Nizwa is one of the oldest cities in Oman and the capital of Ad Dakhiliyah governorate. There are many things to do and places to visit within Nizwa or nearby both for solo visitors or for family. Nizwa will serve you as a base camp for the exploration of the Western Hijar Mountains and the other nearby towns and wadis.
I visited Nizwa and nearby places in Ad Dakhiliyah governorate couple of times in 2018, 2019 and 2022 and each time Nizwa impressed me. Its an ancient city with modern looks as well. You can find an old souq as well as a modern market, an ancient mosque as well as modern large mosque, a fort as well as train that goes inside the cave, this diversity simply is what captures my attention.
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Top 10 Things to Do in Nizwa
Nizwa has a lot of things to do, but in this guide I am listing top 10 must places to visit in Nizwa, as well as Ad Dakhiliyah governorate, which are good for sightseeing and activities.
The list is not in the order. I will be mentioning also which can be visited in the day tour to Nizwa and which needs more time. Some people visit Nizwa as a day tour from Muscat, Oman who are visiting the capital of Oman on holidays. While some prefer to see this amazing city on the way from Dubai to Salalah during their visit to Salalah in Khareef.
Nizwa is also one of the spots that you can visit on shorter holidays from UAE, like national day holiday or eid vacations. I am sure this city and the suburbs are not going to disappoint you.
Nizwa Souq
Nizwa Souq is perhaps the most popular old market in Oman after the souq at Mutrah in the capital. This souq sells a lot of pottery items. However, this is not the only thing sold here. You will find a separate block inside the gigantic souq for each category – fish, meat, vegetables, dates and sweet.
Nizwa Fort
Al Qala’a Mosque
Besides the Fort, a beautiful ancient mosque, Al Qala’a Mosque, is located. Non-Muslims cannot enter inside, but from outside, they can witness the architecture of the mosque.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque Nizwa
Read More: Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque Nizwa
Falaj Daris Park
Falaj is an ancient way of irrigation in Oman. This is what you can see when you visit Falaj Daris Park.
Tanuf Castle Ruins and Wadi Tanuf
Al Hoota Cave
A popular cave, with a train to take you to inside.
Misfat Al Abriyeen
Bahla Souq and Bahla Fort
Bahla Fort is the first ancient site in Oman that was listed in UNESCO World Heritage site. There are many things to do in Bahla other than just visiting the fort. Bahla Fort is one of the place thats besides the fort and an amazing place to be. Bahla Wall, the ancient wall that was for fortification of the old town, can be seen.
Bonus Tip: Pottery factory is a must to visit where you can make pottery from your own hands and take these as a souvenir. Read more about this in a separate post.
Jibreen Castle and Jibreen Mosque
Jibreen castle is the most popular castle in Oman. It is a must to visit place when you are nearby Nizwa. This castle was a residence of an Iman.
Jabal Akhdar
For booking tour to Jabal Akhdar, contact Jabal Akhdar Tours
Jebel Shams
Read: Jebel Shams Detailed Guide
For booking tour to Jebel Shams, contact Jebel Shams Tours
Where to Dine in Nizwa?
It depends on where you are staying and what kind of food is liked by you. Below are some of the places, I recommend where you can eat during your stay in Nizwa or even when you are just on the way to any other destination and passing through Nizwa.
- Barbecue Nation Nizwa Branch
Recommended Place to Stay in Nizwa
There are great hotels in Nizwa, check out the best deals for stay in Nizwa