MUSCAT

Muscat, the capital of Oman, is a city that charms you slowly and deeply. Nestled between rugged mountains and the sparkling Gulf of Oman, it offers a rare blend of tradition, tranquility, and understated elegance. Unlike many modern capitals, Muscat has preserved its authentic soul—no towering skyscrapers, just whitewashed buildings, ornate mosques, and winding coastal roads.

THE TOP HIGHLIGHTS OF MUSCAT

1. Prepare to Be Amazed:
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

If there's one place in Muscat that will leave you speechless, it's the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. This architectural gem is not just a mosque—it’s a masterpiece. You could easily spend hours here, wandering through its pristine marble courtyards, admiring the intricate details, and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Everything is spotless, polished, and perfectly maintained.

Step inside the main prayer hall and look up: you'll find a chandelier so grand it sparkles with over 600,000 Swarovski crystals. Yes, you read that right. It’s a jaw-dropping centerpiece that glows beneath one of the largest hand-woven carpets in the world.

The mosque is open daily, except on Fridays, and entry is free—but dress respectfully. That means long sleeves and trousers, and women should bring a scarf to cover their hair. These small gestures of respect allow you to fully appreciate the spiritual and cultural beauty of the space.

Whether it’s your first time visiting a mosque or not, this one will leave a lasting impression. It’s not just beautiful—it’s unforgettable.

2. Strolling the Mutrah Corniche

The Muttrah Corniche is one of Muscat’s most scenic spots—a beautiful waterfront promenade that curves along the bay, offering stunning views of the sea, the port, and the surrounding mountains. It’s the perfect place for a relaxed walk, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the light dances on the water.

You can easily park your car at the nearby fish market, which has a spacious lot right by the water. From there, it’s just a short walk to the Corniche, and you’ll be right in the heart of Muttrah’s old town.

It's easy to combine whit avisit to the Muttrah Souk, and the historic Al Mirani Fort. Together, they offer a great mix of culture, history, and coastal charm—all within walking distance.

3. Wandering Through Mutrah Souk

Stepping into Muttrah Souk feels like entering another world—one filled with winding alleyways, the scent of frankincense and spices, and the soft glow of traditional lanterns. It’s one of the oldest marketplaces in Oman, nestled right along the Corniche in Masqat, and it’s bursting with character. You’ll find everything from silver jewelry and antique daggers to colorful textiles, perfumes, and Omani sweets.

The souk is lively and atmospheric, with shopkeepers calling out friendly greetings and stalls packed with treasures. It’s easy to lose track of time as you explore the maze-like paths and soak in the sensory overload.

4. Al Mirani Fort: History with a view

Perched dramatically above Muscat’s old harbor, Al Mirani Fort is a striking reminder of Oman’s rich maritime past. Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later reclaimed by Omani forces, the fort stands as a symbol of resilience and architectural beauty. Its thick stone walls and commanding position once guarded the coastline—and today, they offer one of the best panoramic views in the city.

While the fort itself isn’t always open for interior visits, the exterior and surrounding viewpoints are absolutely worth your time. And if you’re looking for a moment that truly elevates the experience—go at sunset. As the sun dips behind the mountains and casts golden light over the Gulf of Oman, the entire harbor glows with warmth and history. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and unforgettable.

All of the highlights above we have done on the first day of our trip. The other highlights were for the end of our roadtrip.

5. Royal Opera House: where Culture meets Grandeur

Tucked in the heart of Muscat, the Royal Opera House is one of Oman’s most dazzling cultural landmarks. Opened in 2011 as part of Sultan Qaboos’s vision to promote the arts, this architectural masterpiece blends traditional Omani design with modern elegance. Think polished marble, intricate woodwork, and grand halls that feel both regal and serene.

It’s not just a feast for the eyes—the Opera House is a hub for world-class performances. From classical concerts and ballet to Arabic music and international theatre, the programming is as diverse as it is refined. Even if you’re not attending a show, the building itself is worth a visit. Guided tours are available, and the surrounding gardens and cafés make it a lovely spot to unwind.

Whether you’re a culture lover or simply curious, the Royal Opera House offers a glimpse into Oman’s artistic soul. It’s a place where tradition and innovation harmonize beautifully—and where every detail tells a story.

6. Al Alam palace: a Royal Gem in the Heart of Muscat

Al Alam Palace, the ceremonial residence of Oman’s Sultan, is one of Muscat’s most iconic landmarks. With its bold blue and gold façade and elegant Islamic architecture, the palace stands out as a symbol of modern royalty rooted in tradition. Though visitors can’t enter the palace itself, the view from outside is more than worth the stop.

What truly makes this spot special is its surroundings. The area around the palace is beautifully landscaped, with wide boulevards, manicured gardens, and impressive government buildings showcasing traditional Omani design. It’s a peaceful place to stroll, take photos, and soak in the grandeur of the capital.

7. An Evening at Al Mouj:
A Taste of Luxury Before Takeoff

If you’re looking for a sleek, modern contrast to Muscat’s traditional charm, Al Mouj delivers. We spent an evening here before our flight, and it felt like stepping into a completely different world—polished, upscale, and just a little over the top. Think luxury yachts, designer cafés, and waterfront promenades lined with palm trees and high-end restaurants.

It’s a great spot for a relaxed evening stroll, a fancy dinner, or a final coffee with a view. The marina is beautiful at sunset, and the whole area has a cosmopolitan vibe that’s worlds away from the rugged mountains and quiet wadis we’d explored earlier in the trip.

That said, while it’s fun for a visit, I wouldn’t choose to stay in a hotel here. It’s elegant, yes—but it lacks the authenticity and soul that make other parts of Oman so special. For us, Al Mouj was the perfect final stop: a little indulgence before heading home.

HOTEL AND RESTO TIPS

Our hotel stay

During our time in Muscat, we stayed at the Royal Tulip Hotel, and it turned out to be a fantastic choice. The rooms were spacious, stylish, and spotlessly clean—exactly what you want after a long day of exploring. One of the highlights? The rooftop pool. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, with panoramic views over the city and a peaceful vibe that makes you forget you’re in the middle of the capital.

Parking was super easy, which is a big plus in Muscat, and the location made it convenient to reach both the airport and the city’s main attractions. For what you get, the value for money is excellent—we’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking for comfort without breaking the bank.

Tried and tasted: Restaurant tips

When it comes to food recommendations, I like to keep things real. The restaurants listed below aren’t just random picks—they’re places we actually visited and genuinely enjoyed. Each one offered something special, whether it was the atmosphere, the flavors, or the warm hospitality.

So if you’re looking for spots that are truly worth your time (and appetite), these are our personal favorites—and absolute must-tries.

Zahr El-Laymoun: A Libanees restaurant in Al Mouj
Bait Al Luban: An Omani restaurant situated at the Muttrah Corniche