Muscat

Travel Guide

A cityscape with a prominent mosque with a blue dome and a minaret, set against a backdrop of mountains and a river reflecting city lights.
A densely packed cityscape with numerous white buildings, construction sites, and a distant view of the sea.
A rugged mountainous landscape with rocky terrain and sparse vegetation.
A desert landscape with mountains, a construction site, and a body of water in the background.
A display of gold jewelry including necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.

East meets west in this historical port city, home to lavish palaces, Portuguese forts and one of the oldest marketplaces in the Arab world.

Muscat has long played an important role in trade between the east and the west and its streets and attractions reveal its ancient harbor town history. Today, the city is made up of three main areas. Explore the ancient walled city of Old Muscat to discover its royal palaces and forts. Mutrah is a small fishing village in the harbor and the site of the famous maze-like market. The commercial heart of Muscat is in Ruwi.

Muscat lies between the rocky Western Al Hajar mountain range and the Gulf of Oman, giving the city a picturesque landscape of blue seas and dramatic mountains.

Start your day with an aromatic kahwa (Omani coffee), spiced with cloves and cardamom, in one of the city’s many coffee shops. Afterwards, learn about Muscat’s lively past as a prosperous trade town with ruling Omani sultans and as a part of the Persian and Portuguese empires.

Visit Old Muscat to see the extravagant official residence of Sultan Qaboos, called Al Alam Palace, nestled between two 16th-century Portuguese forts, Al-JalaliFort and Al-MiraniFort. Enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the harbor and the Gulf of Oman.

Get a taste for traditional Oman at the Mutrah Souk market, one of the oldest marketplaces in the world. Stalls overflow with glittering gold antiques, embroidered robes, incense, spices and fresh produce. Just a few minutes’ walk from the souk is the extensive Bait al Baranda Museum where you can immerse yourself in Muscat’s rich history and distinctive culture.

Muscat’s arid climate makes for long, hot summers and very warm winters with little rainfall. Drink plenty of bottled water and save the hottest part of the day for enjoying Omani dates and halwa sweets indoors.

Discover Muscat’s three districts by car. Sign up to a car rental service or take advantage of the affordable orange and white taxis that travel all over the city and beyond. Inexpensive buses also serve the city. Muscat International Airport is located approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers) west of Ruwi.

Where to stay in Muscat

Find the best Muscat areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Muscat
Learn more about Muscat
A large white building with multiple arches and a flag.

Shati Al Qurum

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Shati Al Qurum. A stop by Royal Opera House Muscat or Qurum Beach might round out your trip.

A building with the sign "MUTRAH SOUQ" and a dome on top.

Muttrah

Unique features of Muttrah include the shopping and restaurants. Make a stop by Muttrah Souq or Muttrah Corniche while you're exploring the area.

A beach with clear turquoise waters, a sandy shore, and a rocky cliff in the background.
Photo by Jules
Open Photo by Jules

Barr Al Jissah

Notable for its beaches, restaurants, and spas, Barr Al Jissah is a sought-after destination for many travelers visiting Muscat. If you want to see some sights in the area, check out Qantab Beach or Marina Bandar Al Rowdha.

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Ruwi

Shopping and restaurants are notable features of Ruwi. You might consider a stop by Sultan's Armed Forces Museum while you're exploring the neighborhood.

A coastal town with white buildings, boats on the water, and mountains in the background.

Al-Bustan

While visiting Al-Bustan, you might make a stop by sights like Marina Bandar Al Rowdha and Al-Bustan Roundabout.

Sheraton Oman Hotel

Sheraton Oman Hotel

5 out of 5
Ruwi Muscat
$107 nightly
The price is $122 total per night from Nov 21 to Nov 22
$122 total
Nov 21 - Nov 22
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Muscat. Enjoy free parking, a full-service spa, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9/10 Wonderful! (520 reviews)
"With Sheraton a wonderful is always guaranteed. We had fantastic six days. The staff, was by far, the best part of it. Everyone was kind, helpful and always with a smile. Our daughter enjoying talking with them. The pool is awesome, breakfast was fresh and varied and the room is big and well ..."

Reviewed on Oct 17, 2026

Sheraton Oman Hotel
Parkside Plaza Hotel - Muscat

Parkside Plaza Hotel - Muscat

4 out of 5
Sultan Qaboos St Muscat Muscat
$27 nightly
The price is $30 total per night from Nov 5 to Nov 6
$30 total
Nov 5 - Nov 6
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this family-friendly hotel in Muscat. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 coffee shops/cafes. Popular attractions Madinat Al Irfan Theatre and ...
Parkside Plaza Hotel - Muscat
The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort

The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort

5 out of 5
Al Mouj Muscat
$299 nightly
The price is $340 total per night from Dec 4 to Dec 5
$340 total
Dec 4 - Dec 5
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Muscat. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Al Mouj Golf and Al Mouj Marina are located ...
The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort
See all 413 properties in Muscat
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Levatio Suites Muscat, a member of Radisson Individuals

Levatio Suites Muscat, a member of Radisson Individuals

4 out of 5
Panorama Mall Muscat Muscat Governorate
Book a stay at this spa aparthotel in Muscat. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Qurum Beach and Panorama Mall are located ...
Levatio Suites Muscat, a member of Radisson Individuals
Fraser Suites Muscat

Fraser Suites Muscat

5 out of 5
Landmark Building Muscat Muscat Governorate
Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Muscat. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the room service ...
9/10 Wonderful! (173 reviews)
"A clean apartment which was perfect"

Reviewed on Nov 1, 2026

Fraser Suites Muscat
Citadines Al Ghubrah Muscat

Citadines Al Ghubrah Muscat

3.5 out of 5
South Al Ghubrah Bousher Muscat
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Muscat. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (137 reviews)
"Ice place to stay in Muscat. Great restaurant."

