Looking for somewhere new in the Middle East to stop over? Ever wondered about Muscat, Oman? Want some practical tips on where to stay, what to see, and how to get around? Muscat – Helpful Tips for Visitors is our personal experience exploring this city in 2024. We share our insights on where to stay, where to eat and drink, and things to see and do. Our guide reflects our travel style and aims to provide useful things to know before visiting this obscure destination.
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Why go to Muscat?
Oman and its capital, Muscat, are often overlooked in favour of places like Dubai, commonly used for shopping trips or flight connections. Yet this part of the world has a rich history, shaped by thousands of years of trade. Muscat is the perfect city to experience the Arabian Peninsula and learn about the role it has played in shaping the world we know today. It blends ageless heritage with modern life, where the ancient waterfront and old town remain much as they have for centuries, once welcoming ships laden with treasures. Frankincense still fills the air in the historic souqs, while rocky mountains, watchtowers, and forts surround the city. Grand mosques, palaces, beaches, and welcoming locals make Muscat a pleasant and rewarding alternative to mainstream Middle Eastern destinations.
- Country: Oman
- Capital: Muscat
- Best time to visit: September – November (June to August is hot)
- Budget/Mid-Range/Couple: AU$150 per day
- Currency: Omani Rial (OMR 1 = AU$4)
- Language: Arabic
- Visa: No
- Difficulty: 1 (1-basic & 5-challenging)
Getting to Muscat
Muscat has excellent air connections and can be reached easily from most parts of the world. The modern Muscat International Airport has everything you would expect, and getting into the city centre by taxi or bus is straightforward. Airport Bus A1 heads to the large interchange at Ruwi, where you can catch a bus or taxi to your accommodation.
Where to stay in Muscat
Muscat has no shortage of accommodation, catering to most budgets. High-end hotels dominate the old town and waterfront areas, while resorts are the main option in beachside areas such as Al Qurum. Ruwi is the city’s industrial and business district and offers some excellent mid-range choices. We based ourselves here and appreciated the good bus connections, wide range of eating options, and easy access to grocery stores.
Where to eat and drink in Muscat
The array of eateries in Muscat is impressive. Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Turkish offerings are abundant. Traditional Omani restaurants and cafes are also everywhere. Food is fresh, affordable, and comforting. Rice and the smell of homemade breads are never far away. The vegetable curries we ate here were particularly delicious.
- Get to Ananthapuri Indian (really tasty food, huge selection and plenty of vegetarian options. Gets packed on weekends)
- Don’t miss Royal House Restaurant (a relaxed spot on the waterfront with lovely staff)
- Check out Gauranga Bhaban Pure Vegetarian Cafe (popular with locals and great choice for snacks)
Things to see and do in Muscat
Mutrah is the old town of Muscat, and exploring its souq, alleys, and shops is a lot of fun. Gets very busy.
The Corniche runs along the water’s edge for the entire length of Mutrah and is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
Mutrah Fort has panoramic views over the city and out to sea.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is open to visitors on Monday to Thursday mornings. Very impressive. Remember to cover up. Bus number 1 stops here.
Immerse yourself in local life by visiting the busy fish market and fruit shop, just a short walk from the old town.
Qurum Beach is the top spot for cooling off and enjoying the sea.
Museums are not only a great way to learn about local culture and history, but also perfect for escaping the heat. Bait Al Zubair and the National Museum are both worth a visit.
Al Alam Palace and Al Mirani Fort are notable attractions just a ten-minute bus ride from the old town.
For day trips from Muscat, Nizwa Fort is a large seventeenth century castle surrounded by souqs and is very popular with visitors. Tour agencies and hotels offer trips, but it’s also possible to reach by bus – though a couple of changes are required, so staying overnight is a better option if using public transport.
Other rewarding trips include Bimmah Sinkhole and Wadi Shab. It’s worth shopping around or checking online for the best deals.
The surroundings are unique and striking, from ancient stone forts perched on rocky outcrops to grand palaces and mosques.
Getting around Muscat
Buses are the easiest way to get around Muscat for both locals and travellers. They are clean, regular, affordable, and punctual, with friendly Omani drivers who are happy to help. Bus A1 runs from Ruwi to the airport, while Bus 4 connects Ruwi with the old town. Taxis are also widely available and can be shared to save money.
Useful things to know before visiting Muscat
Oman is a conservative country, be respectful.
People are very helpful and friendly. Be polite, and spend a few minutes chatting with them.
It’s hot most of the year, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and stay hydrated.
Oman is considered one of the safest countries in the world.
Muscat has many attractions, and Oman is home to five UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Alcohol is not popular, but can be found in bars at high-end hotels.
The old town and waterfront areas are the most expensive. Staying and eating away from these areas is much more affordable.
Final thoughts on travelling in Muscat
Oman is an amazing country. Its capital, Muscat, may appear a little unusual at first, but after spending a few hours here, you will appreciate that life here is not so different from anywhere else. The people are extremely welcoming and helpful, going about their daily routines – heading to work or school. They have dreams, like everyone else. The surroundings are unique and striking, from ancient stone forts perched on rocky outcrops to grand palaces and mosques. Muscat is tidy and well presented, reflecting a country that takes pride in itself. For travellers, Oman and Muscat offer the chance to experience something different, making a visit both rewarding and enjoyable.
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