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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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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.

Muscat Travel Packages

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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.

Top Hotels In Muscat

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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

A Quick Guide on Renting a Car in Muscat

9 Muscat Malls for All Your Shopping Needs

Nightlife in Muscat - Recipe For A Lively Evening in The City!

Beaches in Muscat

Experiences

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

10 Souks in Muscat For Your Shopping Fantasies!

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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Scenically wedged between mountains and ocean, with old forts and excellent museums, an opera house and flower-filled parks, the gentle city of Muscat is a delight to visit. Its name means ‘safe anchorage’, and the sea plays an important role in city life to this day, sustaining the fishing industry and providing opportunities for visitors to swim from sandy beaches or dive with turtles in nearby lagoons.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

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…

Latest stories from Muscat

Apr 17, 2019 • 5 min read

With a dazzling bounty of underwater attractions to explore and improved access to key diving hubs, there has arguably never been a better time to strap…

Sep 30, 2016 • 5 min read

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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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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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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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An ancient port city picturesquely perched on the Gulf of Oman, Muscat is a history buff’s dream. The capital of Oman is renowned for its gorgeous architecture, historic sites and mosaic-covered mosques. The city is dedicated to preservation, so even modern buildings are required to maintain domes, arabesque windows and other traditional features. The result is a stunning destination that seems beautifully trapped in time.

But looks can be deceiving. Residents are famously warm and welcoming, offering smiles as well as directions to Muscat’s many modern museums, luxury hotels and thriving markets.

Thanks to its legacy as a trade city, nearly 40 percent of Muscat’s population is made up of expats, which creates a wonderfully unique culture of blended Middle Eastern, Indian and North African influences.

A desert location means that the capital is drenched in sunshine most days of the year, and its coastal setting allows for endless opportunities to swim, snorkel and sail around the turquoise harbor.

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Muscat Travel Guide: Is Muscat, Oman Worth Visiting?

· everything you need to know to plan a safe trip to oman’s capital, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more. ·.

The Arab World is becoming an increasingly popular place to visit, with cities like Dubai , Abu Dhabi , and Marrakech becoming favorites all around the world. While Oman doesn’t usually top travelers’ Arab World bucket lists, its capital city is surely a place you don’t want to overlook if you have the opportunity to visit. We were in Dubai and needed to catch a flight to Chittagong, Bangladesh , and we found that Muscat had much better flight options for the day and time that we needed to travel.

While our reason for traveling through Oman was simply out of convenience, we found that Muscat is a beautiful destination in and of itself, and we would love to return in the future! Here is everything to know about traveling to Muscat, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

Best Things to Do in Muscat

1. visit the sultan qaboos grand mosque.

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is by far the most epic and beautiful building in all of Muscat. The dome and interior walls are extremely ornate, the exterior is almost equally as mesmerizing, and the building is absolutely huge, with a capacity of 25,000. We always love checking out religious buildings when we travel, as we think that religion is one of the most important parts of any culture. Whether you are interested in learning about Islam or not, there is no doubt that visiting the Grand Mosque is the best thing to do in Muscat.

2. Stroll Along the Mutrah Corniche and Wander the Mutrah Souq

Mutrah is an area about 15 minutes from Old Muscat that is filled with many of the best things to do in Muscat. Mutrah has a large stretch of coastline, and the Mutrah Corniche is a paved walkway that hugs the water and provides great views of the Gulf of Oman and the surrounding mountains. After a quick stroll on the Corniche, most tourists head to the Mutrah Souq, which is one of the most popular markets to visit in all of Muscat. Frankincense is grown all over Oman, and you can smell it all throughout the market!

3. Check Out the Mutrah Fort

The Mutrah Fort is a beautiful old fort that was built by the Portuguese to protect the city in the 1500s. It sits up on a hill, providing gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains and Gulf. While there are many forts in and around Muscat, the Mutrah Fort is one of the most scenic and popular ones to visit, which is what makes it one of the best things to do in Muscat.

4. Admire the Artifacts in Bait Al Zubair Museum

Bait Al Zubair is a museum and cultural center located in Old Muscat that is dedicated to preserving the culture and history of the area. Muscat’s history dates back to antiquity, and this museum is filled with artifacts from all Omani time periods and cultural expositions highlighting many aspects of Omani culture that set it apart from other countries on the Arabian Peninsula. If you have the time, this museum in Muscat is very worth visiting.

5. Go for a Swim at Qurum Beach

Qurum Beach is a very long, sandy strip of beach on the Gulf of Oman. This is one of the most popular beaches in the whole Muscat area, and taking some time to cool off from the desert heat in the beach’s water is always a good idea. There’s a nature reserve and a few great restaurants in in this area, including even a Starbucks!

