Capital of Oman and one of the finest holiday destinations in the world, Muscat is one of those cities that don’t surprise in an instance but have a lot to offer when it comes to a fine holiday experience in the Middle East. With serene peaks, modern Islamic architectural marvels and so much more, this is a city that has it all. In fact, there are many things to do in Muscat that range from city tours to entertainment activities, and much more.
One can not only spend their time admiring the serene locations of the city but can also engage in a number of adventure activities in the city. So, do you fancy a vacation of a lifetime? Well, Oman’s capital has a lot to offer. Besides, here are some of the top things that one can do on a holiday in Muscat.
10 Top Things To Do In Muscat, Oman
Here are some of the top things that one can do on a vacation in Muscat.
- Spend Time Shopping At The Mutrah Souq
- Royal Opera House Muscat
- Take A Tour Of The Grand Mosque
- Join The Festivities Of The Muscat Music Festival
- Enjoy Scuba Diving At Qantab Beach & Bandar Khayran
- Explore the Antiques At Bait Al Zubair Museum
- Take A Leisurely Stroll Along The Mutrah Corniche
- Visit The Colossal Mutrah Fort
- Indulge In A Omani Gastronomic Landscape
- Discover The Scenic Qurum Beach Of Muscat
1. Spend Time Shopping At The Mutrah Souq
One of the finest places to visit in Oman, the Mutrah Souq has all the potential to be a perfect shopping spot in Oman. Renowned for its old chaotic vibe of a traditional Arab market under the modern timber roofing, the place offers a number of shopping options like traditional textile, hardware, jewelry stores, and much more. Visitors coming to the Souq can find a number of offers all around the year while bargaining here is the name of the game. So, what's the delay? Visit the Mutrah Souq and shop for the finest of antiques and artifacts that range between Omani and Indian.
As for payments here, most of the shops functioning at Mutrah Souq offer the option to pay using a card but travelers are advised to carry cash with themselves as not all shops accept card payments.
Location - سوق مطرح مطرح، مسقط،، Mutrah Market, near Mutrah Corniche, Muscat, Oman
Famous For - Traditional textile, hardware, jewelry stores, and much more
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2. Royal Opera House Muscat
Another fine place to visit in Oman, the Royal Opera House Muscat has to be one of the top priorities of travelers coming to the city of Muscat. Watching a show here is one of the top things to do in Muscat for obvious reasons. Having overseen performances from some of the world’s best opera and ballet performers, the place is a gem when it comes to enjoying time in the Middle East. Since its inauguration in 2011, the house has seen a number of productions and continues to get recognition internationally. The best part? Even if you don't wish to watch the show, there is an option to savor the best of snacks and delicacies at the various restaurants outside the Opera House that are widely popular amongst travelers. In fact, as travelers put it themselves, savoring a delicacy here is one of the top things to do in Oman today.
Location - Royal Opera House Al Kharjiyah Street مسقط OM، 103, Oman
Famous For - Opera and Ballet Performances
3. Take A Tour Of The Grand Mosque
Wondering about the best things to do in Muscat? Well, the Grand Mosque is the place to visit. Being one of the most popular places to visit in the Middle East, the Grand Mosque is the most glorious example of modern Islamic architecture that offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of the country. As history has it, the mosque was a gift to the people of Oman by Sultan Qaboos who marked his 30th year of reign.
With a capacity to accommodate up to 20,000 worshipers at a time, this is one of the major attractions in Muscat and a place one should definitely consider visiting. In fact, the main prayer hall of the mosque is a major attraction. The hall houses a Persian Carpet that measures 70 m by 60 m wide and is easily the second-largest hand-loomed Iranian carpet in the world.
Location - Sultan Qaboos St, ولاية بوشر، Oman
Famous For - Second-largest hand-loomed Iranian carpet in the world, Modern Islamic architecture
4. Join The Festivities Of The Muscat Music Festival
A festival that begins from around the end of January, and lasts for almost a month, attending the Muscat Music Festival has to be one of the fun things to do in Muscat. Featuring nightly fireworks, craft displays, exhibitions, and so much more, there's a lot to look forward to at Muscat Music Festival. In fact, one can even enjoy laser shows, traditional dining, and a number of other activities during the festival.
As for the venue, there is no precise place as to where the festival takes place and the venue keeps changing. So, come to the Muscat Music Festival and enjoy attractions from around the world.
