Discover the rich blend of ancient and modern architecture of Muscat on a half-day city tour. Learn how the city has undergone dramatic development in the past 3 decades, yet managed to preserve its age-old culture and heritage. Your driver will show you how to use the audio guide system to benefit the GPS enabled commentary that follows the tour. Start with a visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, and then continue through the Ministries' area to see a number of modern buildings with a touch of ancient, Islamic architecture. Go to the fish market and explore the narrow alleyways of the Muttrah souk to soak up the scent of exotic spices, coffee beans and ancient remedies. Learn more about the history of Oman at the Bait Al Zubair Museum. Take a souvenir photo at the magnificent Al Alam Palace, flanked by the twin Portuguese forts of Mirani and Jalali. Itinerary: • 45 mins in Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque • 15 mins in the fish market • 30 mins in the Bait Al Zubair Museum  • 10 mins for a photo stop in Al Alam Palace • 10 mins for a photo stop in Mirani & Jalali • 30 mins in Muttrah Souq

A sightseeing tour around Muscat, the capital of Oman, is a great chance to soak up the Arabic atmosphere and explore the city where the ancient architecture and monuments are combined with the modern life. The first sight on the tour is Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque which is truly a masterpiece of the world architecture. It took 6 years to erect it and in 2001 it was successfully opened. This mosque is a traditional light Islamic building made from sandstone and marble. It has got 5 minarets – one main and 4 side minarets which create a special distinctive look. The internal design is rich in mosaics, huge handmade Persian carpets and chandeliers decorated with crystals. Our next stop is the Royal Opera House – the pearl of the Oman musical and stage art. The third sight we can’t avoid seeing is Muttrah Souq – the market located right at the banks of the Gulf of Oman. That’s an ideal place if you want to have a look at the ordinary life of Oman. Just go along the rows, look for the items, bargain and have fun as here you can find everything starting from spices finishing traditional rugs, vases or just souvenirs. Having seen the market, we should also look at the Mutrah fort. The fort leads its history at 1580s when the Portuguese had built it. It served as a military defense from the rivals in the past, but today it’s open for tourists. Next thing in Muscat to see is a well-known Al Alam Palace — the residence of Sultan Qaboos. From both sides the forts surround the palace, so you’ll likely enjoy the magnificent scenery. Located in the center of the city, it always attracts a lot of visitors and, although, people are not allowed to go in, they can easily go around and take cool photos.

This tour is a unique experience because it allows you to explore the city at your own pace. You will be taken on a guided tour of some of Muscat’s most iconic landmarks, including: the grand Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the old Muttrah Souq, the Al Alam Palace, and the Museum. In addition, you will also view some of the stunning landscapes along the coast. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, this private tour truly brings the city of Muscat to life. We will take you through the gorgeous city of Muscat where we will first visit the grand mosque which, among a couple others, is one of the biggest 1-piece handmade Iranian carpet in the world. The carpet weighs a whopping 21 tons and can comfortably accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers. Please consider the time to arrive at the destination from your location (max 30 min). Then we will drive you around the ministries and the Royal Opera House area which is leading arts, and culture organization in the Sultanate of Oman. The vision of the Opera House is to serve as a center of excellence in global cultural engagement After, This beach lies in Al Qurm Area in the heart of Muscat and extends over a large area. This beach is considered one of the busiest in Muscat due to its location near shopping centers and restaurants, but it will be a photo stop only. Please consider the time to arrive at the destination from your location (max 20 min). Muttrah Souk is next, where you can find various souvenirs and Muttrah Souk one of the oldest marketplaces in Oman dating back two hundred years Please consider the time to arrive at the destination from your location (max 20 min). Bait Al Zubair is a museum, located on Al Saidiya Street, Old Muscat, Oman. The museum has an extensive collection of ancient weapons, including khanjar, household equipment's, and costumes. Outside the museum is a full-scale Omani village and souk Please consider the time to arrive at the destination from your location (max 20 min). The Al Alam Palace "Palace of the Flag" is a palace located in Old Muscat, Oman. It was used as a ceremonial palace by Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said. One of six sultanic residences of the monarch, has a history of over 200 years, and was built under the watch of Imam Sultan bin Ahmed, the 7th direct grandfather of Sultan Qaboos. Please consider the time to arrive at the destination from your location (max 20 min). Fort Al-Mirani is a fort located in the harbor of the city of Old Muscat, Oman. The fort existed prior to the Portuguese invasion and was later rebuilt by the Portuguese in 1587. The fort became the first to use cannons in Oman. Please consider the time to arrive at the destination from your location (max 15 min). A visit in Al Bustan Palace Hotel with a photo stop in the best lobby of the hotel. Please consider the time to arrive at the destination from your location (max 20 min).

