A large, ornate mosque with a grand dome and arched windows stands majestically, crafted from light-colored stone. Its polished courtyard reflects the clear blue sky, making it a must-see for any 1-week Oman itinerary.
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24 Hours in Muscat: A PERFECT Itinerary for First Timers

Wondering what to do in Muscat in 24 hours and looking for the perfect itinerary? You’ve come to the right place! 

Muscat in Oman is a very charming capital city and quite unlike all the other major cities in the Gulf Region. Muscat isn’t flashy or fast-paced, but a Middle Eastern city that has very much held on to its traditional roots. 

Muscat is the kind of city that really makes you WORK to see all the best bits. It’s hot, it’s spread out, and if you don’t plan your time well, you’ll end up spending most of your day stuck in traffic or wandering aimlessly along a highway (ask me how I know😂).

When I visited Muscat during my one-week trip around Oman, I didn’t really know what to expect. And to be completely honest, after travelling to 68 countries (many of them solo)…It definitely didn’t end up being my favourite city in the world.

But after a bit of trial and error, I figured out the perfect way to spend the perfect 24 hours here, and it did surprise me in a few unexpected ways.

This itinerary that I created covers cultural spots, areas of natural beauty and some of the best foodie spots in the city.

In this post, I’ll discuss all of the best things to do in Muscat, how to get around the city and where to eat in Muscat in just one day. 

So, what is there to do during one day in Muscat? Read on below to find out! 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a verified purchase through the links in this post, I will earn a small commission. This will be at no extra cost to you. Thank you.

⬇️Muscat At A Glance⬇️

WHAT TO DO
– Visit the Sultan Qaboos Mosque 
– Explore the Muttrah Fort & Souq 
– Enjoy a Sunset boat cruise in Muscat
Enjoy a Muscat City Tour 

🛌🏻WHERE TO STAY🛌🏻
Fraser Suites Muscat 
Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah 
Remas Hotel Suites

🍕 WHERE TO EAT 🍕
-Dukanah Cafe
-Aram Cafe
-Rozna Restaurant
-Ramssa Omani Restaurant

Travel Essentials For Muscat
– Book flights with Skyscanner 
– Download the “Otaxi” App
– Stay connected with an eSIM from Airalo
– Get covered by SafetyWing – My favourite Travel Insurance provider

Prices and opening times mentioned below were accurate as of my visit, but may vary. Always double-check closer to your travel date.

What to Do in Muscat in 24 Hours: My One-Day Route

This 24-hour Muscat itinerary for solo female travellers is based on my own route and experience in the city, which was part of a longer 1-week trip to Oman.

I tried to create a strategic loop around Muscat, so you’re not constantly doubling back and can make the most of your time in the City. 

Your 24 hours in Muscat will look like this: 

  • Stop 1 – Sultan Qaboos Mosque
  • Stop 2 – Breakfast at Dukanah Cafe 
  • Stop 3 – Royal Opera House Muscat 
  • Stop 4 – The Corniche 
  • Stop 5 – The Muttrah Souq 
  • Stop 6 – Lunch at Aroos Al Bahar or Bait Al Luban
  • Stop 7 – The Muttrah Fort 
  • Stop 8 – Old Muscat 
  • Stop 9 – Sunset at Qurum Beach or Sunset Boat Cruise 
  • Stop 10 – Dinner at Rozna or Ramssa Omani Restaurant

Quick Muscat Travel Tips

  • 🚗 Getting around Muscat: Muscat is spread out, so renting a car is highly recommended if you want to explore freely. If you’re not driving, download the Otaxi app; it’s Oman’s version of Uber and very reliable. 
  • 💡 Dress modestly: Oman is conservative, so be sure to cover shoulders and knees, especially when visiting mosques like the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (ladies will also need a headscarf). Lightweight linen or cotton clothing is perfect for the heat and respectful of local customs.
  • 👍🏼 Cultural etiquette matters: Omanis are friendly and respectful. Avoid public displays of affection, and always ask before taking photos of locals, especially women. Friday is a holy day, so expect some places to open later or close midday.
  • 🕌 Plan mosque visits early: The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque opens to non-Muslims from 8:00 am to 11:00 am, Sunday through Thursday. 
  • 💸 Bring some cash: Credit cards are accepted in most places, but small shops, taxis, and local eateries often prefer cash (OMR). ATMS are easy to find at malls and major hotels.
  • 📶 Stay connected: Download an e-SIM before you arrive or pick up a tourist SIM card from Omantel or Ooredoo at the airport.

