful sense of occasion to the visit.

Now you’ve seen some of the highlights of modern Muscat, it’s time to head over to the older parts of town. Oman was famous in the olden days for its frankincense. Today, this can still be purchased in Muttrah’s souk, a market filled with tourist souvenirs as well as numerous herbs and spices. 

Even if you have no intention of buying a thing, it’s still worth venturing through the maze of stalls to experience the Middle Eastern tradition of the bazaar.

Much more relaxing, however, is a stroll along the Mutrah Corniche. This promenade provides pleasant walks beside the sea – somewhat disrupted by the busy main road that lies beside it. 

If you head to the western end of the corniche in the mornings, you can watch locals haggle over freshly caught seafood at the Muttrah Fish Market. Though there’s been a fish market here for many years, it has recently been relocated into a thoroughly modern structure, designed by a Norwegian architectural firm.

Keep traveling east and you’ll come to the area that’s known as Old Muscat. This is where the city first began to germinate, but today it feels much sleepier than the more modern Muscat where the grand mosque and opera house are located.

This area contains some of the country’s best museums, a couple of 16th-century forts from the Portuguese occupation (Al Mirani and Al Jalali) and the quirky Al Alam Palace. Take a quick pic of the bizarre yellow-and-blue royal structure with its pavilion-esque façade through the railings (it’s closed to the public), before heading to Bait Al Zubair. 

This privately owned museum offers glimpses of Omani culture, with displays of traditional handicrafts, household items, clothing, jewelry and other assorted pieces of history, as well as an exhibit that illustrates a traditional Omani dwelling.

For almost two decades, the Bait Al Zubair was Muscat’s best window into the past. It is admittedly a bit of a hodgepodge, which we found charming, but others might describe it as chaotic. 

In 2016, however, the government unveiled a new, shiny white building to act as the official storyteller of the nation. The National Museum is a much grander, arguably more sterile affair, which has been very carefully curated along different themes, such as Omani seafaring and weaponry through the ages.

Don’t forget to eat! Many Omani dishes center on rice and meat or fish, such as makbous (mixed rice with your choice of meat/chicken/fish) and shuwa (meat marinated in local spices). 

We enjoyed munching on some great examples of these dishes at Ubhar, a slightly ugly but undeniably delicious restaurant. You won’t want to miss out on the excellent date cake, especially as dates are something of a national treasure in Oman.

Day Two: Heading Inland

Now you’ve seen some of the highlights of the capital, it’s time to explore other parts of the country. Not so long ago, the city of Nizwa was seen as a kind of counterweight to Muscat. Where one was on the coast and more liberal, the other was inland and staunchly conservative. While some remnants of that dichotomy still exist, Nizwa today has thrown open its arms to international tourists, letting the outside world see more of a traditional way of Omani life.

Nizwa was at one time the capital of Oman. It has always been an important place because of its location between the country’s coast and its interior. Coming upon the city, we were enchanted by views of its sandy-colored structures, which seem to whisper of a different age – though on closer inspection, you’ll see plenty of newer buildings mixed in, too.

The city is presided over by a 17th-century fort, built by Sultan bin Saif, the man who drove out the Portuguese invaders from Oman. The castle’s battlements provide panoramic views of the surrounding area, though its most impressive feature is the huge round tower, which was (and still is) amply furnished with cannons for defense. 

Nizwa Fort is one of several military constructions that dot this region, a testament to how important former rulers thought it was to keep a tight grip on the gateway between the different parts of Oman. 

Half an hour’s drive from Nizwa, you can also find the forts of Bahla and Jabreen, each with their own points of interest. In fact, some tours will combine all three into a single day trip for you, if you don’t want to drive yourself.

Bahla is the only one of the region’s castles that has been included on UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list, perhaps because it is the oldest. Frankly, it’s pretty incredible that its mud-brick walls, easily damaged by rainfall, have survived this long. 

Over the centuries, the various people in possession of the building have had to rebuild sections as they collapsed, leading to a mishmash of styles from different eras, spread across different levels.

Jabreen is another beast yet again. Dating from the late 17th century, it has been carefully restored to provide a pretty good idea of how livable these types of fortifications must have been in the past. The rooms have been furnished with cushions and carpets, while the windows display intricate geometric patterns. From the battlements, appreciate the commanding position the castle commands, ruling over the surrounding plans.

As an add-on to your day, you can also visit Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest mountain, which looks out on the nation’s answer to the Grand Canyon. It’s hard to capture how impressive this enormous chasm is – though we did see a fair few people trying to do so by getting precariously close to the cliff edge. 

