Best things to do in Muscat: 9 must-sees

Best things to do in Muscat: 9 must-sees

We explore the best things to do in Muscat, Oman's delightful seaside capital

Sandwiched between the mountains and the ocean, Muscat is a refreshing take on the skyscraper-studded cities of the Gulf States. The Omani port capital may not have the obvious glitz of its high-rise neighbors, but it exudes an understated charm and natural beauty rarely found in the more popular cities of the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain.

We recently spent a week in northern Oman, starting in Muscat (which translates to “safe anchorage”). That's what we liked most about this unique city.

Best things to do in Muscat

The best things to do in Muscat can be squeezed into a day of brisk sightseeing. However, if you like shopping (which we don't) or just have the time to explore all the sights at your own pace (which we do), then the following sights are best spread over two days.

1. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

This magnificent piece of modern Islamic architecture, completed in 2001, was – like much of Oman – a gift to the nation from Sultan Qaboos, the Arab world's longest-serving leader. The mosque was built for the 30th year of his rule and can accommodate 20,000 worshipers.

Atlas & BootsSultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat

The centerpiece of any visit is the main prayer hall, which houses a huge chandelier and a large hand-woven carpet, the second largest in the world at 4,343 m2.

To visit, women should cover their hair, legs and shoulders.

2. Muscat Royal Opera House

The Royal Opera House Muscat was built by the same architects as the Grand Mosque and has similar distinctive features. Gleaming marble and inlaid wood fused with arabesque architecture add a touch of extravagance.

Atlas & BootsThe equally magnificent Royal Opera House

Short tours of the opera house take place throughout the day. These visit the amphitheater, which has space for 1,100 people, and the foyer areas, where a large symmetrical staircase leads to the upper stalls.

3. National Museum of Oman

The National Museum occupies another large, whitewashed building in the heart of Muscat's Old City, facing the Sultan's Al-Alam Palace. The museum is remarkably well laid out, but what it lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality.

Atlas & BootsThe maritime history gallery in the National Museum

The 14 galleries cover the history of the region, from the earliest human settlement of the Oman Peninsula around two million years ago to modern times. Notable galleries include maritime history (lots of boats and ships!) and weapons and armor (lots of swords and guns!).

There is a 15 minute film that covers the history of Oman at a slightly faster pace if you want to maximize your visit. The film is running in several languages; Ask a member of staff about times upon arrival.

4. Al-Alam Palace

Sultan Qaboos' ceremonial palace (he prefers to stay in his seaside palace near Seeb) is closed to the public, but its tree-lined avenue and blue-and-gold façade with mushroom columns make it worth a visit.

Atlas & BootsThe blue and gold pillars of Al Alam Palace

We suggest walking along the pedestrian street that leads from the National Museum to the palace gates to take a photo through the railings. Then walk left around the site to see the palace from the waterfront along the harbor wall on Mirani Street.

5. Al Mirani and Al Jalali forts

These two forts stand guard at the entrance to the harbor behind Al Alam Palace overlooking the Sea of ​​Oman. They were built during the Portuguese colonial rule in Oman in the 16th century. Al Mirani is closed to the public, but it's worth strolling along Mirani Street beneath its ramparts.

Atlas & BootsAl Jalali Fort at the entrance to the port

Al Jalali is on the opposite side of the harbor and can only be reached via a steep staircase. A visit is possible, but only with permission. We were told that tourists can apply to visit the fortress through the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture website (under construction at the time of writing).

6. Muttrah Souk

If you enjoy shopping and haggling for traditional textiles, souvenirs and jewelry, then the bustling lanes of Muttrah Market are for you. There are also a few coffee houses and cafes inside.

Atlas & BootsA quiet intersection in Muttrah Souq

Kia and I don't like shopping, so we hurried through the souk and headed out into the cool breeze by the water instead.

7. Muttrah Corniche

A stroll along the Muttrah Corniche waterfront is a must-do in Muscat. Muttrah stretches along a redeveloped area of ​​the former industrial port. It's definitely worth visiting in the afternoon, but we recommend returning at sunset or in the evening when the city lights twinkle in the water.

Oh & bootsThe Muttrah Corniche at night

The minarets of the Cornice Mosque, the barred buildings and the rugged foothills of the western Al Hajar Mountains are pleasantly picturesque. Over in the harbor you'll likely see the Sultan's 155m superyacht - reportedly the second longest of its kind (although this is disputed).

8. Sunset cruise

The Sultan's yacht was unavailable, so we set off on a sunset cruise aboard a traditional wooden dhow, but now equipped with an outboard motor and a comfortable cushion-covered deck. Cruises depart from Bandar Al Rowdha Marina to the south of the city.

Atlas & BootsA sunset cruise is one of the best things to do in Muscat

The two-hour cruise takes in the sheltered waters in front of the Portuguese forts guarding Al Alam Palace and then along the city's waterfront.

9. Bandar al-Khairan

Bandar Al Khairan is not necessarily in Muscat; it's actually about 30 minutes southeast of the city. There are many (mainly water-based) activities available in the area's khors (bays) and bandars (natural harbors), including kayaking and snorkeling.

Boban Cantony/ShutterstockFishing boats at Bandar Al Khairan

Whether you're water-bound or not, the scenic drive along the coast and the popular picnic spot at Bandar Al Khairan Viewpoint, which overlooks a small beach, are worth the trip alone.

Things to do in Muscat: the essentials

What: Discover the best things to do in Muscat, the capital of Oman.

Where: We stayed at the luxurious 5-star Kempinski Hotel Muscat in the modern township of Al Mouj, a 20-40 minute drive from the best things to do in Muscat. The beach resort has a spa, two swimming pools and a selection of 10 bars and restaurants.

When: The best time to visit Muscat is October to March, when the oppressive summer heat turns into sunny days and balmy nights. Note that it rains in Oman, so plan accordingly.

How: We took a six-day trip through Oman with Old Muscat Tourism, who specialize in showing clients “7,000 years in 7 days.” Our guide Adil was knowledgeable and flexible and went out of his way to fill our day when our route to Jebel Shams was washed out by the rain.

We flew with Oman Air direct from the UK to Muscat in Oman. Book via Skyscanner for the best prices.

Lonely Planet Oman, United Arab Emirates and Arabian Peninsula offers a comprehensive guide to a safe and rewarding visit to the region.

Disclosure: We traveled to Oman with the support of the Ministry of Tourism. All publications say this, but we really don't guarantee positive coverage. We say what we think – good and bad – so you can make informed decisions with honest advice. .