21 Places To Visit In Oman: Top Locations To Add To Your Travel Wishlist

A country nestled on the edge of the Arabian Peninsula and boasting of its incredible attractions, Oman is a land that promises nothing but the sheer joy of a holiday. From historical forts and mesmerizing desert landscapes to the finest of beaches and scenic mountain ranges, one can find numerous places to visit in Oman that not only surprise but also inspire the tourists.

Also known as the Sultanate of Oman, the country is one of the top picks of travelers coming from around the world today, and rightly so. Its capital Muscat very much contributes to the charm of the country and highly popular amongst travelers coming for a holiday here.

So, if you're planning your next holiday wondering about the top tourist attractions in Oman, we have compiled a detailed round-up of the best locations of Oman that one should definitely visit when on a vacation to the country.

Top 21 Places To Visit In Oman

Have a look at the best places that you can explore on your vacation in the Sultanate of Oman.

1. Muscat: A City Home To Historical Attractions In Oman

The capital of Oman and one of the finest cities in the country, Muscat promises numerous attractions are a treat for travelers. From forts and giant palaces to the best of museums and markets, Muscat has it all. Home to some truly fascinating tourist attractions in Oman, the city is home to the world-renowned Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque where visiting during the mornings is the name of the game. The mosque houses an enormous crystal chandelier, top of the line marble wall panels, and so much. In fact, it is home to the world's second-largest Persian carpet which is a true highlight for the visitors.

What's more? Muscat even has a harbor that overlooks the famous Qasr Al Alam Royal Palace. Although the visitors cannot see the interior of the palace, the sight of it from the harbor is something you can't afford to miss.

Guarding the palace are the two forts of Al Jalali and Al Mirani. Featuring amongst the notable attractions in Muscat today, the forts have now been converted into public museums where visitors can enter and catch a glimpse of the historic beauty.

Besides, the city not only offers the beauty of palaces and museums but also its buzzing market places where shoppers are bound to have a great time. So, if you're thinking about some top Oman places to visit on your vacation, why not consider a visit to Muscat?  

Best Time To Visit Muscat: November to March

How To Reach:

• By Air - Reaching Muscat by air isn't much of a hassle. There are direct flights to Muscat available from virtually popular destinations around the world. Airlines like Emirates, Gulf Air, Air India, British Airways, and Lufthansa all fly to the city.
• By Road - Travelers can make a road trip to Muscat from UAE. The journey takes about five hours. Likewise, one can even take a six hours road journey through Yemen to Muscat.
• By Bus - There is no railway network connecting Muscat with nearby areas as of now. However, travelers can opt for buses that run from Dubai and Abu Dhabi and are owned by the Oman National Transport company.  

Ideal Duration For Stay: 2 nights 3 days

Nearest Airport: The Muscat International Airport is located 42 km from the city.

Popular Attractions: Mutrah Corniche; Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque; The Royal Opera House; Wadi Bani Khalid; Yiti Beach; Bait Al-Zubair; Al Alam Palace; Al Mirani Fort; Bimmah Sinkhole; Al Jalali Fort

Things To Do: City Tour; Wahiba Safari; Wadi Shab Tour; Wadi Bani Tour; Nizwa Day Tour; Jebel Akhdar Green Mountain Day Tour; Visit to Rustaq

Adventures To Try: Dolphin Watching Tour; Wadi Hike; Snorkeling; Grand Canyon Tour; Desert Safari; Cruise

Best Places To Stay In Muscat: Kempinski Hotel Muscat Oman; Grand Hyatt Muscat; Mysk Al Mouj By Shaza; Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel; Hilton Garden Inn Muscat Al Khuwair

Best Shopping Markets: Mutrah Souq; Oman Avenues Mall; City Centre Qurum; City Centre Muscat; Muscat Grand Mall

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2. Nizwa: The Second-Largest Destination Of Travel In Oman

An ancient city nestled in the Ad Dakhiliyah region of Northern Oman, Nizwa is one of the best places to visit in Oman and a land that boasts of its picturesque setting and a wide range of attractions. From the best of agricultural attractions to the historic beauty that dates back a long way, Nizwa is one of the best Oman places to visit that have it all. In fact, it is the second-largest tourist destination in Oman and has earned the nickname, "The Pearl of Islam."

