Budget-Friendly 5-Day Trip to Muscat, Oman: May 17-21, 2025

Day 1: Arrival and Mutrah

Muscat, Oman on May 17, 2025

10:00am

Arrive in Muscat and check into budget accommodation

Settle into a budget-friendly hotel or hostel like Al Nahda Resort or a local guesthouse close to Mutrah for easy access to main attractions.
OMR30, 1h0m

11:30am

Breakfast at Annapurna Vegetarian Restaurant

Enjoy an affordable and tasty vegetarian breakfast in Mutrah, well-known for its flavorful local dishes and good prices.
OMR2, 0h45m

12:30pm

Mutrah Corniche Walk

Stroll along the scenic Mutrah Corniche to enjoy views of the sea, fishing boats, and the old harbor area, a perfect way to immerse yourself in local ambiance.
Free, 1h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Bin Ateeq

Sample traditional Omani dishes like Shuwa or Majboos at affordable prices in a casual local restaurant near the corniche.
OMR4, 1h0m

3:30pm

Mutrah Souq

Explore this vibrant traditional market filled with handicrafts, frankincense, textiles, and souvenirs. Bargain for best deals in a bustling atmosphere.
Free to browse, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Al Masharef Café

Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner of grilled meats and rice in an informal setting popular with locals.
OMR5, 1h0m
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Day 2: Old Muscat & Mosque

Muscat, Oman on May 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or local café

Start your day with a simple Omani or international breakfast nearby your accommodation to keep costs low.
OMR2, 0h45m

9:00am

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Visit one of the most magnificent mosques in the Middle East with stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. Entry is free but guided tours are during morning hours.
Free, 1h0m

11:00am

Al Alam Palace and Bait Al Zubair Museum

Visit the exterior of the ceremonial palace and then walk to Bait Al Zubair Museum to learn about Omani heritage (museum closes at 5pm). Entry is inexpensive.
OMR1, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Kargeen Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Omani and Middle Eastern dishes in the garden setting of this budget-friendly yet well-recommended restaurant.
OMR4, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Old Muscat Forts (Al Jalali & Al Mirani)

View these iconic hilltop forts from outside as they are closed for interior viewing but offer great photographic moments and historical context.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Evening walk at Qurum Beach

Unwind on the sandy shores of Qurum Beach and enjoy sunset by the sea, a relaxing conclusion to sightseeing.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Al Tanoor

Feast on affordable Arabic dishes like kebabs and flatbreads in a popular casual dining venue in Muscat.
OMR4, 1h0m
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Day 3: Beach & Markets

Muscat, Oman on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Shakespeare and Co. - Mutrah

Enjoy a cozy, budget-friendly Western and local breakfast to fuel your day at this popular chain café open from 7am.
OMR3, 0h45m

9:00am

Relax at Al Bustan Beach

Spend a few hours on this pristine public beach, swimming or sunbathing in a calm, scenic environment.
Free, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Kava Café

Grab a light, healthy lunch including sandwiches and fresh juices in a trendy budget spot with local charm.
OMR3, 1h0m

2:00pm

Mutrah Fish Market

Visit early afternoon to witness the daily fish auction and vibrant trade at Muscat’s iconic fresh fish market.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Shopping in Mutrah Souq revisited

Return to the souq for some last-minute shopping or simply enjoy its atmosphere with lower crowds in late afternoon.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Al Khiran Terrace

Close the day with affordable grilled seafood or traditional dishes at this casual restaurant near the corniche.
OMR5, 1h0m
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Day 4: Nizwa Day Trip

Nizwa, Oman on May 20, 2025

6:00am

Early breakfast and depart for Nizwa

Grab a packed breakfast or eat early at your hotel then take a budget bus or shared taxi for the approximately 1.5 hour journey to Nizwa.
OMR2, 0h45m

8:30am

Nizwa Fort Visit

Explore this majestic 17th-century fort with sweeping views and rich history. Opens at 8am, entry fee is minimal.
OMR0.5, 2h0m

11:00am

Nizwa Souq

Discover local crafts, spices, and silver jewelry at this lively market; ideal for budget-friendly souvenirs.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Al-Masharef Restaurant, Nizwa

Enjoy local and traditional Omani meals at budget prices before preparing to head back to Muscat.
OMR4, 1h0m

2:00pm

Return to Muscat

Take afternoon transport back to Muscat, rest or lightly explore nearby areas depending on arrival time.
OMR2, 1h30m

5:30pm

Light dinner or snack at a nearby café

Enjoy a light meal near your accommodation to keep costs low and relax after day trip.
OMR2, 0h45m
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Day 5: Relax & Departure

Muscat, Oman on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Have a final local breakfast to savor your last day in Muscat without hassle.
OMR2, 0h45m

9:30am

Visit the Royal Opera House (optional visit)

Admire the stunning architecture outside or take a budget-friendly guided tour if available (check ahead since tours are limited and usually free or low cost).
Free or OMR1 for tour, 1h0m

11:00am

Walkthrough Al Qurum Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk in this peaceful park with gardens and a pond, perfect for relaxing before departure.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ezzi's Café

Have a final affordable meal with a mix of local and light dishes, popular with locals and visitors alike.
OMR3, 1h0m

2:00pm

Check out and transfer to Muscat International Airport

Prepare for departure with enough transport time to the airport, using budget taxi or shuttle services.
OMR3, 1h0m
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