We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!
- Meet the Team
- Work with Us
- Czech Republic
- Netherlands
- Switzerland
- Scandinavia
- Philippines
- South Korea
- New Zealand
- South Africa
- Budget Travel
- Work & Travel
- The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
- Travel Resources
- How to Travel on $10/day
Home » Asia » India » Goa
GOA Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)
Gorgeous Goa is India’s smallest state stretching along the shores of the warm Arabian Sea. It has been a jewl in the crown of Indian tourism since the 1960’s attracting hippies and sun-seekers each winter.
Goa (like all of India) is a place of celebrations and you’re bound to experience a festival or parade sometime during your stay. The wonderfully festive province of Goa will remind you that there’s always a reason to celebrate (ie, you are alive)!
Its rich cultural history and lush forests make it a wonderful place to explore and there are some great guided tours on offer. If you’re looking for the perfect way to spend your time in Goa, you’ve come to the right place because we’ve put together the ultimate Goa itinerary.
Need some info about visiting Goa? Then read on!
A Little Bit About This Goa Itinerary
Where to stay in goa in 3 days, day 1 itinerary in goa – panjim & old goa, day 2 itinerary in goa – anjuna party time, day 3 itinerary in goa – arambol, what to do with more than 3 days in goa, best time to visit goa, how to get around goa, plan a trip to goa – what to prepare, faq on goa itinerary, final thoughts.
When you talk about backpacking India , you’ll quickly hear all about Goa, which is undoubtedly one of the most laidback and beautiful places in the entire country.
Whilst Goa is India’s smallest state, it is still nevertheless a state and is as big as some small countries. This itinerary covers the entire state from North to South and with several incursions inland. Therefore, to execute this Goa itinerary in 3 days you will need to change accommodation a few times.
The good news is that finding places to stay in Goa is pretty easy wherever you are. There are loads of guest houses, party hostels , hotels and homestays all eager for foreigners to crash – it is usually as simple as turning up in town and asking around.
The itinerary does leave time for changing accommodation and moving around and has also been designed to be flexible enough to adjust to suit your own needs. In terms of traveling around Goa, the bus system is very cheap, but rides can be long and very uncomfortable. Therefore if you have the budget, we suggest taxi’s – if you book ahead and haggle you can cover even large distances for well under $30.
Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!
Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.
Goa 3-Day Itinerary Overview
- Goa Itinerary Day 1- Old Goa | Spice Garden | Panaji Tiatre
- Goa Itinerary Day 2 – Vagator Beach | Foot Massage | Paddle Boarding | Trance Party
- Goa itinerary Day 3 – Querim Beach | Sweet Lake | Yoga Session | Drum Circle | Ecstatic Dance
Let’s get this straight, Goa is a State. Whilst it is India’s smallest state it is still bigger than a lot of countries. You need to choose where to stay in Goa very carefully as it will inform your experience and will affect your Goa itinerary hugely.
Goa is roughly divided into North Goa and South Goa. North Goa has a few more famous attractions than South Goa so if you’re wanting to spend some time doing typically touristy things then North Goa is a great place to start!
Most visitors opt to stay in a beach town or village. The prime ones in the North are Anjuna & Arambol for hippies & backpackers, and Baga beach and Calangute for package tourists. In the South, Palolem Beach & Agonda and Candolim are popular. There are Airbnbs in Baga , Calangute & Candolim but very few in Arambol & Anjuna.
If you don’t want to be near the beach then there are a few nice towns and cities set further back inland, Goa Airbnb listings tend to provide a nice variety of options to choose from.
Panjim is a nice city in the Northern Goa region! It’s home to many gorgeous old Portuguese mansions and some good art galleries.
Best Hostel in Goa – Folklore Hostel
Situated in Vagator, Goa Folklore Hostel can only be described as a home away from home! With communal spaces that encourage interactions and facilities that you provide everything you need, there’s no better place to spend your stay in Goa if you’re looking for a hostel experience!
What’s more? If you don’t want to leave your furry friend at home, feel free to bring them with as the Folklore hostel is pet-friendly!
Best Airbnb in Goa – 2 Bed Lotus Villa @ Tito’s Street
This quirky and comfortable villa in Goa is located in the heart of the party district. With Bardez’s best beaches and hottest clubs within walking distance, you won’t find a better Airbnb in Goa.
Best Budget Hotel in Goa – Crystal Goa
This quaint hotel offers everything you’ve come to expect from a hotel, plus an incredibly tranquil setting! The restaurant and bar on the property are also a great place to dine during your stay in Goa. But don’t worry, should you feel like lying in and having a lazy morning, breakfast will be delivered to your door! Crystal Goa is located in Palolem in South Goa so perfect for those who prefer peace to partying.
Best Luxury Hotel in Goa – Vivanta Panaji
This incredibly beautiful luxury hotel is located right in Panjim center! But convenience is not its main drawing card.
A 24-hour gym and spa might have something to do with it! As well as the fact that the hotel is pet-friendly. This is very rare to find in such a luxurious venue! Live music is provided every night so there is no shortage of entertainment at the Vivanta Panaji!
For the first day of our 3 day Goa itinerary we are gonna base ourselves in Panjim or Panaji, the Goan state capital. Whist this city is inland, away from the lush beaches, it is one of India’s cleanest and most pleasant cities. It abounds with beautiful old colonial mansions and is well situated for executing day 1 of our itinerary.
10:00 – Old Goa
Old Goa is the former Portuguese Colonial capital. It was once considered a great city of the world rivalling even Lisbon itself I’m terms of its wealth, culture and beauty.
Most of Old Goa has been lost to the ravages of time but thankfully, enough has survived to justify a visit. The Dom Jesus Basilica is perhaps the grandest Christian temple in the whole of Asia. Then there are the ruins of the old Church of St Augustine. which blend into the Goan jungle like a level from Tomb Raider.
Old Goa can easily be explored in a day or even in half a day. The issue is getting there as it is about 20km away from the beaches. You can book a private or a bus tour from any travel agent in pretty much any resort which will leave in the morning and drop you back home after dark.
The Basilica of Bom Jesus Church is now a UNESCO world heritage site. Although the building is very rustic, it’s incredibly beautiful too. A church may seem like a strange place to visit while staying in Goa, India. But because Goa was colonized by the Portuguese for so long, many Hindus converted to Catholicism over this period of time. This is one of Goa’s best places to visit in 3 days.
A solid option, is to join an electric bike tour so you can really explore the jungles and roads!
- Cost – Most of the sites here are free
- How Long Should I Spend Here? Half a day
- Getting There – Old Goa is about 30 minutes drive from Panjim. I recommend getting a taxi or joining a tour bus
15:00 – Sahakari Spice Farm
At the Sahakari Spice Farm , you’ll get the chance to take in the incredible fragrance of the beautiful spice farm! These lush plantations are not all there is on offer at the spice farm though.
During your tour, you’ll be shown how to climb the trees and swing from palm to palm! If any guest on the tour is brave enough to give it a try, they’re encouraged with enthusiasm. This often creates a lot of laughs among the tour group!
For those interested in a more relaxing form of entertainment, you will be treated to a folk dance by some of the female laborers and children who live on the farm. These often contain lots of color and excitement!
- How Long Should I Spend Here? 90 minus is plenty
- Getting There – It’s a 20-minute ride from Old Goa. Get a cab.
18:00 – See a Tiatr Production
The Hanuman Theatre in Mapusa is home to some of the most incredible Tiatr! Just like Broadway there are many different types of Tiatr that take place, these all have different names and contain different entertainment elements (dancing, singing, etc.)
To be honest, it doesn’t really matter which you decide to go see, they’re all great and can be enjoyed whether you understand the words or not.
The word Tiatr comes from the Portuguese word ‘Teatro’ – meaning theatre. As you know by now, Goa is heavily influenced by the Portuguese because of its previous colonization by Portugal.
- Cost – $1.45
- How Long Should I Spend Here? 2 hours
- Getting There – Get a taxi back to Panaji and then either walk or take a Tuk-Tuk to the theatre
Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….
These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.
Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…
For day 2, we’re gonna head for the beaches. Pack your bag into a taxi, or jump on a bus towards Anjuna. Whether you decide to base yourself in Anjuna or Vagator is fine.
10:00 – Relax on Little Vagator Beach
Once you’ve checked in to your new digs, hit the beach!
Although it’s free to relax on the beach, if you’d like to make use of the loungers that line the beach, you’ll have to buy something from the restaurant. This isn’t a bad deal at all, cause trust me, you’ll want to be there a while! You can have drinks and food brought to you.
While lying back on your lounger, it’ll be hard to miss the many cows that stroll past and sit on the beach alongside you. There’s nothing to be scared of though, they are very peaceful creatures!
Due to the Hindu culture in Goa, it’s illegal to kill or harm these beautiful creatures. This means that you’ll find them roaming the streets and congregating in open areas – such as the beach.
- Cost – Free – but bring money for food and drink
- How Long Should I Spend Here? A good few hours
- Getting There – Depending on where you are staying, either walk, get a cab or hire a scooter
14:00 – Foot Massage on The Beach
After all your gallivanting around you’ll be doing during your trip, you’ll be in need of a great foot massage! Luckily for you, they offer them right on the beach – along with a variety of other treatments. So it’s about time you put your feet up and enjoyed some good ol’ relaxation!
Be sure to ask around for the best price before settling on a masseuse, some tend to charge a lot less than $6!
- Cost: Bater hard and it will by anywhere between $2 – $5
14:30 – Sea Rafting
After all that relaxing, I’m sure you’re down to try something crazy. How about a bit of sea rafting?
After about half an hour of training on the beach, you and your team will be ready to hit the waves! Don’t worry, your guide will be with you to lead you every step of the way! The waves can be a bit daunting at first, but once you’ve caught your first wave, you won’t want to stop!
Be sure to head up the beach for some beers at one of the many beach shacks that call this beach their home.
- Cost: $6.50
- How Long Should I Spend Here? 60 minutes is usually enough
- Getting There – It’s on the beach
17:00 – Dinner at Artjuna
Artjuna is one of my favourite spots in Artjuna. It is a cafe with spacious grounds where you can spend the whole day for a price of a few coffees. The food is proper decent offering a mix of Indian food, vegan grub and a few Israeli specialities.
Other excellent dinner spots include Sakana in Vagator (delicious, pricy, sushi) or you can just hit up on the beach shacks like Curries for a fish tandoori.
- Cost: $5 – $10
- How Long Should I Spend Here? 60 – 90 minutes. Service takes time in India
- Getting There – Walk, ride or jump a cab
18:00 (Onwards) – Attend a Goan Trance Party
Goan Trance (latterly Psytrance) is perhaps Goa’s greatest gift to the world and you absolutely should not miss the chance to experience a Goa Trance party first-hand. The scene emerged in and around Anjuna in the early 90’s and reached worldwide fame with “Goa parties” popping up all around the world.