What's more? Travelers coming to Nizwa can either explore the architectural marvel of Nizwa Fort or head over to some popular locations like the Souq, Jebel Akhdar, and so on. Interestingly, this is a city that was once the hub for education, religion, trade, and art in Oman. Surrounded by the gorgeous banana plantations and date palms, Nizwa could be a perfect destination for a grand holiday in Oman.

Best Time To Visit Nizwa: Between September to March

How To Reach:

• By Air - Travelers can easily book a flight to the Muscat International Airport and continue their rest of the journey to Nizwa by road. Virtually all top airlines have flights to Oman.
• By Road - Travelers can take taxis from the Muscat International Airport for Nizwa or rent a car to drive themselves. However, visitors need an International Driving Permit in order to drive themselves to any place in Oman. There are even cabs available from the airport.
• By Bus - The Oman National Transport Company runs regular buses from Muscat to Nizwa twice a day. The journey takes an estimated 2.5 hours.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 2 night 3 Days

Nearest Airport: The Muscat International Airport is located 1.6.16 Km from Nizwa.

Popular Attractions In Nizwa: Jebel Akhdar; Nizwa Fort; Jabreen Castle; Tanuf; Nizwa Souq; Wadi Ghul; Nizwa Grand Mall; Birkat Al Mouz Ruins; Falaj Daris; Desert Camel and Adventure Tours

Things To Do: Oman Grand Canyon and Nizwa Full-Day Tour; Nizwa Bahla and Jabrin Tour; Jabel Akhdar Overnight Excursion; Al Hamra and Hatt Mountains Tour; Jabel Shams Overnight Excursion

Best Places To Stay In Nizwa: Alila Jabal Akhdar; Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort; Intercity Hotel Nizwa; Antique Inn Nizwa; Nizwa Heritage Inn

Best Shopping Markets: Nizwa Souq; Nizwa Mall; Lulu Hyper Market; Faidh Hyper Market; Produce Market

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3. Salalah: Your One-Stop Destination For A Scenic Travel In Oman

Famed amongst travelers for its unique climate and a wide range of attractions, Salalah is a picturesque city in Oman that welcomes visitors to a true paradise. Home to the King of Oman, this is a city that offers everything you possibly expect. From the finest of beaches perfectly adept for snorkeling and diving to the lush green mountains that present a scenic sight to the visitors, Salalah has all the attributes to be your perfect holiday destination in Oman.

The best part? Although the mountains in Salalah present a gorgeous sight to the visitors, Monsoon season is the time when these mountains come alive, making Salalah one of the best places to go in Oman during the Monsoon season.

What's more? The holiday experience in Salalah gets even better as the visitors get to taste the finest of delicacies in the city, most notably the seafood choices here that are a real culinary highlight in Salalah. So, why not consider a visit to the city on your vacation to Oman with your loved ones?

Best Time To Visit Salalah: Late June to September

How To Reach:

• By Air - There are two best routes that travelers can consider in order to reach Salalah. One can either fly from the capital city of Oman, Muscat which is an appropriately 90-minutes flight, or take a Dubai flight which is a 2-hour flight.
• By Road - One can easily take a 12 hours' drive from the city of Muscat in order to reach Salalah. The drive boasts of its picturesque scenery along the way where visitors can catch a glimpse of the desert, oil fields, the old town of Nizwa, and other gorgeous locations of Oman.
• By Bus - Traveling to Salalah by bus is considered to be the cheapest mode of travel. There are regular buses available from virtually Omani cities and even Dubai. These buses are run by the Gulf Transport Company and are highly popular amongst travelers owing to their modest prices.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 2 nights 3 days

Nearest Airport: The Salalah International Airport is a mere 2.6 Km away from the main city.

