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Muscat

Luxury Muscat Tours made for you

Vibrant markets, museums and old forts beckon

A blend of ancient charm and modern elegance

Set on a cove fringed by volcanic mountains and stark desert, Oman’s port capital Muscat is an intriguing blend of modern city architecture and historic buildings. You’ll see arched windows and fort-like castellations, mosaics, courtyards and desert rose limestone walls.  A little exploring uncovers Arab, Persian, Indian, Portuguese, African and recent Western influences in both the city itself as well as the customs and traditions of the people who call it home. 

The city was under Portuguese control from 1508 to 1650 and two 16th-century Portuguese forts, Al Jalali and Mirani, still look out over the harbour and the Arabian Sea from the clifftops. Parts of Muscat’s old wall are still standing, as well as some of its gates. And on the shore, you’ll find the sultan’s Indian-style palace. There are also numerous mosques here, one of the most notable being the marble-clad Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque with its 50m dome and remarkable hand-woven Persian carpet, one of the largest in the world. 

Delve into the city and country’s interesting history at a variety of museums here, from the Museum of Omani Heritage and the Oman Children’s Museum, to the Omani French Museum and the Omani Aquarium and Marine Science and Fisheries Centre. 

In the city itself, the vibrant souks beckon. Labyrinthine passageways are a feast for the senses, crammed with overflowing stalls selling everything from handmade footwear and traditional textiles, to ornate gold jewellery and beads. The treasure trove that is Mutrah Souk is certainly worth more than one visit. 

From our experts

Experiences picked by our Muscat specialists

Wander the old quarter within its ancient walls

Wander through the old quarter surrounded by 500 year old walls.

Look for dolphins on the Arabian Sea

Head out onto the Arabian Sea in search of dolphins.

Shop the souks

Explore the souks of Muscat, perhaps selecting a signature scent at the high perfumer Amouage.

A word from one of our experts

Muscat is a great first stop for any trip to Oman, a small city where the people are welcoming and ready to share their culture with you. Visit the souks, marvel at the Sultan Qaboos Mosque or enjoy a night of the arts at the Muscat Opera House all surrounded by the calm seas of the Gulf of Oman used as a shelter for dolphins with some great snorkelling spots.

Jack Beckford Senior Travel Designer

Luxury accommodation in Muscat

There are many incredible places to stay in Muscat. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

Why book with Jacada?

  • Personalised design

    We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

  • Authentic experiences

    Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

  • Responsible travel

    Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Trip inspiration

Get inspired with our Oman example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure

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Whatever you want from your Oman tour, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

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When to Visit

The best time to visit Muscat is between October to April, the winter months when the temperatures are still warm, but much more pleasant than the very hot summer months between June and August. These milder temperatures are perfect for exploring the city and markets.

City Exploring

October - April

Beat the Crowds

March - April

When Is the Best Time to Visit Oman

Oman Travel Guides

Plan your trip to Oman

Whatever you want from your adventure in Oman, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Don't take our word for it

Your trip, your story

We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.

Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.

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