Surrounded by mountains and deserts and located on the Gulf of Oman, Muscat is a popular tourist destination. Its souks and the dining scene are the two main draws for visitors, but its diverse terrain offers plenty of other things to do.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Housing the largest chandelier in the world, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is the principal religious site in Oman. Its intricate architecture, a blend of Islamic and Omani traditional architectural styles, is what attracts tourists to the mosque. The five minarets are another noteworthy feature of the place. The mosque is only 22 minutes from Avani Muscat Hotel.

Mutrah Corniche

One of the most visited places in Muscat, Mutrah Corniche is a beautiful promenade that offers amazing views of the sea. The corniche is at its best during sunset. You will find a few sculpture parks and gardens here, and in the northern corner is a small souk that you can explore.

The Royal Opera House

To immerse in the culture, visit the Royal Opera House, one of the popular places to visit in Muscat. The marble-clad exterior and the beautiful theatres are two lavish features of the place. The Opera House hosts musical and theatrical performances on a regular basis, with traditional Omani music as the lead.

 Mutrah Fort

With a history going back to the 16^th century, Mutrah Fort is a splendid military fortification. You can still see some of the weapons and original structures that were used in historical times. This is a popular hiking spot; the trek up to the fort is filled with spectacular scenery.