Looking for a 7-day itinerary to explore Oman’s highlights?
This guide brings together the top places to experience Oman’s rich culture and history in just one week. It’s shaped by over four years of living in Oman and learning firsthand from Omani people about their traditions, history, and daily life.
Oman offers a very different experience compared to many of its neighbours in the Gulf region.
When I am back in Europe, people often ask me where I live. They look puzzled when I answer, “Oman.”
“Oman? Where?”
It’s true that Oman is less known than places like Dubai, which focuses on futuristic skylines. In contrast, Oman has kept a strong connection to its traditions, landscapes, and slower pace of life.
This 7-day Oman itinerary will take you from the lively capital of Muscat to peaceful places like the Hajar Mountains, the desert, and even to Birkat Al Mouz — one of my personal favourite traditional villages, where you can walk through ancient mudbrick houses and green date plantations.
Muscat’s Historic Souqs and Shores
Muscat’s Cultural and Spiritual Landmarks
Oases, Forts, and Heritage Towns
Mountain Villages and Rose Gardens
Wahiba Sands Desert Adventure
Ship building and Coastal Discoveries
Natural wonders and a leisurely return
The best time to visit Oman is between November and March, when the weather is cooler and ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and exploring the coast and deserts.
During these months, daytime temperatures usually range between 22°C and 30°C, and evenings can be pleasantly cool, especially in the mountains and desert.
If you are planning a 7-day itinerary, visiting in winter will allow you to enjoy outdoor activities comfortably without having to worry about extreme heat.
I always recommend packing a light jacket or jumper, especially if you are spending time in the mountains or planning early morning desert excursions.
From April onwards, temperatures start rising quickly, especially inland, and by May to September, Oman becomes very hot, with daytime temperatures easily reaching 40°C or more.
These summer months are not ideal for travelling around the interior of the country, but if you are only heading to Salalah (in the far south), it’s worth knowing that the Khareef (monsoon) season from July to September transforms the region into lush green landscapes.
Reaching Oman is straightforward, with Muscat acting as the main international gateway.
Most visitors arrive by air at Muscat International Airport, which is well connected to major cities across the Gulf, Europe, and Asia. There are direct flights from cities like London, Frankfurt, Istanbul, Dubai, Doha, and Mumbai, among others. (See my blog post “A Comprehensive Guide to Muscat Airport in 2025” for more details about the airport.)
If you are already travelling within the Gulf region, you can also enter Oman by land. There are several border crossings from the United Arab Emirates, and driving between Dubai and Muscat takes around five to six hours.
I have done this route several times myself. It’s easy, and the road is in excellent condition. However, you must have the correct car insurance to cross the border.
There is also the possibility of travelling by bus with Al-Khanjry Transport from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah.
I have taken this bus as well, but it’s a long journey, taking around seven hours.
There are currently no passenger trains operating between Oman and neighbouring countries, so air or road travel remain your main options.
For most 7-day itineraries, I recommend starting and ending your trip in Muscat, as this offers the easiest flight connections and car rental options.