Arriving in Muscat

Flight

Oman is really well-connected, with loads of direct flights into the country. You can fly straight in from places like London, Istanbul, Qatar, India, Malaysia, the UAE, and plenty more. I booked my flight to Oman through Skyscanner and flew directly from London Heathrow to Muscat with Oman Air.

Bus 

You can also travel to Muscat by bus from other cities in the Gulf, including Abu Dhabi in the UAE. There’s one bus from Abu Dhabi to Muscat, which takes around 10 hours and costs about $30.

How To Get Around Muscat

Muscat is one of the most unwalkable cities I’ve ever been to. Things might look close on the map, but most major attractions are at least 20 minutes apart by car. Walking around isn’t really an option unless you’re up for spending hours trekking along the side of a highway (which I definitely wasn’t).

There are quite a few unexpected quirks like this in Oman, and it’s definitely one to be aware of.

Car Rental

Renting a car is one of the best ways to get around Muscat. The roads are in great condition, signage is clear, and having your own set of wheels gives you the freedom to explore the city and the surrounding areas at your own pace. Plus, parking is usually pretty easy to find. If you’re interested in renting a car, I always recommend using Discover Cars to find the best prices. 

Taxi

If renting a car isn’t your thing, the next best option is to download the Otaxi App, which is basically Oman’s version of Uber. There are also regular taxis you can flag down, but they’ll almost always charge more than the Otaxi App, since a lot of drivers will try their luck.

One thing I learned on day one is that a lot of taxi drivers you hail down will ask something like “how much do you want to pay?” instead of giving you a fixed price, which usually means you end up paying more than you should. Before I discovered Otaxi, I was paying 5 Omani Rial for a short 10–15-minute ride.

Here’s what a typical taxi fare should look like in Muscat:

  • 10–15 minute journey: 1–2 OMR
  • 15–30 minute journey: 2–4 OMR
  • 30–45 minute journey: 5–7 OMR
  • 45–60 minute journey: 8+ OMR

Where To Stay In Muscat

Muscat is pretty spread out, so no matter how central you think your accommodation is, you’ll still be a drive away from most other attractions. These are the main areas I’d recommend staying in during your time in Muscat:

  • Azaiba
  • Seeb/Al Mouj
  • Muttrah
  • Al-Jissah (for luxury hotels
Top Picks

My Top Pick Hotels In Muscat

Azaiba: Fraser Suites Muscat 
Seeb: Boulevard Hotel Oman
Muttrah: Fort Guesthouse
Al Jissah: Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah 

Stop 1: Visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (Morning Entry Required)

One of the most Iconic things you have to see during your day in Muscat is the Sultan Qaboos Mosque. 

I started my day here, and I’d recommend that you do the same. This is because non-Muslims can only visit from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM, Sunday to Thursday, so you’ll want to plan accordingly.

To be VERY honest with you, one of my least favourite things to do when I travel is visit religious buildings (they are just not really my thing), but I was told that I should not skip this, so I didn’t, and even I was genuinely impressed (it’s hard not to be). 

This mosque was built in 2001, it’s the largest mosque in Oman and can hold up to 20,000 people are one time. It’s also home to one of the largest chandeliers in the world, made from Swarovski crystals.

I spent about 90 minutes here wandering the grounds and taking photos, and I don’t think you’ll need much more time than that. 

🧣Important note for women: You’ll need to cover your head, arms, and legs. If you don’t have the right clothing, they provide abayas at the entrance. 

Stop 2: Try Traditional Omani Breakfast at Dukanah Cafe

Next up is Dukanah Cafe which is a local breakfast spot that’s gained popularity on TikTok and is actually how I discovered it. 