Location - The location for the Muscat Music Festival keeps on changing. Hence, travelers are advised to keep a track of the new venue
Famous For - Nightly fireworks, craft displays, exhibition
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5. Enjoy Scuba Diving At Qantab Beach & Bandar Khayran
What's better than scuba diving while witnessing the underwater landscapes in Oman? Well, Qantab Beach is the place where you get all the fun and excitement of a holiday. Regarded as one of the finest beaches in Muscat and a major diving center in Oman, the place has a number of comprehensive facilities, and diving here has to be one of the top adventures in Muscat today.
Besides, as far as Bandar Khayran is concerned, one can find about 200 species of fishes along with dozens of corals and most notably the wreck of Al Munassir here. Interestingly, this 84-meter long naval ship was purposely sunk in the area in order to act as an artificial reef. So, why not visit here and experience the thrill of scuba diving here?
Location -
Qantab Beach is located about 15 KM from Muscat City Center
Bandar Al Khayran is located on the western side of Muscat
Famous For - 200 species of fishes, comprehensive facilities, Scuba Diving
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6. Explore the Antiques At Bait Al Zubair Museum
One of the best things to do in Muscat is to visit the Bait Al Zubair Museum and delve into Oman’s historic past. Marvel at the great exhibits including the vivid collection of age-old weapons including khanjar, household equipment and the traditional costumes. Opened in 1998 for the common public, Bait Al Zubair Museum is the representation of Oman’s rich culture and heritage and best known for its architectural style. You can even visit the Omani heritage village outside the museum which will take you through the picturesque alleys shrouded in hidden chronicles. Never miss out on the quirky cafe and the souvenir shop tucked within the premises to delight your senses.
Location - JH7Q+QRG, Muscat, Oman
Famous For – Ancient Weapons, Household Equipment, and Costumes
7. Take A Leisurely Stroll Along The Mutrah Corniche
The Mutrah Corniche is one of the best places to visit in Muscat, mostly a promenade that stretches all along the coast and is sprawled with a myriad of upscale restaurants and chic cafes. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Oman port overlooking the intricate and majestic rock formations of the Hajar Mountains in the forefront. Visit this scenic spot in the evening to chase the sunset and immerse yourself in the captivating views. If you are a seafood lover, you can even explore the local fish market near the harbor where you can discover a plethora of fish and other seafood varieties. Moreover, never miss out on embarking on an incredible culinary journey.
Location - JHFF+45M, Mutrah Corniche, Muscat, Oman
Famous For – Cafes, Restaurants, and Markets
8. Visit The Colossal Mutrah Fort
Located near the Mutrah Corniche, Mutrah Fort is another major attraction in the city that brings Oman’s historic past to light. Built in the mid 16th century by the Portuguese community for military fortification, the fort still serves as the storehouse for traditional weapons and equipment. A must visit destination for the history enthusiasts to broaden their horizon and gain insights on Oman’s rich history and culture. One of the best things to do in Muscat is to hike up the colossal fort, discover the scenic trails and get lost in the splendid views of Muscat city and the Mutrah Corniche for a jaw-dropping experience.
Location - JHC8+6R4, Al Bahri Rd, Muscat, Oman
Famous For – Portuguese Architecture
9. Indulge In A Omani Gastronomic Landscape
If you are a foodie and would like to undertake an enriching culinary journey to explore Omani cuisine, Al Angham Restaurant is the ideal spot to carry out this activity. Best known as the fine dining restaurant located in the Royal Opera House Muscat, you can marvel at the elegant interior and opulent decor including the intricate ceilings and woodwork reflecting the traditional architectural style. You can unwind with your beloved one in the intimate dining spaces offering comfort and privacy in the best possible way. Never forget to miss out on their signature dishes like Al Majlis, Chicken Masanef and Shuwa Sambosa, Omani Halwa, and Al Fardh Date Ice Cream at one of the best places to visit in Oman.
Location - Royal Opera House Muscat, 463 Al Kharjiyah St, Muscat, Oman
Famous For – Omani Cuisine
10. Discover The Scenic Qurum Beach Of Muscat
Visiting the Qurum Beach of Muscat is one of the top things to do in Muscat to carry out a plethora of water activities. Best known for the crystalline water and natural splendors, it is an ideal destination for adventure lovers to master their swimming skills. The vast Muscat coastline is brimmed with a myriad of beach hotels, fine dining restaurants, snack bars, and quirky cafes where you can embark on a culinary journey and devour a wide variety of local and international delicacies. Never forget to watch the sunset by taking a leisurely stroll along the seacoast with your beloved one.