It’s possible to walk along the top or descend into the canyon and hike along the wadi (valley) floor. Just bear in mind this is a fair few hours’ drive from Nizwa and Muscat along winding roads, so should probably only be attempted if you have ample time and aren’t prone to car sickness.

Day Three: Swimming the Wadis

Day three is all about communing with nature while doing a little physical activity. Just over an hour and a half from Muscat, further along the coast, is the famous Wadi Shab, a natural gorge filled with crystalline water. Oman has many wadis, but this is one of the most popular due to its particular beauty and easy-to-reach location. 

It’s perfectly possible to drive out here yourself, and there’s on-site parking to make your journey as easy as pie. However, there are also tour companies that will combine a trip to Wadi Shab with a visit to Bimmah Sinkhole into a full-day tour for you, if you don’t fancy making the excursion yourself.

After you arrive at the parking lot, you will need to take a short, quaint boat ride on a little skiff to get to the start of the hike to Wadi Shab. Make sure you have a couple of rials to give to the boatmen to pay for your passage. These guys are here for most of the day to ferry visitors back and forth, but make sure you check when they clock off so you don’t get stranded!

Once you’ve made it to the other side of the lake, you’ll then set off on a hike through palm groves, sandy plains and boulder-strewn streams. If you have a backpack you don’t mind carting about, it’s a good idea to bring along a couple of different kinds of shoes: some sturdier footwear for the more challenging parts of the hike and a pair of flip flops or water shoes for when you have to traverse the streams. 

Don’t worry about getting lost, as there are red and black arrows painted onto the rocks that indicate the way to go. In any case, it’s all fairly straightforward and you probably won’t be the only one making the trek.

The wadi consists of several different pools, but you are only allowed to swim in three. They aren’t connected, so you’ll have to stroll over scree to get between them. Once you get to the last pool, make sure you look out for a small crack at its end. You can swim through this to reach a little cave with a modest waterfall, which is definitely worth doing if you want some proper Indiana Jones cred.

If you’re like us and find yourself bewitched by the beautiful setting, you can easily spend a few hours just floating for hours, taking a well-earned break after the past two days of tramping through city streets and desert forts. You can even pack a picnic so you don’t have to worry about leaving to grab some grub. Just make sure you set aside enough time for one final stop.

Between Wadi Shab and Muscat is the Bimmah Sinkhole. This geological quirk is a turquoise pool of water that was created after the earth suddenly collapsed. A staircase has been built into the rock so that you can now more easily walk into the crater for a swim.

If you haven’t already eaten, the area around the pool has been set up with picnic tables, shaded by palm trees. While not as impressive as Wadi Shab, it’s worthwhile making a small detour for a quick peek.

Speaking of swimming, we haven’t managed to squeeze any beach time into this Muscat itinerary. However, if you do want to catch some rays, Oman’s capital has kilometers and kilometers of long sandy stretches. Qurum Beach is particularly popular with locals and tourists. While it certainly isn’t as beautiful as some beaches you’ll find around the world, it also doesn’t feel as heavily commercialized – though you can still find plenty of cafes along the coast if you want to grab a bite.

What to Know Before You Go

Local Laws in Oman

We’ve already sung the praises of how progressive Oman is relative to the rest of the Middle East. However, ‘relative’ is the key word here. Oman is still a Muslim country and does have strict laws regarding behavior, though many of these are relaxed for visitors. Generally, the attitude of the locals is one of ‘live and let live’. 

For instance, alcohol is largely prohibited, though it can be purchased and consumed within certain licensed hotels and restaurants. You are expected to dress modestly, covering your arms and legs, but wearing a swimsuit on a public beach (providing it isn’t overly skimpy) would be fine. 

The law states unmarried couples cannot cohabit in a hotel room, but everybody turns a blind eye when people actually do it, to the extent that many Omanis don’t even realize it’s actually illegal and not just socially frowned upon.

Having said all this, it’s always best to play it safe when visiting a foreign country, even if – as in the case of Oman – some of the overtly Islamic laws are almost never enforced. It is also advisable not to overdo the public displays of affection, as a courtesy to local customs.

Where to Stay

Most of the available accommodation for short-term stays is located in the new town, though you can find a couple of rustic places in Mutrah and Old Muscat, as well as some four-star and five-star hotels beside the beaches.

For modern comfort at a reasonable price, the Citadines Al Ghubrah is an excellent option. Each room comes equipped with a little kitchenette if you want to do your own cooking, but we just relied on the morning buffet for most of our in-hotel eating. 

