A luxurious one week itinerary in Muscat, Oman

Overview

In a country of immense beauty, Muscat sits as the modern and stately capital city of Oman. Low rise buildings are dotted throughout the city in smaller residential areas giving the city a diverse and spread out feel. Most structures are built close to sea level around the striking rugged mountains, with some impressive roads carved out through the cliffs. The architecture is distinctly Omani, with ornate decorative detail and impressive gates adorning most homes. This post will cover the very best that Muscat has to offer in a luxurious one week itinerary.

Muscat is also home to beautiful beaches, the spectacular surrounding Hajar mountains, lush oases, luxury hotels, an iconic souq on the Corniche, pods of inquisitive dolphins, delicious food and more adventure sports than you could poke a stick at!

For an overview of Oman, including important cultural customs, currency, transport options and accommodation suggestions, please see my review, The Best of Oman in One Week.

A note on accommodation & this itinerary structure

This itinerary is largely centred around our (non-sponsored) stays at the two primary luxury resorts in Muscat, Oman: Al Bustan Palace, Ritz Carlton Resort and Al Husn Shangri-La Resort. Importantly, this allows visitors to maximise time spent at the private and pristine beaches of these resorts, surrounded by the glorious Hajar mountains. At the time of visiting last week, these were the two premier luxury resorts available in Muscat. However, the Jumeirah Muscat Bay has recently opened as a contender luxury destination and the St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort is set to open some time this year.

This itinerary of Muscat balances decadent resort relaxation time with ‘must see’ cultural activities and local sightseeing.

Top and Middle: Al Bustan Palace, Ritz Carlton Resort
Below: Al Bandar Resort beach gazing up at Al Husn Resort, Shangri-La

Upcoming posts – Incredible day trips in Oman from Muscat!

Check out my upcoming posts on these incredible day trips, all possible from Muscat and easy to incorporate into your itinerary!

Nizwa ancient city and fortress
Wadi Shab adventure
Sifah beach expedition
Wahiba Sands desert trip

Our vehicles lined up during the Wahiba Sands Desert Challenge

Epic itinerary for one week in Muscat

Day 1

Mutrah Old Souq

It seems only fitting that day one of the itinerary commences with one of the most iconic places in Muscat: the traditional souq (or marketplace). In fact many people come to the Mutrah Corniche solely to visit the souq, which is a buzzing cacophany of traditional Arabic sights and smells all laid out beneath modern timber roofing. Visitors will find traditional textiles, hardware and jewellery stores and indeed some 12 years ago I purchased a traditional silver Omani pendant necklace which serves as a special memory from my first foray to the Middle East.

Pro Tip!
Don’t miss the ‘Shuwa alleyway’ in the Old Souq! Shuwa is a traditional Omani dish of marinated lamb or goat that has been cooked underground for a few days. It’s honestly the most tender meat I’ve ever tasted in my life and is traditionally a special Eid festival delicacy. You can’t leave Oman without trying it at least once!

Top: Mutrah Old Souq
Below: Corniche at night and typical Omani streets near the Souq

Corniche Walk

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the 3km long Mutrah Corniche after visiting the souq. This paved curved waterside promenade runs parallel with the main coastal road and offers peace and tranquility whilst overlooking the Port of Muscat.

Al Alam Palace

While in the Old Muscat region of town, it’s worth stopping by the gates of the Al Alam Palace for photographs of its distinctly Omani architecture with flamboyant gold and blue facade. The palace interior has always been closed to visitors but is used for official functions and receiving distinguished visitors. For example in January 2012, when Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands was received there during her state visit to Oman. Although primarily a ceremonial palace, there is also a guest villa witih its own pool, spa and walled gardens. It sits majestically surrounded by the Mirani and Jalali Forts, defensive structures built by the Portuguese in the 16th century.

For those continuining with this itinerary, you’ll see marvellous views of the Al Alam Palace on the Dhow boat cruise on day five.

Check in to the Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton Hotel

Get ready to have your mind blown! The Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton Hotel is pure decadence! From the moment you pull up to the grandiose entrance with valet parking, to the lush interior and awe-inspiring lobby chandelier, to the endless marble floors, you’ll be wondering just what dream you’ve entered. And that’s just the beginning!

Tantalisingly positioned between the Sea of Oman and the Hajar Mountains, this spectacular beachside resort has balanced authentic traditional Arabic charm with modern features and International cuisine. The immaculately curated and picturesque grounds of this 5 star resort showcase palm trees, pools and surrounding mountains; akin to those you’ll find in the Seychelles!

