muscat travel guide

Getty Images

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.

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

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Muscat

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Muscat with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Muscat Travel Guide

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• Middle East
• Travel guide
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

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.

Top image © NAPA/Shutterstock

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Oman, created by local experts

7 days  / from 1450 USD

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.

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).

Discover more places in Oman

• Qurum and around
• Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

The Rough Guides to Oman and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

Ready to travel and discover Oman?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

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.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

A guide to visit Muscat in 3 days

By Joan Torres 6 Comments Last updated on April 29, 2024

Looking for a place to stay? Check my guide on how to find the right accommodation in Muscat

Conveniently placed on a millennia-old trade route which served as an important, natural itinerary to Mesopotamia and Persia and, today, where a significant part of world’s petrol passes by, Muscat, the capital of Oman, has been a city of vital importance for centuries. 

Therefore, it doesn’t surprise me that Muscat is one of those capitals with so many layers of history, whose strategic location made it particularly appealing for quite a few empires, from the Persian Sassanids to the Arabs, the Ottoman and the Portuguese, the last one being defeated in 1744 by the same dynasty that has been ruling since then. 

Today, Muscat is a modern metropolis, where you can find all the luxury the Gulf Monarchies are famous for, yet, unlike Dubai , it has a real soul, its own character, traditions, and history. 

It’s a fascinating capital, like nowhere else in the region. 

This guide contains everything you need to know to visit Muscat , including places to visit, how to move around, where to stay and other curiosities and tips.

In this Muscat travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• Best time to visit
• Orientation
• Where to stay
• How to get in
• Day 1: Mutrah and Al-Bustan
• Day 2: Sultan Qaboos Mosque and Ruwi
• Day 3: Al-Qurum
• Transportation
• More Information

our recommended travel insurance for Oman

With its Backpacker plan, IATI Insurance is the best insurance for any kind of adventurous destination, like Oman.

Introduction to visiting Muscat

Check: The best excursions and day tours from Muscat

Muscat is a city that has been growing on me. 

I have visited Muscat several times and when I first visited it, I actually didn’t like it much.

We had come during the utterly hot and humid month of July, plus we had done absolutely no research about the city, as we were just expecting to hang out in the city’s downtown for a while, but it turns out that Muscat doesn’t really have a city center.

It is a city composed of several cities located all over the place, so if you don’t really know where to go, you just end up seeing wide avenues and traffic. 

But then, I kept coming back, with a little more knowledge and traveling experience, so I started discovering all those neighborhoods and places to visit in Muscat, one by one, learning about its great history and hanging out with the kind Omanis. 

What I love about Muscat is that, unlike other capitals in the region, they didn’t need to waste money in building extravagant buildings in order to appear in the World Guinness Records, I guess because they didn’t need to, as people travel to Oman and Muscat because this is a real, welcoming city, inhabited by down-to-Earth Omanis who will bless you with their kindness and hospitality. 

Read: Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) travel guide

Best time to visit Muscat

It is important to travel to Muscat during the right season:

• Summer: Avoid it, totally. Temperatures average 45ºC, plus it is extremely humid, day and night. Basically, life stops pretty much during this season.
• Autumn and spring: Summers are long, so try to also avoid late spring and early autumn because the weather will still be quite unbearable.
• Winter: Best time to travel to Muscat. Pleasant weather all day long.

Read: What to do in Dubai in 1 week

How to orientate in Muscat

Muscat is kind of a linear city that stretches over 70km following the coastline. 

The city is spread out, making it impossible to walk, and difficult to move around by public transportation, and it is composed of several neighborhoods, so different from each other that they could literally be like small cities, most of them not being walking-friendly either. 

This means that Muscat isn’t one of those cities where you just go for a random walk and see what you bump into, but planning ahead before leaving your hotel or house is a must. 

Sultan Qaboos Street is a multi-lane highway that goes through the middle of the city, making it pretty easy to orientate, as no matter where you go, you need to enter it and then leave it at the respective exit. 

It is a weirdly planned city, but the fact is that all capitals in the Gulf Monarchies are planned in a similar way but, once you get used to, it should be easy to navigate. 

That’s why choosing the right area to stay in Muscat is key for your trip

Where to stay in Muscat

These are just a few examples. For a more comprehensive guide, check my guide: Best areas where to stay in Muscat

Muscat is very big, so it is important to choose the right accommodation based on your preferred area. Here is some guidance. 