The music itself, is a fast, intense and utterly trippy form of electronic dance music. If you have never heard it before, it may be a bit much for you but bear in mind that it is a sound best heard in altered states . There’s a reason Goa ranks as one of the best places in the world to party !
There are trance parties most nights during high season (Nov – Mar) but the scene is curtailed a bit during election years. My personal picks are Shiva Valley (Anjuna) on Tuesday nights and the occasional, underground parties organised by The Trip Foundation in and around Arambol. The parties start after sunset (around 18:00) and go on until well after sunrise the following morning.
Another great venue is House of Chapora (Chapora is a 10 minute aside from Anjuna). I particularly recommend following Pandora Collective who are organising 2-3 great parties each week all across North Goa – there Instagram handle is @pandoracollective.
Hilltop (Anjuna) attracts the big names but is a bit over-priced and soulless but still the Sunday afternoon sessions are nice if you want to be in bed early.
- Cost: $0 – $10
- How Long Should I Spend Here? All night!
- Getting There – Get a taxi. Walking at night in Anjuna can be risky
For day 3, we’re heading North across the river up towards Arambol. If you stayed out all night partying, either skip over the morning section of this itinerary or sack it off altogether and spend today hanging out in Anjuna’s German Bakery.
10:30 – Ride to Querim Beach
For a taste of true paradise, you must make the 30 minute scooter ride North from Arambol towards Querim (Keri) beach. Keri is a small village set in the mangrove forests and is home to one of North Goa’s quietest beaches. You can rent a sun longer, order food and drinks from the shacks or even rent a surfboard.
As well as exploring the beach, the ride itself is also worth savouring. There is little traffic in and around Keri and plenty of back roads that lead through the forest to explore. Bring a bottle of water and sun cream and simply enjoy the experience of being in the riding seat watching beautiful Goa pass by.
- How Long Should I Spend Here? 3 hours minutes including the ride
- Getting There – Rent a scooter and ride. Wear a helmet as the road does pass a police checkpoint.
13:00 – Fish Thali at the Thali Shack
Just by the first, main park on Arambol beach, there is a completely unassuming looking little shack (a man selling coconuts sit’s by the door). Whilst you may be tempted to walk right past, don’t; because it offers the best and possibly cheapest Thali’s in Arambol.
A Thali is a big silver tray filled with rice, veg and a few different types of curry. The options are Veg, Chicken or Fish – the latter is particularly sublime.
14:00 – Visit the Sweet Water Lake in Arambol
The Sweet Water Lake is a freshwater lagoon with a source that originates in the Goan Jungle. The Sweet Water Lake is warmed by a natural hot spring, so going for a swim is a must in the late evening!
The Lagoon is surrounded by luscious greenery, overhanging thick jungle branches, and coconut groves. Steam rises slowly from the lagoon, making it a beautifully picturesque scene to take in, and the perfect place to snap some pics for the gram!
There is a beach just a short walk from the lagoon that is only accessible by foot. There are loads of shack’s and restaurants selling classic Goan food.
- How Long Should I Spend Here? 60 – 90 minutes
- Getting There – Walk here from Arambol beach – it is the only way!
15:00 – Join a Yoga Session
I once checked the notice board in Arambol and realised that there is a yoga class taking place somewhere in town, at every minute of the day. Arambol is a proper yoga Mecca and churns out newly qualified yoga teacher like Yale & Oxford churn out future venture capitalists and war-mongers.
Therefore you won’t have to try too hard to find a Yoga class. Either check the notice board, ask around or ask any slender, toned yogini you encounter.
17:30 – Sunset Drum Circle & Market
Every evening on Arambol beach, the place to be is the drum circle. It is literally a circle where anybody can come, bring a drum and bang it. Whilst the sound is (for me) a bit tedious, it is nevertheless a very pleasant gathering and attracts the Goa freaks who come to congregate.
From here, walk down to the sunset market where you can barter for hand made jewellery, post cards and other wares.
- Cost: $4 – $8
- Getting There – Most sessions are within walking distance from the beach
19:00 – Ecstatic Dance at The Source
Dance is a way of life in Goa. Whilst you may be exhausted from last nights trance session, I guarantee your legs will still summon the energy for one more boogie! Ecstatic Dance is a giant sober (no drugs or alcohol) party that takes place around a giant Banyan tree at the source.
You may initially need some time to get over your inhibitions (dancing sober?!) but you’ll soon get into it. Ecstatic Dance is massive fun, don’t miss it. If this is your first time in Goa, then its time to embrace your inner hippy!
- How Long Should I Spend Here? Stay as long as your energy lasts
- Getting There – Walk from the beach or get a taxi
21:00 – Late Dinner at Aladdin’s
Aladdin’s is one of Arambol’s best restaurants. It has massive menu ranging from bar-bq, Indian classics and some very interesting vegetarian dishes. It is quite pricy for Indian standards but worth it for a treat.
- How Long Should I Spend Here? Until they throw you out!
- Getting There – Walk from the Source – bring a torch though as the way is dark
Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Goa
Tiswadi is the best place to stay if you’re visiting Goa for the first time. Home to the capital city, Panjim, Tiswadi is where you’ll find most of Goa’s cultural sights, the vibrant Latin Quarter, and charming Old Goa.
- Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which contains the tomb and mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.
- Explore Fontainhas, Goa’s Latin Quarter full of colonial character, cobblestone streets, and vibrant, and colourful houses.
- Be amazed at Sé Cathedral, the largest church in Asia measuring more than 76 meters long and 55 meters wide.
If you are planning a trip that is longer than 3 days in Goa, then here are a few things you need to add to your itinerary for the rest of your trip.
Arpora Night Market
The Saturday night market in Arpora is a true Goa institution. It is a weekly mega market where you can barter hard for incense, jewellery, stones, gods, clothes, sheets and wonderful things you probably don’t even know exist!
As well as being a shoppers delight, the market has plenty of food stalls and a few bars mixing Techno into the early hours.
All of the above said, the word on the street is that the sun is setting on the Arpora Night market. Apparently the conduct of management has forced a lot of boutique owners and niche designers away and they can now be found at the Hilltop Friday Night Market instead. The Night Markets are amongst the best things to do in Goa in 3 days.
Visit Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary Near Ganjem
The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary contains a mini zoo so that children and adults alike can see the animals up close. Plus, it has a massive deer park, which means that the deer can roam freely in their natural habitat! It also contains a botanical garden and a rose garden, for those who love flowers!
Here you’ll be educated about the animals and the bird life, as well as the vegetation found in Goa! This is a trip that will intrigue nature-lovers, so be sure you don’t miss out!
- It’s only 38 kilometers from Margao.
- There is a jungle resort containing tourist cottages on the property, just in case you want to stay the night.
- There are plenty of different attractions, so you’re bound to find something that will suit your taste.
Visit Brahma Karmali Temple
The Brahma Karmali Temple is one of the oldest temples in Goa! The temple attracts a lot of devoted worshippers from around the region. Based in Carambolim, this temple is said to have played a pivotal role in Goa’s struggle for freedom. Many sessions were held in the building by a member of Congress during the time of struggle.
Learning about the fascinating history of this temple is spiritually moving, and exploring the temple grounds is a wonderfully relaxing experience!
- This temple is named after a nearby town – Brahma Karmali.
- The main idol inside the temple is said to date back to the 12th century.
- Visiting and exploring this temple is absolutely free.
Hike to Hivre Waterfall
This waterfall is a great place to visit for nature-lovers and adventure junkies alike! During the hike to the waterfall, you will walk along a narrow pathway through the forest. Along the way, you’ll see beautiful river creeks that wind their way through the forest.
The locals that visit the waterfall are always friendly and helpful, and don’t mind guiding tourists to the waterfall with them!
- Hivre Waterfall is popular amongst locals and tourists alike so it’s often busy, especially on weekends.
- The waterfall is located only 14 kilometers from Valpoi City.
- You will need to travel through the Thane village to get to the Hivre falls!
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Goa is definitely a seasonal destination and best experienced during the Northern hemispheres winter. The crowds flock to Goa between November and February when the weather is perfect. If you come off-season, not much may be happening. The high summer months are best avoided altogether as this is when monsoon hits.
During peak tourist season in Goa, the beaches are the place to be! The water is perfect, there are nightly parties, and it never rains. As the monsoon season in Goa approaches though, the beaches become more and more empty.
However if you’re not a beach bum, then the rainy season can be equally as beautiful! During the summer in Goa, mist rises over the plantations and fields, and rain cleans the cities, leaving them smelling fresh and new. Visiting India during June will also allow you to attend the Sao Joao Festival, which is one of the coolest celebrations in Goa .
There are a number of Goa transport options available depending on where in Goa you are, where you are going and what you want to do. For example, beach towns and cities themselves are pretty easy to walk around. However, to get between them you will need an engine. Tuk-Tuk’s (Rickshaws) are available in some parts of Goa but are banned from a lot of the Northern tourist hubs. Taxi’s are easy to find but Goa’s are expensive by Indian standards.
Renting a scooter is the most popular transport method. They can be rented anywhere in Goa easily and cheaply.
Hiring a tour guide with a vehicle is also a good idea for tackling some of the suggestions on this itinerary.
Whether you’re a solo traveler or traveling with your posse, there’ll be plenty of activities to keep you occupied on your trip to Goa! Here’s just a few that you shouldn’t miss out on!
Travel in India does carry with it a set of risks and Goa is no exception.
The biggest danger is the endless raft of scams which are played on unsuspecting foreigners and of which there are too many to list. Other than this, never leave your valuables unattended and always lock your room.
Be very careful of bad drivers whether you are riding a scooter or simply a pedestrian. If you are riding a scooter, always wear a helmet.
Be careful when swimming whether in the sea or the delta as under-currents can be deadly, especially at night. Use lots of sunscreen and drink plenty of bottled, mineral water. Food hygiene is generally pretty good in Goa but use common sense.
Women travellers sadly need to be extra careful as each year they are the victims of rape, assault and even murders in Goa. Take great care at night and try to travel in a group whenever possible. Avoid dark, unlit areas as much as possible. If you are riding your bike at night, do not stop in lonely areas ( you may be being followed ). Be very careful in or around Trance parties, be mindful of what you consume and watch your drinks like a hawk.
Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Goa
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Find out what people want to know when planning their Goa itinerary.
How many days do you need in Goa?
Despite being India’s smallest state, Goa is packed with incredible experiences and attractions. We recommend visiting for 3-5 days minimum to make the most of it.
What should you include on a Goa 5 day itinerary?
Don’t miss out on these awesome places to visit in Goa: – Old Goa – Sahakari Spice Farm – Braganza House – Sunset Drum Circle & Market
When is the best time to visit Goa?
November-February offer the best weather for exploring Goa. March and April also get warm and have smaller tourist crowds.
Is Goa worth visiting?
Absolutely. From the verdant forests and stunning shorelines to the vibrant food and buzzing festivals, Goa is a very popular destination among travellers.