Breakfast settings at Al Khiran Kitchen, Al Bustan Ritz Carlton Resort

Our room had a private balcony overlooking the main pool and ocean, as well as over the private pools adjacent the ground floor rooms which had surfaces that mesmerisingly mirrored the ornate room arches in their reflection. The bathroom was magnificent, with a large spa bath and separate shower.

Room features at Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton Hotel, Muscat

Afternoon relaxing at Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton Hotel private beach

A quick change into swimwear will see you on your way to a glorious afternoon by the Al Bustan Palace private beach, with comfortable sunbeds positioned towards the sea and ample umbrella coverage to shield you from the mid afternoon rays. Warmed by the sun, the natural water temperature is perfect.

Private beach at Al Bustan Palace, Ritz Carlton Resort

The Blu poolside bar will sort you out for any lunch or snack requirements and don’t forget to head past the towel shelter where you can collect your towels and a bucket full of complementary chilled water and ice. Drinks can be ordered to your sunbed.

Blu Beach Bar, Al Bustan Ritz Carlton Resort

Don’t miss the sunset which lights up the Oman Gulf in pastel pinks and purples!

A beach sunset in Oman, Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton

The Pavilion for dinner, Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton

I’d highly recommend The Pavilion for dinner for its fresh seafood dishes and grilled meats, its gorgeous position on the sand at the edge of the sea, its dimly lit romantic lights and impeccable views across the water at night with the mountains looming in the background.

Sharing food is definitely the way to proceed at The Pavilion, allowing diners to trial more of the menu.

Our choices:
Entree: 
Lamb Shuwa Croquettes with smoky red pepper mayonnaise, grilled lime, tomato sauce vert
Main: 
Mix Seafood Platter with Omani lobster, prawns, tuna, calamari, king fish, sautéed vegetables, saffron rice, selection of sauces
Sides: 
Parmesan fries
Sautéed baby vegetables
Dessert:
Chocolate icecream with coffee liqueur and nut crumble

The Pavilion Restaurant, Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton Resort

Day 2

Dolphin Watching Cruise

Ok folks, buckle up for a hair raising ride! Depending on the tide, this 2 hour boat trip can be extraordinarily rough. An hour into the ride on choppy waves, I was certainly feeling a little green. However, this was tempered by the sight of multiple pods of dolphins happily frolicking in the ocean! I have never seen dolphins having such an enjoyable time, swimming beneath our boat and at one moment, we saw around 30 dolphins breaching the water in unison. I will never forget that image (although it was much too rough to capture it on film!).

The speed boat captain was also aware of the conditions and thankfully rerouted to a calmer stretch of water, where we rode closer to the coastline, past the Shangri-La Resort and through the spectacular Qantab Natural Arch. He even obliged photos for the on-board passengers!

Despite the unpredictable weather in the Muscat gulf, this cruise was well worth it and makes the itinerary for the seemingly limitless number of dolphins we saw! Cruises can be booked directly at Marina Bandar in Muscat or via your hotel concierge who can arrange for pick up and drop off.

L: Marina Bandar, R: on board the dolphin cruise

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Al Bustan Palace Spa

Calling all ladies who love to be pampered! The Al Bustan Palace Spa is an amazing retreat, nestled within its own outcrop of the Hajar mountains and accessible by short walk from the main resort (near The Pavilion Restaurant) or by golf buggy from reception.

Admittedly the Al Bustan Palace Spa experience is undeniably more pleasurable for the ladies, with a greater variety of facilities and even a private beach. There’s a mirrored indoor pool with views across the Oman Sea and surrounding mountains, a sauna and steam room (closed at the time of our visit), massage facilities and private dressing chambers, lockers and showers. The indoor pool has an exit which leads down to a private beach. It’s remote and quiet and the perfect place to spend a morning reading by the water, with the waves lapping at the shore. There’s also a beach hut here with female staff ready to pander to your every need. Sadly, the men’s section of the spa was much less kitted out, with a sauna, massage room and change rooms available.

Al Bustan Palace Spa, ladies wing and private beach

Stroll around the curated gardens of Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton

After pampering yourself silly, take a walk back through the gardens of Al Bustan Palace to take in the beauty and pure size of the grounds and ever present greenery!

The curated gardens of Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton Resort

Afternoon relaxing at Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton Hotel pool

Fancy an afternoon lounging about a gigantic hotel pool overlooking the Oman Sea, with floating palm tree features, comfortable sunbeds and sporadic fun fountain displays? Then you’ll definitely want to check out the grandiose main pool at Al Bustan Palace!

Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton Resort pool

Buffet dinner at Al Khiran Kitchen, Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton

Al Khiran Kitchen is the main dining restaurant in Al Bustan Palace and it sure does pack a punch with its evening buffets. We were fortunate to experience an Iftar here, with food stations ranging from fresh sushi and sashimi to mixed grills to sweet Arabic delights. If it’s not to hot, take a seat outdoors where you’ll encounter the refreshing sea breeze to accompany your meal.

Al Khiran Kitchen, Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton Resort

Post dinner drinks at the Atrium Lounge, Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton

Upon entering the hotel you’ll be greeted by what must be one of the world’s largest chandeleirs in the Atrium Tea Lounge, complete with 125 feet domed ceilings and an elegant fountain. Afternoon Tea is served here during the day however to one side behind a wooden door is the Atrium Lounge, a hidden bar decked out with plush seating and fine cocktails. It’s the perfect wind down setting for an after dinner apertif.

Day 3

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

It’s not hard to spot a mosque in Muscat but by far the biggest and most elaborate is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. It’s possible to walk around the grounds at all hours but if you wish to enter, be dressed modestly and note that daily entry times are 8-11am.

Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton Hotel private beach or pool

It’s your last day at the Al Bustan Palace so I’d highly recommend taking advantage of its splendid facilities. We couldn’t get enough time at the beach so we landed here again but there really are so many areas to relax here. Whether you curl up under a palm tree and read a book, go for a walk along the less populated part of the beach or simply laze in the sun: it’s all guaranteed to keep you in that holiday mood.

Sun lounges at Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton Resort

Royal Opera House

My mouth dropped open the first time we drove past the Muscat Royal Opera House. It’s mammoth imposing white building commands attention and is impossible to miss. Prebook an evening to witness some riveting local music and dance or sign up for Rohm’s ‘Open House’: an opportunity for the public to enjoy a variety of casual free ticketed events within the building.

Dinner in Muscat city

After a night at the Opera House, why not enjoy a local dinner out on the town! Muscat has countless culinary options to choose from, although you’ll find most fine dining options are attached to 5 star hotels. Y

Twelve years ago at the uber popular Karjeen Restaurant in Muscat City. Currently closed during Covid but stay tuned for its reopening!

Day 4

Bar Al Jissah Viewpoint

Sadly today it is time to check out of the Al Bustan Palace Hotel. However, shed no tears! What awaits on your itinerary is touted as the most glamorous and upscale resort in all of Muscat: the Al Husn Shangri-La. The two resorts are only 10 minutes drive apart and just outside the gates of Al Husn, it’s worth parking for a quick minute at the infamous Bar Al Jissah Viewpoint. A quick scramble up the rockface (just a few steps) will have you looking over the inlets and bays of the Al Jissah coastline. It’s worth a selfie!

Check in to the Al Husn Shangri-La Resort

The Muscat Shangri-La sits on huge sprawling grounds and is actually home to 3 separate resorts:

Al Husn Shangri-La
Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah - Al Bandar resort
Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah - Al Waha resort

Al Husn, Shangri-La

The Al Husn is branded as Shangri-La’s exclusive, adults-only luxury resort and sits perched high on a cliff overlooking the Oman Sea. It’s infinity pool lit up at night is the stuff of dreams. It also has a private beach and outdoors entertaining area. These can only be accessed by Al Husn guests by use of their room key card. The rooms are large, plush and fitted with the most comfortable Persian carpets that span the width of the entire room. I took my shoes off and did a few laps of the room to fully appreciate this when I arrived! With private balconies overlooking the ocean or mountains, as well as a fully stocked complementary minibar (that is replenished daily), these rooms will have you reconsidering when your return trip will be.

The Al Husn Shangri-La Resort is my hot recommendation for singles and couples!

Breakfast is also a lavish affair, with an entire ‘bookshelf’ wall of pastries and impeccable views across to Al Bandar and Al Waha resorts.

Breakfast treats and views at Al Husn, Shangri-La Resort confirm its spot on this Muscat itinerary!

Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah

As mentioned above, the Barr Al Jissah resort is spread across 2 distinct but connected wings (Al Bandar and Al Waha). These wings effectively function as separate resorts with shared facilities. Al Husn is also connected to Al Bandar and Al Husn guests have full access to all of the facilities at Bar Al Jissah. Al Bandar (‘The Town) is the heart of the resort, home to most of the bars and restaurants. Conversely, Al Waha (The Oasis) is more suitable for families.

