From the port all the way up to the Hajar Mountains; Muscat, the pearl of Oman, has been considered an important hub in the region since ancient times thanks to its deep harbor waters. The small village gradually grew into an important city, whose commercial industry has been supplemented by the oil industry since the 1960s.

You can immerse yourself in the city's eventful past on a trip on a traditional dhow boat. If you prefer solid ground under your feet, head to Old Muscat.

The original walled city has retained much of its historicity.

Stroll through the district by lantern light, past the Sultan's ceremonial Al-Alam Palace, which is framed by the Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts - as the buildings are in active use, they can only be admired from the outside. Gold, dates, mother-of-pearl, fish, Hojari incense and handicrafts - such as khanjars, oriental curved daggers - are on sale in the souks Maskats. The Mutrah Souk, at the end of which lies Fort Mutrah, built by the Portuguese, is particularly authentic. The City Centre Qurum offers modern shopping. There is also plenty on offer for culture fans: in the impressive Sultan Qabus Mosque, you will find yourself among minarets and domes, while the National Museum of Oman in the heart of the city focuses on the country's history.

The city between the desert and the sea is also a dream destination for nature lovers; you can swim with whale sharks on a tour to the beautiful Ad Dimaniyat Islands or drive past the mythical Bimmah doline into Wadi Shab, which becomes a green oasis with crystal-clear water after rainfall. Unforgettable experiences also await in the Wahiba Sands desert, where you can spend the night in Bedouin tents and explore the Aeolianites, fossilized dunes, on the coast.