Staying in Ruwi

For budget travelers and backpackers. It is like Little India, where you find the best and cheapest Indian restaurants and it has the most convenient location, as it is close to everything and it is where the main bus station is, with buses going to Salalah and Dubai, ideal for those who don’t have a car. 

Budget Hotel –  Golden Tulip Headington – A really good value-for-money option in the most convenient area.

5-star Hotel – Sheraton – The best hotel next to the Ruwi area. It is a luxury hotel but prices are relatively low due to the location.

Staying in Qurum

Where expats live in, so you find the largest selection of Western-style restaurants, bars, hotels, and the nicest beach.

Budget Hotel Apartments – Coral Muscat – A fantastic value-for-money option, these apartments are some of the best in town.

5-star hotel – Intercontinental Hotel – A fancy hotel in the best area of Qurum.

Staying in Old Muscat

Cheaper than Qurum and close to Oman’s main attractions. Perfect for sightseeing. 

Budget Hotel – Naseem Hotel – A simple, but very clean hotel, located next to most attractions.

How to get to Muscat

You may also be interested in reading my Salalah travel guide

Traveling to Muscat by air

Muscat International Airport is growing so, today, you find plenty of connections with several cities in Europe and Asia. Nevertheless, I recommend you check the flights to Dubai first, as it is usually cheaper. 

Traveling to Muscat by land

Oman shares a border with UAE, Yemen and Saudi Arabia .

UAE – Traveling from Dubai to Muscat is a 400km drive. You can come by car but there are also buses from Bur Dubai. Read my 1-week itinerary to the UAE

Saudi – Apparently, the border was recently opened, but there are no buses and it is actually faster going through UAE, which would be a 1,300km drive from Riyadh to Muscat. Read my travel guide to Saudi Arabia . 

Yemen – The border is open but it is a very long drive and, most likely, you won’t be coming from there. 

Traveling to Muscat by boat – You can come by ferry from Musandam, an exclave within UAE that belongs to Oman. Read my Musandam travel guide . 

Places to visit in Muscat – 3-day itinerary

Looking for a day trip? Check the best excursions and activities you can do from Muscat

Essentially, there are 4 neighborhoods worth visiting in your Muscat itinerary: Mutrah, Al-Bustan, Ruwi, and Al-Qurum.

And then you have Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque which is located somewhere on Sultan Qaboos Road. 

Map of the things to do in Muscat

Places to visit in Muscat on day 1 – Mutrah and Al-Bustan

Mutrah and Al-Bustan, the last one being the actual Old Muscat, were two separate cities, or localities, whose harbors used to compete with each other somehow, Mutrah mainly serving as the engaging harbor of Al-Bustan, therefore Muscat. 

However, Mutrah also became a prosperous town for the simple reason that Muscat was not easily accessible by land, due to the mountains, so the camel caravans preferred to enter the region via Mutrah. 

They were two cities that complemented each other and today, they are the actual soul of the city and where the most interesting places to visit in Muscat are. 

Things to do in Mutrah

Fish Market – From giant tuna to marlin, this is one of the best places to visit in Muscat and the greatest fish market I have ever visited in the Gulf, better than the one that used to be in Dubai, for the simple reason that here, the stalls are run by local Omanis. Try to go early, around 6-7am, when the market is busier. If you come at 9-10am, some of the stalls are already empty. 

Mutrah Souq and lanes – Mutrah Souq is yet another souq and, honestly, my one of my least favorite things to do in Muscat, as it has become a touristic souq filled with souvenirs and very annoying sellers who don’t let you enjoy the place. There are, however, some parts of the souq where the locals buy, like the Gold Souq, but overall, after visiting tens of souqs all around the Middle East , this one isn’t particularly exciting. 

More interesting for me was wandering around Mutrah’s maze of streets, discovering traditional shops and kind-hearted Omanis, but also a large Indian and Bengali population. You will notice that this area is actually inhabited by the Omani poor, something you will never see in Qatar or UAE, which leads to the conclusion that Oman is a normal country. 

Shia District (Sur Al Lawatia) – Like most Shia communities around the Arab world living in primarily Sunni countries, the Omani Shia population living in Sur Al Lawatia is paranoid about outsiders, as the small Shia districts have always been a target for terrorist groups such as ISIS, especially in Lebanon .

I read that visitors are not welcome in the area, but I did enter and nobody said anything to me. However, hide your camera and don’t take photos , not even with your phone. 

