These are the best things to do in Muscat if you have a day in the city to explore. I spent several days there myself as I was hanging out with friends, spending a total of six weeks in Oman.
But if I were visiting Oman for a short time, then I would spend just one night in Muscat to see some things there and then get out to see the rest of the country.
One day is enough to see the main things and this is what is recommended.
Mutrah Corniche Harbour Walk
The corniche along the harbour in the Muscat’s old city of Mutrah is a good place to start the day.
It’s the oldest part of Muscat and a nice stroll where you should be able to see old traditional dhow boats in the harbour and a few tea shops to relax in.
It’s more modernized than the past, obviously, so don’t expect a chaotic bazaar or anything like that, although Mutrah souq is worth stopping to have a browse around.
The walk ends when you get to the Al Mirani Fort area.
Al Mirani Fort, Al Jalali Fort, & Oman National Museum
The forts in Muscat are the main attraction of the old part of the city and is a nice walk from the Mutrah Corniche, taking around 30 minutes to walk to reach. You can see the forts and then visit the National Museum for a history of the country.
Another museum worth pointing out if you have the time after the fort area is the Sultan’s Armed Forces Museum showing the history of the military in the country, so if you’re interested in that head there. For me it was fascinating as my father had served a tour there from the British army helping the Sultan fight communist insurgents.
Muscat Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is the main mosque of Oman and is, given the title, grand.
After the Mutrah area head over there for a walk around to see the architecture of the building.
Stroll The Beach at Sunset
Head down to the long beach of Muscat after a long day exploring the other areas for a relaxing time on the beach.
Watch people play sports, have a cup of tea or whatever takes your fancy and relax.
Things To Do In Muscat at Night
The best things to do in Muscat at night is to sample the delicious Omani food and if you like it, sheesha. The food scene at night is great and smoking a traditional sheesha pipe is a very chilled out way to end the day in one of the many cafes that are around.
Where To Stay In Muscat
If you’re wondering where to stay in Muscat when there are a few choices, although if you are a backpacker your options are very limited as there isn’t really a hostel scene there.
You can find places to stay in Muscat here.
For more reading on Oman check out my in-depth guide to travelling Oman.
Also visiting the Musandam Peninsula and the Empty Quarter Desert.
My favourite guidebook for Oman is Bradt Oman.
I recommend using SafetyWing Travel Insurance for your trip, just in case, it’s best to be prepared.
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