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.

Being a rare blend of ancient and modern, Muscat is a beautiful city which lies in a maze of brown pleated Mountains. Lulled by the Arabian Sea, the city has undergone dramatic development in the past two or three decades. However, Muscat takes pride in the fact that it has preserved its lustrous culture and heritage. Your visit starts with a tour of the grand mosque, which is an architectural marvel and perhaps the new landmark of the city. The drive continues through the ministries' area, where you can see a number of modern buildings with touches of ancient, Islamic architecture. Then, visit the fish market and the folkloric Muttrah souk, with its narrow covered alleys where you can smell exotic aromas of mounds of spices, coffee beans, and ancient remedies, all enticing perfumes that fill the air. Next, engage in a visit to the Bait Al Zubair Museum, which has a fine exhibit of Omani history and culture, encompassing all of the areas traditional values. You will also have a photo-stop at the magnificent Al Alam Palace (the official residence of Sultan Qaboos) flanked by the twin Portuguese forts of Mirani & Jalali. Continue to Bait-Al-Baranda, a great museum in muscat, before finally stopping for lunch in a local restaurant. In the afternoon , take your time to better explore this mystic city and its captivating civilization. Have a chance to explore other souks, and discover all the treasures and spices that you can find.

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.