Location - Al Qurum Area, Muscat, Oman
Famous For – Water activities and restaurants
Top 3 Things To Do Around Muscat
Well versed with the things you can do in Muscat? There’s more to Oman than just the wonders of its capital. From taking a tour of the famous Nizwa Fort to planning a sightseeing tour to other major attractions, there’s a lot that one can do while on a tour around Muscat. So, here are some of the other things you can do around Muscat in some other popular cities of the country.
1. Take A Tour Of The Enchanting Fort Of Nizwa
Another fine attraction that visitors can consider visiting in Oman is Nizwa, a 17th-century fort that is spectacular, to say the least, a visit to the Nizwa Fort has to be one of the best things to do in Muscat today. Nestled about 1.5 hours drive away from Muscat, the place boasts of its historical buildings and the fort that was built by Imam Sultan Bin Saif Al Ya'ribi.
One can find palm trees that stretch for about 5 miles along the course of two wadis along with ceiling murals and walls. Interestingly, the whole tour of Nizwa doesn't cost more than $88 and one can expect a tour of not just the fort but also a number of other attractions like the souq, and so on.
Location - Nizwa, Oman
Famous For - 17th-century architecture
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2. Relax & Rejuvenate At Wadi Shab
Another of those things to do in Oman, Wadi Shab is one of the best places to visit in the Middle East and something that travelers cannot possibly afford to miss on their journey to Oman. With a 45-minute walk along with many emerald green water pools, Wadi Shab is considered to be one of the top places to visit and cool down during a hike. Visitors not only get to swim through the opulent caves here but they can also see a number of waterfalls in the area.
As travelers put it themselves, it is one of those hidden gems in Oman that travelers can't possibly afford to miss on a holiday. Interestingly, Wadi Shab is located only 1.5 hours drive away from the capital city Muscat which makes it one of the most easily commutable places in Oman.
Location - Al Sharqiyah region in Oman only 1.5 hours drive away from the capital city Muscat
Famous For - Caves, Hiking, water pools, waterfalls
3. Enjoy Camping In The Wahiba Desert
Another perfect spot to spend your time in Oman is the Wahiba Desert. A place that has rapidly become one of the most popular places to visit in the country, camping at Wahiba Desert is an experience not to be missed. As certain travelers put it, the desert has even become a popular place just like the Sahara desert, and camping here is an experience not to be missed.
Travelers can reach the camp only by driving a 4X4 vehicle. However, considering the temperatures in the desert, visitors are advised to carry enough water with them.
Location - South of Sur, and South East of Muscat
Famous For - Desert Camping
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A city that has gained considerable prominence over the years, Muscat is home to a number of top of the line locations that offer the ultimate fun of a holiday. With activities like camping, city tours, and a number of shopping and delights, there are many things to do in Muscat and around the city that ensure there are no dull days during your vacation. So, do you fancy a vacation in the heart of Oman? Book your Muscat tour packages with us today and come enjoy the various activities in the city.
FAQs
Although there are many top things to do in Muscat, shopping at the Mutrah Souq has to be the number one experience in the city. In fact, many travelers visit the Mutrah Corniche just to spend a day shopping at the souq.
Being one of the finest holiday destinations around the world, Oman's capital city Muscat is home to the world-class Royal Opera House where some of the most famous names from the Opera and ballet have performed over the years. One can watch Opera here at its very best.
One of the best examples of modern Islamic architecture, the Grand Mosque was a gift to the nation of Oman by Sultan Qaboos who marked his 30th year of reign at the time. The mosque is stunning in every possible way and a major attraction in the region.
Yes, the Muscat Festival is one of the major attractions about Oman and takes place for a whole month starting from the end of January. The festival features nightly fireworks, certain replicas and so much more.
Although it clearly depends upon the choice of travelers to spend time in Oman, one can still look to spend at least a week in the country or more. Considering there are numerous attractions in the country, one is sure to have a perfect time.
One of the finest cities in the world, Muscat is home to some of the most iconic souqs and hilly terrains in the world. Particularly famous are its amazing souqs and top of the line seafood that attracts travelers from all around the world. In fact, there are many restaurants in the country that offer the best of seafood.
A place that has rapidly become one of the most popular places to visit in the country, camping at Wahiba Desert is an experience not to be missed.
Bandar Khayran has a number of attractions to offer to travelers. One can find about 200 species of fishes along with dozens of corals and most notably the wreck of Al Munassir here.
The best time to visit Oman is during the winter months ranging from November to mid-March which are considered ideal enough for a pleasant stay.
You should spend at least 2 days in Muscat to cover the major highlights like the pristine beaches, traditional souqs, and iconic mosques, and a day trip to Daymaniyat islands. You can also extend your stay in Muscat based on your preferences.
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