The drive from Muscat to Nizwa is pretty straight forward once you are out of the city. The roads are good and it shouldn't take more than an hour and 40 minutes to cover the 160km. But if you want to make a stop, I've got some suggestions for places to see between Muscat and Nizwa that are worth the detour.
*This post contains affiliate links. If you click and buy something, I may earn some commission. This is at no extra cost to you but helps me cover the costs of running this website. See my privacy policy and disclosure policy for more information (links in footer).*
But before the good stuff, I'd like to thank you for visiting Oman Wanderlust and also encourage you to join our Facebook group Oman Unpacked. It's a community to get even more personal recommendations from visitors and expats who love Oman.
All the locations for these stops on the way to Nizwa are included in the map at the bottom of this post.
Fanja Pottery Souq
This hidden gem is a 20 minute drive from the outskirts of Muscat and a great place to stop if you want to find authentic Omani pottery at a good price.
You'll also find incense, crafts and frankincense.
Check the prices here before you make similar purchases at Nizwa Souq.
Fanja Heritage House
While in Fanja, coffee lovers must make a detour to Fanja Heritage House where you can enjoy a cup of hot or iced coffee with views over the wadi.
As well as the coffee house, you can book rooms to stay here. You'll feel a million miles away from the bustle of Muscat.
Birkat Al Mouz
A good way into your journey to Nizwa, Birkat Al Mouz is just 20 minutes from your destination and a charming place to stop and explore.
Wander through date and banana plantations, as well as the abandoned mud-brick homes of the older neighbourhoods. It's reminiscent of the mountain village of Misfat Al Abriyeen which you can also visit from Nizwa.
Oman Across the Ages Museum
Another detour at the end of your trip between Muscat and Nizwa is Oman Across the Ages Museum at Manah.
Opened in 2023, it is an excellent spring board for exploring the rest of Oman, setting the scene with hi-tech displays about the country's history, culture, landscape and politics.
I'd particularly recommend this for families. My kids love the interactive exhibits.
Find out more about visiting Oman Across the Ages Museum.
Here's where to find these stops on the way to Nizwa
Where would you add? Coffee stop suggestions particularly welcome!
What about things to do when you reach Nizwa? Check out my guide to the must see sights.