Top 10-list best thing to do & see in Muscat
By: Patricia

By Erika Anggreini

With its stunning architecture, rugged mountains and heavenly beaches, the Sultanate of Oman is the perfect destination for those keen to explore. And much more than the beauty of the landscape, there is so much culture and history to experience, from His Majesty Sultan Qaboos’ Royal Palace to the traditional Muttrah Souk (market) to several interesting museums on the Sultanate’s culture, tradition and heritage.

Depending on how much time you have, you can still experience Muscat in the following time frames: one hour, half a day, one week or longer!

Top 10-list best thing to do & see in Muscat:

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in Oman. Opened in May 2001, this serene building rises above the surrounding area, its minarets standing tall against a background of mountains in a landscape, which is quintessentially Omani.

The Bait Al Zubair Museum, which houses the finest and most comprehensive collection of traditional Omani weaponry, jewelry and costumes in the Sultanate, is also well worth a visit.

Royal Opera House Muscat

Located in Shatti Al-Qurm district, Royal Opera House Muscat is Oman’s premiere venue for arts and culture. Officially opened in October 2011 with an impressive first season performances by Plácido Domingo, Andrea Bocelli, and soprano Renée Fleming.

Diving and Dolphin watching

Oman has an exceptionally diverse marine life and less crowded. The best month for diving is from April to July. The Sultanate’s coastline is home of a variety of dolphins and whales.

Get a 4x4

A 4x4 will get you to most places in Oman, from exploring endless rolling sand dunes of Wahiba Sands to peering at sunset at Jebel Shams.

Jebel Shams is the highest peak in the Arabian Peninsula and often described as Oman’s version of the Grand Canyon.

Dune bashing is one of the major attractions of Oman and you have not been to Oman until you explore the Wahiba Sands.

Overnight stay is recommended.

Turtle watching

Five species of turtle frequent Omani waters and four of these – Green, Loggerhead, Olive Ridley and Hawksbill nest on Oman’s beaches.

Turtle watching is now one of the most popular highlights to visit Oman. In order to protect the environment, special measures have been taken to control the number of visitors.

Muttrah Souk

You must visit the Muttrah Souk, the oldest in Oman, to experience local trading and bargaining. This colorful and busy market offers a true authentic experience as you pass the stalls trading in Omani silver ornaments and traditional handicraft.

You can also visit nearby fish market to watch the fishermen bring their catch directly from their boats and sell to the local community. Best time to go is early in the morning.

Amouage Factory

Learn how the world's most expensive perfume is made from a combination of more than 120 natural ingredients using the ancient art of Arabian perfumery.

Musandam

Located in the northern border of Oman, separated from the rest of the country by the United Arab Emirates. Musandam offers magnificent scenery of the mountains and sea. The best way to get to Musandam is by sea with excursions in boats and dhow (traditional sailing vessel) being offered.

Salalah

In summer time, Salalah, with temperature 10 – 15 degrees lower is the envy of the Gulf. Salalah is also the birthplace of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

High tea at Al Bustan Palace

Al Bustan Palace represents a landmark in its contemporary architectural development. The crowning glory of the architecture is the lobby, which is a vast cathedral-like atrium rising 38 metres in height, and tge 18 metres long cascading crystal chandelier.

The inner atrium serves the hotel’s lobby and tea lounge where guests can enjoy varieties of tea.

ABOUT THE BLOGGER:

Erika is a PR lady currently based in Muscat, Oman. Loves traveling, photography, fashion, and a gourmet/ foodie. Giving her best on social media.