One of the highlights is the outdoor rooftop pool, which is great for cooling off in the summer. Plus, the location is right next to tons of downtown restaurants, as well as the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and all the modern malls.

If you want something with a little more ambiance to it, we can also heartily recommend the Fort Guesthouse in the Mutrah district. The rooms are perhaps a little on the cozy side, but the decoration is much more unique and emblematic of Oman than some of the more mod-con options in town. 

The staff are super engaging, which adds to the whole ‘staying with locals’ kind of vibe. Essentially, it’s what the name suggests: a friendly guesthouse rather than a more formal kind of hotel.

The Best Time of Year to Visit Muscat

Try to avoid traveling to Muscat (and Oman generally) during the month of Ramadan. Not only are local laws more strictly observed and policed during this time, but it can also be a massive inconvenience going anywhere, since normal opening hours go out the window and everything is less reliable. Bear in mind that the dates of Ramadan change every year, so make sure you check before you book your holiday.

Even in the winter, temperatures in Oman are usually over 70 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius). There are also very few rainy days, even during the wettest season. In the summer, however, it can get a little too swelteringly hot for comfort. 

This makes mid-autumn through to early spring the best time to drop in on Muscat. From October to March, you’ll still get plenty of sun and time to bathe on the beach, but without any of the discomfort associated with doing tourist activities in temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius).

How to Get Around Muscat

Muscat stretches out along the coast, clinging to the sea. Imagine that instead of a circular donut of a city, you have one that’s pulled out like a spaghetti noodle. In essence, this means it’s hugely impracticable to walk between areas because the distance is pretty far – and the city is not designed for pedestrians. 

At the same time, public transport is a bit of a headache for tourists, not because it’s especially hard to navigate, but because the bus routes between the main places you’ll want to visit can take up to four times as long to travel as if you were in a taxi – and if you only have three days, you don’t want to waste a significant chunk of them on a bus. 

OK, you might be thinking, I’ll splurge for a taxi – and indeed, these aren’t super expensive in the grand scheme of things. However, they are not metered, so you kind of just have to negotiate your fare beforehand and hope you’re getting a reasonable deal. 

The government has talked about introducing metered taxis, but so far, no concrete action has been taken. However, if you’re staying at a hotel, you can always inquire at the front desk about what’s reasonable, or even ask them to order a taxi for you with a pre-agreed price.

Really, though, the easiest thing to do is rent a car! Preferably, you’ll want a 4×4, as you’ll need a reasonably heavy-duty vehicle once you head out of the city on your day trips. This option comes with its own problems, because from our experience, Omani drivers are pretty aggressive when it comes to getting where they want to go as fast as possible. 

That’s not to say you’re taking your life in your hands by taking to the road, just be aware that people aren’t so much interested in observing social niceties as they are interested in being time efficient.

If you want to hop between the forts around Nizwa or stop off at Bimmah Sinkhole on the way back from Wadi Shab, a rental just makes everything so much easier. And anyway, isn’t there something romantic about driving out into the dune? 

Plus, if you need to stop at any point, every side of the road is essentially a pull-off, since everyone seems to just take off into the desert whenever they want a break.

Safety Advice

Oman is renowned as one of the safest places to visit in the Middle East. It’s also one of the most progressive when it comes to women’s rights, though female visitors should still be cautious during the evening and ensure they dress appropriately. Petty crime is not unheard of, but certainly rare.

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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10 Best Things To Do In Muscat, Oman

Perched on the Gulf of Oman , Muscat is a hugely important Arabic city that’s quickly becoming one of the region’s hot spots to visit. Not only that, but there’s also a heap of the best things to do in Muscat that are dotted around the city and its surroundings.

Overlooked by the domineering Al Hajar Mountains, Muscat is a hive of contemporary and traditional culture and design that make for some amazing places to experience.

Whether it’s your first time visiting Oman, or your first visit to the Middle East, Muscat has some incredible sites you should definitely consider seeing.

This is especially true as it doesn’t feel as glossy as other Middle Eastern cities like Dubai and has a long history that you can explore. 

With that in mind, I wanted to share some of the best things to do in Muscat on your next trip. Have the best time. 

1.) See the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

As the sun sets; the immense golden dome of the Grand Mosque is lit up and creates an ethereal glow that you can’t miss.

As an important mosque in Muscat (and Oman, obviously), this beautiful building is impeccably designed and stands proudly iconic overlooking the city.

Inside the mosque, the incredible level of details is quickly evident – the central dome has a fantastic blue patterned design that is just gorgeous.

