Muscat Oman 6 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Old Muscat

Morning

  • Arrive at Muscat International Airport
  • Take a taxi or shuttle bus to your hotel in Old Muscat ( approx. OMR 10-15 / USD 25-35)

Afternoon

  • Visit the Al Jalali Fort and explore its historic walls and towers
  • Walk through the traditional souk (market) of Muttrah, exploring the stalls selling spices, perfumes, and handicrafts

Evening

  • Enjoy a welcome dinner at The Chedi Muscat, a luxurious hotel with a beautiful beachside location
  • Try some traditional Omani cuisine like shuwa (a rice dish with meat or fish) or luqaimat (sweet dumplings)

Accommodation: The Chedi Muscat or similar

Things to Know:

  • Respect local dress codes and cover your shoulders and knees when visiting mosques or government buildings
  • Oman is a conservative country, so avoid public displays of affection
  • Don’t forget to try some traditional Omani coffee and dates!

Day 2: Grand Mosque and Royal Opera House

Morning

  • Visit the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world (open Saturday to Thursday, 8 am - 11 am)
  • Marvel at the mosque’s intricate architecture and beautiful gardens

Afternoon

  • Head to the Royal Opera House Muscat, a breathtaking example of modern Omani architecture
  • Take a guided tour of the opera house and learn about its history and cultural significance

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Kargeen Caffe, a cozy restaurant serving international cuisine with an Arabic twist
  • Try some shisha (waterpipe) at a traditional Omani coffee shop

Accommodation: The Chedi Muscat or similar

Transportation:

  • Use taxis or ride-hailing apps like Careem or Oman Taxi to get around the city
  • Renting a car is also an option, but be aware that driving in Oman can be challenging for foreigners

Day 3: Wadi Shab and Tiwi

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Wadi Shab, a stunning natural gorge with turquoise pools and waterfalls (approx. 1-hour drive)
  • Hike through the wadi and swim in its natural pools

Afternoon

  • Visit the picturesque fishing village of Tiwi, known for its traditional boat-building industry
  • Enjoy lunch at one of the local seafood restaurants, serving fresh catches of the day

Evening

  • Return to Muscat and enjoy dinner at The Beach Restaurant at The Chedi Muscat
  • Relax on the hotel’s private beach or take a leisurely stroll along the coast

Accommodation: The Chedi Muscat or similar

Tips:

  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothes for hiking in Wadi Shab
  • Don’t forget your sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun
  • Be respectful of local fishermen and their boats when visiting Tiwi

Day 4: Nakhal Fort and Hot Springs

Morning

  • Visit Nakhal Fort, a historic fort built in the 17th century (approx. 1-hour drive)
  • Explore the fort’s impressive architecture and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside

Afternoon

  • Head to the natural Hot Springs at Nakhal, where you can relax and rejuvenate
  • Soak in the warm waters and enjoy a picnic lunch in the scenic surroundings

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Al Angham Restaurant, serving traditional Omani cuisine with a modern twist
  • Take a leisurely stroll around the hotel’s gardens or relax by the pool

Accommodation: The Chedi Muscat or similar

Things to Know:

  • Nakhal Fort and Hot Springs are located in a rural area, so be prepared for some rough roads and limited amenities
  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting forts and historical sites

Day 5: Qurum Beach and Bustling Markets

Morning

  • Spend the morning relaxing on Qurum Beach, one of Muscat’s most popular beaches (approx. 10-15 minutes from Old Muscat)
  • Take a leisurely walk along the beach, enjoy the sun, and try some water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding

Afternoon

  • Visit the bustling Ruwi Market, where you can find everything from souvenirs to spices
  • Explore the colorful stalls and haggle for some great deals

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Bait Al Luban Restaurant, serving traditional Omani cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
  • Take a stroll around the nearby Al Khuwair Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and street food

Accommodation: The Chedi Muscat or similar

Transportation:

  • Use taxis or ride-hailing apps to get around the city, as parking can be limited in some areas
  • Consider renting a car with a driver if you’re not comfortable driving in Oman

Day 6: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning relaxing at your hotel or exploring Old Muscat one last time
  • Visit any last-minute attractions or do some souvenir shopping

Afternoon

  • Take a taxi or shuttle bus to Muscat International Airport (approx. OMR 10-15 / USD 25-35) for your departure flight

Things to Know:

  • Check with your airline for any specific requirements, such as online check-in or luggage restrictions
  • Don’t forget to exchange some currency back to your home country or use an ATM before departing Oman