33 Best Places to Visit in Oman

Famous for its ornate Islamic architecture and natural landscapes, Oman is a country that has a lot to explore. The little-known corner of the Arabian Peninsula has gold-domed mosques, excellent beaches lining the coast and several heritage sightseeing spots drawing several tourists to the country every year.

If you wish to spend a vacation at this destination, keep reading to know about the top tourist places to visit in Oman.

Currency in Oman - The official currency in Oman is the Oman Rial (OMR). 1 Oman Rial (OMR) equals 212.76 Indian Rupee as on 09 March 2023*.

*Currency rates are subject to the market exchange rate.

Be it an adventure tour, visiting the shimmering golden dunes of the Empty Quarter or the bustling souks of Muscat, one can never run out of things to do in the country. In addition, this country has some of the most spectacular desert landscapes in the world.

Oman is famous for its many forts, castles, and palaces. Each one of them offers unique architecture and grandeur making it the top tourist attraction in the world. Here goes the list of some popular spots:

1. Al Sawaiq Fort, Al Batinah

One of the top tourist attractions in Oman, the entrance of Al Suwaiq Fort faces the sea and consists of 3 circular-shaped towers which are 60 metres in length and 43 metres wide. There is a smaller fort inside this fort. However, it used to be the headquarters of the governor and was built of Omani plaster, mud and stones.

• Entry Fees: Free
• Location: Region of Al Batiinah, Northeastern Oman
• Timings: Open 24 hours

2. Al Jalali Fort, Muscat

Al Jalali Fort, standing tall at 506 feet, is one of the best tourist places to visit in Oman. It offers a splendid view of the entire city of Muscat. The narrow streets inside the fort are lined with hundreds of shops selling everything from spices and clothes to jewellery and souvenirs from Oman. There are also numerous restaurants where you can eat delicious food at reasonable prices. However, entry is allowed strictly only after the permit.

• Entry Fees: Free
• Location: JH8X+P4V, Al Bahri Road, Muscat, Oman
• Timings: 8.30 am to 7:00 pm

3. Al Alam Palace, Muscat

One of the top tourist attractions to visit in Oman, Al Alam Palace has lush green gardens as well as the Muttrah Harbour that surrounds flamboyant Islamic architecture. A visit to this place offers a close view of Omani architecture and design. Distinguished guests who visit the country are accommodated at this official residence.

• Entry Fees: Free
• Location: JH8V+9V8, Muscat, Oman
• Timings: Open 24 hours

4. Nizwa Fort, Nizwa

Oman’s most famous monument, the Nizwa Fort is the most-visited tourist attraction that reveals a lot about the glorious history of the country. The inscriptions in its interiors deliver fascinating detail about the fort. On Fridays, locals bring forth their goats, camels and sheep for a parade.

• Entry Fees: 5 OMR
• Location: Ad Dakhiliyah Region, Oman
• Timings: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

5. Sohar Fort, Sohar

An eminent historical landmark in Al Batinah North Governorate, Sohar Fort is famous due to its outstanding location and the significant role it played throughout the earlier centuries. Presently the fort consists of a museum highlighting several archaeological and historical aspects of Sohar City. It features the essential role played during the copper trade in this city and many more aspects.

• Entry Fees: Free
• Location: Al Batinah North Governorate, Oman
• Timings: 8:00 am to 1:30 pm

6. An Naman Castle, Barka

More of a fort than a castle, An Naman Castle is an impressive structure and falls in the list of top tourist attractions in Oman. This castle stands in a small courtyard amidst large shady trees. The interiors of this castle are marvellous and well maintained as this castle was renovated very recently.

• Entry Fees: Free
• Location: Al Batinah North Governorate, Oman
• Timings: 7:30 am to 5:00 pm (Saturday to Thursday), 8:00 am to 11:00 am (Friday)

Oman is well-known to offer some of the most picturesque mosques in the Middle East having unique designs engraved on them. So, do not forget to check out these top mosques that speak volumes about the culture and focus on their skilled architecture.

