The stunning capital of the Sultanate of Oman is well worth a visit. Discover the must-see sights and activities in Muscat.
Also known as Muscat, Muscat is the capital of Oman, a sultanate located in the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula. Although only a few hundred kilometers from Dubai, Muscat offers a very different face.
Indeed, despite its booming oil economy, Oman has managed to preserve its traditional identity, and both its cultural and natural heritage. Today, the country is capitalizing on this heritage to develop its tourism business, attracting more and more travellers to Muscat.
Far from the dazzling high-rises of the United Arab Emirates, Muscat retains the air of a large-scale fishing village. Skyscrapers have been banned in order to preserve the city’s picturesque charm.
Its light-coloured buildings and minarets nestle between land and sea, their silhouettes standing out against the brown mountains lining the bay. But behind its modest exterior, Muscat is a city with a prestigious past, brimming with monuments and museums. What’s more, the city knows how to pamper its visitors, offering them a wide choice of activities. To whet your appetite for a flight to Oman, here are the must-see things to do or visit in Muscat.
1. The royal palace
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A symbol of prestige if ever there was one, the Palace of the Sultan of Oman is a must-see monument in Muscat. Built in 1972, it is known in Arabic as Qasr al-‘Alam. Although it is the sultan’s official residence, he does not live here, but welcomes his distinguished guests.
The palace’s architecture is astonishing, blending modern style with traditional elements to create a unique whole. What’s more, the site boasts pleasant strolling gardens that open directly onto the sea. Although it is not possible to visit the interior of the palace, it remains one of Muscat’s must-see attractions.
2. The Great Mosque of Sultan Qaboos
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Jean-Philippe Navarro
Muscat’s other monumental jewel, the Great Mosque of Sultan Qaboos, is also a modern monument, built between 1995 and 2001. Inspired by traditional Islamic architecture, it boasts no fewer than five minarets, representing the different pillars of Islam.
It’s the largest mosque in the country, and its creators have gone to great lengths to make sure the interior is just right. The mosque is home to the world’s largest single-piece woven carpet. This masterpiece weighs no less than 35 tonnes!
The splendid 14-metre-high chandelier at its heart is another of its treasures. Last but not least, you’ll also have the chance to admire some beautiful stained-glass windows when you visit the Great Mosque of Oman.
3. Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts
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Thanks to its privileged position, Muscat has been a commercial and cultural crossroads for millennia, with its port at its epicenter. The ramparts of the old port bear witness to this long history, as do the two forts that watch over them.
Built in the 16th century, Al Jalali Fort was originally a prison. Today, its walls house a private museum. Perched on a promontory, it offers a superb view of the port, as does its twin, Fort Al Mirani. Built at the same time, it played an important role in the city’s history during the period when it was in Portuguese hands. Although not open to the public, it too is a must-see in Muscat.
4. Museums
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Beyond its oil windfall, Oman is now focusing its development on tourism and the enhancement of its heritage. So it’s only natural that Muscat offers some interesting museums to visit during your stay.
The National Museum of Oman
The must-see is without doubt the National Museum of Oman, which recounts the country’s history and exhibits over ten thousand artifacts. Here you’ll discover the rich past of a country at the crossroads of Africa and Asia, where multiple influences have intertwined. The museum’s modern, monumental building alone is worth a visit!
Other museums
Muscat also offers other historical museums such as Bait Al Zubair and Bait Al Baranda. The latter recounts the city’s thousand-year history through interactive and thematic exhibitions. Muscat is also home to the surprising Musée français d’Oman, which bears witness to the strong relationship between the two nations.
5. The Royal Opera House
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The Royal Opera House is another must-see monument in Muscat and a cultural landmark for Oman. Built, like the Grand Mosque, on the initiative of Sultan Qaboos, it was inaugurated in 2011. Its spectacular auditorium brings together up to 1,100 spectators for a high-quality program.
We encourage you to book a show in advance of your stay to discover this magnificent place. But it’s also possible to simply stroll around, as the complex also houses boutiques, restaurants and gardens.
6. The beaches
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Situated on the seafront and bordered by mountains, Muscat of course also offers beautiful beaches for lazing around. Inside the city, you can swim at Qurum beach, which is easy to reach. Azaiba beach is another option, with a nearby golf club that will delight golf enthusiasts.
