Sixt Tips
Muscat is the capital city of Oman and was originally three smaller towns that grew together. This formation has left the city with three distinct zones. The old walled sector is home to the royal palaces while a labyrinthine souk can be found in the former fishing village of Matrah. The third zone is Ruwi, the business and diplomatic heart of the city. This formation has led to a sprawling urban complex making it advisable that visitors rent a car in Muscat. The city's name means "safe anchorage" with the sea still playing an important part in its life. This ranges from family-friendly beaches through a fishing industry to tourist activities such as swimming with turtles in the lagoons.
With your rental vehicle it is easy to explore the city's tourist attractions. The Grand Mosque is an example of modern Islamist architecture or you can take part in some water-based activities from the Marina Bandar Al Rowdha. Delve into museums such as the Bait Al Zubair with its exhibitions of traditional Omani crafts and furniture or the small but delightful Ghalya Museum of Modern Art. Cruise along the Mutrah Corniche admiring the traditional architecture before driving past the colorful Sultan's Palace. Enjoy fine dining on locally caught lobster or tuck into lighter snacks of falafel and kebabs in charming coffee houses. Shopping ranges from the old souks to modern air-conditioned shopping malls such as the Opera Galleria.