Muscat

Muscat is a bride of a capital facing the sea, stretched between the rocky Hajar Mountains and the Gulf of Oman. It is known for traditional white architecture: no skyscrapers, but houses, palaces and mosques with harmonious arches and domes.

Its great landmarks are the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, opened in 2001, with its vast hand-woven carpet and crystal chandelier, and the Royal Opera House, opened in 2011 with richly decorated halls. In old Muscat stands Al Alam Palace, guarded by the 16th-century forts of Al Jalali and Al Mirani.

On the Mutrah Corniche lies Mutrah Souq, one of the oldest markets in Arabia, with covered lanes of frankincense, silver, khanjars and Omani caps. A sunset walk along the Corniche is one of the city's great pleasures.

We suggest three nights in Muscat, with a day for nearby wadis such as Wadi Shab on the coast road to Sur.