Goa is the perfect place for your next holiday destination! With white sandy beaches, a rich cultural history and some great architectural beauties, there isn’t a single thing you could possibly miss out on!
Its beautiful landscapes are begging to be explored and the culture that surrounds every building in Goa is worth learning about! No matter what time of year you choose to visit, there will always be something going on in this province. From festivals and parades to cultural ceremonies, there’s never a dull moment in Goa!
It’s a great place to travel whether you’re with your crew or a solo traveler. The safety of this beautiful province adds to the appeal of Goa for solo travelers. Be sure you’re not the only one missing out on the amazing experience of visiting Goa, India! And be sure to add a few of these great activities to your Goa Itinerary!
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
Suzanne Borders
Share or save this post
I’m confused – you have this article but also this warning people away from Goa? https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/is-goa-still-worth-visiting/
Where is the Braganza mansion (that you have mentioned close to Arambol). All search results only point to Menezes Braganza mansion in Chandor, South Goa.
Yes you are right. The Braganza mansion is in South Goa which is nowhere near Arambol at all. The writer who created this piece clearly had a moment of confusion. We have rectified the copy.
The typical mindset of western people. “watch your drinks like a hawk” hahaha! I hope you share some positivity also. Please teach your countrymen about Indian hospitality which is sorely missing in your country. I would love to read a blog about the USA itinerary mentioning “watch out for f…ing racists”
Personally I absolutely love Goa (Psytrance!!!!), have spent several months there and cannot wait to visit again. However, the FACT is that Goa can be very dangerous for women and there is no point in denying this – it doesn’t help anybody.
FYI – I am not from the US so cannot comment on American hospitality.
Good work on the blog, very helpful 🙂
This makes me want to rush to goa right now. Amazing blog
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.
Goa Itinerary for 5 days: The Most Reliable Goa Trip Plan
This website contains no sponsored content. The content is written entirely on my own and is based on my personal experience and extensive research. This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the disclaimer for more information.
Every time someone asks me to recommend a Goa trip plan, I perform a little jig in my head! If you don’t know yet, Akshay and I, love Goa. It’s a place that we have visited over two dozen times in the last decade. It’s practically our second home and a place that we can’t seem to get enough of.
But that’s also why we feel sad when many people treat it like a long weekend destination. But, you? You are amazing because you’ve decided to spend at least 5 days in Goa. That’s also why you deserve access to the best Goa itinerary for 5 days available on the internet.
If you are spending 5 days in Goa, you should ideally spend 3 days in North Goa and 2 days in South Goa. The 3 days in North Goa should be spent exploring touristic Goa, unseen Goa and Panjim while 2 days in South Goa should be spent exploring beaches and touristic attractions between Benaulim and Palolem.
In this article, I will break down the perfect Goa itinerary for 5 day. I will give you details of tourist attractions, Goa beaches and Goa restaurants that you should visit. By the end of it, you will have your easy-to-follow Goa travel itinerary.
Before I break up the above itinerary for you, let me first address a few basic questions surrounding a trip to Goa
Frequently Asked Questions about a Goa trip
Where to stay on a 5-day trip to goa.
The best areas to stay in Goa are:
- Candolim: For family travellers ( see best-rated accommodation here )
- Vagator: For solo and couple travellers who want to stay in the tourist area ( see best-rated accommodation here )
- Morjim: For travellers who want to escape the crowds ( see best-rated accommodation here )
- Panjim: For a central stay in the heart of local Goa ( see best-rated accommodation here )
- Benaulim: For family or couple travellers who want access to good restaurants, medicines, and other amenities ( see best-rated accommodation here )
- Cavelossim: For couple travellers who want to stay close to a quieter beach in high-end properties ( see best-rated accommodation here )
- Palolem: For those who want to stay close to the prettiest beach in Goa amidst vibey shops, cafes and yoga houses ( see best-rated accommodation here )
Read my in-depth article on where to stay in Goa
- a full list of the best areas to stay in Goa
- best accommodation options for your travel type
Are 5 days enough for a Goa trip?
Goa is a state of India and in fact, one with a slightly more distinct cultural and historic background than most of the other states in India. But, if you want to only visit the touristic attractions of Goa while also briefly acquainting yourself with its culture and present-day way of life, 5 days in Goa are enough.
How to commute within Goa?
The best way to travel within Goa is on a two-wheeler. You can easily get a scooter on rent for around Rs. 400 per day. If you don’t want to rent a scooter, opt for a rented car or use local cabs. Bargain heavily with local drivers as they tend to overcharge innocent tourists. In most tourist areas, you can also use Goa Miles : a cab booking app similar to Ola/Uber.
The most Epic Goa Itinerary for 5 Days
Day 1: touristy north goa.
On the first day in Goa, explore the touristy side of North Goa. Here are some of the places you should visit and places you should visit:
Have breakfast/brunch at a cute café
The touristy North Goa is full of cafés with pretty interiors and a smashing breakfast menu. Some of my favourite cafés are:
Café Chocolatti: Spacious outdoor seating, delicious frothy coffee and a kickass English Breakfast
Café Candolim: Cutest decor, a large collection of books and the best food
Café Artjuna: Artsy vibes, great food
Jaws Bakery : Budget bakery serving fresh lip-smacking breads, croissants and more.
Visit Fort Aguada, the biggest fort in Goa
The biggest fort in Goa and the biggest freshwater reserve in Asia is in the heart of North Goa. You must visit this place on a 5 day trip to Goa. It is close to Candolim and offers great views. But hey, it’s usually crowded and not super pretty anymore. Yet, it is a great starting point for your Goa trip.
Go parasailing at Sinquerim Beach
Indulge in watersport activities at Sinquerim beach. I think that the watersport infrastructure is the best at this beach. The presence of multiple vendors also means that you get better rates.
Enjoy a boat ride at Nerul River
Goa may be famous for its beaches, but it also has plenty of rivers running close to its coastline. A boat ride at Nerul river is a great opportunity to watch dolphins, splash around some cold river water and click pictures of the coastal paradise that Goa is.
Eat at a seafood restaurant
Seafood and particularly Konkani seafood is to die for! (I am a vegetarian but I have seen my husband Akshay get excited about seafood in Goa months before our trip!) Some places that serve fresh, yummy and flavourful seafood are:
The Lazy Goose : Located right under the Nerul Bridge, the place offers exotic views of the river and offers you a chance to indulge yourself with the best seafood.
Fat Fish : This restaurant packs a generous serving of delectable seafood on your plate.
Vinayak: The seafood thali perfectly satisfies your pangs especially when you’re ravenous and want everything yummy on your plate.
Watch a magnificent sunset
The best places to watch the sunset in the touristy side of North Goa are:
Chapora fort : Head to this fort, also known as the Dil Chahta Hai fort, for the best sunset views. Reach the top at least 30 minutes before sunset to get a good place on the wall. Also, visiting the Chapora fort involves a bit of a climb. So plan accordingly.
Vagator Beach: Vagator beach is also famous for its sunset. Located at the foot of the Chapora fort, you get to see the same sunset, albeit at a slightly lower angle. A better option is to watch the sunset, especially, if you are feeling lazy to climb the fort or if you are travelling with young kids.
Morgan’s Place Café/Café Purple Martini : If you want to sip on your choice of beverage while watching the changing hues of the sky, hanging out at any of these cafés would fulfill your wish like nothing else in Goa would. Purple Martini is usually super crowded and the balcony views come for a cost. Settle for Morgan’s Place if you want great views without hosting.
Party hard at a nightclub
North Goa is a great party hub with the best clubs like Hammerzz, Titos, SinQ, etc. Go here if you love partying!
Day 2: North Goa
It’s Day 2 in Goa and it’s time to explore the slightly offbeat beaches in Goa.
Click pictures at Parra Road
Parra Road is a narrow road with coconut trees on both sides that has recently gained popularity thanks to the movie ‘Dear Zindagi’. Visit the road for a classic Instagram shot.
Visit the famous Siolim Church
St. Anthony’s Church is a gorgeous church located in Siolim close to the Chapora River. It is not a popular tourist attraction but is nevertheless worth a visit for its architectural beauty.
Chill at Morjim Beach or Ashwem Beach
Morjim beach is one of the most deserted beaches in Goa. Even on a weekend, you will find it relatively empty. You can plonk yourself on one of the sunbeds and spend a chilled out day. Take breaks at the many shacks on the beach. Also, visit the Turtle Nesting Site to know more about how magical this beach is.
Experience the hippie vibe of Arambol
Arambol is known for its hippie vibe, yoga classes and drum circles. It is the place that attracted the most number of foreign (especially Russian) tourists. Visiting the place exposes you to a unique side of Goa- the one taken over by touristic preferences.
Visit the ‘Garden of Dreams’ – a fun restaurant with a hippie vibe and appetising vegan food.
Simplify your planning process. Get my specially designed quick itinerary: Goa: Planned for You
Goa: Planned for You
A handy digital travel plan that includes
- Specially curated stay recommendations
- restaurant suggestions
- a day-wise break-up of things to do
- a fully interactive Goa map
- special insights and lots more!
Day 3: Panjim/Old Goa
Panjim, the capital of Goa, is nothing like the touristic Goa that you would see on Day 1 and Day 2. It is rich in Goan culture and is a place where you see the cathedrals, churches and even a few temples close by.
Basilica of Bom Jesus
This is one of the biggest and most visited cathedrals in all of Goa. In fact, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its unplastered exterior is uniquely attractive.
It holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xaviers.
Entry to the cathedral is free. But on weekends and during peak tourist season, the place is very crowded. Expect long lines and a wait of about 20-30 minutes for entry.
On other days, you will get a fairly zero-hassle entry into the cathedral.
Mon to Sat – 9.00am to 6.30pm Sunday – 10.30am to 6.30pm
Se Cathedral
This Cathedral is situated right opposite the Basilica. Its Gothic architecture is attractive.
The Cathedral is famous for its Cross of Miracles.
Church of St Francis of Assisi
This Church is right next to the Se Cathedral. It was built to celebrate the victory of Afonso de Albuquerque over the Muslim army.
In fact, the road leading to the Church is also very picturesque and one of the best places to capture a stunning picture of all the churches and cathedrals.
There is also an archeological museum here that’s open on all 7 days. (9.00am – 12.30 and 3.00pm to 6.30)
The church is not open for tourists on Sunday.
Mangueshi temple
After the Christian side of Goa, it is now time to visit the Mangueshi temple.
The Mangueshi temple was a very important place of worship in Goa since many centuries. In the 16th century, the Gaud Saraswats (the community that worships Goddess Mangueshi) moved the temple from its old location to its present location with a view to protect it from the Portuguese invasion.
The temple has been restored a few times and not only does it look pleasing but it also exudes a serene vibe.
Eat at Ritz, Panjim
Ritz is one of the best seafood restaurants in Goa. It’s a favourite amongst both – Goan tourists and Goan locals. So while you are in the very neighbourhood of Ritz, it make absolutely no sense for you to skip Ritz from your itinerary.