7. Maizoon Mosque, Muscat

Maizoon mosque, also known as Mazoon mosque is a beautiful mosque that flaunts a basic look with outstanding arches and classic Islamic architectural design. The stunning interiors highlight calligraphy impressions, exquisite lamps and beautifully-inscribed wooden doors making the place serene and a must-visit spot to visit.

• Entry Fees: Free
• Location: 514 Al Mazoun Street, Sib, Oman
• Timings: 4:00 am to 10:00 pm

8. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is huge with a 416,000 square metres area and allows 20,000 worshippers at a time. It took almost 7 years to finish this building and the interior of this mosque consists of a completely different charm. The central chandelier of the mosque is made from Swarovski Crystal. Additionally, the mosque’s floor is covered in a unique Persian rug, which is the second-largest in the world.

• Entry Fees: Free
• Location: H9MQ+GFF, Sultan Qaboos Street, Muscat, Oman
• Timings: 8:00 am to 11:00 am

9. Mohammed Al Ameen Mosque, Muscat

Mohammed Al Ameen Mosque, also known as Bahwan Mosque, is spanning over an area of 20,300 square metres and allows 2100 worshippers at a time. You can see this building far from any road connected to Muscat. The blue lights that surround this mosque wonderfully highlight the golden lighted domes.

• Entry Fees: Free
• Location: HCH7+CJ5, 23rd July Street, Muscat, Oman
• Timings: 3:30 am to 10:00 pm

10. Al Khor Mosque, Old Muscat

Al Khor Mosque, initially known as Masjid Al Shuhadaa is popular as the “Family Mosque” since there are several senior members of the Royal Family that offer prayers in it. This ancient mosque has 2 blue-coloured domes. In addition, you will find tinted walls, blue, white and brown tiles, and the walls, all designed with golden inscriptions from the Quran.

• Entry Fees: Free
• Location: Near Al Khor Corniche Park and Al Khor Museum, Oman
• Timings: 9:00 am to 10:00 pm

11. Al Zulfa Mosque, Zulfa

Al Zulfa Mosque is known as the “Royal Guards of Oman Mosque” and consists of geometrical shapes and designs in the buildings and their floors. It is one of the stunning mosques of Oman, consisting of 20 domes which have green and gold hues. Apart from this, this mosque adorns Islamic designs, shapes and colours that accentuates its architecture.

• Entry Fees: Free
• Location: M56F+72P, Seeb, Oman
• Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

Be it the postcard-like beauty of Muscat or the lush greenery of the mountains in Barka, Oman has that old-school charm catering to every traveller’s interests in diverse landscapes. Here is a list of the landscapes that you must visit in Oman:

12. Jebel Akhdar Mountains, Nizwa

Jebel Akhdar is a popular destination among adventure buffs and trekkers. A trek to Jebel Akhdar will allow you to peek at the authentic Omani villages. Besides trekking, people can also hire guides to take a stroll around the place and discover the gardens and orchards that give this place its charm.

• Entry Fees: 5 OMR per adult, 1 OMR for children; 10 OMR per adult for foreigners, 1 OMR for foreign children
• Location: North-Eastern part of Oman
• Timings: Open 24 hours

13. Falaj Daris, Nizwa

Falaj Daris is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest falaj in Oman, providing Nizwa with water required for plantation. A small section of the falaj has been turned into a park where several locals frequently visit to rest and relax amidst the serenity.

• Entry Fees: 7.350 OMR
• Location: Nizwa, Oman
• Timings: Open 24 hours

14. Al Kasfa Hot Spring, Rustaq

Al Kasfah hot spring is famous for being a natural remedy for rheumatic diseases as it consists of minerals. Apart from ensuring treatment for skin diseases, this hot spring is ideal for people and serves as a therapy for tired and aching knees and joints. The water is a bit hot, but once you can sit inside and cover your body with the water it feels relaxing.

• Entry Fees: Free
• Location: 175 km East of Muscat, Oman
• Timings: Open 24 hours

15. Ayn Razat Mountain Cave, Salalah

Ayn Razat Mountain Cave is easily accessible via a stone staircase and is an ideal place to explore for adventure buffs. The steps here are barricaded from both ends to prevent falls from height. Inside the cave, you will find a stone curved bench, where you can relax after climbing the steps. As you reach the top, you will get a superb view of Ain Razat’s surroundings including the water channel and the garden.

