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Muscat, the capital city of Oman, is a beautiful blend of ancient history, cultural vibrancy and stunning landscapes. Places to visit in Muscat offer a unique experience to immerse in historical marvels, awe-inspiring natural sites and bustling souks. From majestic palaces and grand mosques to scenic beaches, Muscat has countless tourist attractions for every type of traveller. Explore Muscat’s best tourist places, each with a distinct story to tell and make your Muscat trip unforgettable.
Top 10 Places To Visit In Muscat
Experience the wonders of Muscat through this Muscat tourist places’ list that showcases some of the city’s most sought-after tourist spots:
1. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Photo: Riyadh Al Balushi / Wikimedia Commons
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is one of the top tourist attractions in Muscat. It showcases beautiful Islamic and Omani styles of architecture and elaborate decorations. Known for its stunningly large prayer hall that accommodates 6,500 people at the same time and crystal chandeliers, this mosque is an iconic structure in Oman. As a place of worship, visitors are advised to dress modestly when entering and respect the local customs and sanctity of the place.
Average Cost: Free (donations are accepted)
Location: Sultan Qaboos St, Muscat
2. Mutrah Souq
Photo: Georg Karl Ell / Wikimedia Commons
Mutrah Souq is one of the oldest marketplaces in Oman, offering a glimpse into Muscat’s traditional commerce. The market place is known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich variety of goods, both local and international. This market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, spices and jewellery. The alleys of this souq are filled with scents, colors, spices and tasty snacks such as Omani Halwa and delicious heartwarming traditional coffee.
Average Cost: Shopping prices vary between OMR 1 – OMR 5 / ₹220 – ₹1,100
Location: Mutrah Corniche, Muscat
3. Al Jalali And Al Mirani Forts
Photo: Eduard Marmet / Wikimedia Commons
These twin forts, perched above the city, are must-visit tourist places in Muscat for their historical significance and impressive views. Built in the 16th century, they were once defensive structures to protect the trading hub of Oman. These now serve as historical monuments that add to the city’s charm. The architecture reflects the Portuguese defense architecture blended with traditional Omani style design. These beautiful forts are historic places to visit in Muscat.
Average Cost: Free (not open to the public, but viewable from outside)
Location: Near Al Alam Palace, Old Muscat
4. Royal Opera House Muscat
Photo: Juozas Šalna / Wikimedia Commons
The Royal Opera House Muscat, opened in 2011 by Sultan Qaboos bin Said, is a cultural gem. It is a significant addition to the Muscat tourist places list. It was built to promote art and culture in Oman and to create an artistic space in the Arabic country. The building is architecturally impressive and hosts various performances. This includes opera, ballet and symphonies, making it a perfect place for art enthusiasts.
Average Cost: Tickets for OMR 2 – OMR 10 / ₹420 – ₹2,100
Location: Shati Al Qurum, Muscat
5. Qurum Beach
Photo: Akhmad Fauzi / Wikimedia Commons
Qurum Beach is one of the most popular places to visit in Muscat for a relaxing day by the sea. With its golden sand, calm waters and vibrant sunset views, it’s perfect for families or anyone looking to unwind. Tourists can enjoy various water activities, such as swimming, jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking and paddleboarding. The beach is surrounded by cafes and restaurants, making it an ideal place to enjoy local seafood.
Average Cost: OMR 2 – OMR 6 / ₹420 – ₹1,300 for beach activities
Location: Qurum, Muscat
6. Muscat Gate Museum
Photo: Firoze Edassery / Wikimedia Commons
Muscat Gate Museum, opened in 2001, is located near the old city gates and provides a fascinating glimpse into Muscat’s history. The museum exhibits artifacts from the city’s past, including pieces from the pre-Islamic period and the rise of the Sultanate. One of the most popular displays at the museum is the Falaj irrigation system. It offers visitors an educational experience while exploring the evolution of Muscat.
Average Cost: Entry fee for OMR 0.5 / ₹100
Location: Al Shati Street, Muscat
7. Bait Al Zubair Museum
Photo: Ji-Elle / Wikimedia Commons
Bait Al Zubair Museum is dedicated to preserving Oman’s cultural heritage. The museum is divided into four sections. This includes Bait Al Bagh, which is the main building; Bait Al Oud, the house of Oud; Bait Al Nahdah, the house of Nahdah; and Gallery Sarah. The museum showcases traditional Omani artifacts, including costumes, jewellery, weapons and other historical objects. It also provides insight into the country’s royal family and its contributions to Oman’s development.
Average Cost: Entry fee for OMR 1 / ₹220
Location: Al Saidiya Street, Muscat
8. Wadi Shab
Photo: Davide Mauro / Wikimedia Commons
Wadi Shab is a stunning natural area located just outside Muscat, perfect for hiking and swimming. The Wadi features emerald-colored pools, waterfalls and rugged cliffs. A hike through the wadi rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the lush green landscape and crystal-clear waters. Located near Tiwi village, you can take a scenic boat ride to the picturesque place. Here you can take a dive into the pools hidden in the ancient caves.
Average Cost: Entry fee & guided tours for OMR 2 – OMR 5 / ₹420 – ₹1,300
Location: 1.5-hour drive from Muscat
9. The National Museum Of Oman
Photo: Yusi AlK / Wikimedia Commons
The National Museum of Oman offers an in-depth look at the country’s heritage. It covers everything from Oman’s ancient civilization to its modern history. The museum exhibits include archaeological finds, traditional clothing and artifacts detailing Oman’s role in regional trade. The museum displays over 5000 artifacts that cover various themes such as history, geology, maritime history, the royal heritage of Oman and much more. This museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Average Cost: Entry fee for OMR 1 / ₹220
Location: Al Kharijiyah, Muscat
10. Al Mouj Marina
Photo: Salah Almhamdi / Wikimedia Commons
Al Mouj Marina is a luxurious waterfront destination offering fine dining, shopping and leisure activities. This marina is home to a large fleet of yachts, making it a great spot for water sports or simply enjoying the waterfront views. The area also hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year. It is one of the most luxurious and lively places to visit in Muscat for the best experience of the Omani lifestyle.
Average Cost: Dining / activities for OMR 5 – OMR 20 / ₹1,100 – ₹4,300
Location: Al Mouj, Muscat
The places to visit in Muscat offer a taste of the rich culture of the historical trading center. Muscat is a city full of cultural and natural wonders, offering everything from historic forts to beautiful beaches. Make sure to visit these Muscat tourist places to get a true feel of the city’s charm and diversity. With its warm hospitality and stunning landscapes, Muscat is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. Book your trip with TripXL to explore all major tourist attractions in Muscat.
Cover Photo: Matti Blume / Wikimedia Commons
