Best Places to Visit in Muscat

Published November 11, 2019 · Updated June 4, 2021

Muscat is the capital city of Oman and it is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the world. The city has a plethora of sightseeing locations that can serve tourists of different ages and interests. From beaches to deserts and mosques to forts, here you will experience all the sides of tourism. If you are planning to visit Oman in the coming time then check out this Muscat travel guide that will help you to make your tour convenient. The list of top things to do and best places to visit in Muscat will definitely make your tour memorable:

The Royal Opera House: The Royal Opera House in Muscat is a historical goldmine and invites everyone to a spectacular evening out. The Opera House oozes luxury, clad in white marble outdoors and luxuriantly adorned theatres. The Opera House regularly performs with a particular focus on Omani folk songs. There are also several guided tours. Also among the most popular shopping centers in Muscat is the Opera House, home to more than 50 high-end shops. No wonder it is listed amongst one of the top tourist attractions in Muscat to visit with family.

Wadi Bani Khalid: Wadi Bani Khalid, the most frequented of Oman’s wadi, is famous for its tranquillity and beauty. The wilderness oasis is bordered by swinging palms all over, but the pure green lakes are filled all year long. In addition to the main pool, the Wadi offers several smaller, seasonal bathing pools. The ravines around the oasis are spread out with sometimes cellars, which promise the explorer a good time.

Yitti Beach: Yitti is one of the lesser-known beaches on the Omani coast, a short drive away from Muscat. The tranquillity of this little strand is surrounded by cliffs and coves all over the city, making it one of the most beautiful spots to visit in Most Historic Moscow. This is the best place to swim or to fish with the pure blue ocean off the coast. Throughout the year, sunbathers are invited by glowing clean sands. The beach is also a popular campsite and numerous people sleep overnight on the beach. If you are looking for some of the best things to do in Muscat then Yitti Beach offers you all the exposure.

Bait Al-Zubair: The Bait Al Zubair Museum has now become one of the more highly populated in Oman, initially established as the house of the private property of Sultani Chef Bait AL Zubair Ali. The museum, originally situated within the residence of Al Zubair, has extended into three different areas – the main museum, the art gallery, and a hamlet in Omani’s style with homes, a falaj, and a souk. The Museum focuses mostly on Omani traditional crafts and features several articles from old furnishings to unique daggers. There are also few images of the old city that are worth seeing at this tourist attraction of Muscat.

Al Alam Palace: There are six palace areas all across the kingdom, the governing monarchy of Oman, Sultan Qaboos, although neither is as important as the Al-Alam Palace. A historical attraction is noted for its striking blue and gold exterior, among the most popular tourist attractions in Muscat. The palace is not open to guests, although the gorgeous lawns are always available to the public just outside. In the late evening hours, when the whole premises are well lighted from the outside, making the Palace one of the best places to see in the night.

Qurum Natural Park: Qurum nature reserve is one of the leading tourist sites in Muscat to have a picnic day, with luxurious and blossoming gardens. Only a gorgeous lagoon in the center interrupts the large green park filled with artificial waterfalls and swimming pools. Boating here is a favorite lake pastime that remains complete all year long. The Nature Park is a small fun park with some interesting interactive attractions for young children. The mangroves are here in season, birdwatchers and photographers alike have to visit. If you are looking for some of the fun things to do in Muscat with kids then this park is the right option.

Al Mirani Fort: The AL Mirani fort is an imageable 16th-century fort constructed by the Portuguese, spreading across the Muscat Harbour. Although inaccessible to the people, Al Mirani’s dominant figure is almost associated with the city itself and various lithographs from the city were written in the 19th century. There are several reasons that make this fort one of the top places to visit in Muscat all around the year.

Muscat Gate Museum: Located next to the Old Town walls and the Mutrah Corniche, Muscat Gate Museum represents Muscat’s glory. Although the Museum houses some fantastic exhibits, it is best known for the panoramic views it commands of the Corniche. Galleries and exhibits at the Museum shed light on some of Muscat’s oldest landmarks, including souqs, houses, harbors, and more. Muscat tourist attractions are known for their uniqueness and this museum is a perfect example of it.

Al Jalali Fort: The Al Jalali Fort was constructed during the Portuguese conquest in 1580 and protects the east harbor. The fort can only be reached by steep steps, so you can have a very self-guided tour. Even though the Al Jalali Fort was originally a prison, it is now an Omani Heritage Museum which is only accessible for dignitaries visiting the country. The museum displays cannons, muskets, maps, and many more. Bagpipers perform in the fort battlements on military events.