Reviewed on Oct 30, 2026

Citadines Al Ghubrah Muscat
See all properties in Muscat
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Muscat attractions

A beach at sunset with a calm sea, a rocky shoreline, and a few people walking along the promenade.
Photo by Awis Zarip
Open Photo by Awis Zarip

Qurum Beach

8.8/10 (352 reviews)
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Qurum Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Muscat. While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.
See properties

Things to do

Muscat Dolphin Watching Boat Amazing Trip

Muscat Dolphin Watching Boat Amazing Trip

$30
per adult
Muscat Dolphin Watching Boat Amazing Trip
Royal Opera House Muscat

Full Day Muscat City Private Tour

$368
per traveler
Full Day Muscat City Private Tour
Wadi Shab Shared Adventure: Sinkhole, Beach, Cave & Nature

Wadi Shab Shared Adventure: Sinkhole, Beach, Cave & Nature

$69
per adult
Wadi Shab Shared Adventure: Sinkhole, Beach, Cave & Nature
Evening Muscat City Tour

Budget friendly Evening Muscat City Tour

$50
per adult
Budget friendly Evening Muscat City Tour
Muscat: Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Excursion

Muscat: Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Excursion

$52
per adult
Muscat: Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Excursion
Muscat Dolphin Watching & Coastal Sightseeing Tour

Muscat Dolphin Watching & Coastal Sightseeing Tour

$35
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Muscat Dolphin Watching & Coastal Sightseeing Tour
See all activities in Muscat

Frequently asked questions

Is Muscat worth visiting?
Muscat is worth visiting for its unique blend of culture and experiences. Travelers can explore standout attractions like Muttrah Souq and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, discover distinct neighborhoods such as Qurm and Muttrah, and enjoy diverse dining with Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine.
When is the best time to visit Muscat?
The best time to visit Muscat is from November through March, when the weather is pleasantly mild and ideal for exploring. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of May through August are a good option, though temperatures will be warmer.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Muscat?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Muscat depend on what you want to see:

  • Qurm offers attractions like Marah Land, the PDO Planetarium, and the PDO Oil & Gas Exhibition Centre.
  • Muttrah features landmarks such as Mutrah Fort, Bait Al Baranda Museum, and the Samak (Fish) Roundabout.
  • Al Mawaleh South is home to Muscat City Centre Shopping Mall, Sahwa Gardens, and the Amouage Perfume Manufacture and Visitor's Centre.
  • Al-Bustan is known for Al-Bustan Palace, Marina Bandar Al Rowdha, and the Al-Bustan Roundabout.

What is Muscat known for?
Muscat is known for its historic Muttrah Souq, where travelers can explore local goods. It also features the impressive Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the relaxing Qurum Beach. Travelers can find a strong Asian food culture throughout the area, including in neighborhoods like Qurm and Muttrah.
What is a good itinerary length for Muscat?
A good itinerary length for Muscat is two to three days to see key highlights like the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muttrah Souq, and Qurum Beach. An extended stay of four to five days gives travelers time for a Muscat Full-day Private Tour with Sunset Dhow Cruise, a Muscat Dolphin Cruise, and exploring areas like Qurm. See Muscat Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Muscat?
Muscat offers cultural landmarks, vibrant markets, and unique water adventures for travelers to enjoy:

  • Explore Muttrah Souq, a traditional market for unique goods.
  • Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, an impressive architectural landmark.
  • Take a full-day private tour of Muscat, including a sunset dhow cruise.
  • Enjoy a Muscat Dolphin Cruise to see marine life.
  • Relax at Qurum Beach, a popular spot by the sea.

How do I plan a trip to Muscat?
To plan your trip to Muscat, search for hotels in areas like Qurm or Muttrah. Book flights, rental cars, and activities such as a Muscat Dolphin Cruise in advance. Plan outdoor time for early morning or late afternoon to best enjoy attractions like Muttrah Souq and Qurum Beach.
What cuisines can you find in Muscat?
In Muscat you can find Afghan cuisine, with dishes like Kabuli Pulao, Mantu, and Aushak. Travelers can also enjoy Middle Eastern options such as shawarma and falafel, as well as other Asian, European, Italian, and North American dishes. You'll also find various coffee shops and tea houses.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Muscat?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Muscat by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Muscat with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Muscat trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Muscat?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Muscat can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Muscat trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Muscat trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Muscat trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Muscat trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Muscat?
If it's your first trip to Muscat, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Muscat hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Muscat hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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