I’ll admit, I’m always a little sceptical about “viral” places, but Dukanah completely lived up to the hype. It ended up being one of the best meals I had during my week in Oman.

It’s set in a traditionally decorated space and looks like you’re stepping into one of Oman’s famous forts with stone walls and wooden furnishings. 

The breakfast menu is packed with local dishes. Like balaleet (a sweet saffron vermicelli with egg), and qurous (small pancakes served with rich date syrup). I’m more of a savoury person, so I went for the Omani-style shakshuka. 

And when it comes to drinks, you have to try the lemon and mint juices (I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s one of the best juices I’ve ever had). In fact, I loved Dukanah so much I even dedicated a mini-vlog to it, which you can check out here.

It’s open every day from 7 AM to 11 PM, so if you really love the food here, you can come back for lunch and dinner too! 

Stop 3: Explore the Elegant Royal Opera House Muscat

From there, head over to the Royal Opera House Muscat, which is easily one of the most stunning buildings in the city (even if opera isn’t your usual scene).

The building was completed in 2011 and is the first opera house in the Arabian Peninsula. 

Although you probably won’t catch a performance during the day, it’s still well worth a visit. 

You can walk around the landscaped gardens or grab a coffee at ARAM Cafe, which is on the grounds. 

I ended up staying at ARAM for two coffees because I loved the decor in there (very Bali-esque) and the air-conditioning was giving me life again. 

If you’re travelling solo like me, it’s a great spot to set up a tripod and grab some nice shots without worrying about onlookers or people walking into your shot. 

If you are interested in watching a show, be sure to check out their schedule, as you can always return here in the evening (there will be plenty of time on this itinerary to do so). 

Stop 4: Walk the Scenic Muscat Corniche

After the Opera House, make your way to the Muttrah Corniche, which is one of Muscat’s most scenic waterfronts and one of my personal favourite parts of the city. 

The Corniche stretches along the harbour with the Gulf of Oman on one side and mountains and old whitewashed buildings on the other.

It’s a great place to go for a nice leisurely stroll, and you’ll likely see traditional wooden dhow boats docked along the water. 

If you’re a lover of photography, this is one of the best photography spots in Muscat. You can get both street-style shots as well as landscape photography here. 

It’s also very conveniently located just steps away from the Muttrah Souq and Fort (which are the next 2 stops on this itinerary).

Stop 5: Wander Through Muttrah Souq for Souvenirs & Local Culture

Just across from the Corniche, you’ll find the Muttrah Souq, one of the most popular spots in the city. This is a traditional Arabian market with stalls selling frankincense, spices, Omani silver, lanterns, and fabrics.

This place can feel a little chaotic at first if it’s busy.

I do have to warn you that you will probably be called over by every store owner that sees you to “come and take a look,” which can get a bit overwhelming at times.

But you just have to politely decline (most likely more than once), and they will eventually stop (I lost count of the number of times I got asked if I wanted to buy a dress).

Although what I did find is that the deeper into the souq you go, the quieter it gets.

I ended up spending a fair bit of time here, not just browsing, but chatting with a few local shopkeepers. A couple were kind enough to let me take their portrait photos.

💵TIP: Bring cash for smaller purchases, and visit earlier in the day or later afternoon.

Stop 6: Enjoy Authentic Omani Cuisine for Lunch

After a morning of sightseeing (and souvenir hunting), you’ll definitely be ready for lunch, and I’ve given you two great options depending on what kind of vibe you’re after.

If you’re in the mood for something casual, then Aroos Al Bahar is a good choice. Here you can get fresh seafood and very generous portions. 

If you’d rather go for a slow and leisurely lunch, then Bait Al Luban (where I ate) will be a better option for you. It’s located in a stunning spot that overlooks the Corniche, and I noticed quite a few locals eating here (which is always a good sign).

On the menu, you’ll find classic Omani dishes like shuwa (slow-cooked lamb) and mashuai (spiced grilled kingfish). I personally went for the shuwa, and it did not disappoint.

