Muttrah Fort – the best views in Old Muscat
This small but mighty fort dominating the skyline of Old Muscat is the first place I visited with my family after landing in Oman. Still slightly jet lagged after moving from the UK, we hauled ourselves up the steps for a panoramic view of our new home.
And it’s this view that makes a visit to Muttrah Fort a must. From the traditional ramparts you can see the decorative corniche curving towards the souq and iconic fish market.
In contrast, inland you can see the higgledy-piggledy residences that seem to flow from the coal coloured mountains into any conceivable gap.
In this post I want to share with you the experience of visiting Muttrah Fort. It, like this post doesn’t take long, but it’s one of the top things to do in Muttrah and somewhere we took each of the friends and family who visited us.
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.
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A strategic defence for Muscat
Muttrah has been a trading port for millennia, connecting Oman with India, East Africa and China. This made it an attractive target worthy of defence. The first fort was built in here in the early 1500s.
The Portuguese occupied Muscat in the 1560s and added towers and a curtain wall. By the mid 17th Century the invaders had been driven out and Muttrah Fort was fortified even further, resembling what you can see today.
It is one of two historic forts in Muscat that is open to visitors, the other being Al Mirani Fort, next to Al Alam Palace.
Visiting Muttrah Fort today
Muttrah Fort was first opened to visitors in 1980, but there have been further improvements to the visitor experience since then, including the very welcome addition of a cafe and toilet facilities. And you’re going to need a cool refreshment after climbing the steps to the fort entrance.
Muttrah Fort is perfectly positioned on top of a rock with 360 degree views of the port and mountains separating Old Muscat from the rest of the city which sprawls East along the coast.
There is no elevator or escalator to get you to the top, so come prepared for a climb. There is a staircase with a bannister most of the way.
Old Muscat views
Once you reach the gated entrance, walk though to catch your first sight of Muttrah Port from above. Turn left to stand on the North East tower or continue your climb up the battlements to the right.
Along the way you will spot French and British cannons dating from the 18th Century. Climb all the way to the top and there is a Hotchkiss machine gun, which was added to the fort in World War II.
Something you can’t miss are the luxury yachts in the harbour. Sultan Haitham bin Tariq moors his royal yachts here and Muttrah Fort is the best place for a view.
By contrast, the views inland reveal tightly packed homes and businesses, nestled between the rocky mountains with watch towers on the the horizon.
The fort also hosts art exhibitions from time to time, acting like an outdoor gallery.
It’s worth mentioning that it’s not possible to go inside the rooms of the fort – the views really are the main attraction. Allow no more than half an hour to explore unless you want to sit a while with an ice coffee. I can recommend the one flavoured with roses.
Extend your visit by exploring the rest of Muttrah. Here’s my tips on things to do in Old Muscat.
Got a thing for forts? Read about the other Omani forts we have visited.
The best time to visit Muttrah Fort
It is easiest to look around Muttrah Fort at the start or end of the day. The towers and battlements are very exposed. The only places where you can find shade are in the entrance and the tiny Fort Cafe.
When we had had visiting friends, my plan was always to head here first thing in the morning before going to the souq when it gets hotter. Sadly, we never made it for sunset or to see Muttrah lit up after dark. I can imagine both would be spectacular.
More tips for visiting
- The whole fort is open to the elements, so come preferred with cool, loose clothing, sun cream and hats. Flat shoes are easiest for walking around.
- Wear conservative clothing that covers knees and shoulders.
- There are lots of steps right from the entrance. If you are visiting with small children who are unable to walk themselves bring a child carrier rather than a push chair.
- Keep a close eye on children at all times. There are lots of drops without barriers.
- The fort ticket office and cafe accept card payments.
- There are bathrooms with Western-style toilets behind the ticket office and one in the fort. Bring your own toilet paper and dispose of it in the bin.
How to get to Muttrah Fort
Here’s where to find the ticket office and entrance to Muttrah Fort:
The easiest way to visit Muttrah Fort is by car. The fort has its own car park. Check out my tips for finding more free parking in my guide to Muttrah.
If you want to book a taxi, which is the most convenient way to get to the Fort from Muscat International Airport, used the Yango app.
Oman’s public transport system is limited, but if you are traveling from Ruwi, you’ll want the no.4 bus. This service from Ruwi Bus Station to Al Alam Palace passes Muttrah Fort. Get off at the ‘Muscat Fort’ stop. Check times on the Moovitapp website.
Places to eat
The small Fort Cafe is handy for drinks and snacks. There’s a couple of seats inside and tables with umbrellas outside. If you are looking for something more, here’s some recommendations:
- Anna Cafe is my favourite place for a sandwich
- For something a bit special, book a table at Mesa Restaurant, right beside the fort. It serves a mix of Omani and Portuguese dishes
- Bait Al Luban beyond the fish market is famed for its traditional Omani menu and dining experience.
Where to stay
- The Fort Guesthouse – a traditional guesthouse at the centre of Muttrah that gets great reviews for its location and hospitality.
- Nassem Hotel – this sea view hotel on Muttrah Corniche is a top choice for visitors, including families, who want somewhere central but not fussy. Cafe Anna below serves excellent coffees, cakes and light meals. Their cookies are one of my guilty pleasures.
- The Sheraton Hotel – a very reasonably priced 5 star international hotel with pool, restaurant and bars a short drive from Muttrah. It is in an urban location but we have stayed a few times and enjoyed the stunning lobby, mountain views and excellent dining facilities
- Hilton Muscat Al Bandar Resort – this 5 star beach resort is home to three Hilton hotels including the family-friendly DoubleTree by Hilton Muscat and Al Husn adults-only hotel. The resort is located about 20 minutes to the East of Muttrah. It has its own private beach and a range of restaurants.
FAQs about Muttrah Fort
The fort has long opening hours from 8am to 11pm daily.
Tickets for tourists cost 3 OMR for adults and 2 OMR for children. If you are an Omani citizen or resident the price is 1 OMR for adults and 0.5 OMR for children. The easiest way to get tickets is to visit the ticket office at the bottom of the fort.
If you want to book in advance, tourists can get tickets on Get Your Guide, while Omani nationals and residents can get a discount by booking on Platinumlist.
Where next?
For more ideas for things to do Oman’s capital see my full guide to Muscat or my suggested three day itinerary.
