Explore the must-see cities of Oman, from Muscat to Bidiyah

Muscat, much more than a capital

In the Gulf of Oman, on the shores of the Arabian Sea, is the capital of the country: Muscat. It’s one of the oldest cities in the country and that’s why you won’t be able to stop wandering around the old town which is also known as Mutrah. When you have visited all the stalls in the souk and tasted the gastronomic delights of the area such as dates or fresh fish, it’s time to delve into the great monuments of the city.

The Grand Mosque of Sultan Qaboos and the opera are waiting for you! Take advantage of it, since this is one of the few mosques in the Arab world that allow entry to foreigners.

Heading south: Salalah

Salalah is the old capital and is still one of the preferred locations of tourists. Although its beaches are one of its great attractions, Salalah is the ideal place if you want to discover in depth the fauna of the country. You will see camels, donkeys and cows every day, but on the coast you will also spot dolphins, get to know the little turtles and the birds that feed on the crystal clear waters.

The castles of Nizwa

Very close to Muscat is Nizwa, one of the true jewels of the country. The souk and the old town will allow you to spend many hours walking and discovering the Omani culture, but this city also offers you the chance to get to know some of the most impressive constructions in Oman.

The Nizwa Fort or the Jabrin Castle, just half an hour away by car, are some of the must-sees that you can’t miss out on your route.

Heavenly beaches in Masirah

Tired of being on solid ground? Don’t worry: with a ferry you can reach the island of Masirah, the perfect place to rest after touring the cities of Oman.

Thanks to its small size it’s very easy to travel all the beaches of the coast and look for the most crystalline waters of the country and the most heavenly landscape of the Arab world. Will you join the challenge?

In the oasis of Bidiyah

Another natural beauty of Oman is the desert. Our recommendation is to start from Bidiyah, an oasis that unites the semi-nomadic populations that live in the surroundings of the Wahiba desert.

To enjoy the full experience it’s best to camp one night on the sand. You will be able to contemplate the sunset and the impressive night sky dotted with stars. Oman has all of this and much more to offer its visitors. If you have been wanting to know more about its architecture you have to include the forts of Nakhal and Bahla in your route.

To enjoy the mountain scenery, don’t miss Wadi Bani Khalid.