Corniche – A cool place to walk around and take pictures of Mutrah’s skyline. Also, check out the harbor, where the Sultan’s impressive private yacht is anchored – when he is not using it. 

Mutrah Fort – Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century during their rule, Mutrah’s fort dominates the eastern edge of Mutrah. The fort isn’t very exciting but the views are great and entrance is free.

Things to do in Al-Bustan (Old Muscat)

Al-Bab al Kabir (Muscat Gate Museum) – This beautifully renovated building used to be the main entrance to Muscat and today, it has a museum that showcases the history and development of Oman. 

Al Mirani Fort – Also built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, this is my favorite fort to visit in Muscat (there is a third one visible from here named Al Jalali) but you are not allowed to enter.

However, from outside you have great views of the Old Harbor and a different perspective of Sultan Qaboos’ private palace. 

Al Alam Palace – The Sultan’s private home design seems to have been taken from Aladdin’s movie. You can’t enter, and I doubt they offer tours, but the exterior of the building is unique. 

National Museum – It showcases the history of Oman, from the first human evidence 5 million years ago to today. Entrance costs 5OR (13USD), which is quite pricey for a museum in this region, as both Riyadh and Dubai’s national museums cost a few cents. 

Things to do in Muscat on day 2 – Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and Ruwi

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque – Of all the tourist places in Muscat, this is, definitely, the most visited one. An absolutely outstanding mosque mainly made of marble that has one of the largest Persian carpets in the world, weighing 600 tonnes of fine wool and cotton in 28 colors and made by 600 female weavers.

It also has a huge chandelier which used to be the biggest in the world, until its neighbor Abu Dhabi built a bigger one for the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

An amazing mosque, really. Try to go there early because it is worth spending two hours at least and it only opens from 8 till 11am (for non-Muslims). On Friday, the mosque is closed. Remember that men should cover their knees and women their head, shoulders, and legs. Entrance is free. 

Ruwi – Skipped by most travelers but, in my opinion, one of the top places to visit in Muscat, Ruwi used to be a small village attached to Muscat and Mutrah and, today is popularly called Little India, similar to Deira in Dubai, as most of its population are Indians, Bengalis, and Pakistanis, from many different social and economic levels.

This means that here you find the largest selection of amazing Indian restaurants, most of them being very cheap. In the evening, Ruwi’s souq gets very busy, especially on Friday. 

I was actually staying here during my last visit to Muscat, as it is cheap, has the best food, is close to everything and has the main bus station to go anywhere in Muscat and Oman, including a direct bus from the airport. 

What to do in Muscat on day 3 – Al Qurum

Chill out in the expat area – If you want a change from Arabic and Indian food, this part of Al Qurum (highlighted in the map) has a large range of restaurants and shops of all kinds, from French bakeries to seafood restaurants and several international chains. The area also has 5-star hotels where you can find bars. I had a beer at the Trader Vic’s inside Intercontinental Hotel.  

For this reason, this is where most Western expats live, and you will see that it is actually a completely different world from Ruwi and Mutrah. 

Al Qurum Beach – The best and cleanest beach in the city, along whose shores coconut palms grow, which provides a sort of Caribbean touch. Local families also come here for a picnic on weekends. 

Royal Opera House – One of the most iconic buildings in Muscat is the Royal Opera House. I recommend you come here at sunset, when the building walls acquire a beautiful orange color and, when it gets dark, they light it up with different colors.

You can enter the main hall but, if you want to visit the entire building, you need to go on a tour, which costs 5OR. 

Day tours from Muscat

For more information, check trips and tours you can do from Muscat

These are some of the tours they offer:

Muscat half-day city tour – An easy way to explore the city.

Nizwa day trip from Muscat – Visit one of the oldest cities in Oman.

Wahiba Sands and Wadi Bani Khalid – Go to the actual desert dunes and to one of the greatest wadis.

Dolphin watching and snorkeling – The waters outside of Muscat are full of dolphins and an incredible marine life.

Transportation: How to move around Muscat

Getting to and from the airport:.

• By taxi – I recommend you download either Uber or Careem but, if you don’t have internet access, a taxi ride to Mutrah for example, should cost around 6-8OR. Note that they will try to charge you more. 
• By bus – There is a red bus that goes all the way to Ruwi along Sultan Qaboos Road, so depending on where you are staying, it can be very convenient. 