• Entry Fees: Free
• Location: Dhofar Region of Southern Oman
• Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

16. Wadi Darbat Valley, Dhofar Region

Wadi Darbat nestled amidst the majestic hills on all sides gives you a chance to observe a wonderful waterfall here. An ideal place for nature lovers there are numerous caves and you can hike up to them to explore the landscape.

• Entry Fees: 5 OMR
• Location: Taqa Wilayat of Dhofar Region, Oman
• Timings: 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm

17. Wadi Shab Valley, Between Muscat and Sur

The Wadi Shab is a famous outdoor attraction for locals and tourists in Oman. This beautiful wadi is surrounded by picturesque hills, waterfalls, and date palms making this place a picture-perfect destination. However, to reach there you will need to hike for about 40 minutes.

• Entry Fees: Free
• Location: Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, Sur, Oman
• Timings: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm

18. Al Hoota Cave, Jebel Shams

Al Hoota Cave is a top tourist attraction and is ideal for those interested in history or archaeology. It is a fantastic destination, where one could encounter as many as four lakes during the tour of the cave. Garra Barreimiae, a rare blind fish, lives in these lakes. The Al Hoota Cave Museum houses artefacts from prehistoric days, such as pottery shards, stone tools, etc.

• Entry Fees: 7 OMR
• Location: Western Hajar, Al Hoota Caves Access Road, Rwadah-Hamra Road, Al Hamra, Oman
• Timings: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm

The Sultanate of Oman is well-known as it has a fantastic coastline facing the Arabian Sea. These exquisite and unspoilt beaches of Oman boast clear water and calm waves that must be on your itinerary list as you visit Oman.

19. Qurum Beach, Muscat

Qurum Beach is one of the top attractions in Oman and the favourite spot for watersport lovers. The beach has many cost-effective hotels and affordable restaurants in its close proximity. The view here is breathtaking as you will enjoy clear blue water surrounded by white sand beaches and lush green palm trees swaying in the breeze enough for comforting your mind and soul.

• Entry Fees: Free
• Location: Qurum Beach, Muscat, Oman
• Timings: Open 24 hours

20. Qantab Beach, Muscat

Qantab Beach is a rocky sea beach with various rock formations along the coast. This beach is overlooked by a giant limestone crag. However, there are several small shops around the sea beach so that you can engage in purchasing local souvenirs. Besides, this beach offers fishermen's taxis that can be hired by tourists to go to the sea.

• Entry Fee: Free
• Location: Al-Bustan, Oman
• Timings: 24 hours

21. Tiwi Beach, Muscat

Tiwi Beach is an ideal location for those looking for a getaway not far away from the city. It is located on the outskirts of a small village.  It is a very popular picnic spot and is filled with tourists as well as locals. Nevertheless, the beach is never crowded. People can also enjoy activities like swimming and diving on this beautiful beach.

• Entry Fee: Free
• Location: East Coast of Oman
• Timings: 24 hours

22. Al Bustan Beach, Muscat

Al Bustan beach, located in the city of Muscat, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Oman. This beach is the perfect destination for activities like swimming, snorkelling and diving as well as water sports like kayaking and jet skiing.

• Entry Fee: Free
• Location: Muscat, Oman
• Timings: 24 hours

23. Yiti Beach, Muscat

Yiti beach is one of the beaches which is known to a few people only. It is secluded and makes the perfect destination for a private getaway. There are cliffs and rocky edges complimented with clear azure water and soft sand beach. The place is perfect for camping or picnics and allows activities like swimming, diving and fishing.

• Entry Fee: Free
• Location: Muscat, Oman
• Timings: 24 hours

24. Al Mughsail Beach, Salalah

Al Mughsail Beach is in the city of Salalah in Southern Oman. Unlike the other beaches in Oman, Al Mughsail Beach is not very crowded and is an ideal spot for sunbathing. The beach has a coastline of 7 km that is full of beautiful flora. The cliffs around the beach offer a view of the Yemen border. In addition, it has a twisting road called the Furious Road which is an ideal point for thrill seekers.