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the cultural gems of Muscat, Oman, as you explore iconic landmarks, experience the rich heritage, and soak in the captivating beauty of this enchanting city. Total Duration: 4 - 5 hours Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Sultan Qaboos St, Muscat 113 Oman, 1 hour Royal Opera House, Al Kharijiyah Street, Muscat 113 Oman, 1 hour Bait Al Zubair, Al-Saidiya Street, Muscat 113 Oman, 1 hour Mirani Fort, Qasr Al Alam Street Old Muscat Oman, 20 minutes Al Alam Palace, Waterfront Oman, 45 minutes

The tour includes discovering Muscat, visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, then going to the Opera House, then Muttrah Market, the Fish Market, Muttrah Castle, the Sultan’s Palace, Al Jalali Castle and Al Mirani The duration of the tour is 4 hours. The mosque will take one hour, the opera house half an hour, Muttrah city half an hour, the museum an hour, the Sultan’s palace and the hall 30 minutes. The tour will be wonderful and beautiful, accompanied by a new Lexus 350 ES

Pick up from your hotel. The tour will start from Shatti Al Qurum (next to Intercontinental Hotel), this tour is a short version of the city tour with a night perspective. We will start the tour passing by the Royal Opera, a massive monument ordered by the Sultan himself as a music lover. We will then make a photo stop at the illuminated Mohammed Al Ameen Mosque. Afterwards, we head towards the Old Muscat and its Corniche. We will admire the city's attractive harbor area. Then go to the Muttrah Souq to discover a mix of the old and new along with a myriad sight, sounds and fragrances from everyday life. Do a little souvenir shopping and continue to visit & drive to most prominent landmark in Muscat to the Sultan’s Palace (Al Alam Palace) to take a photo of the gates and colonnaded approach by night. Flanked by the 16th-century Portuguese forts of Jalali and Mirani, the palace is today largely used for ceremonial purposes. The lightings are just amazing. We will then head back to our start point passing the famous Al Bustann hotel, Wadi Al Kabir popular area, Ruwi downtown to end up in our final destination to savor a great Omani fish grilled to perfection surrounded by the locals & then transfer back to your hotel.

After pickup from your hotel, start your half-day tour of Oman’s charming capital. Drive through the embassy quarter to the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Admire the architectural beauty of its sandstone domes, minarets, and courtyards, and visit the main prayer hall.   Continue the journey with a visit to Souq Muttrah, a traditional and old-fashioned Arab market place promoting Oman’s cultural heritage. Visit the waterside fish market and stroll along the corniche to see the elegant merchant houses. Then, head to the Main Souq, filled with perfume shops and clothes stalls — the perfect place to find souvenirs. Enjoy a photo-stop in front of the Twin Portuguese Forts, Al Jalali and Al-Mirani. Then visit the beautifully designed Al Alam Palace for a photo stop. This is the official palace of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos. Your final stop is at Bait Al Zubair Museum, to learn about Omani culture before you return to your hotel.

Your much-awaited experience of exploring Muscat city is finally here. Get ready to be enchanted by the city views as our vehicle picks you up from your hotel. Our friendly guides will assist you throughout the experience, sharing stories and information about the city and its attractions. One of the largest and most opulent modern mosques, which can occupy up to 20,000 worshippers: is how you can describe your first stop, Sultan Qaboos Mosque. A magnificent example of contemporary Islamic architecture, the interiors of this serene place of worship are stunningly gorgeous. Witness the dazzling Persian carpet, which is considered the second-largest hand-loomed carpet in the world. Find your eyes shining at the sight of large chandeliers and the marble designs that adorn the walls and halls of the mosque. Keep your excitement alive. Because you are going to the Muttrah Souq, one of the Arab world’s traditional markets. Wander through the alleyways of the market covered with palm frond roofs. Reward yourself with the sight of a variety of jewels, spices, and several local supplies, and get the best deals on shopping. Get a chance to visit Muttrah fish market, an ode to Oman's heritage and future. Immerse yourself in the bustle of the market with more than 100 fish dealers. Observe the everyday life of the vendors and locals who shop at the market. From the hustle and bustle of the market, we take you for a ride back in history at Bait Al Zubair Museum. Take in the sight of some of the finest Omani artifacts and collectibles, including weapons, jewelry, and several vintage models that reflect the country’s heritage. Wrap up the tour with beautiful memories as we drive you back to the hotel.