Moving around Muscat by regular taxi

If you don’t have a car, taxis are the way to go in Muscat. They don’t have taximeters, however, and taxi drivers from Muscat are really annoying because they always try to rip off tourists. Like I said, your best bet will be using either Careem or Uber. 

Renting a car

Renting a car will actually be cheaper than relying on taxis all the time, and it’s a super convenient way to visit Muscat.

Moving around Muscat by bus

The bus that goes all the way from the airport to Ruwi stops in a bunch of places in between, including the Opera House (Qurum) and near Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. There is also a bus that goes from Ruwi to Mutrah. A single ticket costs a maximum of 500 baisas, depending on where you go. 

Hitchhiking in Muscat

For budget backpackers, I have to say that hitchhiking within Muscat is fairly easy, so don’t be afraid of doing it! Omanis are super kind and love meeting foreigners! For more budget tips, read my backpacking tips for Oman .

More information for visiting Muscat

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All guides and articles for traveling in Oman destination

• Travel Guide to Musandam
• Travel Guide to Oman
• Where to Stay in Muscat
• Best Activities, Tours and Excursion in Oman
• A City Guide to Salalah Dhofar
• Oman Budget Guide
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Oman
• Is Oman Safe?

Check more city guides

• Tunis Travel Guide
• Asmara Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Riyadh
• Travel Guide to Dubai
• Beirut Travel Guide
• Erbil Travel Guide
• Tehran Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Astana
• Tashkent Travel Guide
• Baku Travel Guide
• Tbilisi Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Minsk
• Kiev Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Nouakchott
• A City Guide to Mosul

Muscat is a hidden gem. If you travel south along the coast you can find some places to camp with beautiful water and lots of sea life if you take a snorkel. I never made it to Salalah, but maybe next time. Also, try heading out to the sands. There you will find people racing up the dunes. Great place to camp as well.

Wadi Shab is a great hike as well. Through the mountains and you can even swim through a small opening into a cave. Worth the hike!!

Hi, I am glad to have landed on this page. Planning to visit Oman once things settle down. ( yes the Covid thingy). Good write up. Haven’t digested yet. Regards from Malaysia.

Great, hope the country opens soon!

Hi Joan, Your write up is great as ever. I grew up in Oman and there are a lot of memories and emotions attached to Oman. Lovely country and great people. Thanks again, All the best in all you do. Regards, AK

cheers, thank you so much 🙂

Thanks for all the tips Joan, I’m just back from a trip to Oman and wanted to add that there is currently a hostel in Muscat for any travellers looking to save money. It’s well located, in walking distance to Mutrah and Ruwi, and the owner Khalid is very helpful, even offering personal excursions around Muscat and beyond to his guests (for free I think).

it’s on Airbnb, not booking, so here’s a link if it’s ok to share with everyone https://abnb.me/5TBKSdeRtvb

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  Notify me when new comments are added.

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.

• Attractions and Landmarks

Dreaming of your next trip?

I agree to the Forbes Travel Guide Privacy Policy , Terms , and Cookie Policy . I understand I can withdraw my consent at any time.

Sign up for our newsletter

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.

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.

Related Posts

What’s it Like to Travel in Kuwait? My 2024 Guide

How to Spend One Week in Mauritius: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

How to Spend Two Weeks in Belize: An Itinerary for First-time Visitors

How to Spend Three Magnificent Days in Tbilisi, Georgia: A 2023 Itinerary

How to Spend Three Perfect Days in Delhi: An In-Depth Itinerary

How to Spend Three Magical Days in Cusco, Peru: A 2023 Itinerary

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Meet Lauren Juliff

• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary menu
• Skip to footer

ZigZagonEarth

Plan unforgettable road trips!

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?

PREVIOUS: 

WILD CAMPING IN OMAN

NEXT: 

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE

Inspired? Share it on your favorite platform!

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.

Par Claire Robinson Region Lovers SARL 76600 Le Havre FRANCE VAT FR21845103191

Follow ZigZag on Facebook

Follow ZigZag on Pinterest

Website in French: ZigZagvoyages.fr

Website in German: ZigZagreisen.de

Website in Spanish: ZigZagviajes.com

And discover the French regions:

Normandielovers.fr LoireLovers.fr CorsicaLovers.fr Provencelovers.fr

Privacy / Terms of Use / Disclosure Policies / Refund policy

Become an affiliate for the ZigZag road trip guides

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. ZigZagOnEarth.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Amazon.uk and Amazon.ca