Popular Attractions In Salalah: Mughsail Beach; Wadi Darbat; Sultan Qaboos Mosque; Sumhuram Archeological Park; Taqah Castle; Marneef Cave; Jebel Samhan; Al Baleed Archaeological Park; Tawi Atair Sinkhole Oman; Anti-Gravity Point

Things To Do: Salalah Day Trip; Omani Madhbi Lunch Tour; Watch Sunset Above Largest Dunes of Desert; Desert Tour; West of Salalah Private Tour; Hiking Tour; Salalah East Tour

Adventures To Try: Off-Road Tour; Boating; Hiking; Fishing; Safaris; Camping; Scuba Diving; Snorkeling

Best Places To Stay In Salalah: Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara; Salalah Gardens Hotel; Fanar Hotel and Residences; Millennium Resort Salalah; Juweira Boutique Hotel

Best Shopping Markets: Salalah Gardens Mall; Salalah Grand Mall; Al Hosn Souq; As Salam Street Salalah; Oasis Mall Salalah; Al Nahda Center Salalah; Al Saada Commercial Centre; Lulu Hypermarket Salalah; Salalah Gallery Mall; China Commercial Town (CCT)

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4. Sur: A City Brimming With Tradition

One of the finest places to visit in Oman, Sur is a port city nestled about 200 km from the country’s capital Muscat. Boasting its old shipyards and mesmerizing forts, Sur is a place that travelers should definitely have on their list. From the finest of historical and cultural attractions to the best of natural wonders one can find here, there’s a lot about Sur that surprises travelers today.

In fact, one can explore places like the Bilad Sur Castle, Sunaysilah Fort, Al Ayjah Watch Tower, Fatah al Khair while on their vacation in Sur.

Best Time To Visit Sur: Early December to Late February

How To Reach:

• By Road - Travelers can travel to Sur from Muscat easily by taking a bus or driving themselves. The journey takes a little more than 3 hours.
• By Air - The nearest airport to Sur is the Muscat International Airport. Travelers can easily book a flight to Muscat and drive further to Sur.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 2 night 3 Days

Nearest Airport: The Muscat International Airport is located about 225 km from the center of the city.

Popular Attractions In Sur: Bilad Sur Castle; Sunaysilah Fort; Al Ayjah Watch Tower; Fatah al Khair

Things To Do: Explore the old town; Enjoy Fishing; Relax at the Beach; Visit historical forts

Best Places To Stay In Sur: Sur Plaza Hotel; Sur Grand Hotel; Sur Inn Hotel Apartments; Zaki Hotel Apartment

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5. Masirah Island: Witness The Life Of Turtles Up Close

Are you someone who gets fascinated about seeing turtles or camping at the beach? Well, Masirah Island is the spot for you. One of the finest tourist attractions in Oman, Masirah offers a number of attractions to tourists. From the opulent beauty of Safa'iq to the thrills of water sports, there’s a lot to look forward to at Masirah Island. In fact, the island is considered to be a top destination in Oman for those who love camping and turtle watching.

Best Time To Visit Masirah Island: November to March

How To Reach:

• By Air - There is no airport at Masirah Island. Travelers coming here can opt to head to Shannah first and take a ferry from there.
• By Road - Travelers arriving at Masirah are can opt to hire a cab or drive themselves from Muscat. The journey takes about five hours to complete.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 2 night 3 Days

Nearest Airport: The Muscat International Airport is the nearest airport to Masirah Island.

Popular Attractions at Masirah Island: Hilf; Jabal Al Humr; Masirah Beach Camp; Safa'iq Grave Site

Things To Do: Enjoy Water Sports; Turtle Watching

Best Places To Stay at Masirah Island: Masira Island Resort; Hotel Danat Al Khaleej; Masirah Hotel; Masirah Beach Camp

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6. Muttrah: Enjoy The Adventures Of Oman Here

A district that was the commercial center of Oman and one of the finest places to visit in Oman, Muttrah is a fine location that travelers can consider visiting on a holiday. Boasting of some fine locations that are set to catch the eye, this is a colorful area where there are ample places to discover for the visitors. From the finest shopping experience at the Muttrah Souq to the best of historical experience at the Bait Al Baranda Museum, Muttrah awaits the visitors with its fine adventures in Oman.

Best Time To Visit Muttrah: November to March

How To Reach:

By Air - Travelers can take a flight to Muscat from top locations and drive to Muttrah which is only a few miles away.

