Start our tour of Muscat with two exceptional museums that will allow us to explore Oman's fascinating history and culture.

The first stop is the Bait Al Zubair Museum, a true gem among Oman's cultural institutions. This private museum, founded by the Al Zubair family, offers an extremely rich ethnographic collection. Visitors here can admire an impressive collection of traditional costumes, weapons, jewelry and everyday objects. The museum is also famous for its collection of old stamps and coins, which tell the fascinating story of Oman's history as an important trading center. Bait Al Zubair is not only an exhibit of artifacts, but also a living testimony to Omani culture. Visitors praise the atmosphere of the place, as well as the courteous and knowledgeable staff, always ready to share their knowledge.

Another highlight of our trip is the National Museum of Oman, which is an excellent complement to a visit to Bait Al Zubair. This modern and impressive museum, opened in 2016, offers a comprehensive look at Oman's history from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum impresses not only with its extensive collections, but also with interactive exhibitions that engage visitors of all ages. Particularly noteworthy are the halls dedicated to Oman's maritime history, showing its importance as a maritime power in the region. The National Museum of Oman also stands out for its excellent organization and attention to detail - all exhibits are accompanied by detailed descriptions, allowing visitors to explore on their own without the need for a guide.

Comparing the two museums, it is worth noting that Bait Al Zubair offers a more intimate and personal atmosphere, focusing on ethnography and the daily lives of Omanis. The National Museum of Oman, on the other hand, impresses with its grandeur and modern approach to presenting history. Ticket prices are comparable - at Bait Al Zubair, admission costs about 2-3 OMR, while to the National Museum of Oman you will pay 5 OMR (with free admission for students under 25). Both museums are perfectly located in the center of Muscat, making it easy to visit them in one trip.

Whichever museum you choose (and it's best to visit both!), you're sure to gain a deep understanding of Omani culture and history from your visit. It's a great start to your Omani adventure that will prepare you for further exploration of this fascinating country.

Continuing our tour of Muscat, we can't leave out two iconic buildings that bear witness to Oman's tumultuous history and deep spirituality: Al-Mirani Fortress and the Grand Mosque of Sultan Kabus.

Al-Mirani Fortress, also known as the Western Castle, is an imposing fortification towering over old Muscat. Built in the 16th century by the Portuguese, the fortress played a key role in the city's turbulent history. Today, Al-Mirani offers visitors not only a history lesson, but also breathtaking views of the Gulf of Oman and the old city. Visitors praise the tranquil atmosphere of the place and the opportunity to immerse themselves in Omani history. Note the recently opened cafe on the fort's grounds, where visitors can relax and enjoy the city's skyline. The entrance fee is about 4 OMR, which is a reasonable price for the opportunity to experience such an important monument.

The Grand Mosque of Sultan Kabus, on the other hand, is a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture that impresses with its beauty and grandeur. Opened in 2001, the mosque can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers, making it one of the largest in the world. Visitors are impressed not only by the monumental architecture, but also by the incredible details, such as the hand-woven carpet in the main prayer hall and the huge chandelier adorned with Swarovski crystals. The mosque is open to non-Muslims during certain hours (usually from 8:00 to 11:00, Saturday through Thursday), providing a unique opportunity to experience Islamic culture and architecture. Be sure to dress appropriately - women should have their hair, arms and legs covered, and men should wear long pants. Admission to the mosque is charged (about 5 OMR per person), but many visitors find it a small price to pay for the opportunity to see such an impressive site.

Comparing the two places, there is an interesting contrast between the historic fortress and the modern mosque. Al-Mirani Fortress offers a more intimate experience, allowing for quiet contemplation of history and beautiful views. The Grand Mosque of Sultan Kabus, on the other hand, impresses with its grandeur and rich ornamentation, serving as a symbol of modern Oman. Both sites are perfectly maintained and offer visitors an unforgettable experience.

Both the fortress and the mosque are easily accessible and well connected to downtown Muscat. It is advisable to plan a visit to both sites within one day, keeping in mind the different opening hours. Al-Mirani Fortress is open all day, giving you more flexibility in your planning, while a visit to the mosque must be scheduled for the morning hours.

Whether you're a lover of history, architecture or simply looking for beautiful views, Al-Mirani Fortress and Sultan Kabus Grand Mosque are places you can't miss when visiting Muscat. Each offers a unique glimpse into Omani culture and history, allowing you to better understand this fascinating country.

No visit to Muscat would be complete without a visit to the famous Mutrah sukuk - one of the oldest markets in the Arab world. This is the place where history meets the present and shopping becomes a fascinating cultural adventure.

Suk Mutrah, also known as Al Dhalam Souq (meaning 'the market of darkness'), is a maze of narrow streets full of colorful stalls and stores. Its history dates back more than 200 years, when Muscat was an important port on the trade route between India and Africa. Today, the suk has retained its traditional character while offering a wide variety of goods - from traditional Omani handicrafts to modern souvenirs.

What can you find in the Mutrah suk? First of all, it is a paradise for shopping enthusiasts. Here you can buy traditional Omani incense, which is famous for its quality and intense aroma. Look out for silver jewelry, especially the characteristic Omani bracelets and necklaces. Suk is also famous for its high-quality cashmere scarves and pashmina. For souvenir seekers, Suk offers a wide selection of miniature khanjars (traditional Omani daggers), ceramics and hand-woven carpets.

However, suk Mutrah is not just a place to shop - it's a true cultural experience. Walking through the narrow streets, you can feel the atmosphere of ancient Oman. The smell of incense wafting in the air, the bustle of conversations in different languages and the colorful displays of stores create a unique atmosphere. This is a great place to observe the daily life of Muscat residents and interact with local traders.

It's worth remembering that bargaining is an important part of the sukuk shopping culture. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices - it is not only accepted, but actually expected. This is a great opportunity to practice your negotiating skills while immersing yourself in the local culture.

Suk Mutrah is open daily, but it is best to visit in the afternoon or evening, when the temperature is cooler and the atmosphere more lively. It's worth setting aside at least 2-3 hours for a leisurely tour and shopping. Be sure to bring cash, although more and more stores are accepting payment cards.

When comparing Suk Mutrah with the previously discussed attractions, it is worth noting that it offers a completely different experience. While museums and monuments allow you to learn about Oman's history through the prism of artifacts and architecture, the suk provides an opportunity for direct contact with living culture. It's a place where you can not only see, but also touch, smell and taste Oman.

Suk Mutrah is also perfectly located - it is near the Corniche promenade, making it easily accessible to tourists. Unlike museums or mosques, admission to the suk is free, making it an attractive option for travelers on a tight budget.

In conclusion, the Mutrah suk is a must-see for any visitor to Muscat. It's a place where history, culture and commerce are intertwined in a fascinating whole, offering visitors an authentic Omani experience. Whether you are an avid shopper or simply enjoy observing the local culture, suk Mutrah is sure to leave you with an unforgettable experience.