Prefer a Tour guide? Why not check out these guided tours of Muscat?

🕌Muscat City Tour  –  Check out Muscat’s must-see spots like the Grand Mosque, Royal Opera House, Al Alam Palace, and Muttrah Souq on this chilled, budget-friendly tour.
🚌Muscat Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour  – Cruise around Muscat on an open-top bus and take in all the top sights at your own pace with fun audio guides along the way.
🌆Muscat Half Day Tour  – ​Enjoy a private city tour of Muscat with your own guide, hitting up top spots like the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and Al Alam Palace.

Stop 7: Climb Muttrah Fort for the Best City Views 

Once you’ve refuelled, it’s time to head up to the Muttrah Fort, which has to be one of the best things to do in Muscat.

A word of warning, there is a bit of a climb involved, but I promise the views are more than worth it.

Although the climb is short, it’s quite steep, so make sure to take your time and carry some water with you (it was quite embarrassing how easily out of breath I got just by walking up these stairs).

Entry to the fort costs 3.300 OMR, which you can pay at the small ticket booth just before the stairs.

At the top, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views over the Cornice, the harbour and the surrounding mountains. It’s genuinely one of the best photo spots in Muscat, and I left with way too many to sort through. 

I spent about 30–40 minutes here just walking around, snapping photos, and taking a bit of a breather.

There’s also a small café on site that’s been built into the walls of the fort, which is ideal if you need a cold drink, a quick caffeine boost before continuing on or in my case, a quick boost of air conditioning before going back outside to battle the heat. 

You can take a look at my vlog of Muttrah Fort here.

Stop 8: Visit Historic Old Muscat & Al Alam Palace

Just a short drive from Muttrah is Old Muscat, which is one of the most historic parts of the city and a lot quieter than Muttrah.

This area is home to some of Muscat’s most important landmarks, including Al Alam Palace and the National Museum of Oman. 

Even if you just do a quick walk around the area, Old Muscat is a peaceful, photogenic stop and a nice way to wind down before the end of the day.

⏱️ Time Saver Tip: If you’re tight on time, this is the stop I’d consider skipping. It’s lovely, but it’s definitely not essential…especially if you’re trying to make it to sunset on time.

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    Stop 9: End the Day with a Sunset at Qurum Beach or Boat Cruise

    To wrap up your one-day adventure in Muscat, you’ve got two options, depending on how tired and/or adventurous you’re feeling. 

    If you’re after a slower end to the day, then I recommend heading to Qurum Beach to watch the sunset.

    It’s a beautiful beach that’s super popular with locals in the evening, and there are even lots of small beach football matches taking place.

    Qurum Beach is one of my favourites, and in my opinion, also one of the most photogenic places in Muscat. The sunset from here is honestly so, so beautiful.

    Whilst you’re here, you can grab a coffee or fresh juice from one of the nearby cafés, stroll the promenade, or just sit on the sand and watch the sunset (it’s totally up to you). I opted for a juice at a cafe where I also got seated in the best sunset viewing seat in the house.

    If you’re after something a little more memorable, then I really recommend booking this sunset dhow cruise, where you’ll get to sail on a traditional Omani Dhow boat and watch the sunset on the Gulf of Oman and maybe even see some dolphins! 

    I actually ran out of time for the sunset cruise, so I opted to watch the sunset on Qurum Beach instead, but I was genuinely gutted that I missed it because I am a sucker for a boat cruise and I’d heard so many good things about it (but I got to make up for it later on in the week on my trip to the Daymaniyat Islands).

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    Stop 10 – Dinner at Rozna or Ramssa Omani Restaurant

    After a full day of exploring, it’s time to finish off the day with a delicious dinner. Again, I have provided you with two options as I was able to visit both places during my week in Oman

    Rozna is a beautifully designed restaurant that has been built to look like an Old Omani fort, and you definitely get that “wow factor” when you walk in.

    The food here is good and covers all the Omani Classics, but as soon as I walked in, it instantly felt like somewhere that was built for tourists and I’m someone who much prefers more local and traditional spots. 