So go to Ritz and order a sumptuous Fish thali for yourself. (And if you are vegetarian like me – just order their kokam solkadhi alongwith your favourite main dish and watch the satisfied faces of fish lovers around you!)
Foutainhas / Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church
The perfect afternoon walk would be through the lanes of the Fountainhas.
Fountainhas is the colourful quarter in Goa that retains Portuguese style houses.
You can go here for a nice post-lunch walk, for a quick bite at one of its bakeries or to get a picture clicked against the backdrop of one of its colourful houses to jazz up your Instagram.
Follow up your Foutainhas visit with a quick visit to the famous Immaculate Conception Church. You would recognize the church immediately because of its many Bollywood appearances. Again, a great place for a classic #goatrip picture for the gram
Miramar/Dona Paula
Close your day with a walk along Miramar beach. Miramar beach is one of the most non-touristy beaches of Goa. It is beach that’s most frequented by the locals of Goa.
But even though it doesn’t have too many touristy shacks, it’s a lovely place to wind down after a sightseeing-heavy day.
If an urban beach doesn’t excite you, you can visit the famous Dona Paula jetty.
Dona Paula jetty is also a famous filming location in Goa.
Watch my North Goa vlog for more ideas
Day 4: South Goa Attractions
Start your day down south with a visit to some of the famous tourist places in South Goa
Naval aviation museum
Mind you, this is the only naval museum in Asia!
Plus, it is also one of the only two military museums in India.
If you love aircrafts, you’re in for a treat as the naval musuem houses 13 aircrafts.
Plus, the museum is designed to look like the interior of the aircraft carrier – INS Viraat – how cool is that!
Timings: Tuesday to Sunday from 9.30am to 5.30pm
Big Foot/Ancestral Goa
The Big Foot and Ancestral Portuguese House are located right next to each other.
One is a recreation of a typical Goan village. You will see life-sized statues of fishermen, rice farmers, etc. You will also see the statue of Mirabai (record-holder for being carved from a single stone).
I think the place is a great place to educate children and foreigners about the history of Goa and Goa’s typical village life.
Right next to the Big Foot is the Ancestral Portuguese House – Casa Araujo Alvares. It is a 250-year old house of a renowned lawyer.
A 20-minute guided tour takes you around the many rooms of the house. An excellent way to experience life as it was two centuries ago!
The house has also appeared in the Bollywood movie Singham.
Colva Beach/Benaulim Beach
You should end your South Goa sightseeing day with a trip to Colva Beach or Benaulim Beach.
Colva beach
- it is more crowded and attracts many Indian tourists
- it has plenty of stalls outside selling icecreams
- its silvery sand is great for a family outing or simply for people-watching
Benaulim beach
- Benaulim beach has some of the best beachside shacks in South Goa. Roger’s and Rafaels are particularly famous. You can even enjoy a quiet, romantic candle-light dinner here after sunset.
- You can enjoy some watersport activities here before sunset.
- Even though both Indians and foreigners love this beach, it’s usually less crowded than Colva
Day 5: South Goan beaches
The beaches in South Goa are scenic and far less crowded than North Goan beaches.
They are a great escape from the touristy madness of the North.
Today, visit a few of the beaches from the list below:
Mobor beach
This wonderful Cavelossim beach is usually pretty deserted. Its white sand would light up your drone shots.
But even if you don’t have a drone, it’s a great place for a quick breakfast, a romantic walk with your loved one or a game of football with kids!
There are many good places to stay in Cavelossim for couples and family travellers.
Agonda beach
This beach is one of the southern-most beaches in Goa.
The 2020 cyclone Nisarga damaged many of its beachside shacks. But today, without an army of beachside huts and restaurants, the beach looks even more stunning. The palm trees lining the shore add to its appeal. It’s quiet, deserted and encapsulates the beauty of raw Goa – Goa without tourism.
Palolem beach
If you like a slightly more vibey beach, visit Palolem beach.
It is as stunning as Agonda but adds a little touristy air to it with its beachside shacks and souvenir shops.
You can even take boats from here to go
- eagle-feeding
- island hopping to monkey and honeymoon islands
- dolphin watching
There are many good places to stay in Palolem, especially for group travellers and solo travellers.
Some wonderful restaurants in this area worth trying out are
- Ciaran’s – wholesome Indian food
- German bakery – delicious croissants and more!
- Kopi Desa – lovely ambiance, tasty food
Cabo de Rama
Cabo de Rama is one of the most special places in Goa. The cliff at the top is truly the best place in all of Goa to capture the Goan coastline decorated with coconut and palm trees around.
You can even climb down to the secluded little cove – Cabo de Rama beach to witness the most spectacular sunset in Goa.
The road leading to Cabo de Rama is pretty secluded with very few shops or houses along the way. Avoid wandering around alone in this area after sunset.
If you want to only stay in South Goa, see my article on the best South Goa itineraries for 1,2,3,4,5 days here.
You can read more about the best beaches in Goa in my article here
How to design a 5-day Goa itinerary to suit your travel style?
The 5-day Goa itinerary given above is a recommended itinerary. You do not need to strictly adhere to it or feel overwhelmed by it.
Goa is a state that’s unlike any Indian state and no matter how you spend your time in Goa, you are going to have a great time!
Some ways to personalize your Goa itinerary are:
- Ditch tourist places that don’t match your travel style – e.g., skip Old Goa if you’re not into churches or history.
- Add more beach time : If you are a beach bum, skip Panajim and hang out longer at beaches you like. You don’t even have to visit them all. If the beach close to the area you are staying in matches your liking, just spend your days there.
- Add more adventure: You can add more adventure to your itinerary by trying out watersports at Sinquerim beach in North Goa or Benaulim in South. You can even go boating at the Nerul river. Go on this incredible bungee jumping tour in Goa.
Hope the above helps you customize the trip as per your liking.
Alternatively, you could simply get my digital travel plan Goa: Planned for You. It’s curated to meet different travel styles.
GOA: PLANNED FOR YOU
Benefit from our expertise in Goa. Save hours of trip planning effort, save thousands of rupees on travel agents and kill trip planning overwhelm.
Get access to the best Goa trip plan with specially curated stay recommendations, restaurant suggestions, day-wise break-up of things to do, a fully interactive Goa map and much more in a single downloadable pdf.
Read more articles on Goa:
46 Best things to do in Goa: An Ultimate List
26 Goa travel tips: You must know before you go
North Goa in 3 days: The best itinerary
How to visit Goa on a budget
Read about other destinations in India here .
Save it for later!
TOP TRAVEL RESOURCES
Here is a list of our favorite travel resources- the ones that I absolutely swear by when planning almost every trip. Go through this list to plan a hassle-free trip and save a lot of money!
Flight Booking: Check the availability of tickets, the best time to fly, and the cheapest fares on Skyscanner . You may also find a cheap flight via CheapOair
Accommodation: I absolutely love booking through Agoda . In most countries and particularly in Asia, I often find the best fares on Agoda. But I also love the no prepayment and no cancellation fee policy of Booking.com . For cheap accommodations and hostels, nothing beats Hostelworld .
Car Rentals: You may find and rent an appropriate car via RentalCars . It’s hassle-free and reliable.
Guided Tours: I absolutely love GetYourGuide for local sightseeing tours, walking tours, history tours, and food tours. The booking process is seamless, and the tours are super affordable. But in Asian countries, I prefer Viator or Klook for their affordably priced tours.
Lounge Access : Get Priority Pass – my personal favorite card that gives me unlimited access to premium airport lounges all over the world
Hey, if you found this post helpful, share it with more people or buy me a coffee !
Vrushali Ketkar is a lawyer turned travel blogger. She has travelled to 14 countries. She travels like a regular working woman with family. Her lawyer-level research skills make her a destination expert and help her get the most out of my trips. Today, her travel articles and videos help thousands of people across the world plan their trips to various parts of the world.
Similar Posts
32 Offbeat Things To Do in Goa: Upgrade your Goa Experience
Searching for offbeat things to do in Goa? Here’s an epic guide on the best offbeat things to do…
North Goa vs South Goa (for Parties, Couples and Families)
Wondering where to stay on your Goa trip and want the exact difference between North Goa and South Goa?…
Best Time to Visit Goa: What to Expect, Weather, Activities, etc.
Goa is one of the busiest tourist destinations in all of India. But the experience of visiting Goa greatly…
Best Beaches in Goa: For Couples, Families, and Foreigners
Want to visit the best beaches in Goa? There are many to choose from! Find a selection of the…
Best South Goa Itinerary (for 1,2,3,4,5 days in South Goa)
South Goa is one of the most beautiful regions in India. Below is my detailed South Goa guide to…
A Solid List of All the Things to do in Anjuna & Vagator 2023
Planning to stay in Anjuna or Vagator? Wondering what are the things to do in Anjuna and Vagator?In this…
Best Time to Visit
Weather & Climate
Goa Dabolim International Airport Guide
Top Places to Visit in Goa
72 Hours in Goa
Day Trips From Goa
Top Things to Do
Best Beaches
Yoga Retreats and Wellness Resorts
Top Restaurants in Goa
Nightlife in Goa
Your Trip to Goa: The Complete Guide
Let's face it. Most people visit Goa for the beaches and parties. However, there's plenty more to experience. The Portuguese occupied Goa for about 450 years until the Indian Armed Forces finally drove them out in 1961. The state was also a significant destination on the 1970s hippie trail. As a result, it's quite unlike anywhere else in India and has a distinctly different culture. This Goa guide will help plan your trip.
Planning Your Trip
- Best Time to Visit: Goa's tourist season runs from October to March, when the weather is warm and dry. Most beach shacks open in November. They pack up by April or May due to the extreme heat and humidity. The southwest monsoon brings rain from June to September.
- Language: Konkani is the native language of most Goans, however, English and Hindi are widely understood and spoken.
- Currency: Indian rupee.
- Time Zone: UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) +5.5 hours, also known as Indian Standard Time. Goa does not observe daylight saving time.
- Getting Around: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are the most common methods of transportation. Unfortunately, the notorious Goan taxi mafia keeps fares high and prevents app-based cabs such as Uber from operating. There is a state-run, app-based taxi service called GoaMiles . The Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus is an inexpensive way of reaching Goa's tourist attractions. Hiring a motorcycle or scooter is popular and affordable.
- Travel Tip: The monsoon season in Goa is ideal for spending time in the state's mountainous interior hinterland. White water rafting is possible.
Things to Do
Most people are surprised at how many things there are to do in Goa apart from the beach and nightlife. This includes water sports and adventure activities , hot air ballooning, cooking lessons, exploring old forts, seeing the spice plantations, browsing museums and art galleries, bird watching at Doctor Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, hiking in the nature reserves, yoga and natural therapies, cruising along the Mandovi River in a private yacht , betting at the casinos , listening to live jazz music, and of course shopping. Active travelers can go on these off-beat electric bicycle tours or walking tours .
