The best activities in maskat: 9 must-see
The best activities in maskat: 9 must-see
We explore the best activities in maskat, Oman's adorable capital by the sea
caught between the mountains and the ocean, Muscat is a refreshing interpretation of the cities of the Gulf States littered with skyscrapers. The Omani port capital may not have the obvious shine of its high -rise neighbors, but it radiates a reserved charm and natural beauty that can be found rarely in the more popular cities of the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain.
We recently spent a week in the north of Oman, starting in Maskat (which means "safe anchorage"). We liked that best on this unique city.
The best activities in maskat
The best things you can do in Maskat can be squeezed into a day full of brisk visits. However, if you like shopping (which we do not do) or just have the time to explore all the sights at your own pace (what we do), the following sights are best distributed over two days.
1. Large Sultan Qaboos Mosque
This magnificent piece of modern Islamic architecture, which was completed in 2001, was - like much in Oman - a gift from Sultan Qaboos, the longest -reigning leader in the Arab world. The mosque was built on the 30th year of its rule and offers space for 20,000 believers.
Atlas & Boots Large Sultan Qaboos Mosque in Maskat
The heart of every visit is the main prayer hall, which houses a huge chandelier and a large hand -woven carpet, which is the second largest in the world with 4,343 m2.
For a visit, women should cover their hair, legs and shoulders.
2. Royal Opera House Maskat
The Royal Opera House Muscat was built by the same architects as the Great Mosque and has similarly striking features. Glossy marble and pickled wood, merged with Arabesker architecture, ensure a touch of extravagance.
Atlas & Boots The equally great Royal Opera House
Short tours through the opera house take place all day. These visit the amphitheater, which offers space for 1,100 people, and the foyer areas, where a large symmetrical staircase leads to the upper parapets.
3. National Museum of Oman
The National Museum is located in another large, whitewashed building in the heart of the old town of Muscat and stands opposite the Sultan's al-Alam Palace. The museum is remarkably clear, but what he lacks in quantity makes it hard to do with quality.
Atlas & Boots The 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 to modern times about two million years ago. The remarkable galleries include the history of seafaring (many boats and ships!) And the weapons and armor (many swords and rifles!).
There is a 15-minute film that covers the history of Oman a little faster if you want to optimize your visit. The film runs in several languages; Ask an employee on the arrival.
4. Al-Alam Palace
The ceremonial palace of Sultan Qaboos (he draws it to live in his palace by the sea near Seeb) is closed for the public, but his avenue lined with trees and the blue-gold facade with mushroom columns make a visit worth a visit.
Atlas & Boots The blue and golden columns of the Al Alam Palace
We suggest walking along the pedestrian zone, which leads from the National Museum to the gates of the palace to take a photo through the railing. Then go to the left around the terrain to see the palace from the water promenade along the harbor wall in the Mirani Street.
5. Festures Al Mirani and Al Jalali
These two forts stand guard at the entrance to the port behind the Al Alam Palace with a view of the sea of Oman. They were built in the 16th century during the Portuguese colonial rule in Oman. Al Mirani is closed to the public, but it is worth strolling along the Mirani road under its city walls.
Atlas & Boots al Jalali Fort at the entrance to the port
al Jalali is located on the opposite side of the port and can only be reached via a steep staircase. A visit is possible, but only with permission. We were told that tourists can apply for a visit to the fortress via the website of the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture (at the time of going to press).
6. Muttrah Souk
If you like shopping and having traditional textiles, souvenirs and jewelry, the lively alleys of the Muttrah market are just right for you. There are also a few coffee houses and cafés inside.
kia and I don't like to go shopping, so we hurried through the souk and instead made our way into the cool breeze by the water.
7. Muttrah Corniche
A walk along the Muttrah Corniche promenade is a must in maskat. Muttrah extends along a renovated area of the former industrial port. It is definitely worth visiting it in the afternoon, but we recommend returning to sunset or evening when the city's lights sparkle in the water.
The minaret of the cornice mosque, the barred buildings and the rugged foothills of the western Al-Hajar Mountains are pleasantly picturesque. Over there in the port you will probably see the 155 m long superyacht of the sultan - supposedly the second longest of its kind (although this is controversial).
8. Cruise at sunset
The yacht of the sultan was not available, so we set off to a sunset cruise on board a traditional wooden dau, which is now equipped with an outboard motor and a comfortable deck covered with pillows. Cruises drive from the Marina Bandar Al Rowdha to the south of the city.
Atlas & Boots A boat trip at sunset is one of the best things you can do in maskat
The two-hour cruise leads into the protected waters in front of the Portuguese fortresses that guard the Alam Palace, and then along the city's promenade.
9. Bandar al-Khairan
Bandar Al Khairan is not necessarily in maskat; It is actually about 30 minutes southeast of the city. There are many (mainly water -based) activities in the Khors (indentations) and bandars (natural ports) of the area, including kayaking and snorkeling.
No matter whether you are bound to the water or not, the picturesque ride along the coast and the popular picnic area on Bandar Al Khairan Viewpoint, which is enthroned over a small beach, are worth the trip alone.
activities in maskat: The essentials
what: Discover the best activities in Muscat, the capital of Oman.
Where: We stayed in the luxurious 5-star Kempinski Hotel Muscat in the modern community Al Mouj, a 20- to 40-minute drive from the best activities in Muscat. The beach resort has a spa, two swimming pools and a selection of 10 bars and restaurants.
When: The best travel time for Maskat is October to March when the oppressive summer heat turns into sunny days and mild nights. Note that it rains in Oman, so plan accordingly.
like: We have made a six -day trip through the Oman with Old Muscat Tourism, who specialize in showing customers "7,000 years in 7 days". Our guide Adil was knowledgeable and flexible and did everything to fill our day when our way to Jebel Sham was washed out by the rain.
We flew directly from Great Britain to Maskat in Oman with Oman Air. Book via Skyscanner at the best prices.
Lonely Planet Oman, United Arab Emirates and Arabian Peninsula offers a comprehensive guide for a safe and rewarding visit to the region.
disclosure: We traveled to Oman with the support of the Ministry of Tourism. All publications say that, but we really don't guarantee positive reporting. We say what we think - good and bad - so that you can make well -founded decisions with honest advice. .