By Road - Travelers travel by road to Muttrah and its other top locations like the Muttrah Fort without any hassle. There are direct buses available from Muscat to the city while visitors can also hire a car to drive to the place.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 2 Night and 3 Days

Nearest Airport: The Muscat International Airport is located about 31.4 KM from Muttrah

Popular Attractions: Muttrah Souq; Bait Al Baranda Museum; Mutrah Fort; Ghalya's Museum of Modern Art; Omani Heritage Gallery; Old Watch Tower

Things To Do: Shop for diverse goods at Muttrah Souq; Engage in the offerings of the Bait Al Baranda Museum; Explore Mutrah Fort; Relish the Omani lifestyle and culture at Ghalya's Museum of Modern Art

Best Places To Stay In Mutrah: Al Falaj Hotel

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7. Seeb: Spend Time On The Pristine Beaches Of The City

A coastal fishing city that is renowned for a number of locations, Seeb is popular amongst worldwide travelers. This is a place that offers relaxation at its very best. In fact, one can explore the best of local fare and markets in the area while getting to stay in the best of luxury hotels here. One of the finest places to visit in Oman, Seeb is widely renowned for its pristine beaches and gorgeous gardens that are perfect in every sense.

Best Time To Visit Seeb: November to March

How To Reach:

By Air - Travelers coming to Seeb are required to arrive at the Muscat International Airport and complete the rest of the journey by hiring a vehicle.

By Road - The distance between Seeb and Muscat is around 29.7 KM and the travelers are required to hire a bus or rent a vehicle to cover the journey. The journey between the two cities takes about half n hours to complete.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 2 Night 3 Days

Nearest Airport: The Muscat International Airport is located about 24.2 KM away from Seeb

Popular Attractions: Seeb Souq; Wadi Al Khoud; Oman Botanic Garden; Al Naseem Park; Zulfa Mosque; Al Sahwa Public Garden; Maizoon Bint Ahmed Mosque

8. Misfat Al Abriyeen: Discovering the Beauty Of Oasis

Misfat al Abryeen, an offbeat and small village that is one of the best places to visit in Oman for a unique experience. With the contemporary vibes and the myriad of a natural vista like the banyan trees dominating most of the terrains makes it a wonder to explore. The Italian villages and the vintage house add beauty to the ancient village offering you a great vacation in Oman.

Nestled away from the chaos of the city, the Misfat al Abryeen is nothing lesser than an oasis that is painted in the brown and green hues of nature.

Best Time To Visit Misfat al Abryeen: June to August

How To Reach: The Misfat Al Abryeen is 232 kilometers away from Muscat that can be covered via a drive. As you land at Muscat international airport, you can heir a cab or taxi that will drop you at the gate of the village. You can trek the rest of the village.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 2 days

Nearest Airport: Muscat International Airport

Popular Attractions: Al Hoota Cave, Al Naseem Park, Rustak Wadi Bani Auf

Things to Do: Village Tour, Hiking, Old House Tour

Places To Stay in Misfat al Abryeen: Durrat Al-misfah Guest House, Misfah Heights, Al Misfah Hospitality Inn, Bait Aljabal Hospitality Inn

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9. Wahiba Sands: Experience The Thrill Of Desert

The Wahiba Sands or the Sharqiya Sands is a deserted area in Oman you can visit for your vacation. The Wahiba Sands dominated by the rolling dunes and the golden hues makes it one of the best tourist attractions in Oman. From desert adventures to trekking and lunch amidst the serenity, Wahiba sands offer leisure as well as thrill to make your visit, one of the best experiences. Get ready for sand sports and night camping, dune bashing and every possible activity you can think of.

The Wahiba sands nothing less than a dreamland that is spreading to an area of 180 kilometers or more.