Omani and French Museum: The former Sultan Qaboos of Oman created the Omani and French Museum in 1992, in honor of his close ties between the Omani and the French. In the old quarters of the town, the museum is located in the former home of the French consul, Bait France. There are various historical images in the collection of the Museum alongside several French ships, furniture, clothes, and more. Check out any Muscat travel guide and you will find this museum listed amongst the top 10 places to visit in Muscat.

City Centre Qurum: If you want to go shopping towards the end of the day, visit City Center Qurum. This spot includes everything from a food court to a spotlight and high-quality businesses to flea shops. The explorer will certainly find something to discover and appreciate with so many possibilities nearby. As one of the leading shopping sites, both locals and visitors are attracted by this location. In addition, “Magic Planet” is situated in the City Center Corrum which will keep you entertained for a while.

Bimmah Sinkhole: The Bimmah Sinkhole is also one of Muscat’s most picturesque sites, brimming with shimmering turquoise waters. Even though the sinkhole was produced by years of rock erosion, local laws maintain that when a meteorite hit the region, the float hole replaced a cavern. The Bimmah Sinkhole was hence called by Omani residents as Haweat Najm or The Falling Star. A massive concrete step leads from the rock cliff to the swimming pool. While most people only go to the beauty of Sinkhole, the swimming hole is great for a brief dip. You can try your hand in cliffs from the nearby cliffs if you are bold enough.

Al Bustan Beach: Al Bustan is a deserted Omani Coast Bay beach, situated a short drive away from Muscat. The calm beach is famous for the environment of the fishing community and is great for couples and single visitors seeking a little peace. Clearwater is an excellent way to play. Some shades are lined on the coast to enjoy the sunshine. Without any doubt, this list is featured amongst one of the best places to visit in Muscat.

Jabrin Fort: It is one of the must-visit destinations in the city and no wonder you will find it in the priority list of every Muscat Oman travel guide. It is located in the spectacular Nizwa area where you can spot several villages, mountains and forts. Jabrin fort has a long history that dates back to the 17^th century. This is the key reason why you will witness several artistic rooms here that are designed in a tactical way to combat enemies.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque: It is another highly recommended historical landmark in Muscat Oman where tourists from all the corners of the world come to witness its splendor. It is one of the most magnificent mosques in the world boasting the capacity for more than 20,000 worshippers. Here you will spot several extraordinary masterpieces including Iranian rug, mosaic tiles and grand chandelier which complement each other.

Sur: If you wish to visit one of the most iconic destinations in Muscat, Oman then come to Sur. Here you will enjoy the blend of desert and sea thereby allowing you to enjoy everything at the same destination. Photography lovers can’t stop themselves from capturing some of the most picturesque images here. If you are lucky enough, you will spot several turtles at the beachside to make your visit totally worth.

Qurum Beach: It is one of the untouched beaches in the city which is added in our Muscat travel guide on the virtue of its diverse offerings. If you are a water sports lover then you can enjoy several activities such as kite surfing and swimming. If you are a peace lover then you can simply relax at beachside and enjoy watching people playing volleyball. It is one of the most popular beaches in Muscat, Oman as it is surrounded by natural scenery and green landscape.

Mutrah Chronicle: It is one of the most scintillating destinations in the city where you can enjoy the seafront as well as skyrocketing buildings in a single view. Mutrah Corniche is one of the most visited sightseeing locations in Muscat Oman where you can spot several mosques surrounded by mountains. In the vicinity, you can also spot various local stores selling few unique masterpieces such as fluffy camels, genie lamps, turbans myrrh, incense burners and much more.

Wahiba Sands: Your tour to Muscat Oman is incomplete without visiting Wahiba sands and this is the reason why you will find it in every Muscat travel guide. Here you can enjoy 4WD adventure and camel rides on a deserted land. No matter from what country you are traveling to Muscat, this destination will definitely offer you something innovative. You can enjoy an overnight stay at a tent while enjoying local cuisine made from special ingredients.

What’s next waiting for you?

The list of best things to do and top places to visit in Muscat mentioned above will definitely help you to get rid of several myths you heard about Muscat, Oman. The locations mentioned in this Muscat travel guide are few of the key highlights of the city and there is always a scope to discover more. You can also consider visiting Wadi Bani Khalid, Jebel Shams, Misfat al Abryeen, Nizwa Fort, Royal Opera House, Mutrah Suq, Al Shatti and many more. Now you know where to go and what to do in Muscat, go ahead and plan your journey now.

If you are planning to visit few more countries in North-East Asia then check out our other travel guides on UAE, Dubai, and Jordon. If you are looking for the best places to visit near Muscat then check our other travel guides.