• Entry Fee: Free
• Location: Salalah, Oman
• Timings: 24 hours

25. Ras Al Hadd Beach, Al Hadd

The Ras Al Hadd beach is divided into two parts, one that is regulated by the government and the other that is accessible by people. Here, tourists can find abundant hawks and green turtles as it is their habitat. Besides, the beach is an attractive destination for deep-sea divers because of the stunning coral reefs. However, it is very crowded during the weekends, therefore those looking for some privacy may visit during the weekends.

• Entry Fee: Free
• Location: Al Hadd, Oman
• Timings: 24 hours

26. Masirah Beach, Southeast Coast of Oman

Masirah beach has a gorgeous turquoise sea and scenic beauty. It receives abundant tourists as the amenities available here are equally great. The beach is pet-friendly too. Besides, it is very popular for water sports.

• Entry Fee: Free
• Location: Sur Masirah, Oman
• Timings: 24 hours

27. Al Sawadi Beach, Barka

The Al Sawadi beach is a sandy coast with several rocky islands surrounding it. People can enjoy activities like swimming and snorkelling here. Tourists can also rent boats or yachts to go for an excursion. It is also a popular spot for picnics. Moreover, Al Sawadi beach is one of the most popular places in the world for exploring underwater.

• Entry Fee: Free
• Location: Barka
• Timings: 24 hours

28. Quriyat Beach, Quriyat Province

This beach has fine white sand and clear turquoise water. You can enjoy water sports like windsurfing, sailing, and swimming here. The beach also has a small marina where you can get your boat repaired. It is located in the north of Muscat and is quite popular among tourists who want to relax and enjoy some sunbathing.

• Entry Fee: Free
• Location: Quriyat coral beach, Quriyat Province, Oman.
• Timings: 24 hours

Oman consists of some fascinating museums that display the untold stories of the past. Find below the list of top museums to visit in Oman.

29. National Museum of Oman, Muscat

The National Museum of Oman is located in Muscat and is one of the newest museums in the country. It showcases the country's rich cultural heritage, offering visitors an insight into Oman's history, traditions, and way of life. The museum also runs exhibitions covering a range of topics, from ancient Omani civilizations to the country's modern development.

• Entry Fee: 1 OMR per adult for residents of Oman; 2 OMR per adult for foreigners
• Location: Muscat, Oman
• Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

30. Bait Al Zubair Museum, Muscat

Bait Al Zubair Museum is one of the most famous museums in Oman. It is located in Muscat and is known for its impressive collection of Omani artefacts, including traditional clothing, weapons, and jewellery. The museum also offers insight into Oman's rich cultural history, providing visitors with a glimpse into the country's past.

• Entry Fee: 3 OMR per adult; 1 OMR for children under 10 years
• Location: Muscat, Oman
• Timings: 9:30 am to 6:00 pm

31. Frankincense Land Museum, Salalah

The Museum of the Frankincense Land is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The place is highly attractive to history students who are keen on learning traditions and culture. What more? The displays in the museum will remind the people of the origin of Frankincense.

• Entry Fee: 2 OMR
• Location: Salalah, Oman
• Timings: 9:00 am to 9:00 pm from Monday to Thursday; 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Friday and Saturday

Experience local shopping in Oman by visiting the vibrant and unique Omani souks that promise a completely different shopping vibe!

32. Nizwa Souq, Nizwa

Nizwa Souq will give travellers a glimpse of old Oman, as it sells unique souvenirs like taqiyya caps, lamps and fresh dates. In the mornings you will see local people buying vegetables and meat. However, this traditional Omani souq allows you to experience the local market and the culture of Oman at its best.

• Entry Fee: Free
• Location: WGJJ+WQ7, Nizwa, Oman
• Timings: 7:30 am to 11:30 am

33. Sohar Handicraft Souq, Sohar

You will get the best souvenirs and traditional ornaments as you walk down this souq. Several shops are selling hookahs and you will enjoy a local charm that lingers as you explore the shops filled with the essence of history and culture.

• Entry Fees: Free
• Location: Al Hajra region, Oman
• Timings: 8:00 am to 1.30 pm & 4.30 pm to 8:00 pm