The long stretch of private beach connecting Al Bandar and Al Waha Resorts, Shangri-La

Al Husn Shangri-La infinity pool & private beach

The Al Husn virtually invented the word ‘luxe’ and you simply can’t miss a day at the infinity pool and private beach. The infinity pool is for Al Husn guests only and is accessed out on the resort’s private cliff face. It’s surrounded by a variety of comfortable cabanas and plush loungers-for-two, all with shade and complementary drink buckets. The soaring views from the pool will stick with you for a long time.

A short walk down to ground level is the Al Husn private beach. This quiet and pristine beach is a haven for tired souls. We saw adults of all ages on this prime stretch of sand. Resort staff will line your chosen sunbed with a soft cover and then two towels. You’ll also be treated to iced water, juice and a face spritzer in your personal bucket.

Private beach and private pool of Al Husn, Shangri-La Resort

Qantab Natural Arch

A striking natural phenomenon lies between the infinity pool and private beach of Al Husn. This is known as Qantab Natural Arch, which lies to one side of the beach on a long rocky outcrop. If you walk behind the infinity pool en route to the beach, you’ll pass by a small viewing platform. This little perch is ideal for photographing the arch. For those who indulged in the Muscat Dolphin Cruise on day 2 of this itinerary, you’ve already passed through the arch in your speedboat.

Lunch at Mahhara Beach Bar, Al Husn Shangri-La

Beautifully positioned above the Al Husn private beach is Mahhara Beach Bar, your go-to relaxed beach cafe for a range of light salads, sandwiches and refreshing drinks. For the pescatorians out there, don’t go past their fresh flame-grilled seafood dishes!

Mahhara Beach Bar, Al Husn, Shangri-La Resort

Qurum Beach for sunset walk and dinner

You’ve not visited Muscat unless you’ve walked along the 4km stretch of beach that is Qurum. Popular with locals and tourists alike, this serene public beach has access to a variety of good restaurants and cafes. It’s lively in the evening with children playing beach football, families strolling along the foreshore and others enjoying its refreshing waters. Sunset is a picturesque time to experience Qurum Beach and there are a plethora of dining options for dinner after your walk.

Day 5

Snorkelling at Al Husn Shangri-La private beach

A variety of water sport activities such as snorkelling, banana boats, jet skiing and stand up paddle boarding are available at Shangri-La. For those with a penchant for snorkelling, then why not go for a peaceful paddle in the private beach of Shangri-La and explore the Qantab Natural Arch up close?!

After spending an hour expending some energy, then take advantage of the private beach and soak up some sun.

Private beach of Al Husn, Shangri-La Resort

High Tea at Al Husn Shangri-La

Another decadent treat awaits Al Husn guests: High Tea. This is complementary and served daily in Sultanah Restaurant. With lilting music and views across the Gulf of Oman, you can’t say no!

High Tea at Sultanah Restaurant, Al Husn Shangri-La Resort

Sunset Dhow boat tour

This evening calls for another historically and culturally important activity: a Dhow cruise! Dhow boats are traditional wooden sailing vessels with one or more masts with settee (or sometimes lantern sails) and a raised deck at the stern, used for the transport of goods. Their old-world charm will captivate you and I found them to be a smooth and enjoyable experience. Boat tours depart from Marina Bandar and allow guests to spend 2 hours coasting along bays, beaches, the Al Bustan Palace, Muttrah Corniche, forts, cliffs and the royal Al Alam Palace. This is all the while snacking on fresh dates and coffee, of course! I’d been wanting to experience a Dhow boat cruise for many years and I was not left disappointed!

Sunset Dhow Cruise, with Al Alam Palace and surrounding fortresses seen in below picture

Dinner at Bait Al Bahr, Shangri-La Al Bandar

A short walk along the foreshore between Al Bandar and Al Waha Resorts is Bait Al Bahr, described to us by reception staff as ‘the fish restaurant’. The English translation of this restaurant name is ‘House of the Sea’ and guests will be treated to the finest and freshest local seafood prepared right by the beach. Combined with uninterrupted views of the Omani Gulf, this is a night to treasure!

Bait Al Bahr seafood restaurant, Al Husn Shangri-La Resort

We opted for ‘Catch of the Day’ from the Omani Fish Market, in which we could opt for a selection of Trevally, Hammour, Sherry and Koffer fish, with cooking options including grilled, baked, steamed, pan-fried or fish en papillote.