How to Get to Muscat

Flying to muscat.

There is only one international airport in Muscat, and it is conveniently located right in the city. Muscat International Airport (MCT) is a nice airport that offers international flights all over the world, and its affordable flights are actually what drew us to Oman in the first place. While Muscat International Airport offers competitively priced flights all throughout the region, you might have a hard time finding affordable flights from further away places, like Europe and the United States.

If you are unable to find an affordable flight, even after using my tips for finding cheap flights , I recommend flying into Dubai and taking a bus south to Muscat. Dubai has two major international airports : Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International (DWC). From Dubai, you can get to Muscat by Mwasalat bus in about 5.5 hours plus a stop at the border. Flying directly into Muscat is certainly easier, but flying into Dubai could save you hundreds of dollars.

– R E A D –

Take a Bus to Muscat

As I just mentioned, you can take buses from the United Arab Emirates to Muscat with a stop at the border. The border stop on the way from Dubai to Muscat is very nice, and the UAE side has a couple of restaurants inside where you can grab a fast bite to take back onto the bus. While Muscat borders two countries other than the UAE, there are very few cities near the borders with Saudi Arabia and Yemen, as the borders are located in the desert. Additionally, Muscat is the biggest city in Oman by far, making it the first place that most visitors experience in Oman. If anything, it is likely that you would catch a bus leaving Muscat to head to another part of the country, and not the other way around.

We took the bus to Muscat. It wouldn’t be our first option of transportation if we were to do it again. It took a total of 9 hours with all of the border stops and bus stops. However, we did need a friendly British gentleman! So at least we made a friend!

How to Get Around Muscat

BY FOOT | TAXI | BUS

Muscat is not a huge city, but it is not entirely walkable, either. While most areas of the city are walkable, getting from one area to another sometimes requires that you find a form of transportation. Taxis are widely available and easy to use in Muscat, but many of them are not metered. For this reason, it is important to agree on a price in advance. Official taxis are usually orange and white.

Muscat is also serviced by a bus network, including the Mwasalat transportation company that operates the buses from the UAE to Muscat. These buses are all safe and relatively affordable. In addition to operating buses, Mwasalat also offers an app that can be used to hail and pay for taxis while in Muscat. This is a huge advantage, as it eliminates the language barrier, the need for cash, and the need to negotiate on price.

Is Muscat Worth Visiting?

The Arab World is skyrocketing in popularity, largely because the region is becoming more stable and safe to visit. As a result, many travelers are becoming increasingly curious about many destinations in this part of the world. If you were to ask me “Is Muscat worth visiting?” my answer would be that it depends. If you have never been to the Arab World, there are many cities I would recommend visiting before you visit Muscat. For example, Amman, Jordan is very similar to Muscat, except that there are simply more touristy things to do in Amman than their are in Muscat.

In our opinion, there are better cities to visit in the Middle East than Muscat. It makes a good side-trip to a larger Arab destination.

If you are trying to select just a few cities to visit on a trip to the Arab World, I would not recommend including Muscat on your itinerary. It is a very nice city, but the best things to do in Muscat can be a bit underwhelming compared to other popular cities like Abu Dhabi, Cairo, and Amman. However, if you are already going to be near Muscat and are curious whether or not Muscat is worth visiting for a couple of days, I would absolutely recommend making the trip. We had a great time and would love to go back, but the city is certainly not the best place we have visited in the Arab World.

Is Muscat Safe to Visit?

Many people associate the Middle East with danger, and this assumption is entirely wrong. While there are certainly countries in the Middle East that are at war and unsafe to visit, this does not apply to the entire region. Oman is an incredibly safe country, and actually has some of the lowest terrorism rates in the entire world. Despite its border with Yemen and its proximity to Iran, Oman is an incredibly safe place to vacation, and there is very little that you need to worry about while visiting Muscat.

Like in any city, you should take normal precautions. However, as long as you respect the Omani people and their culture, you will likely have a perfectly safe and very enjoyable time in Muscat.

That’s all we have for you about Muscat! Hopefully this post leaves you feeling informed while planning your trip to Oman’s capital city. While it is not the most touristy city on the Arabian Peninsula, Muscat is a beautiful place that I would love to return to, and definitely recommend checking out.

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

Do you know where I can get information about the bus schedule from Dubai to Muscat? Thank you!

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Muscat Travel Guide

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One of the most enjoyable weekends I have spent and it was not just because of the beauty of Oman´s beaches, dunes and wadi but also because of perfect job...