It’s easily one of the most beautiful buildings here and one of the best things to do in Muscat.

2.) Watch a show at the Royal Opera House

Complete in 2011, this grand structure is arguably thought of as the most beautiful in Muscat (next to the Sultan Grand Mosque).

This gorgeous opera house is made from white marble and stone and its front façade has a myriad of pointed arches and symmetrical towers that are stunning to see. If you have some evenings free, make sure to book for a performance that is truly amazing!

Alternatively, if opera isn’t your thing, head out into the Al Hajar Mountains on an organised tour of the region. It’s one of the best things to do in Muscat.

Oh, and don’t forget to book your tours from Muscat before arriving in the city. There’s a heap of places to visit, like; Whadi Shab and private trips to Wadi Bani Khamed that are all so special.

3.) Explore Bait Al Zubair

After visiting the Grand Mosque (above) in the morning, take the afternoon to stroll around Bait Al Zubair.

Located in Muttrah, the Bait Al Zubair Museum has an extensive collection of ancient artefacts, from around the region. Notable items include the fine display of traditional Khanjar ceremonial daggers gilded with gold, and a full-scale reconstructed Omani Village and Souq.  

Honestly, though, if museums don’t get you excited, you might want to give this one a miss! You’ll find a heap of other best things to do in Muscat that won’t bore you! 

This being said, you can easily book this half-day guided tour of Muscat that’ll take you around the incredible history of the city. It takes in some of the best spots like the historic markets and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.

Just be sure to book before you arrive. You don’t want to get to Muscat and all the tours are booked. 

Book: half-day guided tour of Muscat

4.) See the Old Fort and Swim at Qurum Beach

Due to the scorching hot weather that Muscat regularly experiences, a little time on the beach isn’t a choice, it’s almost essential (well, that’s my excuse, anyway).

Shatti Al Qurum Beach is one of the prime stretches in Muscat and has miles of golden sands lined with quality restaurants and cafes to explore. If you’re wanting to make the most of the sunshine and sea in Muscat, here’s the place to go.  

Alternatively, if you still want to head to the shoreline and not jump into the ocean, take a visit to the Old Fort that clings onto the edge of the shoreline.

5.) Take a day trip to Nizwa

A few hours inland from Muscat is the historic town of Nizwa.

This ancient city was once a key trade route across the region with the 17th Century tower still guarding the city itself. I know it’s not technically Muscat but you shouldn’t miss it when visiting the region. 

Head across on a day tour by car or with a guide and explore the souk that makes some of the best silver jewellery in the country.

6.) Indulge in some retail therapy?

Personally, I’m not the biggest fan of shopping when on holidays, but if you fancy a break from the glaringly hot sunshine and fancy a little retail therapy, head over to the Oman Avenues Mall. 

The mall itself offers many of the same brands you’ll find in London and New York all within some icy cold air conditioning! Ha! 

If ll the shopping has worked up an appetite, head over to Ubhar Bistro that creates the most delicious Harissa and Showa.

7.) Explore Mutrah Corniche

Mutrah is a commune of Muscat and can be found approximately 15 minutes to the east of the city. This charming coastal town has a well-developed seafront and promenade known as Muttrah Corniche.

Walk by the water and admire the expanse of the Gulf of Oman, or enjoy a fine meal and drink at one of the many quality restaurants and bars lining the seafront.

This part of Muscat has a laid back atmosphere and is a great place to visit for an evening out. It really is one of the best things to do in Muscat.

8.) See the sperm whale at Muscat Natural History Museum

Whilst many of the museums in Oman centre on the country’s history and people, this Natural History Museum centres on the geology, wildlife, and landscape of this stunning area.

Aside from the immense collection of fossils and taxidermy, there is also a magnificent Whale exhibit that houses a colossal skeleton of a sperm whale that was washed up on the coastline during the 1980s.

If museums aren’t your thing, head out to the streets where you’ll find lots of small stalls to peruse.

9.) See the Muscat Gate

Located within the actual monumental city gate outside Muscat, this museum offers a combination of stunning architecture and informative exhibitions.

The structure itself spans the quad carriageway that heads into Muscat and features immense stone archways.

Inside the museum, you can find an interesting selection of displays regaling the history of the development of Muscat.

10.) Explore the Mutrah Souq

For an authentic shopping experience, head over to the commune of Mutrah and its Souq. Located just behind the Corniche, this bustling marketplace is bursting with a myriad of colourful stalls selling items of clothing, fresh fruit, pottery and other wares.

The smell of incense will invade your nostrils and you will be amazed at the sheer amount of trinkets to buy is amazing. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Muscat if you want to buy an authentic souvenir to take home.

