Are you excited about going to Oman’s capital? Let’s take a look at the guide and choose your favorite places to visit and things to try. That makes your trip a lasting memory.
Getting to Muscat
The quickest and most convenient way to get there is by plane. Airlines like Emirates, Etihad Airways, Air Arabia, and Oman Air fly from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah to Muscat International Airport. The flight takes about 1 hour and costs vary depending on the airline and when you book your cheap flight ticket.
If you prefer a road trip, it is important to note that the distance between Dubai and Muscat is more than 450 kilometers. So the journey will take about 6 hours. Bus travel takes around 7 hours.
For a unique experience, you can go by sea from the UAE to Muscat. However, you would first need to reach Musandam by road or air. The ferry journey takes 5–6 hours.
Must-visit Places
When you arrive in Muscat, the first thing you need to do is decide which of the famous places you want to see first. You should visit these places to learn more about the culture and history of the city and country.
Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. It is a special landmark in Muscat. The mosque has a unique chandelier made of Swarovski crystals. But one of the most impressive features of the building is the handmade Persian carpet in the main prayer hall, which is one of the largest in the world.
The Sultan Qaboos Mosque is open to everyone, even those who are not Muslims. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon. But do remember to book tickets in advance and dress appropriately for the occasion.
Explore the Muscat Fort. The strategic position of the fort on a high point made it an important defense unit in the past. It was first captured by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later recaptured by the Omanis in 1650. In the early 20th century, it served as a jail. But now, the fort shows that Oman is strong and proud.
The fort has many rooms and corridors where people can see things that show Oman’s culture. So comfortable shoes and water are recommended for visiting, as there is some walking involved. The entrance ticket to the fort is $1.
See the Al Alam Palace. It must be next on your list of things to do in Muscat. It is the official residence of the Sultan of Oman. The palace was built in 1972 and underwent renovations in 2010. Today, it is famous for its blue and gold façade.
The best time to visit is during the day when the sun shines on the palace’s colorful colors.
Eating Out
There are a lot of different ways to eat out in Muscat. You can get a great meal at The Blue Marlin, one of the best eateries in Muscat. This restaurant is near the Al Bustan Palace Hotel. It has a great view of the Gulf of Oman and serves fresh fish and shellfish. The atmosphere is classy and luxurious, so it’s a good place for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Other top restaurants and cafés to try in Muscat include:
- Habboh Café;
- Nana’s;
- Kargeen Caff;
- D’Arcy’s Kitchen;
There are also many options for a fun and memorable evening out when it comes to nightlife in Muscat. Al Candle Café has a menu with international cuisine and shisha flavors. The Rock Bottom Café serves pub-style food and a selection of beers and cocktails. If you want a fancy nightclub, go to the Copacabana at the Grand Hyatt Hotel.
Activities and experiences
For budget travelers, Muttrah Souq is the perfect place to visit. This is not only a traditional market, but also a great place to find unique souvenirs and learn about the local culture. Everything from spices and textiles to gold and frankincense can be found here.
The Muttrah Souq has a fish market where you can see fresh seafood. You can also buy tasty local fruit and vegetables there. The best time to visit it is in the early morning, when the selection of fresh seafood is at its peak, and the atmosphere is special.
After exploring the markets, it would be a good idea to take a stroll along the Corniche promenade. This area has great views of the Gulf of Oman and the mountains nearby. It has many cute cafés, restaurants, and stores.
Day Trips from Muscat
If you want to see more of Oman’s natural beauty, you should visit Nizwa. This district is known for its date palm groves and high mountains in Oman. There are many things to do and see there, so it is a great place to visit in one day from Muscat.
One of the most prominent landmarks in Nizwa is the Fort. The 17th-century construction sheds light on Oman’s fascinating past and distinctive ways of life.If you want to have fun, Nizwa has many beautiful natural places to visit. The Jabal Akhdar mountains, also called the “Green Mountains,” are great for hiking. Another popular natural attraction close to Nizwa is the Wadi Ghul, also known as the “Grand Canyon of Oman.” This beautiful canyon has hiking trails and places to climb rocks. You can also see beautiful mountains and valleys nearby.
If you’re ready, let’s plan!
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