Oman’s capital, and far and away its largest city, Muscat offers an absorbing snapshot of the country’s past and present. Physically, much of the city is unequivocally modern: a formless straggle of low-rise, white-washed suburbs which sprawl along the coast for the best part of 25km, now home to a population nudging up towards the million mark – a quarter of the country’s total. It’s here that you’ll find Oman at its most contemporary and consumerist, exemplified by the string of opulent hotels which line the city’s sand-fringed coastline, backed up by swanky restaurants and modern malls, and honeycombed with a network of roaring, multi-lane highways. It’s also unquestionably the commercial and administrative powerhouse of modern Oman, from the stately government buildings which line the main highway into town through to the high-rise office blocks of Ruwi’s Central Business District.

Diving, snorkelling and boat trips in Muscat

Drinking, nightlife and entertainment.

Significant reminders of the city’s past remain, however. These include, most notably, the engaging port district of Muttrah and the nearby quarter of Old Muscat , spread out along a salty seafront lined with old Portuguese forts, colourful mosques and assorted traditional Arabian buildings (many now converted to smale-scale museums). These are the places where you’ll get the strongest sense of Muscat’s sometimes elusive appeal, with its beguiling atmosphere of old-time, small-town Arabian somnolence, quite different from the somewhat faceless modern suburbs to the west. Muttrah and neighbouring Ruwi also offer the city’s most interesting streetlife, and the best view of the patchwork of cultures which make up the city: Omani, Indian and Pakistani, with an occasional hint of Zanzibari, Baluchi and Iranian thrown in for good measure – a living memory of the city’s surprisingly cosmopolitan past.

Brief history

Evidence of human settlement in the Muscat area dates back to at least 6000 BC, although the city’s rise to national pre-eminence is a much more recent affair. Muscat’s port was sufficiently important to merit passing references in the works of Greek geographers, including Ptolemy and Pliny the Elder during the first century AD. For much of early Omani history though, it was overshadowed first by Sohar, to the north, and then Qalhat, to the south; one of the first European visitors to Muscat, Thomas Kerridge, writing in 1624 to the East India Company, described it as a “beggarly poor town”.

Muscat suffered particularly at the hands of the Portuguese , who captured the town in 1508 and held onto it until 1650 – although ironically it was the Portuguese destruction of the nearby ports of Qalhat and Quriyat which cleared the way for Muscat’s subsequent economic rise. The town began to flourish during the early Al Bu Said era in the second half of the eighteenth century when it established itself as the country’s leading port and entrepot, while it also assumed increasing political significance during the reign of Hamad bin Said (1784–92), who moved the court to Muscat, where it has generally remained ever since. The city’s economic position was confirmed during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, thriving as a major centre for a range of economic activities including fishing, boat-building, slaving, arms-smuggling and general trade.

The sprawling metropolis you see today is a largely modern creation. Until the accession of Sultan Qaboos in 1970 the town comprised simply the old walled town of Muscat proper (or “Old Muscat”, as it’s now known), home to the residence of the sultan and other notables, and the separate port of Muttrah, the centre of the town’s commercial activity.

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Omani Road Trip

Take a road trip through the Mars-like terrain of the Arabian Peninsula, marvel at Muscat's Grand Mosque, get hands on Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, experience imposing desert forts, all on this unique trip! Experience the magic of Oman with a self-drive trip through this stunning and varied country.

6 days  / from 1595 USD

The Great Outdoors of Oman

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Oman’s great outdoors: sleep under starry skies in the middle of the desert just as the native Bedouins do, hike around the crater of the Grand Canyon, watching as the light changes on the Jebel Shams Mountains, and swim in the Wadi Oasis.

5 days  / from 819 USD

Classic Oman

Few countries in the world can match Oman's geographical diversity, which boasts palm-fringed white sand beaches, verdant mountains, rolling golden sand dunes and turquoise-watered wadis (water-filled ravines). Experience them all with this unique trip.

Tailor-made trips for   Oman

There are a surprising number of diving operators in Muscat offering a range of trips and PADI courses. The closest dive sites are just south of the city along the coast at Bandar Jissah and Bandar Khayran (which is also where you’ll find the popular Al Munassir wreck) and, slightly further afield, at Fahal Island (40min–1hr by boat). Euro Divers, Omanta Scuba and the Oman Dive Centre also do trips out to the Daminayat Islands , about a two- to three-hour trip by boat each way (or about half that in Omanta’s high-speed catamaran). As throughout Oman, nutrient-rich waters attract a fine array of marine life, ranging from tiny nudibranchs to whale sharks. You stand a better chance of seeing larger sea life at the Daminiyats and Fahal, since they’re further offshore. Daminiyat Diving , upstairs in the Jawaharat A’Shatti Complex in Shatti al Qurum, stocks a reasonable range of diving gear; alternatively, try the shop at Bluzone Diving.