Best Time To Visit Wahiba Sands: October to April

How To Reach: From Muscat International Airport, one can get a 4x4 vehicle to reach Wahiba sands. The distance of the airport from the Wahiba sands in 253 km that will take approximately 3 hours to reach.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 2 nights

Nearest Airport: Muscat International Airport

Things to Do: Dune Bashing, Sand Boarding, Camel Safari, Bedouin Family Tour, Overnight Camping, Desert Safari

Places To Stay in the Wahiba Sands: Queen Desert camp, Home X4, Alsarmadi Desert Camp, Nomadic Desert Camp

10. Sohar: Discovering The Mythical Characters

Sohar is known to be a dwelling place of sailors Ahmed Bin Majid. Now, what makes it the best attraction for tourists in Oman is the mythical character, Sinbad. The destination houses some of the most amazing beaches and vibrant souqs, monuments, and other places of tourist interest. Bounded by the magnificent beaches on the outskirts, the city is the best place to discover the art, heritage, and traditional art of Oman. Look out for adventures like camel rides or buy some traditional handicrafts as you plan your holiday around the splendid attraction.

Best Time To Visit Sohar: November to February

How To Reach: Board a flight to Sohar International Airport from there you can rent a cab or get a taxi to reach Sonar. Cabs and taxis are also available from cities like Muscat making it easy to each from any corner of the world.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 6 days

Nearest Airport: Sohar International Airport

Popular Attractions: Sohar Corniche, Sohar Fort, Sohar Handicraft Souq, Sohar Muncipal Park,

Things to Do: Shopping from famous malls, Beach leisure, Camel rides

Places To Stay in Sohar: Radisson Blu Hotel, Mercure Sohar, Sohar Beach Hotel, Al Wadi Hotel, Royal Garden Hotel

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11. Wadi Darbat: Explore The Calm Blue Waters and Caves

Wadi Darbat is one of the most amazing scenic spots for nature lovers, surrounded by the hills and gorgeous waterfalls.  it is a lush green valley, surrounded by hills with small caves people can hike up.  it is the best places to visit in Oman with family and friends. It is flooded with locals and tourists during the monsoon seasons as they come to enjoy the green landscaped hills.  Shawarmas, popcorn and ice-cream are some of the street foods sold at the small stalls and restaurants.

Best Time To Visit: June to August

How To Reach

By Air

The best way to reach Wadi Darbat is to fly to Muscat or Dubai, which is a 90 minute- 2-hour flight respectively. One can fly with Oman Air.

By Road

By road, it is a 12-hour journey.

By Bus

There are several buses that go to this place, which are offered by the Gulf transport company.

By Train

It is well connected by train, so they won’t be any problem.

Ideal Duration For Stay: 1 day

Nearest Airport: Salalah International Airport

Popular Attractions: Tawi Attair, Sumhuram Archaeological Park and Mirbat

Things To Do: Boat ride, walk or trek and visit the waterfalls

Adventures To Try: Trekking and Boat Ride

Best Places To Stay In Wadi Darbat: Souly Eco Lodge, Kairaba Mirbat Resort, Roshan Resort

Best Shopping Markets: Salalah Gardens Mall, Salalah Glory tours and Al Husn Souq

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12. Musandam: The Unexplored Omani Getaway

The unexplored Omani getaway is rich with modern architecture and serene beaches. Musandam is a one stop destination for scuba divers as it has clear waters and several facilities. Rich in Arabian culture, mixed with Iran’s, the Omani peninsula is surrounded by mountains and water bodies and with two gulfs- Arabian and Omani. Being one of the best tourist attractions in the middle east, Musandam has one of the most important and busiest waterways- the strait of Hormuz.  Jebel Harim is one of the tallest peaks in the region as it is studded with fossils of fish and various marine animals. It is one of the most breathtaking destinations to visit.

Best Time To Visit: October

How To Reach:

By Air:

Oman air is the only flight that goes to Khasab and Muscat. The duration of the flight is about 1.25 hours and departs and leaves from the military base.

By Road:

If one were to travel by road, then one will have to get insurance permits for two countries and go past at least 8 entry checkpoints. On the other hand, if one were to drive down from Dubai, it is a lot simpler as one will have to pass only Tibat.

By Water

There is a ferry people can take from Muscat to go to Khasab.

