The 8 best places to visit in Oman

07.09.2024 - 17:27 / lonelyplanet.com

Sep 6, 2024 • 9 min read

Oman’s vibrant cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with the gifts of its terrain, and it permeates every travel experience here. 

The country’s stories are found everywhere you go, from the atmospheric lanes of Mutrah Souq in Muscat, where ornate khanjars (traditional daggers) and patterned kumma (headpiece worn by Omani men) showcase excellent craftsmanship and pride, to the cliffside villages of Jebel Akhdar where old men in sandals expertly navigate narrow farm trails and distill rose water in silver bowls. Every encounter in Oman evokes a strong sense of the land.

Few visitors realize that the history of the Sultanate of Oman dates back 10,000 years. Archeological finds and relics from the Neolithic period point to the presence of ancient settlements involved in the frankincense trade.

In the 17th century, Omani control of maritime routes and ports extended from the coasts of Persia (present-day Iran) to East Africa. Today, the country is known for its reverence for its natural landscapes and its perfect balance of tradition and modernity. 

Here are the best places to visit in Oman. 

Marvel at the effortlessly charming capital

In Muscat, stone forts with watchtowers and mansions with latticed balconies stand alongside low-rise buildings and contemporary architectural masterpieces, and it all fits together effortlessly. The capital of Oman has much to see, including charming museums in restored old houses, courtyard restaurants and swanky shopping malls. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, with its arched walkways, colorful mosaic tiles, ornate dome and Swarovski-crystal-studded chandelier, is an impressive example of modern Islamic architecture. 

At the Royal Opera House, take a guided tour to learn about the contemporary architecture inspired by historical fortresses. Check the schedule for showtimes: the venue hosts renowned productions from around the world. The Royal Opera House’s dress code requires suits or dinner jackets for men, dresses below the knee for women and no jeans, T-shirts or tennis shoes.

Admire whitewashed houses and blue-domed mosques along the 3km (1.9-mile) seafront promenade at Mutrah Corniche. Stroll toward Mutrah Fish Market for a closer look at the calligraphy-inspired slatted canopy roof and step inside to see the catch of the day. At Mutrah Souq, one of the oldest markets in the Arab world, you’ll find shops selling frankincense, lamps, local attire, pashminas, oud (perfume made from agarwood) and handmade sandals. 

Home to the legendary fort and pottery

The fortified oasis town of Bahla, where local legends and myths abound, is a must-visit for Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within the labyrinthine fort complex, built between the 12th and