Muscat: 6 must-visit spots

Muscat is the capital of the Sultanate of Oman. While many travellers only pass through the city just before or after their flight, it’s well worth spending a day or two soaking up the atmosphere. Here are six spots you don't want to miss during your time in Muscat: 1. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque 🕌 As the third-largest mosque in the world, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque impresses with both its stunning interior and breathtaking architecture. Open to visitors from 8:00 to 11:00 AM, entry is free (again). For a deeper insight, opt for a guided tour to learn about its rich history. 2. Qurum Beach Relax on this peaceful beach 🏖️, where you can enjoy a delicious meal among the locals. While parking is free, it fills up quickly, especially in the evening. Don’t expect crowded sandy beaches, but instead a charming coastline with picnic tables and a lovely promenade. Hungry? Pizzeria Brezza Marina and The Crepe Cafe - Oasis by the Sea offer tasty, affordable bites. 3. Muttrah Corniche Take a scenic stroll along the three-kilometre-long Corniche 🌊, with views of the bustling harbour on one side and the rugged Al Hajar Mountains on the other. In the mornings and evenings, locals flock here to enjoy the pleasant temperature. Wander past the fish market, admire the dhows, and enjoy the scent of frankincense – Muttrah is full of history and charm. 4. Muttrah Souk Explore the unique souks of Muttrah 🛍️, where the tidy and well-organised stalls make for a much more pleasant shopping experience compared to others. Here, you can find beautiful souvenirs, but be prepared to haggle for the best prices! For a calmer experience, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as most vendors take a break between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM. 5. Muttrah Fort Enjoy stunning sunset views 🌅 from the hilltop where Muttrah Fort stands, offering panoramic views of the city, mountains, and sea. The fort was once crucial for defending the city, but now it’s a popular tourist spot. Entry costs 3.3 OMR (€8.50), and parking is limited, so it’s best to park nearby and walk for about 10 minutes. 6. Daymaniyat Islands Just a 30-minute speedboat ride 🚤 from Muscat, the pristine Daymaniyat Islands are a sanctuary for sea turtles. You can admire them both from the boat and up close while snorkeling. Several operators run trips daily, but always keep a respectful distance from the wildlife. The sea is vast enough for everyone, and turtles can be spotted in more secluded spots. Getting Around in Muscat? Renting a car 🚗 is the easiest and most practical way to explore Muscat. With plenty of parking available, you can comfortably move between attractions. Muscat is a large city, so walking between sights can be time-consuming. A rental car offers freedom, flexibility, and easy access to free parking spots throughout the city. Where to Stay? Muscat offers some great and affordable accommodations 🏨. We stayed at the Royal Tulip Muscat, a comfortable hotel with a rooftop pool and excellent breakfast. It’s conveniently located just 7 minutes from the Sultan Qaboos Mosque. For those craving luxury, The Chedi is a five-star hotel, but it comes with a higher price tag.

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