Ideal Duration For Stay:  1 day

Nearest Airport:   Khasab Airport

Popular Attractions: Musandam peninsula, jebel al Harim, Khasab fort and Khor Najd

Things To Do: Camping, interact with the dolphins

Adventures To Try: Camping, paragliding, diving and snorkeling

Best Places To Stay In Musandam: Dibba beach resort, six senses zighy bay and khasab hotel

Best Shopping Markets: Lulu roundbot, zaree Khasab souvenirs shop and al Marsa Musandam dive shop

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13. Bahla: A Reconstructed Heritage Town

Bahla has been declared as a UNESCO world heritage site, one of the first ever Omani town, located in the Dakhliya region of Oman. One of the major tourist attractions in Muscat is the Bahla fort, even though the site constitutes of traditional vernacular houses, a market and a mosque. It is one of the most ancient forts that goes back to the 13th century. The town is known for its pottery and silver artefacts. It has been an interesting part of several Arabic legends as it was believed that it was the birth place of black magic.

The town is the perfect example of fortified oasis settlement of the Islamic period and boasts of a defensive architectural ensemble that allowed tribes to gain prosperity in the desert.  It offers a perfect view of the palm groves that can be seen from the Jabrin entrance.

Best Time To Visit: June- September

How To Reach:

By Air: Muscat International Airport is the nearest airport in Bahla. There are several buses from Muscat for Bahla. It is best to hire a taxi or cab or travel in your vehicle.

Ideal Duration For Stay:  1 day

Nearest Airport: Muscat International Airport

Popular Attractions: Bahla Fort, Mosque, vernacular houses and markets

Things To Do: Pottery and visit the old souq

Adventures To Try: Camel rides, Dolphin watching, hiking and bike tours

Best Places To Stay In Bahla: Bait Bahla hospitality inn, hotel apartments and Al Hamra old house

Best Shopping Markets: Bahla Souq, riyal gift markets, Al Karama Hypermarket, Bahla

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14. Khasab: The Land of The Many Vistas

Khasab is a peaceful town that oozes with history as it home to the mountain of women, sandy beaches, beautiful corals and Portuguese fortress. People can take cruise through the Fjords of Musandam and swim in the blue seas. One can even snorkel and discover the stunning corals and sea life. The history lovers will love trekking the Musandam mountains and going to the abandoned houses in the deserted towns close to Khasab. It may be an old town but it is taken care of by its residents and has still sustained its charm. It is a humble city like no other and one of the many attractions in Oman.

Best Time To Visit: November

How To Reach:

By Air:  

There are regular flights to Khasab from Muscat and the nearest airport is the Muscat international airport.

By Road:

One can hire a cab to Khasab from Muscat, which would take about 6-7 hours to reach.  People can even rent a car or taxi.

Ideal Duration For Stay:  1 day

Nearest Airport: Muscat International Airport

Popular Attractions: Sandy beaches, beautiful corals and Portuguese fortress.

Things To Do:  Snorkel, Trekking and Swim in the blue sea

Adventures To Try: Snorkel and Trekking

Best Places To Stay In Khasab: Diwan Al Amir, Khasab Hotel, Atana Musandam Resort, Shams Musandam

Best Shopping Markets:  Ajmal Market center, Musandam Almasya, Marjan Market

15. Wadi Shab

For the locals and tourists, one of the most famous places to visit in Oman is Wadi Shab. November is the best time to visit the place and view the breathtaking hills, date palms, and waterfalls inside the caves in the mountains.  A 40-minute hike will take you to the place and while hiking people will discover the most beautiful path and will see pools along the way where they can swim. For a bit of fun and adventure, from the mountain cliff, one should dive into the pool. It is an adventure of a lifetime one should not miss out on.

Best Time To Visit: November

How To Reach

By Air

The closest airport in Oman is the Muscat International Airport.  One can take a bus or hire a car or cab and go to Wadi Shab. It is will take about 2 hours.

By Train

One will have to check and see if there any trains to Oman.