All diving operators also run snorkelling trips to explore the coral gardens at Bandar Jissah, Bandar Khayran and Fahal Island, and most (plus a couple of other operators) also run boat trips around the coast. These include dolphin-spotting boat trips – you should have a better than ninety percent chance of seeing dolphins (mainly spinner, sometimes bottlenose); whale sharks and humpback whales are also very occasionally sighted. Some operators also offer sunset cruises , leaving at around 4.30pm and lasting a couple of hours.

Muscat has far more licensed pubs, bars and restaurants than anywhere else in Oman, mainly (but not exclusively) found in hotels. There are three main options: the swanky bars found in the city’s upmarket hotels; the somewhat more downmarket English-style pubs , also found in most mid- and upper-range hotels; and the raucous live-music bars with live Arabian or Indian stage shows. Nowhere is drinking cheap, however, and the city’s fancier bars, although undoubtedly alluring, can empty your wallet very quickly.

Hanging out over a freshly pressed juice or a cup of coffee in one of the city’s local cafés offers a far cheaper and more typically Omani experience – the coffee shops in and around Muttrah Souk and along the nearby corniche are particularly attractive places to shoot the breeze and watch the world go by. It’s also worth heading to somewhere like Al Candle Café or Kargeen after dark and chilling out over a shisha and a cup of Turkish coffee. For a more upmarket variation on the same theme, afternoon tea in either the Grand Hyatt or Al Bustan are both enjoyable.

Nightlife in Muscat is a pretty low-key affair – it can often seem like the city’s two most popular after-dark activities are driving at maniac speeds up and down Sultan Qaboos Street or piling into the nearest Lulu hypermarket for late-night shopping. Western expat and tourist nightlife tends to focus around drinking in one of the city’s bars or pubs. Listings of forthcoming events are also hard to come by – have a look at the “Oman Nightlife” group on Facebook or check out w www.muscatmutterings.com .

Quite a few of the city’s pubs have live music most nights, ranging from the accomplished international cover bands (or occasional jazz acts) which play the city’s five-star drinking joints through to the gyrating Filipina chanteuses who can be heard murdering classic tunes in the city’s more downmarket pubs. For a quintessential slice of Omani nightlife, head to one of the live-music bars found in some of the city’s mid-range hotels (such as the Marina in Muttrah, or the Mutrah and Ruwi hotels in Ruwi). The nearest you’ll get to a genuine club is either the Copacabana at the Grand Hyatt or the Rock Bottom Café – the only two places in the city which currently have a “dancing permit”, without which the Omani authorities forbid any form of disco activity.

Entertainment

Big-name international music acts (although think Tom Jones and Bryan Adams rather than Shakira and Dizzee Rascal) occasionally pass through the city, during which the gardens at the InterContinental hotel are pressed into service as an impromptu concert arena.

More upmarket forms of cultural entertainment are virtually nonexistent at present, although this may change following the opening of the city’s new Royal Opera House ( w www.rohmuscat.org ), next to Sultan Qaboos Street in Qurum (currently scheduled to open in mid-2011). This will provide the city with a much-needed large-scale performance space – expect a mix of classical music, jazz, dance and Arabian cultural events, plus visiting opera productions.

Muscat has far and away the best selection of places to eat in the country, albeit relatively modest compared to other capital cities in the region. There’s a good spread of upmarket restaurants, mostly based within the various hotels in the city’s more modern districts around Qurum . More down-at-heel options can be found in the older parts of the city: Ruwi has the best range of cheap curry houses alongside slightly fancier restaurants, while Muttrah has the most enjoyable traditional Arabian shwarma cafés.

Muscat offers a rare chance to sample traditional Omani food at places like Kargeen , Ubhar or Bin Ateeq ; you’ll also do well for seafood , most of which comes fresh out of the local market at Muttrah. There’s also a glut of good Indian restaurants thanks to the city’s sizeable subcontinental population, along with a passable assortment of Italian , Chinese and Thai establishments, plus a couple of Iranian and Moroccan joints. Most restaurants close from 3–7pm. All the venues listed below are open daily for lunch and dinner unless otherwise stated; phone numbers are listed for establishments where it’s a good idea to book ahead.

For restaurant reviews www.muscatdeli.blogspot.com has some excellent in-depth critiques of various places around the city, plus details of forthcoming culinary events.

