The Middle Eastern country of Oman is ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, and it has some incredible sights that range from historic castles, to desert canyons and rocky mountains.
I really enjoyed visiting this country, and would’ve liked to stay longer. It’s very underrated.
Here are 9 of my top things to do in Muscat, Oman!
Best Oman Tours
First of all, if you're wanting to explore Oman with a tour guide/driver and private car, my top recommendation would be Klook.
Oman is not the cheapest country to travel, but Klook has Rustaq day tours starting from $65 USD, and Nizwa tours for similar prices. Both of these tours start from Muscat, and they'll allow you to see some of the best Omani castles, forts, and traditional markets.
We've used Klook for lots of tours and activities around the world, and they're great! Highly recommended.
Book Now: Rustaq / Nizwa Tours
Top Things To Do In Muscat Oman
1. Grand Canyon of Oman
Did you know there’s a grand canyon in Oman? Neither did I, but the views at Jebel Shams are surprisingly similar to its twin in Arizona, so the name makes sense. The views looking down into this canyon are mindblowing.
2. Nizwa Souq
The souq (market) at Nizwa has a lot of interesting souvenirs, from traditional clay pots to Oman fridge magnets and more. I was only here for 20-30 minutes, but easily could have stayed longer!
3. Nizwa Fort
The Nizwa Fort is right next to the souq, and you can tour the entire building, complete with the same store rooms, old weapons, and artifacts from the 17th century. This is a good walk through history.
4. Nakhl-Barka Fish Market
If you plan to visit Rustaq, one place worth seeing on the way there is the Nakhl-Barka market. This is a traditional fish market, and there are all kinds of fish for sale here. It’s an interesting place to stop, for sure.
5. An Naman Castle
An Naman castle may not be as well known as some of the other forts in Oman, but I think it’s one of the most photogenic, and it just reopened after years of restoration work. It’s free to go inside!
Read More: An Naman Castle
6. Al Hazm Castle
This is one of the less known castles in Oman, but I still think it’s definitely worth a visit.
The inside of the fort has lots of interesting rooms, with secret chambers, prisons, and date store rooms; some of the rooms even have cannons, old rifles, daggers, and other 18th century artifacts on display.
Al Hazm Castle
7. Rustaq Fort
No trip to Oman would be complete without a visit to Rustaq Fort. This is one of the most well known forts in the country, and it’s also one of the most impressive looking. It’s well worth a climb to the top of this fort!
Read More: Rustaq Fort
8. Nakhal Fort
Nakhal Fort was probably my favorite castle/fort in Oman. Not only is it super photogenic from a distance, but going up to the rooftop also gives you some incredible views of the surrounding area.
Read More: Nakhal Fort
9. Al Thowarah Hot Springs
This is a natural hot spring very close to Nakhal Fort. The springs are nice, but I think an even better reason to come here is for the surroundings. Check out those mountains!
Best Tours In Oman
More Muscat Travel Tips
I hope you were helped by this list of things to do in Muscat, Oman.
Don’t forget to check out my complete Oman Travel Guide with free tips, info, photos, and more!
Where I Stayed
I stayed at the 2-star Mutrah Hotel in Muscat, in a private room for $38 USD per night. Oman is not the cheapest country to travel, but the room was big and clean, and the A/C was nice and cold.
The location was a big plus. There was a mini-mart right across the street, and it was near the Mutrah Souq (traditional market) and some other interesting places.
Prices may fluctuate from time to time, so just keep an eye out for a good deal.