Ideal Duration For Stay:  1 day

Nearest Airport: Muscat International Airport

Popular Attractions: Bimmah Sinkhole, Wadi Tiwi

Things To Do: Hiking and Swimming

Adventures To Try: Hike and Dive into the pool from the mountain cliffs

Best Places To Stay in Wadi Shab: Wadi Shab Resort and Tiwi Sunrise Hotel

Best Shopping Markets:  Muscat City Center

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16. Barka

Barka is a colorful beachside city located on the Omani coast. The ancient traditions of bullfighting and Omani Halwa make it a unique town that makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Oman. Barka is a 40 - minute drive from Muscat, making it an ideal day trip with family and friends. The fort overlooks the coastline of Oman and the Souq, the marketplace of the city. During the Muscat festival that is held annually, Barka bursts into life. Attending the festival is one of the many things to do in Oman as it is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see what it is about.

Best Time To Visit: December

How To Reach:  From the city center of Muscat, Barka is a 45-minute drive. One can hire a taxi or rent a car and go to Barka.  People can even travel by bus to Barka as there are buses that go to the place regularly.

Ideal Duration To Stay: 1 day

Nearest Airport: Muscat International Airport

Popular Attractions: Naman Zoo, Barka Fort

Things To Do: Go watch bull fighting, Eat Omani Halwa

Adventures To Try: Snorkeling, Fishing

Best Places To Stay In Barka:  Bait Al Sawadi, Barka Hotel Apartments

Best Shopping Markets: Bait Al Sawadi, Season Inn Hotel

17. Ibri

Have you ever visited the old parts of Oman? It is one of the most exciting Oman tourist places people should explore. Located in the northern Al Dhahriah region of Oman, Ibri is a stopover between Saudi Arabia and UAE. Based on the various UNESCO heritage sites, Ibri's treasure lies in its heritage. Tombs of Al-Ayn, Al- Khutm, and Bat are some of the most famous ancient ensembles in the world. It is one of the best tourist attractions in Muscat with archaeological sites with towers, forts, castles, and tombs. It is known for its oil and back in the year 1979, metal hoards were discovered. In 2018, several shopping places opened up.

Best Time To Visit: May- September

How To Reach: If traveling by air, then people can fly to Muscat and then travel by road. The nearest airport in Muscat is Muscat International Airport. Ibri is about 300 km away from Muscat. People can travel by bus from  Azaiba Bus Station to Buraimi, which passes by Nizwa and Ibri.  People can even travel by taxi from Muscat.

Ideal Duration To Stay: 1 day

Nearest Airport: Muscat International Airport

Popular Attractions: Towers, Forts, Castles and Tombs

Things To Do: Visit the archeological sites and tombs

Adventures To Try: Camping, walking and hiking

Best Places To Stay In Ibri: Al Majd Hotel, Ibri Oasis Hotel

Best Shopping Markets: Sinaw Souk, Nizwa Souk, Al Husn Souq, Salalah, Gun Souq, Salalah

18. Al Suwaiq

Have you ever visited the market in Oman? It is one of the most famous places to see in Oman. In Arabic, Al Suwaiq means market. People can explore the mountains, valleys, and plains along the coast. Several tourists on holiday can explore the market place, the countryside, discover the shores of Oman, and give their taste buds a treat to some of the most delicious food in Oman.

The town was popular for its market back in the day. One can visit Al Suwaiq to sell or buy goods. The place that was once off the grid has evolved over the years and today, one can see a combination of a traditional and modern town.  What more can anyone ask for in terms of having an ideal time? People should visit the market at least once as it is a once in a lifetime experience. What more can one ask for?

Best Time To Visit: November

How To Reach: The nearest airport is Muscat International Airport and so, people can fly to the Oman easily;  and then hire a cab or taxi to visit the market.

Ideal Duration To Stay: 1 day

Nearest Airport:  Muscat International Airport

Popular Attractions:   Shores Of Oman, valleys, plains and mountains

Things To Do:  Buy souvenirs

Adventures To Try: Cruising, snorkeling

Best Places To Stay In Al Suwaiq:  Gulf Sand Resorts, Al Ghadeer Hotel

Best Shopping Markets: NA

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19. Al Hoota Caves

The caves are about 2 million years old and situated at the foot of the Jebel Shams mountains. It is home to bats, anthropoids, snails, and mollusks and is well protected.  People will get to see the 4 lakes while taking a tour of the caves. The rare blind fish, Garra Barreimiae are seen in the lake and are only seen in the middle east. The tour is about 45 minutes as people get to see all of the 500 m of the cave.