The amazing smells of incense will actually invade your nose. Just make sure to take an extra bag with you, I guarantee you’ll buy lots whilst you’re here.

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What makes oman the middle east’s up-and-coming destination.

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Birds are a big thing in Oman’s Musandam Peninsula. As you walk along, it’s not unusual to catch sight of the flick of a sapphire-blue tail, the glimpse of scarlet-red feathers cloaked by a wing or the pop of banana-yellow on a crooked beak. It’s as if the sky has reacted in rainbow protest to the dusty beige of Oman’s landscape. Here, you wake up to a cacophony of twittering and cooing: Indian Rollers, Bulbuls and Sunbirds forming a dawn chorus.

Six Senses Zighy Bay is framed by the Hajar Mountains on one side and the icy-blue waters of the ... [+] Musandam fjords on the other.

Framed by the Hajar Mountains on one side and the icy-blue waters of the Musandam Fjords on the other, this enclave belonging to Oman, found on the northern tip of the Arabian peninsula, is geographically set apart from the rest of the country (it is separated from the rest of Oman by the United Arab Emirates). Known as the Norway of the Middle East, and best accessible by four-wheel drive from Dubai, the remote location at times looks lunar, with its barren landscape dotted with flighty goats and hardy Ghaf trees; other times, you can imagine yourself to be in a Polar region, with its glacier-like coastline.

Looking down on Zioghy Bay.

When it comes to tourism, compared to other Middle Eastern ‘big-hitters’ (such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar), Oman has managed to remain relatively ‘under the radar’, escaping the hoards of tourists who are attracted to the ‘bright lights, big city’ mentality that other Emirates in the region offer and giving it more of an ‘adventurer’ appeal.

Josh Peacock, regional destination manager, at luxury tour operator, Scott Dunn says that it is this exact quality that is its allure. “Oman’s allure is absolutely about authenticity, away from the more manufactured neighbour of Dubai. Dramatic landscapes combined with Arabian waters and plenty of culture have seen a rise in interest in the destination.”

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Tristan Williams, Middle East resorts specialist at the company, agrees: “In a region currently negotiating renewed uncertainty, Oman is once again the shining haven of stability, security and unwavering beauty, which so many seek. The destination has stayed true to itself, reflecting the very best of everything this incredible part of the world has to offer, from both a cultural and natural perspective. Whether it’s the striking the mountains, turquoise waters, fascinating cities and hotels to match… it has it all.”

The fjords of Musandam

Proving that the country could soon be the next hotspot in the region, there is a line-up of new hotel brands due to open their doors. First up is Mandarin Oriental Muscat , located in the beachfront town of Shatti Al-Qurum, and on target to open by the summer. Nikki Beach Resort and Spa is also due to open by the end of the year, with its resort found on Yiti Bay (30 minutes from Muscat airport) and overlooking the Gulf of Oman. Also due to open in 2024 is the St Regis Al Mouj Muscat , found on an 18-hole Al Mouj Muscat golf course. It will boast a Guerlain spa and have a culinary focus, with outposts of Coya, Hakkasan and Dubai-based Italian restaurant Roberto’s.

The welcome entrance to Six Senses Zighy Bay.

Presiding over Musandam, however, is one of the original hotels to put down roots in the country: Six Senses Zighy Bay , which opened its doors in 2008. It’s a two-and-a-half hour drive to reach it from Dubai, passing through the Khasab border crossing, as you briefly enter the United Arab Emirates. You’ll pass through tiny towns, such as Dibba, where time looks like it has stood still. Shops display old-fashioned and literal signage, sometimes clumsily translated into English: ‘Clipping and Cutting of Men’s Hair’; ‘Washing and Polishing of Motor Vehicles’.

Soon, the mountains take over, and it’s as though you are squeezing your way through their barren peaks to reach the tip of the peninsula where Zighy Bay is found. Your first sight of the resort is from a dramatic, high point before you descend to its beachfront location. Famously, you can elect to tandem-paraglide into the Six Senses property from this spot, which is perhaps the most spectacular way to say you have arrived for check-in at any hotel.

Inside one of the villas with its traditional features.

Low-rise, and carved out of natural stone, the resort’s 82 villas blend into the landscape so you can barely see it is there. It is a nod to the resort’s strong sustainable values that are woven throughout its whole ethos. Initiatives include a seawater well, which means the resort can filter seawater for use within the resort (and for use in one of its pools); an earth lab where glass is recycled; a lush, organic kitchen garden which supplies the five restaurants and the creation of a protected marine area to safeguard the unique eco-system found here.