Three of the main things to do in Goa are:
- Hanging out at the Wednesday flea market at Anjuna beach, Friday Goa Collective Bazaar at Hilltop near Vagator, and Saturday Night Market at Arpora (between Anjuna and Baga). These markets are seasonal.
- Wandering around Old Goa and the Fontainhas Latin Quarter .
- Touring the Portuguese mansions in South Goa .
Find out more about the top places to visit in Goa and cultural things to do in Goa beyond the beaches .
What to Eat and Drink
Goan cuisine was influenced mainly by the Portuguese and is predominantly non-vegetarian. Lesser-known is the traditional cuisine of the state's Hindu Saraswat Brahmin community. Fish curry and rice is a ubiquitous staple in Goa. Common types of dishes you'll find on the menu are xacutti (coconut-based curry), cafreal (marinated and fried/grilled), sorpotel (stew), recheado (stuffed), ambot tik (sour and spicy), and vindaloo (fiery curry marinated with garlic and vinegar or wine). Goan chourico (sausages) and pao (bread) are popular as well. However, you'll need to venture away from the beach shacks to get authentic Goan food.
Feni is Goa's pungent local brew and the unofficial state drink. It's made from cashew fruit or the sap of coconut palms. Drink it with tonic water or lemonade and a slice of lime. Avoid cheap, commercially produced feni though, as it has a distinctively unpleasant smell. Instead, try and get your hands on some home-distilled feni ( Dudhsagar Plantation Farmstay makes their own). Or, a bottle of premium Big Boss or Cazulo feni. It's now possible to go straight to the source of Cazulo feni, as the company has opened its cellar in the Cansaulim foothills for tours and tastings. Call 8605-008-185 to book. Joseph Bar in Panjim's Fontainhas Latin Quarter crafts some innovative feni cocktails. On the beach, King's beer goes well with a curry.
Explore the best Goan cuisine restaurants for all budgets and hottest bars and beach shacks in Goa .
Where to Stay
Goa's coastline extends for about 100 miles. Every beach is different , and there are so many types of accommodations ranging from beach huts to luxury private villas. It can be confusing! If you're looking for action, base yourself in North Goa because South Goa is relatively undeveloped and laid-back. Most of the luxury hotels are situated in South Goa. Palolem is the most happening beach in South Goa, while Agonda is ideal for chilling out and doing nothing. Patnem offers a bit of both. In North Goa, the Candolim-Calangute- Baga stretch of beaches is especially commercialized and gets super crowded during peak season. Backpacker hostels are prevalent near Anjuna beach, and the famous Wednesday flea market takes place there as well. The remaining psychedelic trance scene exists around Vagator beach, the Mandrem-Morjim-Ashwem stretch of beaches has become quite trendy, while Arambol beach is the new traveler's center with a wide range of alternative therapies. Capital city Panjim is centrally located between north and south Goa. Its Fontainhas Latin Quarter is an atmospheric neighborhood to stay in a restored Portuguese mansion.
Discover Goa's best homestays, budget accommodations, and yoga retreats, and wellness resorts .
Getting There
Goa has one airport. It's an international airport that operates out of a military airbase in Dabolim, roughly equal distance from Goa's north and south beaches. Most people take a prepaid taxi from the airport to their hotel. There's a counter in the arrivals terminal where you can book and pay. A shuttle bus service also runs from the airport to Panjim, Calangute, and Margao. It can be booked online here or at the airport.
Indian Railways train is another option for getting to Goa. It's handy for budget travelers, and conveniently has multiple stops in north and south Goa. The stretch from Mumbai to Goa along the Konkan Railway is particularly scenic. Here are the best trains from Mumbai to Goa .
Culture and Customs
Goa is more liberal than other states in India. This means women can wear short dresses and bikinis on the beach. There's no need to dress conservatively.
Scams are common in Goa, including the infamous gem scam . Beware of any Indian guys who try to befriend you. People offering to sell you drugs may also approach you. Don't accept, as dealers often have arrangements with the police. The police are corrupt and will extort money from tourists found in possession of illegal substances such as marijuana. The cops often demand bribes for traffic violations too. If you hire a motorcycle or scooter, make sure you carry your license with you and wear a helmet at all times.
While Goa has a reputation for being a party hub there are very strict drug laws. Those caught with drugs could face jail times of 6 months to 30 years and there is no option for bail.
Money-Saving Tips
- Hotels offer huge discounts of up to 50 percent during the low season from May to September.
- There are many budget accommodations in Goa that don't advertise on the Internet. If you're not traveling during peak season (mid-December to mid-January), turn up and find a place and negotiate the rate.
- Stay in a dorm or private room in a backpacker hostel.
- Keep an eye out for happy hours and ladies' nights at bars for cheap or free drinks.
- Make sure you bargain at markets to get a good deal.
Encyclopedia Britannica. "Portuguese India."
Goa Tourism Development Corporation. "Languages."
Goa Tourism Development Corporation. "Laws."
12 Cultural Things to Do in Goa Beyond the Beaches and Bars
12 Irresistible Luxury Private Villas in Goa for Groups
Goa in the Monsoon Season: Essential Travel Guide
Palolem Beach Goa: Essential Travel Guide
How to Travel From Mumbai to Goa by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car
The 14 Best Beaches in India
Essential South Goa Travel Guide
The 13 Best Beaches in Goa
Patnem Beach Goa: Essential Travel Guide
The Best Time to Visit Goa
72 Hours in Goa: The Perfect Itinerary
25 of the Hottest Clubs, Bars and Beach Shacks in Goa
Your Ultimate Trip to India: The Complete Guide
India Travel: Issues to Know at Top Tourist Places
12 Goan Cuisine Restaurants in Goa for All Budgets
A Complete Travel Guide to Goa for First Timers With a Superb Itinerary
This guide to Goa is perfect for those of you planning to travel there for the first time as it talks about the best time to visit, how to reach Goa, popular beaches in North and South Goa, where to stay for your first visit, and how to get around. Also included is Goa itinerary for 7 days.
Goa is a tropical paradise with endless white and golden sand beaches lined with swaying palm trees. This small state in the southwestern region of India is unlike any other with its laid-back culture balanced by its thriving nightlife. But that’s not all there is to Goa. It is a land of soothing bike rides, fascinating world heritage sites, plush resorts, friendly hostels, delectable seafood, and various forms of spiritual practices. It is definitely the most favoured destination in India amongst Indian and international travellers (after the Taj Mahal of course) as it has something for everyone.
Guide to Goa For First Timers
What is the best time to visit goa.
March-May : These are the summer months when Goa gets unbearably muggy with temperatures touching 40ºC (104ºF).
June – September : During these monsoon months, Goa becomes lush green. It is relatively quieter than other months. Most shacks are temporary structures that are dismantled during this period and water sports aren’t going on. But this is a charming time in Goa overall with plenty of restaurants and activities to keep you entertained.
November – February : Winter is the peak season here. Goa being a coastal area is balmy while the inland parts of the country go through typical winter temperatures. The sun is always out and the cool sea breeze blows through from time to time. December is the busiest month as Goa hosts the Annual Sunburn Music Festival which attracts people from all over. Plus people flock in to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s holidays at this party destination.
Verdict: For your first time in Goa, you should visit during the season time, Mid-October to Mid-March , so that you can see all that Goa has to offer. The shacks will be open, beach stays will be available in South Goa and the weather will be pleasant. However, the prices will be higher than any other time of the year.
How to reach Goa?
Goa’s international airport is situated at Dabolim, near Vasco Da Gama. You can land here and hire a taxi to your hotel/hostel.
While most cities in India have an organized cab service like Uber and Ola, Goa has GoaMiles ( now also an app) that can pass for Goa’s very own Uber. We’ve used it a few times and found cabs at a good rate. People have always just relied on taxis lined up on the roads (be prepared to bargain and ensure to set prices before the start of the trip) or prepaid taxi stands at airports that have a set price. You can always ask at your accommodation if they provide airport transfers.
To get an idea of the distance from Dabolim Airport to major beaches and the taxi prices, see below. These may vary by a few hundred rupees depending on the taxi service.
To Anjuna Beach (north) – Approx. 50 km- Rs. 1400
To Panjim (capital city) – Approx. 30km- Rs. 900
To Palolem Beach (south) – Approx. 64 km- Rs. 2500
Local buses in Goa are significantly cheaper but also inconvenient as you would have to change multiple vehicles to get to your destination in Goa. You would have to get on a bus to Vasco da Gama (7 km from the airport) and then take another bus to your preferred region bus station. Further on, you would have to take a taxi to your accommodation.
Bus, Cab and Car
You can also opt to reach Goa by an overnight bus or cab from major cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and Hyderabad in India. If travelling by bus, Mapusa would be your de-boarding point for North Goa , Panjim for Central , and Margao/Canacona for South .
You can book your bus via Redbus.
We’ve driven it down from Pune a few times now and once from Hyderabad. The road is full of potholes as you get closer to Goa. But you’ll cross ghats and waterfalls. It is beautiful!
Goa is also well connected by train to the rest of India. The main train stations are Vasco da Gama (central), Margao (south) and Thivim (north) .
Which area to stay in Goa?
Goa is divided into North and South Goa with its capital Panaji (popularly known as Panjim) located around the centre. For your first time in Goa, it is confusing to decide where to stay as different corners of the state offer different experiences.
North Goa – The region is alive with its tourist-filled beaches, adventurous water sports, happening nightclubs, and vibrant flea markets.
South Goa – The region is slow-paced with unexplored beaches, a plethora of spiritual retreats, and luxurious resorts.
Panjim – It city is rich in history with Portuguese-influenced architecture and world heritage sites. It is lit up by floating Casinos on the Mandovi River, the first of its kind in India.
It is vital to get the place of stay right, as distances in Goa are large . For example, the distance between popular beaches Arambol (North) and Palolem (South) is over 100 km which translates into a 3-hour drive because Goa’s roads are very narrow and filled with potholes.
To break it down further, each beach has its very own distinct characteristics. So in this Goa Travel Guide blog post, we have provided a brief description of what the popular beaches offer so you can make a more informed choice.
Refer to the Goa Travel Guide Map to understand better the locations of the major beaches and attractions.
Popular Beaches/Areas in North Goa
Baga, calangute, candolim.
These beaches are the most popular beaches in Goa. They’re lined with beach shacks and sun loungers . They’re where you’ll get plenty of water sports options . Candolim is a little less crowded than Calangute and Baga but still very much so. Lots of hotels, eateries, and shops are there in the Candolim area.
This could be a good option for your first time in Goa as the area is very central so all places to see would be close to you. However, every Tom Dick and Harry visit these beaches so the crowd is also such. Be prepared to be hounded by tattoo shops and restaurants to visit them. There is no peace!
Localities close to these beaches like Arpora, Saligao and Nerul will be quiet but also give access to all these beaches.