But it’s away from the city that you’ll find the most beautiful and tranquil beaches. By boat, you can reach the sublime and wild Daymaniyat Islands, off the coast of Muscat. By car, you can visit Yitti Beach or White Beach.
7. Muttrah souk
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The Muttrah souk is one of the oldest markets in the Arab world. It’s also one of Muscat’s beating hearts, a must-see if you want to immerse yourself in the daily life of the local people. Tradition and modernity meet as you stroll through its narrow streets, in a vibrant and exotic atmosphere.
Inside the souk, you’ll find everything from foodstuffs to souvenirs of all kinds. And don’t forget to look up as you stroll through to admire the beautiful ceilings in some of the alleyways.
8. Stroll along the corniche
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After your visit to the souk, continue to put yourself in the shoes of a local by taking a stroll along the Muttrah corniche. This waterfront promenade is one of Muscat’s favorite spots.
You’ll enjoy it particularly at sunset, when temperatures cool and the horizon takes on a new color. Perhaps you’ll even stop off at one of the many café terraces to sip a refreshing lemon squeeze with mint?
9. Fish market
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Cesare Palma
For an even more authentic experience during your visit to Muscat, head for the Muscat Fish Market! Locals crowd around the makeshift stalls to buy freshly caught fish. The fish are auctioned off in a lively atmosphere.
But the recently rebuilt building is also of genuine architectural interest. Designed by Scandinavian architects, the immaculate canopy features elegant scrolls inspired by Arabic calligraphy.
10. Boat trip
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Marco Staller Granicher
The call of the sea is always felt in Muscat, and a boat trip is a lovely experience. Largely untouched by pollution, Oman Bay offers an abundance of marine life. So we can only recommend snorkeling excursions, or even dolphin watching.
By boat, you can also reach the idyllic coves of the Daymaniyat Islands. In addition, traditional boat excursions are offered at sunset, for a magical view of Oman’s coastline.
11. Omani Heritage Gallery
Photo credit: Flickr – Norbert Bánhidi
When traveling, it’s often difficult to find authentic local handcrafted souvenirs. The Muttrah souk itself is suffering somewhat from industrialization and globalization. Fortunately, theOmani Heritage Gallery offers a fine alternative showcase for local crafts.
This gallery exhibits and sells local handicrafts. You’ll find pottery, weavings, baskets, perfumes and jewelry, ideal for gifts and souvenirs.
How to get to Muscat
Muscat’s international airport is located on the outskirts of the city. From Paris, a few direct flights are offered each month by Oman Air. But the choice is much wider if you also consider flights with stopovers. In particular, you’ll find stopover connections with Air France KLM.
However, a number of other airlines also offer flights with stopovers (in Dubai, Dammam, Istanbul…) between Paris and Muscat. So, to see all the possibilities available to you on the date you’re interested in, the easiest way is to use a flight comparator.
At Muscat airport, you can easily rent a car to facilitate your onward travel. If you prefer not to use a car, you can take advantage of the cab service for your travels and excursions during your stay.
Where to stay in Muscat?
Muscat is a sprawling city, forming a long, narrow ribbon between the sea and the mountain range. To facilitate your visits and daily commute, we recommend you stay in the eastern part of the city, away from the airport.
In fact, this is where you’ll find most of the city’s attractions and monuments. Staying in the Muttrah district, for example, means you can easily stroll along the corniche and enjoy the bustle of the souk on a daily basis.
If you want to stay in a modern district close to the beaches, choose the Opera or Grand Mosque districts. Finally, if you’re looking for a more authentic experience, the Old Town, located at the eastern end of the city, will give you the change of scenery you’ve been dreaming of. Don’t hesitate to use a hotel comparator to find the accommodation that suits you best, or why not opt for an Airbnb.
Still a relatively unknown destination, Muscat is nonetheless overflowing with things to do and places to visit. This unique city is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories!
But it’s also an ideal starting point for a wide range of excursions in Oman. You can explore the wadis, creeks and natural treasures of the country. But also discover the traces of its history, scattered across a territory that boasts several Unesco World Heritage sites.
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