“Our main focus when it comes to our operations are plastic free, zero waste, energy conservation and organic farming,” says Six Senses about Zighy Bay. “In total, 80 per cent of our organic and glass waste is recycled or upcycled on site, more than 80 per cent of all single-use plastic has been removed, and 30 per cent of the resort’s energy was saved in 2022 compared to our baseline year.”

For adrenalin junkies, you can paraglide into the resort.

Designed to replicate a typical Omani village, each villa is separated by winding, sandy paths, dotted with an abundance of neem, lemon and date palm trees. Once inside, rough-hewn stucco walls, stone floors and ceilings made of date palm sticks give a tropical-rustic feel. Each comes with a private plunge pool and there are outdoor showers and traditional shady majils (seating areas) to take in the views. Naturalmat beds are deep and cosy and are lined with fine, unbleached cotton sheets topped with ergonomic pillows (there is a choice for total bedtime indulgence). Character is added with heavy, dark wood doors, as if you are entering your own mini castle, pops of colour with burnt orange cushions and tactile, handcrafted lighting.

The resort is rooted in Omani culture.

Once you’ve settled in, this is the sort of place where you’ll kick off your shoes and pad along barefoot to one of the pools; or maybe you’ll hop on your own bicycle to explore the sandy pathways (the hotel’s attention to detail even extends to the bikes’ pedals, which are padded so you don’t even have to wear shoes to cycle). As well as an infinity pool and a saltwater pool, (check out the ice-cream cart for instant cooling-down opportunities), you can try your hand at a line-up of activities, such as mountain biking, scuba diving or, perhaps, a flight in a microlight aircraft. At the Earth Lab, you can book in for candle-making, soap-making and glass crafting.

Sense on the Edge is one of the culinary highlights.

Dining at Zighy Bay is a highlight with five restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, but all ofrering thoughtful (and delicious) references to the destination. Spice Market serves up a huge breakfast feast and in the evenings turns its hand to traditional Arabic barbecues and dishes influenced by the ‘Spice Trail’. Mezzeria offers a fusion of Italian and shawarma dishes; while Summer House is the perfect spot for casual lunches overlooking the beach (think: sushi, wellness bowls and freshly-baked flatbreads and dips). A must is the Shua Shack’s traditional Bedouin dining, which features mezze dishes and slow-cooked lamb prepared in an authentic Shua underground oven. For something spectacular, Sense on the Edge, offers fine dining at a clifftop venue, some 950 feet above the sea, and sees you dine overlooking the resort and the coast below. As the sun dips, the outdoor restaurant is lit by candlelight and lanterns giving it an ethereal feel. For special occasions, book one of the Starlight or Moonlight tables, which are found on their own private terraces.

The organic garden provides ingredients for the restaurants.

Another integral part of Six Senses Zighy Bay’s culture is its work with local communities and schools and the encouragement of guests to get out and explore the local area with a collection of trips and experiences. One initiative is its support of the local Dibba Women Association and guests can meet some of the local women, purchase their handmade craft items, hear traditional Omani music, taste Omani sweets and share aromatic coffee with them, as well as take part in henna painting. All proceeds go towards helping to fund their infrastructure development projects, including nurseries and schools.

The Dhahab sunset cruise.

Despite the amount of things to do and see, time seems to pass slowly here. The remote spot oozes a holistic feel, whether you’ve found a little piece of zen with the sunrise yoga or nodded off at the hands of the exceptional therapists found at the Six Senses Spa. Of course, this being Six Senses, the spa is a signature highlight of the property, with many of its treatments designed to root you in Oman, due to the local ingredients that they use, such as frankincense, honey and rosewater.

The resort is like its own mini oasis.

Not to be missed is a sunset cruise on Dhahab , the resort’s traditional dhow boat, which has been made specially for the hotel and fitted out as a modern, luxury cruiser. As you sail the Musandam fjords, you pass tiny fishing villages perched on the cliffs and can anchor in secluded coves. For those wanting to dive or scuba, the waters are famous for their brightly coloured corals. While on the mountains, this is one of the only areas of the world where the earth’s mantle has broken through, with green ophiolites, part of the earth’s crust, visible to the eye.

When you return to the resort, low-level lighting (to combat light pollution) gives it a tranquil, hideaway feel. As the lights are dimmed on earth, above you, the stars are switching. Look up, it’s a wonder to behold.

From Zighy Bay, you can dive into the Musandam area.