Restaurants: Caravela Cafe (Goan food), Toro Toro (multi-cuisine), The Lazy Goose (multi-cuisine), Tuscany Gardens (Italian), Pousada By The Beach (seafood), A Reverie (fine dining), Go With the Flow, Souza Lobos (beach shack at Calangute), Brittos (beach shack at Baga), Tomatoes (beach shack at Candolim)
Stay Options: Casa Cenica (2BHK in Arpora), Onastay (2BHK in Candolim), Casa De Mezzanine (Beautiful 1BHK in Arpora)
Clubs : Las Olas (shack with good hookah and desi music), Hammerz ( popular music, I loved it but it gets mega crowded after midnight), Sinq, Love Passion Karma (LPK – heard the crowd isn’t great anymore), Titos, Mambos, Cape Town Cafe,
Anjuna, Vagator, Little Vagator
A little further north of the above beaches are Anjuna beach, Little Vagator and Vagator. This area has come up a lot in the past few years so you’ll find a lot of must-visit restaurants in Goa around this area. Staying in this area you’d be close to Anjuna Flea Market, have sundowners at cliff-top restaurants and party spots at Little Vagator, enjoy the sandy and rocky beach Ozran, hop on rocks at the rocky beach of Anjuna, and eat delicious food. Vagator isn’t a nice beach – it is small and has a lot of the crowd you’d like to avoid.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Modi & Trisha – Travel Couple (@trywanderingmore)
Restaurants : Felix (great for breakfast/brunch), Luna’s (Italian- interesting pizzas), Baba Au Ruhm (breakfast and lunch), Gunpowder (South Indian), Burger Factory (’nuff said), Antares (sundowner), Titlie (sundowner), Bomras (pan Asian), Babka (cafe), Mustard Cafe (French and Bengali), Bean Me Up (vegan), Olive Bar and Kitchen (sundowner), Cafe Cotinga (multi-cuisine)
Stay Options: Jade by CasaFlip (2BHK in Anjuna), Beach Villa With Private pool (luxury), OCEAN BREEZE (2 BHK in Anjuna), Canary By CasaFlip (1BHK in Anjuna), I Love BellBottoms Hotel ( Quirky Hotel in Vagator)
Party : Romeo Lane, Thalassa, Soro, Hilltop, Shiva Valley, UV Bar
Ashwem, Morjim, Mandrem , Arambol
Further north are the beaches of Ashwem, Morjim and Mandrem. If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, have some peace, and enjoy beautiful sandy beaches and the real laid-back vibes in North Goa , head here. They have some restaurants and accommodation too but know that you’ll be very far from central and south Goa. So, this area is ideal if you are willing to sacrifice exploring all Goa has to offer other than beaches.
Arambol Beach – Arambol used to have a rather boho feel where there were plenty of spiritual therapies practised but now it is extremely crowded and looks just like Baga. I’d say skip staying here. It is not only very far from the rest of Goa but also really not the best beach anymore. However, it does have a nice ocean-side trek through green groves and the Sweet Water Lake where you can enjoy a dip!
Restaurants : Prana Cafe (go for breakfast), Burger Factory, Felix Beach (go for brunch), La Cucina (Italian), Jardin D’Ulysse (Italian), Marbela Bar and Restuarant (multi-cuisine), Tomato’s (multi-cuisine), Totem (continental),
Stay Options: Jardin D’Ulysse , BaywoodGoa , Happy Panda Hostel Arambol Goa , Artist Cottages Morjim Beach , Morjim River Villa 2
Nightlife : Boom Shack, Bora Bora, Junk Club Restro Bar, Cocoon Club, ASH, Club M, Liquid Sky
Beaches in South Goa
For your first trip to South Goa, you should stay at one of the two below-mentioned beaches and explore other beaches nearby. Remember that you should only stay in South Goa beaches beach from October to March as the huts and shacks are mostly dismantled before the monsoons and built back up when the monsoons get over.
Palolem Beach
Palolem is unexpectedly lively in comparison to other South Goa beaches and that’s why it’s on this list. For your first visit to Goa, you’ll have plenty to do here – shopping, restaurant/bar hopping, silent noise parties (wireless headphones provided for dancing), yoga, some water sports and boat getaways, and more.
Click to know more about South Goa Beaches .
Restaurants: The Mill (Cafe), The Olive Room (multi-cuisine), Dropadi (multi-cuisine), Sundowner (for sundowners), Magic Italy (Italian)
Stay Options: Hitide Beach Resort , BunkNBrew (hostel)
Party: Silent Noise Club, Leopard Valley
Agonda Beach
This long stretch of beach is ideal for those who like peace, calm, and being close to nature yet not completely secluded. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars, shops and accommodations to choose from. This beach is the best of both worlds!
Restaurants: Zest, Tree Top Tava (multi-cuisine), The Cape Goa (multi-cuisine)
Stay Options: Jardim-a-Mar , Simrose , Agonda Serenity Beach Villa (has a jacuzzi on porch), Agonda Island View , Agonda Cottages , The beach house (2BHK beachfront villa) ,
Verdict on where to stay
We’d recommend that for your first visit you should:
1. If you have 3-4 days only then, stay solely in North Goa (around the Baga area) with a day trip to Panjim and Old Goa OR 2. Stay 80% of your trip in North Goa (around the Baga area) with a day trip to Panjim and Old Goa, and 20% in South Goa (Agonda/Palolem)
How to get around Goa?
Taxis are expensive in Goa and not ideal for everyday getting around and sightseeing. Busses are quite cheap but again inconvenient. Instead, opt for a scooty or motorbike for the duration of your stay in Goa. There is no better way to get around as it will give you the utmost freedom. The best bit is that it is inexpensive at about Rs.300-800 a day depending on the season (off-season or peak), type of bike (scooters like Honda Activa, low-end bikes like Bajaj Pulsar or high-end ones, like Royal Enfield) and your haggling skills.
If you don’t want to ride a bike or moped, you can hire a car . Most offer stick shifts so if you don’t know how to drive these, finding an automatic may not be easy. However, we have always managed to find one and so should you. The economy cars usually cost about Rs.800-1000 per day but may go up depending on the season.
You can get a bike or car on hire easily by talking to your accommodation host or hotel.
The perfect 1 week Goa Itinerary – North and South Goa
The Goa experience is different for every individual depending on their style of travel. It’s never a one size fits all because there is simply so much to see and do. We have stayed in Goa for 2 months and have yet not seen it all. Your personalised Goa itinerary would largely depend on what you enjoy – nature, culture, beaches, partying, etc. In this 7-day Goa itinerary, we’ve tried to include a bit of everything so you can get a true feel of the different sides of Goa and decide for yourself which aspect of Goa you enjoy the most!
Day 1-2 North Goa – Watersports, Shopping, Partying
Stay near the Baga Beach/ Arpora area. Despite being crowded, it is close to a lot of North Goa tourist spots you’ll be visiting. And also, hire a scooty, bike or car. You’ll need it to get around. Prior reservations for restaurants are needed!
Day 1: Beach, Water sports, Party
- Reach Goa and check into your hotel or Airbnb
- Rent a vehicle
- Calangute Beach for lunch at Pousada by the Beach
- Water sports and sunset at Baga Beach
- At night go partying at Hammerz (popular music) in the Baga Area or Las Olas (Bollywood music) at Baga Beach. Or both as they’re close by! Start at Hammerz and end at Las Olas.
Day 2: Cliffside Restaurants, Fort, Sundowner, Party
You don’t need to do all of these things mentioned below. Select the ones you wish to do based on your preferences and how much time you have. I’d recommend not partying till late this night so you can be fresh to explore Goa the next morning.
- Wake up late this day since you’ve partied the previous night
- Lunch: Titlie OR Antares OR Casa Playa at Little Vagator or Felix OR Artjuna or Vinayak at Anjuna.
- Shop: Now go shop at Anjuna Flea Market!
- Explore Chapora Fort (The movie ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ was shot here so expect it to be crowded)
- Stay for sunset or go for a sundowner to Thalassa closeby
- Dinner at Ida in Vagator
- Party at one of the following – Soro (Siolim) or Romeo Lane (Little Vagator).
Day 3-4: North Goa – Culture, Heritage and Nature
Day 3: culture and heritage.
Head for a day trip to Panjim and Old Goa . On this day, you’ll get a good glimpse of Portuguese influence on Goan heritage.
Old Goa Churches : Start with Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the following churches in this order:
- St. Augustine Church Ruins
- Basilica of Bom Jesus (the most renowned)
- Convent of Santa Monica and The Museum of Christian Art (optional but good)
- Se Cathedral
- Church of St. Cajetan
- Viceroy’s Arch
- Our Lady of Mount Chapel (optional- for panoramic views of the Panjim area)
Going on a tour will help you make the most of your time and understand the significance of Old Goa and its churches. It is highly recommended. We’ve taken several tours by this company and loved all of them.
Lunch : Head for either a local Goan lunch at Kokni Kanteen or Cafe Al Fresco By Cantina Bodeg a for continental food. Both are close to your next stop.
Fontainhas : After lunch, take a walk in Fontainhas – Asia’s largest Latin Quarter that has lanes lined with houses built in the colonial style and painted in bright shades of red, yellow, green, and blue. We highly recommend seeing this area on a walking tour by Make It Happen – only then will you truly be able to appreciate the history and architecture. However, if you don’t wish to take a tour, start your walk at Maruti Mandir or Phoenix Springs ending at the Church of Immaculate Conception. See the colourful houses, click a lot of photos at the colourful wall of Old Quarter Hostel, buy some Azulejo tile décor at Velha Goa Galleria, admire the white façade of St. Sebastian Chapel, and have some bebinca (Goan Dessert) at Confeitaria 31 De Janeiro .
Evening: Get drinks and small bites at Antonio@31 or head for a full-fledged dinner at Black Sheep Bistro . Please check the prices of these restaurants beforehand to see if they fit your budget and make reservations beforehand. You could also go for a fun Pub Crawl instead.
Night: Later you could head to a Deltin Royale Casino (buy tickets online for the best deals) OR go back home to rest for an early morning the next day.
Book Tours in Goa
Day 4: Nature and Heritage
Chorao Island and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary : Do this either on a tour or go by yourself. You’ll have to take a ferry from Ribandar. Don’t miss the famous Mangrove Broadwalk. It is beautiful. We haven’t been here yet but can’t wait to go!
Lunch: Lazy Goose , Nerul. Reserve the table with the lake view if you can.
Depending on the time you start the day, see one/two of the following attractions. Choose one museum and one fort:
- Houses of Goa Museum (do this only after a walking tour of Fontainhas else nothing will make any sense) OR Museum of Goa (modern art tinged in Goan history).
- Aguada Fort (great for sunsets but crowded) OR Reis Magos Fort (relatively less known and beautiful).
Have dinner in the Candolim, Calangute, or Baga area. There are plenty of good restaurants.
A Reverie : Fine Dining Toro Toro : Continental/Goan Yazu – Pan Asian Beach Club: Asian
Day 5: Spice Plantations, Iconic Restaurants, Relaxation
Now, head to South Goa. Stay at Agonda or Palolem Beach- both are fantastic beaches for your first time in Goa.