Our choices:
Entree: 
Sashimi platter of local tuna, local seabream, salmon, wasabi, soya sauce, pickled ginger
Main: 
Grilled local Koffer fish with lemon butter sauce
Sides: 
Grilled asparagus
Roasted beetroot & orange
Crushed potatoes with lemon zest
Dessert:
Lemon sorbet
Lemon tart with raspberry sorbet, crunchy almond vanilla sable, creamy lemon custard, mix berries

Sashimi, grilled fish and lemon sorbet at Bait Al Bahr, Al Husn Shangri-La Resort

Day 6

Al Bandar Shangri La private beach

By far the longest stretch of beach at the Shangri-La complex is that designated to Al Bandar, although this is contiguous with Al Waha. With more zones to lounge on sunbeds than you could imagine, today is an entire day dedicated to exploring the various relaxation options. We started with a morning on the sand by the beach, taking a leisurely stroll up to Al Waha whilst collecting some vibrant coloured shells on the sand. In the middle east, natural beaches are a rare commodity and so it was a treat to find all manner of sealife washed ashore, even including a box fish!

Note of Warning: 
Kindly avoid the designed turtle nest areas which aim to protect the endangered Hawksbill and Green turtle species native to the beaches of Oman. Every year, approximately 100 turtles return to the resort’s beach to lay their eggs, with each nest containing up to 120 eggs. It's vital that visitors respect these nests in order to continue the great conservation work of Shangri-La's 'Turtle Team'.

Private beach of Al Bandar Resort, Shangri-La. (Al Waha Resort seen in the distance)

Al Bandar Shangri-La lazy river

Without a doubt one of the most fun activities in the Shangri-La resort was our adventure in the lazy river! Guests can help themselves to a single or double-ringed inflatable and then get carried away on the (manufactured) current that propels one down the river from Al Bandar to Al Waha resort! It will also take you back again so get comfortable and enjoy the ride!

Enjoying the lazy river at Al Bandar Resort, Shangri-La

Jazz music and cocktails at Al Husn Shangri-La

After a day in the sun, there’s nothing more soothing than having a shower, getting changed and sitting down to enjoy some live upbeat jazz music in the Al Husn courtyard. Guests are also treated to complementary drinks during ‘happy hour’ and so it was that we sank back in our seats whilst enjoying a signature rose water gin and tonic cocktail. It’s the perfect prelude to your evening meal! (Note, this is again only available to Al Husn guests).

Private courtyard hosting complementary jazz music and cocktails to Al Husn guests, Shangri-La Resort

Dinner at Chow Mee, Al Bandar Shangri-La Al Bandar

For authentic and delicious South East Asian street food in a contemporary setting, book ahead to avoid missing out on the lively Chow Mee Restaurant on the Shangri-La Al Bandar promenade. Chow Mee reflects a melting pot of influences from the streets of Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam and Thailand. The atmosphere is dynamic and vibrant and staff are speedy and helpful. We were fortunate to score a table during their promotional ‘lobster night’, whereby multiple lobster-inspired dishes were created for guests (see below menu!)

Lobster Night at Chow Mee Restaurant, Shangri-La Resort

Our choices:
Share plates:
Tom Yum Goong Soup - Thai Hot & Sour Soup with Seafood, Mushroom and Cherry Tomato
Lumpia Goreng Lobster Dumplings served with Citrus Dressing - x2 servings due to deliciousness!
Chém Háp Trong Lá Chuói - Vietnamese Steamed Seabass with Aromatic Asian Herbs Wrapped in Banana Leaves served with Sweet & Chilli Sauce
Phad Chaa - Thai-style Stir Fried Lobster and Scallop served with Thai Herbs and Basil

Chow Mee restaurant dishes, Al Bandar Shangri-La Resort

Day 7

Azaiba Beach day

Depending on your flight time, you’ll have the option of spending a last morning at Shangri-La Resort before strict midday checkout. This is a busy hotel thus late check-out is unlikely going to be an option. However once waving good bye to the hotel, head on over to Azaiba Public Beach, which offers peace, tranquility and beauty. It’s closer to the airport and much less populated than Qurum Public Beach. I found my way to Azaiba Beach on an independent jaunt some 12 years ago to Muscat and it’s the perfect place to kill some time before your flight back.

It’s also located just a few minutes from the Swiss-Belinn and Novotel Hotels.

The serene setting of Azaiba Beach, Muscat

If you’re keen to explore the local architecture, then take a 15 minute walk through the backstreets of Azaiba for quintessential low rise, white-washed authentic Omani styled homes.

Typical Omani architecture, seen in Azaiba

Al Maida Restaurant for an authentic Omani meal

Last on the itinerary is Al Maida Restaurant: your last chance to try an authentic Omani (or Yemeni) meal such as the divinely sumptuous shuwa. The interior is not much to look at but the food was delicious and it’s also very close to the airport, making it the perfect last stop on this itinerary.