Bait al-Baranda Museum

The renovated corniche area is a popular place for a walk and also for its many not-so-expensive eating places. There are also good view of the fishing dhows in the harbour.

Visitors can watch fishermen unload and sell the catch of the day.

This Portuguese watchtower has also been restored, and although the tower is closed to the public, the hill can be climbed for some great views of Mutrah and the Corniche. There is no clearly-defined path to the top; the easiest access is from the northwest.

Built by the Portuguese in the 1580s, this fort is not open to the public, but visitors are permitted to climb up the hill to the outside for a good view of the area.

This museum is made up of a cluster of houses with furnishings and displays appropriate to an Omani house between 1950 and 1970, i.e. before the accession of Sultan Qaboos. There is also a small modern art gallery.

This short hike takes the walker away from the modern world of Muscat and also offers fantastic views of the rugged mountains surrounding the capital city. The path begins in Riyam Park, and follows a 5000-year-old trail used by miners to an abandoned village, then finally finishes near Mutrah Souq. Allow for 1.5-2 hours, with an additional 20-minute return walk along the Corniche. A decent trail map can be found here.

Between Riyam Park and the highest point it is a concrete path albeit quite steep.

Between the highest point and Mutrah, the trail is mostly on bare rock and only marked by painted flags which may be difficult to spot. In places it can be impassable unless you are willing to scramble up cliff faces. Bring at least 2 litres of water and wear shoes with good grip. Do not start the trek after 4pm unless you go in a group and bring torch lights, as getting lost is highly likely in the dark.