But on your way, you have the option of making a few stops.
- Sahakari Spice Plantation: Wonder why the Portuguese were so fascinated by Goa? The answer lies in the tantalizing smell and flavours of spices like Cardamom, Cinnamon, Cloves, Allspice, Cumin, etc. See how these spices grow and learn about them. End with a local buffet lunch at the plantation. I found the experience very interesting and learnt a lot. You can buy the ticket on reaching there.
- Iconic Restaurants: If you’re not in the mood for the above, stop at Martin’s Corner or Fisherman’s Wharf for lunch. They are both very renowned.
Check into your hotel and use this day to do nothing and just relax on the beach, see the sunset etc. Else you could also choose to head to Sundowner Palolem (Bar) for a sundowner!
Day 6: Beaches and Viewpoints
Today is going to be a long day of beach hopping.
Cola Beach: Start your day at Cola Beach. It’s a bit of a hike down to the beach. You can even take the jeep to the beach to save time and effort but it’ll cost a bit. Cola Beach is famous for its lagoon where you can swim and kayak. You can have lunch here before heading to your next stop.
Kakolem Beach: This beach has a waterfall. Yes, you read that right. ( you can skip this beach if you’re running short on time or want to take it a bit slow).
Cabo De Rama Fort and Cabo De Rama Viewpoint for sunset . Both are gorgeous spots with fantastic views – you’ll love the sunset here. You can also choose to have a meal and drink at the Cape Goa restaurant near the viewpoint before heading back to your hotel.
Day 7: Butterfly Beach and Palolem/Agonda Beach
- Butterfly Beach : It’s a beautiful secluded beach. You can hike it to the beach or go via boat but I’ll suggest going as early as possible to avoid crowds.
- Palolem/Agonda Beach : For lunch head to either of these beaches that you’re not staying at. At Palolem, you can have lunch at Dropadi by the beach and at Treetop Tava or Zest (vegan cafe) at Agonda. Walk around the beach later afterwards.
Depart for home this evening.
Tips to Stay Safe in Goa
This guide to Goa would be incomplete if I didn’t mention tips to stay safe there. Goa is really welcoming and locals-friendly. But because it is a thriving party location and has people travelling from all over, you should take care of the following especially if you’re a woman.
- Don’t hitchhike.
- If you’re a woman travelling solo, preferably rent a car. If you’re a woman travelling in a group, bikes will do.
- Always get a video of the vehicle hired to avoid being ripped off on returning the vehicle.
- Don’t go out with people you don’t know and never go to parties alone.
- Watch your drink.
- Try to stay vigilant even when drunk.
- Some Indian men can assume friendliness as flirting.
- Be cautious of theft at your accommodation. Huts can easily be broken into.
- Drugs are available aplenty in Goa. Avoid getting stuck in the middle of a drug racket.
- Avoid drunk driving. It is being monitored by the police more strictly than before.
Don’t let these scare you. I (Trisha) have travelled solo to Goa and also with my girlfriends and had an absolutely fantastic time. Most of these tips should be adhered to anywhere in the world. Here is a complete list of ways to stay safe while travelling alone .
Wrapping up
Goa is a place that you can never get enough of. With each visit, you discover something new – a secret beach, a quaint café, a shack with amazing music, a magnificent fort, and so on. We have visited Goa about five times for short periods – with different people, as different people in different phases of our lives, or wanting something different from our trip- and Goa has never let us down. We are sure you will be taken by the charm of Goa and not want to leave just like the hippies in their heydays. Hope you found this Goa Travel Blog useful and have an amazing first trip to Goa. Tell us how it went!
This blog post on the ‘Travel Guide to Goa for First Timers’ has affiliate links that enable us to earn a small commission when you make a purchase, with no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and activities we like and those that might interest you. If you like any suggested product, do buy from the given links.
1 thought on “A Complete Travel Guide to Goa for First Timers With a Superb Itinerary”
Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us.
Leave a Comment Cancel Reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
How It Works
- Tell us details of your holiday plan.
- After you submit the form, one of our travel experts will get back to you with customised holiday package based on your requirement, within 24 hours.
- Grab the deal and start packing your bags for an indelible holiday with Tour My India.
Call Us for details
+91-9212777225
Request a quote.
- Himachal Pradesh
- Uttarakhand
- Uttarpradesh
- Andhra Pradesh
- Maharashtra
- Madhya Pradesh
- Chhattisgarh
- Jammu and Kashmir
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Dadra and Nagar Haveli
- Daman and Diu
- Hill Station
- Yoga and Ayurveda
- Motor Biking
- Peak Climbing
- Mountain Biking
- River Rafting
- Horse Safari
- Camel Safari
- Jeep Safari
- Christianity
- Jammu & Kashmir
- Heritage Tours
- Ayurveda Tours
- Special Interest
- Golden Triangle Tour
- Classical India Tour
- Golden Triangle with Tiger Tour
- Sikkim Darjeeling Tour
- Frozen River Trek
- Palace on Wheels
- Heritage on Wheels
- Maharaja Express
- Royal Rajasthan on Wheels
- Buddhist Circuit Train
- Indian Wildlife Tour
- Temple Trails Tour India
- Buddhist Circuit Tours
- Himalayan Wonder
- Chadar Trek
- Chopta - Chandrashila Trek
- Snow Leopard
- Dzongri Goecha La Trek
- Agra Hotels
- Jaipur Hotels
- Udaipur Hotels
- Manali Hotels
- Ladakh Hotels
- Ranthambore National Park
- Bandhavgarh National Park
- Corbett National Park
- Kanha National Park
- Pench National Park
- Tadoba National Park
- The Park Calangute
- Neelam the Grand
- Hotel Calangute Towers
- Alor Holiday Resort
- Lazy Lagoon Sarovar Portico Suites
- Aman-i-Khas, Ranthambore
- Hyatt, Bangalore
- Hyatt Regency, Delhi
- Leela Palace, Udaipur
- ITC Grand Chola, Chennai
- Weekend Getaways Delhi
- Weekend Getaways Mumbai
- Weekend Getaways Chennai
- Weekend Getaways Bangalore
- Weekend Getaways Nagpur
- Weekend Getaways Hyderabad
- Weekend Getaways Cochin
- Weekend Getaways Chandigarh
- Weekend Getaways Ahmedabad
- Weekend Getaways Pune
- Weekend Getaways Jaipur
- Destinantion Weddings
Medical Tourism
India tours, international tours, destination wedding.
Plan Your trip
- Goa Tourism
Picturesque Beaches, Good Vibes, and Adventure Await in Goa
Tourists can unwind themselves on the white sand beaches of Goa.
With endless options for adventure activities Goa gives you an ideal holiday experience.
Goa is the first choice of tourists when it comes to nightlife and festivities.
- Best Time to Visit
- How to Reach
- Places to Visit
- Things to Do
Round the year
Not Required
About Goa Tourism
The coastal paradise, Goa is not unknown to anyone. This tiny state in West India is famous for its plethora of beautiful beaches, great seafood, amazing nightlife, and thrilling watersports.
Goa along with being a popular beach destination in India is a perfect honeymoon destination, a great getaway with friends, and an amazing family holiday place, which means, the place is filled with activities and attractions to keep all its visitors engaged.
The state is majorly divided into two districts - North Goa and South Goa. North Goa is famous for its lively beaches like Calangute, Baga, Candolim, Anjuna; beach shacks, Fort Aguada; Church of Mae De Dues; Boghdeshwara Temple; and Chorao, Divar Island.
South Goa, on the other hand is known for its quieter beaches like Butterfly, Palolem, Polem, and Agonda; luxury resorts; Se Cathedral and St Xavier’s Church; and many sightseeing places like Dudhsagar Waterfalls where one can enjoy trekking as well.
Goa also offers its visitors the chance to enjoy river carnivals; Rajbhavan Darshan; e-bikes tour; white water river rafting; hot air ballooning; birding tours at Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary; Ayurveda massages; shopping; water activities like scuba diving and sea rafting; and other adventure activities like motorised paragliding, and bungee jumping.
In our Goa Travel Guide, we add the most authentic information ensuring you know everything about the state before planning a trip. Our authentic Goa travel guide includes information on places to visit, top things to do, and best hotels. With us, you also get the best Goa tour packages that ensure an amazing holiday experience at this top beach destination in India.
A Quick Information About the State – Goa
Best selling goa tour packages.
10 Nights - 11 Days
Golden Triangle with Goa
Best of India Beaches
5 Nights - 6 Days
Golden Beaches of Goa
6 Nights - 7 Days
The Goa Carnival
Goa Honeymoon Beaches Tour
15 Nights - 16 Days
Goa Tour with Mumbai & Karnataka
- Best Time to Visit Goa
Summer Season in Goa
The summer season between March and June in Goa is quite hot with temperature ranging between 25°C and 40°C.
Monsoon Season in Goa
Monsoon in Goa is between July and August. Goa receives medium to high rainfall leaving beaches closed but the state greener.
Winter Season in Goa
Winter season is from November to February and is the best time to plan a visit to Goa.
Popular Tourist Destinations in Goa
Agonda Beach
Agonda Beach is perfect for swimming and chilling. It is also great for taking a boat ride and enjoying the expanse of the sea and the beauty of nearby Butterfly and Honeymoon Beaches.
One of the most happening beaches in Goa, Baga Beach is where you will find water sports, fine dining restaurants, bars, and clubs.
Palolem Beach
A cosy and quieter beach, Palolem is popular for its Silent Noise Party and relaxing ambiance in Goa.
Ashwem Beach
Ashwem Beach, located to the north of Panaji, Goa’s capital city, is a delightful sandy stretch edged with green coconut palms & adorable views of the ocean vistas.
- Candolim Beach
One of the longest beaches in Goa, Candolim Beach is also sometimes called the gateway to the other popular beaches in the state.
Arambol Beach
Arambol Beach is a perfect place for taking Yoga classes. The beach also has a drum circle; a weekend beachside market; and a mystical baba sitting on top of a hillock.
Aguada Beach
The beautiful Aguada Beach is primarily known for the impressive Fort Aguada. This beach in North Goa is ideal for strolling and watching the sunrise and sunsets.
- Calangute Beach
Dubbed the Queen of Beaches, Calangute Beach is unarguably one of the most popular beaches in Goa. It is also the busiest beach in North Goa with restaurants, shacks, and clubs fringing it
- Colva Beach
Activity, excitement & commotion, you will find plenty of these at Colva Beach. Those enthusiastic about water sports should not miss out visiting this beach during their holidays in Goa
Miramar Beach
An urban beach in North Goa, Miramar Beach was once known as Gasper Dias Beach. A short distance away from Panaji, Goa’s capital city, Miramar is a family-friendly beach.
- Anjuna Beach
Anjuna Beach is known for its lively nightlife. It has a number of nightclubs like Paradiso that offer great music, dance floors, and ambiance to keep the nights alive.
