What to do in Nizwa? These are 6 tips for the authentic city in Oman
September 10, 2024
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Muscat, the Middle Eastern capital of Oman, is often the starting point of a tour of this beautiful country. Muscat is a fine, authentic city with beautiful sights. You can certainly spend two full days here. What is striking is how clean the city is and the number of expensive cars you spot here, but above all the relaxed atmosphere you feel throughout the city. In Muscat you will find yourself in a completely different world. Get to know the interesting Arab culture and enjoy the breathtaking location of the city between the mountains and the sea. Discover the sights in Muscat using our personal tips.
Different ways to explore the sights the city of Muscat
If you are visiting Muscat in Oman, then the Mutrah district should not be missed. This district is beautifully situated between the mountains and the sea, making it one of the most interesting places in Muscat. You will find here the most beautiful sights.
Depending on your personal preference, there are several ways to explore Muscat. We have visited the city twice. The first time on a Middle East cruise and then on an organized trip. We then took a round trip through Oman with Al Maamari Tours. A fine and reliable local tour operator who showed us the most beautiful places in Oman, and thus Muscat.
If you have a rental car available during your tour of Oman, you can of course visit the various sights by car. The roads in Muscat are good and there is more than enough parking space. Also, gasoline is very cheap. See SunnyCars' website for a large selection of reliable and affordable rental cars.
One last fun option, that is exploring Muscat on foot! When we A cruise through the Middle East made, we stopped at Mutrah port and took a walk of about 8 kilometers along the highlights of Muscat. Highly recommended!
Be sure to set aside a day for this walking tour so you can make several spots along the way. This is recommended not only because of the heat, but also so you have time to fully take in the city. Just make sure you have a good pair of shoes and a hat!
See the 8-kilometer walking tour below. Of course, you can also use this as inspiration for another kind of city tour of Muscat's sights, such as by (rental) car.
1. The fresh fish market in Mutrah
One of the highlights of Muscat is the Mutrah fish market. Start your day at Mutrah's local fish market where you can admire all kinds of fish, seafood and other types of seafood. The Gulf of Oman, the sea in direct connection with the open Indian Ocean, naturally provides an abundance of fresh fish. The market is therefore a feast for the eyes!
Want to see the fishermen returning with their fresh catch? Then make sure you get to the harbor early in the morning. An impressive and beautiful sight when the local fishermen come in in their white-and-blue boats. Although you'll find Oman's largest port here, this part of Muscat feels more like an authentic fishing village.
2. The Mutrah Corniche
The Mutrah Corniche is a sprawling boulevard that runs along the coastline from the port. Stroll the promenade past beautiful buildings, mosques, souqs, beautifully landscaped parks and many more attractions. The Mutrah Corniche is a draw for locals and tourists alike. It offers stunning views of the harbor, the Gulf of Oman and of the white buildings against the brown mountains. It is a place where people gather to chat, take a walk and watch the sunset.
Fun fact: when you are in Muscat, you will immediately notice how many light-colored buildings there are. Muscat is therefore known as the "White City. This is because the houses and other buildings are only allowed to be light colored. There are also restrictions imposed on the height of the buildings. You will therefore see almost only low-rise buildings in Muscat.
3. The Mutrah Souq
Strolling through the narrow streets of the Mutrah Souq is one of the highlights of a visit to Muscat. The Mutrah Souq is one of the oldest in the Arab world. It is an (organized!) chaos of hundreds of stores full of souvenirs, lamps, shisha pipes, clothing, spices and much more. It is Muscat's best place to succeed for nice souvenirs. A big plus is that you can walk around here without being forced to try and buy something. You can store at your leisure and the locals always remain friendly and good-humored.
4. The Mutrah Fort
Mutrah's skyline is dominated to the east by the impressive Mutrah Fort. Built by the Portuguese in 1580, this fort was used for military purposes. Visiting the fort is possible and recommended to do at sunset. You will then have an insane view of Mutrah with the contrasting white buildings along the Corniche.
5. Old Muscat
Old Muscat, the original historic city of Muscat, is separated from the rest of modern Muscat by coastal mountains. After passing Mutrah Fort, walk along the Mutrah Corniche to this old part of town. To the right of the road you will find a small bay with local dhow boats, a nice place to admire.
You will leave the harbor area of Mutrah when you pass the Goldfish monument and fountain on your left. As you walk, enjoy the beauty around you. The boulevard is beautifully landscaped and finished with colorful flowers and expanses of grass. Stroll along Al Riyam Park towards Muscat's old city gate.
In Old Muscat you will find several attractions, such as Al Alam Palace, Al Saidiya Street, Bait Al Zubair, Fort Al Jalali, Fort Al-Mirani, the Muscat Gate Museum (the old city gate) and the National Museum.
6. Al Alam Palace
Walk through the National Museum from Muscat to the extraordinary Al Alam Palace. The large square in front of the palace creates an impressive vista. The Al Alam Palace is the ceremonial palace of the Sultan of Oman. Located in the heart of old Muscat, the palace is beautifully surrounded by the historic forts Al Jalali and Al-Mirani. It is not possible to visit the palace, but a walk around the palace is well worth it.
7. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.
By far the most famous sight in Muscat is the gigantic, modern Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. A special place in Oman that you can visit only in the morning from 08:00 to 11:00 (when you are not a Muslim). The mosque is not part of the walking tour mentioned above, but is not to be missed when you visit Muscat.
At 416,000 square meters, the mosque is Oman's largest mosque. Both inside and out, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is incredibly impressive to behold.
Be sure to wear clothing from your ankles to your wrists, and your chest should also be well covered. For women, a headscarf is mandatory. Entrance to the mosque is free, but it is helpful to have cash with you to rent covering clothes if necessary.
Fine hotels to stay in Muscat
In the magical sultanate of Oman, you can enjoy in pure luxury and tranquility. Therefore, there are several beautiful and good hotels to be found in Muscat. We stayed at two hotels that we would recommend: the Radisson Collection Hotel Hormuz Grand (average between €85.00 and €130.00 per room per night in 2024) and the Mövenpick Hotel and Apartments Ghala Muscat (average between €85.00 - €100.00 per room per night in 2024). Both hotels are equipped with all amenities. The Mövenpick Hotel and Apartments Ghala Muscat has an infinity pool, but the Radisson Hotel is certainly not inferior to the Mövenpick Hotel in terms of pool.
Best travel period for visiting Muscat sights
The best time to travel to Muscat is during the months of November through March. The temperature is very pleasant then, with an average temperature between 25 and 29 degrees. May it be a little warmer for you? Then April and October are also good to do. Avoid the summer! The temperature in the summer months can rise above 40 degrees.
When planning your trip, also keep in mind Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. During Ramadan, for example, it is not allowed to eat and drink outside. Drinking a bottle of water on the street is also not allowed then. Restaurants also do not open until after sunset (with an exception for hotel restaurants). During Eid al-Fitr, in addition to restaurants, many places of interest are also closed.
Taking a tour of Oman
Would you like to take a round trip through Oman? Then get inspired by our blogs with travel inspiration for Oman. We provide practical tips for your trip and share our personal experiences. In addition, be sure to take a look at the website of the Oman Tourist Board: Experience Oman.
Carefree travel to Oman
Would you like to be helped with the planning of your vacation to Oman? As travel specialists, we would be happy to advise you! We help you on your way in a 1-on-1 video interview, but we can also organize the entire trip according to your wishes. Travel carefree and request a customized travel proposal for your trip to Oman.
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
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