Scott Dunn offers seven nights at Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman, from £8,500, based on a couple sharing on a half-board basis, including return flights from London and private transfers. scottdunn.com

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I've been to 54 countries and have lived in 10. These 5 underrated places are worth the trip.

• Kate Boardman has visited 54 countries around the world and lived in 10, including the US.
• She's enjoyed spots like France and Bali but says people should visit underrated places like Oman.
• In Ecuador, she climbed an active volcano, and in Guatemala, she swam with hammerhead sharks.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kate Boardman , a 36-year-old former teacher and current content creator from Massachusetts who has lived and traveled all over the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I first lived abroad when I was 15, when I participated in an exchange program in Germany. I lived there for a year, attending school and staying with a host family.

That was my first exposure to living overseas and truly immersing myself in other cultures. From there, the travel bug hit me hard. It inspired me to study international business in France while I was at university, and future trips after that.

I've been to 54 countries and lived in 10, including the US. The sense of freedom and self-growth that comes from traveling is unbeatable. I also love being able to see the world in a different way.

The most popular destinations are popular for a reason.

Everyone talks about Paris, London , Bali — all travel destinations that are super popular, in part thanks to social media.

I lived in Bali in early 2012 and saw it expand firsthand. There was a lot of construction — with many beach clubs being built — and it became overcrowded by foreigners. It's led to locals being priced out of their homes.

I also think spots like Cancun are super overrated; there are way cooler places to visit in Mexico. Many tourists spend a week in an all-inclusive resort and think that's fun — but that couldn't be more unattractive to me.

Obviously, there's still beauty in places that are oversaturated and famous. But I think that there's an excitement that comes from experiencing places that are off the beaten track.

It's often in those places that you can have the most surprising experiences.

I was treated like family in Iran

I would say my favorite country that I have visited is Iran. I went in 2018 and was there for 10 days.

Normally, when I'm traveling, I backpack alone and stay in hostels as a solo traveler. However, in Iran, if you're American, Canadian, or from the UK, in order to get permission to enter the country, you need a set itinerary and a licensed travel guide.

It was a very coordinated trip and a bit more challenging to visit, but it was so rewarding because I was welcomed with the warmest hospitality.

One of the unique aspects of this trip was how close my guide and I became. He went above and beyond, inviting me over to his family's house for dinner, where I got to meet and hang out with his friends and family. It was truly special.

Because I had a guide, everything was kind of set for me in Iran. He arranged different accommodations, including a road trip through the country, where we stayed in various cities at different guesthouses.

It only cost me around $1,000.

The nature and landscape of Iran are absolutely beautiful and amazing. The sights, attractions, and history are mind-blowing. You've got these gorgeous mosaics everywhere. All of the architecture had my jaw dropping in awe while walking around.

The food is also delicious, and the markets are incredible, each filled with gorgeous textiles, jewelry, turquoise, and rugs.

I would totally visit there again. I hope the political situation changes because that would definitely be one of my group trip destinations. I think it's just incredible.

Georgia took me by surprise

Georgia is just one of those countries that's not on a lot of people's radar. And then they go there and they're like, 'Whoa, that's awesome. Why didn't I know about this before?'

I knew very little about Georgia before I visited in 2018. I spent only five days in the country, but I was completely blown away.

I stayed in Tbilisi, which is the capital city. It's a really beautiful, trendy, and artsy kind of city. It has amazing wine and incredible food.

Probably one of my favorite things about the trip is that I stayed in this hostel called Fabrika . It was an old Soviet Union sewing factory that they turned into a super cool, industrial, hipster hostel.

In Tbilisi, I also went on a pub crawl throughout the Old Town, which featured a bunch of underground cellars and bunkers that have been turned into trendy nightclubs and bars.

During my time in the country, I took a trip out to the countryside to an area called Kazbegi, which is absolutely stunning. There were gorgeous and breathtaking mountains, hills, and massive churches.

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In the city, I also had a Turkish bath, which is a big thing in Georgia. I got a full scrub down.

Guatemala has something for everyone

When most people from the US think about going to Central America, they're focused on Mexico or Costa Rica. Guatemala seems to be a place that kind of gets overlooked.

But life is great in Guatemala.

You've got beautiful weather all year round, the jungle, rainforests, and the Caribbean's white sand beaches, while the Pacific side has its black sand beaches. It's got a little bit of everything.

I first lived in Guatemala in 2021, where I worked as a teacher at an international school. They provided housing in Guatemala City. However, after I finished working for them, I moved to a beach town on the Pacific coast and lived there for about six months.

I've traveled there on other occasions too, staying for periods of four or five months.

