Top Things to Do in Muscat

Muscat, Oman

About the City

Ah, Muscat – the scintillating capital of Oman, a city cradled between rugged mountains and the azure blue waters of the Arabian Sea. It's where tradition tangos with modernity, where you can ogle at opulent opera houses by day and catch the soothing symphony of waddling waves by night. The city's corniche beckons for a leisurely promenade, while the air is perfumed with the scent of frankincense and spices that lure you into vibrant souks. Muscat's hospitality is legendary, with smiles as warm as the Omani sun welcoming you at every corner. But, oh dear wanderer, brace yourself for the Mercury surge; the sun here does play a fiery game, turning outings to a sweaty escapade, especially during the toasty summers. And let's not jabber away without mentioning the traffic – sometimes the roads seem to be in a perennial love affair with all things vehicular, leaving you dreaming of teleportation. There's also the wallet tug-of-war at fancy restaurants, where the prices might just make your wallet considerably lighter. Yet, beyond the heat, the bustling streets, and the splurging, Muscat stands as an Arabian gem, offering a dalliance with history, culture, and contemporary comforts that's as tempting as the cool breeze of a desert night.

Things to Do in Muscat

Pounce on Some Lokhemat

Food & Drink

Get your hands sticky with Lokhemat, the Omani answer to doughnuts that'll have you licking your fingers clean. These deep-fried golden balls of happiness are dunked in syrup or honey, and sometimes s...

Mountain Biking on Wadi Al Arbeieen's Trails

Outdoors

Fancy yourself as a mountain biking maverick? Wadi Al Arbeieen awaits with its rugged trails, rock gardens, and adrenaline-pumping descents. Make sure your brakes are in check, and don't forget to wea...

Master the Art of Omani Pottery

The Unexpected

Get those hands dirty and try your luck at the pottery wheel, Omani style! It's your chance to craft a clay masterpiece or at least a wonky souvenir. Local artisans will show you the ropes, and who kn...

Be a Beach Soccer Star at Al Qurm Beach

The Unexpected

Sun? Check. Sand? Double-check. Soccer in the sand? Now we're talking! Al Qurm Beach is calling all beach soccer enthusiasts—here's your shot to show off those sandy dribbles and kicks. Whether you jo...

Dive Into Omani Art Scene

The Unexpected

Fancy a splash of culture with a capital 'C'? Hit up Muscat's art galleries and be gobsmacked by the creativity on show. From contemporary canvases that scream 'modern genius' to traditional pieces th...

Unlock the Secrets of Frankincense

The Unexpected

Did someone say 'gold, frankincense, and myrrh'? Well, we're all out of gold and myrrh, but Oman's got frankincense covered! Dive into the aromatic world of this ancient resin that's right at home her...

Explore the Daymaniyat Islands

Outdoors

Hop on a boat and set off to explore the pristine Daymaniyat Islands. It's a sanctuary for wildlife and a dream for snorkelers with crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.

Glide in a Hot Air Balloon

Outdoors

Soar to new heights and get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning Omani landscape! Drift over the rugged mountains and the sprawling dunes as the world awakens below you.

Paraglide Over the Majestic Omani Landscape

Outdoors

Ready to catch some air and glide over the stunning scenery of Muscat? Paragliding is your ticket to feeling like a bird, minus the feathers. You'll be soaring with the wind, getting a killer view of ...

Trek Through Wadi Shab's Nature Trails

Outdoors

Strap on your hiking boots and prepare for an epic trek through Wadi Shab. You'll traipse across rocky paths, wade through clear waters, and be wowed by waterfalls and lush greenery. Remember to pack ...

Guzzle down some Qahwa

Food & Drink

Ready to jolt your senses with the traditional Omani coffee, Qahwa? This isn't your average cup o' joe; it's an aromatic brew lightly spiced with cardamom and served with dates to sweeten the deal. A ...

Wade through the Waters of Wadi Bani Khalid

Sights

Don your swimwear and prepare to make a splash at Wadi Bani Khalid! Natural pools with crystal clear waters are calling your name, and let's not forget about those Instagram-worthy (oops, forget I men...

Relish the Rustic Charm of Al Rustaq Fort

Sights

Roll back the centuries with a visit to Al Rustaq Fort, a historic monument that whispers tales of Omani glory. Towering walls, classic battlements, and a sense of stoic pride, this fort is your go-to...

Get Lost in Oman's National Museum

Sights

Bored of the beach? Culture-vulture your way through time at the National Museum. With galleries galore showcasing Omani heritage, you'll be an expert on everything from ancient boats to snazzy sultan...

Take a Sunset Stroll along Qurum Beach

Sights

Hit the sands of Qurum Beach and let the salty breeze mess up your hair while you watch the sun put on an orangey-pink show as it dips below the horizon. The beach vibe is totally chill, so leave your...

Gawk at the Stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Sights

Prepare your eyeballs for an architectural feast at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. With its colossal prayer hall and a chandelier that could light up your life, this place is a spiritual knockout. Ma...

Slurp on Lamb Harees

Food & Drink

Warm up with a bowl of Harees, a hearty porridge that's the epitome of comfort food in the Gulf region. Lamb is slow-cooked to perfection with wheat until it reaches a creamy consistency. This dish st...

Chomp on Camel Meat

Food & Drink

Brace yourself for the ultimate culinary dare – camel meat! This isn't your everyday protein, it's a delicacy that packs a punch with flavor and tradition. Served in stews, kebabs, or even burgers for...

Tuck into Tender Mashakik

Food & Drink

Skewer your appetite on Mashakik, Omani-style kebabs that'll have you hooked from the first bite! These succulent pieces of grilled meat are marinated in a mix of Omani spices that will tickle your ta...

Stargaze at the Wahiba Sands

The Unexpected

Escape the city lights and let the Omani night sky knock your socks off. Out in the Wahiba Sands, it's just you, the stars, and the sound of your buddy going 'Ooh! Was that a shooting star?!' Spoiler ...