People will get information in both Arab and English about when the cave was formed, founded and the animals that existed, and how long has it been preserved. One will have to walk carefully as the caves are quite slippery.

Timings: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

How To Reach:

Ideal Duration To Stay: 1-2 hours

Nearest Airport:  Muscat International Airport

Popular Attractions:   Rare Blind Fish, Bats, Snails and Mollusks

Things To Do: Explore the cave

Adventures To Try: NA

Best Places To Stay In Al Hoota Caves: Al Hamra Old House, Al Hamra Guest House

Best Shopping Markets: Carrefour, Nizwa Grand Mall, Nizwa Souq

20. Mirbat

Now here's a thing, Mirbat may not be amongst the most talked about places to go in Oman but is certainly one spot that travelers can explore when on a vacation to this part of the world. Primarily famous for fishing, Mirbat was once the capital of Dhofar and a place where frankincense trade was heavily practiced in the old times. In fact, while being the capital of Dhofar, Mirbat earned most of its revenue from the frankincense trade and from breeding Arabian horses.

Interestingly, during the Dhofar Rebellion, it was also the site of the Battle of Mirbat in 1972 which certainly adds a historical significance to the place. Today, history lovers from around the world can come here and see the old remains easily here. Not only this, the town has a population of around 15000 today and has gained popularity as a perfect diving and snorkeling spot in Oman. There are excellent coral reefs offshore that divers would certainly love to explore. Likewise, visitors coming to Mirbat can also spend time savoring fine delicacies at a restaurant or spend a night at an upscale resort, this place has it all. Besides, since Mirbat is located close to Salalah, it becomes easily commutable for travelers today.

Best Time To Visit - June to October

How To Reach - Mirbat is located in close proximity to the Salalah International Airport. Travelers can easily take a flight to Salalah and cover the rest of the journey by road. Mirbat is 70 km east of Salalah on Highway 49 and it takes about an hour to reach here from the airport.

Ideal Duration Of Stay- 1 day

Nearest Airport - Salalah International Airport

Popular Attractions - Frankincense Museum, Tomb of Mohammed Bin Ali

Things To Do - Diving, snorkeling, exploring historical locations

Best Places To Stay In Mirbat - Mirbat Marriott Resort, Kairaba Mirbat Resort, Alila Hinu Bay

Best Shopping Markets - Mirbat Commercial Market

Suggested Read: Striking Places To Visit In Bahrain For An Enriching Travel Experience

21. Telegraph Island

A small piece of land surrounding the Musandam Peninsula in the middle of water, Telegraph Island was once a station in the 19th century that was used to boost the British Telegraph messages along the Persian Gulf cable line. Although not much remains of the old station on the island, it is still the perfect spot to enjoy snorkeling as the water conditions are perfectly favorable for the same. Hence, for travelers who are looking to experience the best of water sports in Oman, a trip to Telegraph Island makes perfect sense.

Best Time To Visit - Travelers can visit the Telegraph Island at any time they want

How To Reach - Travelers can take a flight to Khasab which is located nearby Telegraph Island.

Ideal Duration Of Stay - Few Hours

Nearest Airport - Khasab Air Base

Popular Attractions - Ruins of Telegraph Station

Things To Do - Snorkeling

Best Places To Stay In Telegraph Island - There are no such places to stay on Telegraph Island as it is a relatively small island.

Best Shopping Markets - N/A

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sri Lanka For A Vacation Worth Remembering

A country that welcomes travelers to its scenic haven all round the year, Oman has a lot to be admired about. From gorgeous beaches, amazing food, and fresh sea breeze to the enchanting Souq and desert landscapes, this is a country that has it all. As for travelers, knowing the top places to visit in Oman is the real trick as the country has enough attractions to keep one engaged for weeks. Hence, if you're planning your next trip to Oman and wondering about the top places you can visit, keeping Muscat, Nizwa, and Salalah in your travel diary is almost mandatory for an unforgettable holiday experience.

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