The typical salary for a Guatemalan is about $500 a month, with a good salary being $1,000. I would say that $2,000 a month is more than enough to live there extremely comfortably.

There are a lot of digital nomads moving there, especially to Antigua — an old colonial town with a lot of charm, cobblestone streets, and painted buildings.

There's just so much to do in Guatemala; it's so magical.

The biggest must do is hiking the active volcano called Acatenango . Sometimes, you can see it erupting right from its base camp. There's not many places in the world where you can experience that.

Another good place to visit is El Paredon, a super up-and-coming hippie surf town. The surfing is great, and you've got these black volcanic sand beaches. It's just a really laid-back place.

Lake Atitlan is also an incredible spot. It's surrounded by volcanoes and several Mayan villages, each with its own personality and vibe.

Oman's deserts are magical

Oman is in the Middle East, bordering the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. I've been there three times between 2016 and 2018.

The country is culturally rich, and the capital city, Muscat, is really beautiful. It has old traditional marketplaces and gorgeous architecture — the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is definitely worth checking out.

The deserts there are incredible, so doing a desert trip is a must. I camped out in the desert with the locals, rode camels, and drove Jeeps over the sand dunes.

Having tea and watching the sunset in the desert was magical too.

Oman also has wadis, which are basically big canyons in the middle of the desert with swimming holes. There, you'll find bright turquoise water contrasting with the orange rock.

The country's islands are also beautiful and incredible for snorkeling. They look like you'd be in the Caribbean, but you're in the Middle East.

The Galapagos Islands are truly like nowhere else in the world

I visited Ecuador last year for about six weeks. I was leading a gap year program with a group of high school students. We split our time between the Galapagos Islands and the mainland, which consisted of cities and the Amazon.

Because Ecuador has incredibly unique biodiversity that doesn't exist anywhere else in the world, The Galapagos Islands are an absolute must. I've never seen such incredible wildlife in my life; so many species exist only on those islands.

While visiting The Galapagos, my group went snorkeling with 50 to 100 hammerhead and Blacktip sharks. We also swam with sea lions and saw giant tortoises.

Another amazing aspect of Ecuador is learning about the Aztec or Inca culture. My group did a homestay and lived with a family for about 10 days and learned about their way of life.

We experienced how connected they are with Mother Earth, whom they refer to as Pachamama, and learned about their traditional medicine: They grow their own food and seek out plant medicine when they're sick, rather than relying on processed foods.

Learning about and sharing their way of life was truly special.

I want to show people how to travel the world

There are many beliefs people have about different countries and cultures, sometimes considering them too dangerous, expensive, or unattainable.

I want to inspire more people to explore, step out of their comfort zones, and experience more of the world. In the future, I plan on hosting group trips with the goal of bringing people to these countries and showing them why they are so life-changing.

Watch: The true cost of Mexico's Maya Train

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Salam Air continues to expand operations, launches new summer destinations

MUSCAT: Salam Air, Oman's low-cost carrier, continues to expand its operational scope by adding a new destination to its list of European destinations next summer.

Captain Ahmed bin Mohammed al Shidhani, Acting CEO of Salam Air, stated that the new destination for the company will be Tirana, Albania, starting from mid-June with two weekly flights. Tirana is a seasonal destination that will be operated during the summer period.

He mentioned that Tirana is the capital of Albania and its largest city, known for its moderate climate along with many tourist and archaeological attractions.

Salam Air will also restart seasonal flights from mid-June from Muscat to Baku in Azerbaijan, Trabzon in Turkey, and Almaty in Kazakhstan.

In response to the increased demand from tourists to visit Dhofar Governorate during the autumn season, Salam Air will operate four daily flights from Muscat to Salalah, as well as connecting Salalah to Suhar. Salam Air will also operate flights to Salalah from Fujairah in the UAE and Manama in Bahrain.

The Salam Air fleet currently consists of 13 new aircraft of Airbus A321 Neo and A320 models, as well as a cargo aircraft of Airbus A321 model.

During 2023, Salam Air transported over 2.7 million passengers, showing a 28% increase compared to the previous year, affirming its positive role in enhancing the tourism and service sectors in Oman.

Salam Air continues its efforts to train Omani personnel to ensure a high level of professionalism in the aviation industry. The training program for Omani pilots has qualified over 60 Omani pilots, and the aircraft engineering training program has trained about 45 engineers to obtain an aircraft engineering license.

To enhance the customer experience during the booking process, Salam Air will release a new update for its mobile phone application tailored to the needs and preferences of customers. — ONA

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