    If you’d rather keep things simple (which I recommend), then Ramssa Omani Restaurant is a really good option.

    Here you’ll find straightforward, traditional and well-priced food that is a hit with the locals (which is always a good sign in my opinion).

    Whilst the food is good, you can expect a bit of a wait for it (it seems like no one is in a rush here). 

    Looking for something a little different?

    Hiking In Muscat 

    If you’re more of a nature person than you are a city dweller, you’ll be pleased to know that you don’t even have to leave the city to get your nature fix, as Muscat is home to a couple of very scenic hikes.

    The C38 hike from Muttrah to Riyam Park is one of the most popular and only takes around 90 minutes one way. If you’re keen to hike in Muscat, then I recommend checking out this website

    Luxury Hotel Day 

    Depending on how your Oman itinerary is planned, you might find yourself with a free day in Muscat before flying home.

    If you’re not in the mood for more sightseeing, I’d highly recommend getting a day pass for the Shangri-La resort  (especially if you’re not already staying there).

    For 30 OMR, you’ll be able to get private beach access, multiple pools, and it’s also one of the only places where they can serve alcohol in Oman.

    I did this on my last day after a camping trip, and honestly, it was the perfect way to wind down after a packed itinerary. The views were gorgeous and the facilities are so good.

    It’s a bit of a splurge, but definitely worth it if you want a bit of comfort and luxury.

    Check out my TikTok video to see the full experience of a resort day here. 

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    FAQs About Visiting Muscat, Oman

    Is Muscat safe for solo female travellers?

    Yes, Muscat is generally safe for solo women. I explored the city alone and felt comfortable the entire time. Just be sure to dress modestly and respect local customs. I also recommend using the Otaxi app for reliable transport.

    What are some affordable things to do in Muscat?

    You can visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (free entry), stroll the Muttrah Corniche, explore the Muttrah Souq, and relax at Qurum Beach (these are all free things that you can do in Muscat, so they will help you keep your budget intact).

    Can I explore Muscat without a car?

    Yes, you can. While Muscat is quite spread out, taxis and the Otaxi app make it manageable.

    Do I need a tour guide for one day in Muscat?

    Not at all. This itinerary is designed for independent travellers, especially solo women, and can easily be done on your own. However, if you prefer a guided experience, there are great half-day and hop-on-hop-off tours available.

    Final Thoughts: Is One Day in Muscat Enough?

    I know 24 hours in Muscat might not feel like a lot of time, but I genuinely do think it’s enough to get a good feel of the city. I truly believe this itinerary allows you to experience the best of Muscat, from the local markets to the stunning sunsets and everything else in between. 

    What I loved most about Muscat is how laid-back it felt in comparison to other capital cities I have been to. Whether you’re squeezing this into a stopover or wrapping up a longer Oman trip, I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time during your one day in Muscat.

    If you’re planning to explore further, don’t miss my 1-Week Oman Itinerary (Without A Car) or 5 Best Day Trips from Muscat and review of the stunning Daymaniyat Islands for more inspiration.

    Still figuring out logistics or safety? I also wrote honestly about whether Oman is safe for solo female travellers and what to wear in Oman as a woman. These might be helpful if you’re packing or feeling nervous about your trip.

    If you do have any questions about anything I have mentioned in this post, please do not hesitate to reach out!

    ⬇️CHECK OUT MY OTHER OMAN GUIDES⬇️
    An AWESOME 1-Week Oman Itinerary (Without A Car)
    Husaak Adventures Tour Company – Are They Worth It?
    What to Wear in Oman As A Woman 
    24 Hours in Muscat: A PERFECT One-Day Itinerary for First Timers

    12 EPIC Things To Do In Muscat For First Timers
    Is Oman Safe For Solo Female Travellers? My Honest Experience & Safety Tips
    Where To Stay In Muscat For First Timers & Solo Travellers: Best Areas & Hotels
    20 Things To Know Before Visiting Oman
    5 Best Day Trips from Muscat (No Car Needed!)
    The ULTIMATE Travel Guide to the Daymaniyat Islands, Oman
    Visiting Oman In February: What You Can Expect

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