The majority of visitors to the city do all their shopping in Muttrah Souk , although there are a few other places worth checking out. The most interesting area is the commercial district in central Qurum , around Qurum roundabout, where a cluster of old-fashioned malls harbour an interesting range of shops selling traditional arts and crafts, gold, jewellery and perfumes. Standard opening times for most shops and malls are roughly Saturday to Thursday, from 10am–1pm & 5–10pm, and Friday from 5–10pm (some places open and close half an hour earlier than this).

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Places to Visit in Muscat

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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

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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: 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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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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I've been to 107 countries. Italy and Mexico are great, but these 5 underrated destinations should be on your travel radar.

• I've visited 107 countries, and I recommend these 5 that can be overlooked for more popular places. 
• Estonia is a European dream, and Namibia is one of my favorite places in the world . 
• Costa Rica is popular but not as packed with tourists as some similarly beautiful places nearby. 

This year, travelers are looking to visit more under-the-radar destinations than popular ones — in part to dodge crowds and in part to save money.

Some are specifically looking for "travel dupes," a term for destinations similar to popular spots that are often cheaper with fewer crowds.

And, as someone who's been to 107 countries , I can tell you each region of the world has an often overlooked country that may offer a more rewarding experience than a more well-known place. These more under-the-radar destinations are often less crowded, and your dollar just might go further.

Popular travel destinations like Italy, France, and Mexico are great picks — but consider visiting these alternative options to the more popular choices in the region.

Estonia is a European dream.

I was immediately captivated by the fairy-tale appearance of Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia.

Walking the cobblestoned streets within the fortress-like walls of the old city transported me back to medieval times.

The city is small enough to explore on foot, and there's plenty to entertain history and architecture enthusiasts. Enjoying a coffee or a beer in the Town Hall Square while people watching is a highlight of my European travels.

Although many people visit Tallinn as a day trip from Helsinki, which is a two-hour ferry ride away, it's worth staying here for a few days and heading into the Estonian countryside. The roads are often quite empty and incredibly peaceful.

I enjoyed Estonia so much that I returned twice more in the 18 months after my first visit.

I've enjoyed visiting Oman, a country in the Middle East.

Dubai gets a lot of attention for its luxurious travel opportunities , and many know Qatar because it recently hosted the World Cup, but nearby Oman should not be skipped.

After all, Oman's capital, Muscat, provides an excellent gateway to the country.

A stroll along the beautiful Corniche will take you along the water and by the bustling Grand Bazaar. For those who love hikes, there are plenty of options in Oman, including several easily accessible trails in Muscat that offer great city views.

Better still, the amazing Wadi Shab is less than two hours from the capital city and is one of the best hikes I've ever experienced . The trail takes you through narrow gorges and across streams and ends with a surreal swim through incredible caves.

It's an experience so breathtaking I'd expected it to be packed with tourists, but it wasn't when we visited. We only saw a handful of people, which allowed us to really enjoy our trip.

I've seen many parts of Africa, but Namibia may just be my favorite spot.

I have been fortunate to go on safaris in Kenya , Botswana, and Tanzania, but Namibia is my favorite travel destination of the bunch.

While there, we rented a campervan and did a self-drive tour of the country, allowing us to explore independently. Yet again, we avoided the crowds and the campsites were usually just us and local animals.

Waking up to the sounds of monkeys, elephants, and even lions was a special treat, especially knowing we were safe inside our campervan.

In addition to the wildlife, there's a lot to explore in Namibia, including colossal dunes, which we hiked up and surfed down —undoubtedly the trip highlight for my children.

Sri Lanka showcases a lot of what Asia landscapes have to offer.

Asia has some beautiful beaches, but Sri Lanka has beaches and tea plantations, mountains, rocks, waterfalls, and more.

We visited Sri Lanka last year and hired a driver and guide who showcased the diverse landscapes of this island country. The food was terrific and extremely cheap — our family of four was fed for less than $10 on most occasions.

The locals I interacted with were incredibly friendly and the island is also small enough to allow for in-depth exploration in a relatively short time.

Costa Rica is an excellent place to visit in Central America.

Growing up in Texas, my wife has been to Mexico many times since the state shares a border with the country. But to explore somewhere new, smaller, and in the same region, we chose to have our honeymoon in Costa Rica .

Although it's still popular, Costa Rica offers an authentic travel experience as I feel it has yet to be overrun by tourists. Like the other countries on this list, it has a diverse landscape, from white-sand beaches to rainforests to volcanoes, so there's plenty to do.

We also visited during the rainy season, so we took advantage of low crowds , low prices, and often received upgrades — and, as a bonus, it rarely rained!

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