Bambolim Beach
Bambolim Beach is located about 7 kilometers from Panaji, the capital city of Goa. Those looking to enjoy a picnic or a quiet day at the beach, should head to Bambolim Beach.
Bogmalo Beach
A quiet beach in South Goa, Bogmalo is the destination for those beach lovers who want to spend sometime enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Morjim Beach
One of the quieter beaches of North Goa, Morjim Beach is also known as Little Russia due to its immense popularity amidst Russian travellers.
Sinquerim Beach
Sinquerim Beach is located just beside Aguada Fort, a major tourist attraction in Goa with immense historical significance.
Patnem Beach
If you are excited by the thought of enjoying Goa’s juicy seafood while having an exciting day at the beach, then Patnem Beach is where you should head to.
Betul Beach
Betul Beach is where you come to unwind, relax & just enjoy the views of the sun, sand & sea. It is famous for being home to Goa’s largest & tastiest mussels.
- Benaulim Beach
What also makes Benaulim Beach so special is that despite not being as touristy as the other beaches in Goa, it offers you opportunities to try out a variety of water sports.
Majorda Beach
Majorda Beach, located in South Goa, is one of the prettiest beaches of Goa. It is for those seeking solitude along with a bit of fun thrown in between.
Betalbatim Beach
The 1 kilometer long Betalbatim Beach is neatly settled between Colva & Majorda Beach. It’s also famous among tourists as the Sunset Beach, because of the breathtaking views of the sunset that greet you.
Vagator Beach
Vagator Beach is the most photographed beach in Goa. The beach is dotted with a hillock on one side & headland on the other.
Varca Cavelossim
Varca Beach relatively uncrowded compared to the other beaches in Goa, and gives you the privacy you need while enjoying a vacation in Goa.
Turtle Beach
Galgibaga, or Turtle Beach, in South Goa, is one of the few beaches in Goa that are the nesting ground of the shy Olive Ridley Turtles, a protected species.
Popular Tourist Attractions in Goa
- Fort Aguada
An impressive Portuguese Fort, Aguada Fort, overlooking the vast ocean is a must-see in Goa.
- Chapora Fort
Called ‘Dil Chahta Hai Fort’, Chapora Fort is an unmissable site to visit in Goa.
- Dudhsagar Falls
The four-tiered waterfall is an iconic attraction in Goa you cannot afford to miss.
Anjuna Wednesday Market
A weekly flea market at Anjuna Beach is everyone’s favourite place to shop in Goa.
Basilica of Bom Jesus
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is where you can sight the relics of St. Francis Xavier
Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception
A beautiful Portuguese-era church, it is the top attraction to see in Goa.
Fontainhas Latin Quarter
A UNESCO World Heritage Zone, is the top attraction for a walking tour in Goa.
Top Things to Do in Goa
Scuba Diving
Enjoy exploring the exciting and colourful underwater world at the top beaches in Goa.
Water Sports
From Banana boat ride to water skiing, the beaches in Goa offer thrilling water activities to enjoy
Bungee Jumping
Jump from the height of 55m from Goa’s first permanent bungee-site to feel the adrenaline rush.
- Motorized Paragliding
Fly like a bird in the sky of Goa while enjoying one-of-its-kind motorized paragliding.
Hot Air Ballooning
Relish the bird-eye view of picturesque Goa’s beaches in a 1-hour hot air balloon ride.
Set out on the sea and enjoy the beauty of azure waters and views of dolphin pods swimming along your boat.
Birding Tour
On the islands of Goa relish the sight, sound, and flight of a variety of birds.
E-Bikes Tour
Experience India’s first e-bikes tours while exploring the hidden gems of Goa.
Ayurveda Massages
Avail the best of Ayurveda therapies like Panchkarma in the beach paradise of Goa.
- How to Reach Goa
Madgaon and Vasco Da Gama railway stations connect Goa to major cities of India
Dabolim International Airport connects Goa to the major cities of India and abroad.
NH 66, NH 366, NH 566, and NH 748 connect Goa to the major cities of India.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. what is the best to visit goa.
Goa has a tropical climate and can be visited all throughout the year with each season offering an amazing experience to the travellers. Summers in Goa are more popular with families and kids whereas the destination in monsoon let the tourist indulge in some of the water activities. Goa in winter season experiences cool and comfortable weather making it a perfect time for sunbathing.
Q. Why to visit Goa?
Goa offers a plethora of exciting activities for the tourist. From water sports in scenic sand beaches, shopping in flea markets, visiting colonial churches, to adventure tourism, chill and grill life of rave parties, yoga and ayurveda for rejuvenating your soul and spectacular views of picturesque beaches, Goa has it all. Moreover, Goa is a paradise for delectable seafood and awesome destination weddings.
Q. What is Goa famous for?
Goa is one of the most visited destinations in India, which is extremely popular for its beaches, rave parties, nightlife, flea markets, Casinos, Lip smacking cuisines, Portuguese style houses and colonial churches. The most important aspect of Goa is that it is a heaven for adventure lovers. Numerous water sports like Kayaking, parasailing, jet skiing, scuba diving etc. provides thrill and excitement to adrenaline junkies. Apart from that Goa also a perfect choice for solitude seekers and couples because of the exotic and offbeat locations, South Goa is very popular for its pristine beaches and remote locations.
Q. What are the famous events organized in Goa?
Goa is the first choice of tourists when it comes to nightlife and festivities. Tourist from all across the world come here to revel in the charms of Goan culture and festivities. Some of the very popular events organized in Goa are –
- Goa Carnival
- Saptah Festival
- Goa Food and Culture Fest
- Goa Cashew and Coconut Fest
- Goa Sunburn Festival
- Three Kings Fest
- Shigmo festival
- Bonderam Festival
- St. Francis Xavier’s Fest
Q. How is the weather in Goa during winter, summer and monsoon Season?
Goa in Winter - winter in Goa starts from November and ends in February. The temperature ranges from 20-22 degree Celsius, which is the best weather to relax and sun bathe on sandy beaches. During this time Goa is dipped in the vibes of Christmas and New Year. The mega Sunburn festival is also organized in winter to blow the heart of tourists.
Goa in Summer - Summer in Goa starts from March and ends in May. The temperature ranges from 24-35 degree Celsius. It is not a favourable weather to travel in Goa due to hot and humid climate. However, cost of hotels and homestays are very low as it is an offseason to travel to Goa.
Goa in Monsoon - Monsoon in Goa starts from mid-June and ends in October. The temperature ranges from 28-30 degree Celsius. It is one of the best season to travel in Goa for those who loves to spend time in the solitude of nature. Due to high tides, beach activities are not possible but the weather is very awesome if you want to see lush greenery and scenic landscapes. Sao Jao festival is also celebrated during Monsoon.
Q. What are the best places to enjoy nightlife in Goa?
Goa’s nightlife is the most beautiful experience one can ever have. In fact, Goa is known for its nightlife and chill and grill vibes. Some of the best places to enjoy nightlife in Goa are
- Hammerzz Nightclub, Goa
- Mambo’s night club
- Club Cubana
- Shiva Valley
- Cape Town Café
- Bombay Adda
Q. How many Domestic and International Airports are there in Goa?
Goa is well connected by airline services to the most major cities in India. All national and international flights operate from Goa International Airport at Dabolim which is 30 km from Panaji. It is the only airport Goa has. Chattered flights also land in Goa from UK and other European countries.
You can easily get chattered flights from Goa International airport's international terminal and domestic flights from domestic terminal.
Q. Is Goa safe for woman traveller?
Safety is the main concern for woman when it comes to travelling. Most parts of Goa are absolutely safe. However, one should always be aware of the surroundings nearby. It’s not about the destination as anything can happen anywhere. Most parts of Goa are woman Friendly; locals are also friendly and welcoming.
Q. How many minimum days are required to visit Goa?
It absolutely depends on the time and budget you have. Goa has many things to offer, From Beaches, Goan cuisine, heritage tour to alluring nightlife and adventure activities Goa gives the best holiday experience to the tourists. South Goa and North Goa offers unique activities to do and both are equally worth visiting. At least 2 weeks are required for Goa to explore the best of it, one for North Goa and one week for South Goa. If you want to explore nightlife and heritage, consider North Goa and if you need solace and beach fun explore South Goa.
Why Choose TMI for Goa?
Experienced
An experienced Goa tour operator, with a team of an experienced travel enthusiast ensure to give our clients well - designed Goa tour packages
We are certified by major tour and travel associations in India and world like IATA, IATO, TAAI, IMF & MOT (Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India).
Happy Customers
TMI has received numerous accolades from its happy customers for its excellent services and best Goa holidays.
Local Offices
We have local office in Goa for our customers to find assistance anytime and anywhere.
Exclusive collection of travel blogs
10 Best Bird Watching Destinations in India
Three Tiger Cubs Spotted in Rajasthan’s Sariska Tiger Reserve
Panch Jyotirlinga Temples Yatra in Maharashtra
International holiday destination.
Switzerland
Quick Links to Important Information in Goa
Goa travel information at a glance.
- People & Culture of Goa
- Goa Festivals
- Things to Buy from Goa
Goa Destinations
Goa tourism packages.
- Anjuna Beach Tour Packages
- Baga Beach Tour Packages
- Candolim Beach Tour Packages
- Calangute Beach Tour Packages
- Benaulim Beach Tour Packages
- Colva Beach Tour Packages
Goa Holidays by Interest
- Goa Honeymoon Packages
- Goa Family Packages
- Goa Beach Packages
- Goa Luxury Packages
- Goa Weekend Packages
- Goa Ayurveda Packages
- Goa E-Bike Tours
- Hot Air Ballooing
- Sea Rafting in Goa
- Cruising in Goa
- Bird Watching
Goa Attractions
- Shantadurga Devi Mandir
- Se Cathedral
- Arvalem Falls
Hotels in Goa
- Hotels in Calangute Beach
- Hotels in Anjuna Beach
- Hotels in Colva Beach
- Hotels in Cavelossim Beach
- Hotels in Palolem Beach
Other Imp Links
- Goa Tourism Map
- Goa Tourist Visa
- Film Tourism in Goa
Insider’s Guide to Goa: The Ultimate Goa Travel Guide
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from any qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.
This article is an insider's travel guide to Goa, India that contains a comprehensive Goa travel guide for first-time visitors as well as returning visitors to Goa.
Goa is a phenomenal beach destination that is a crowd favourite among Indians and foreigners alike. Even though Goa is known for the buzzing beaches, cheap alcohol, raging parties, and scores of people thronging towards the beaches, this is just a tourist's perception of Goa. The real Goa is a much more laidback, serene and not to mention, hauntingly beautiful place.
Thus, having lived in Goa for over 13 years now, I've put together my insider's guide to Goa in order to show you the real Goa - one that is known to tourists and also, the other side which is known to locals. I hope you enjoy reading my comprehensive Goa travel guide.
Additionally, if you have any queries or if you think I missed out on something, feel free to drop a comment below or reach out to me via direct messaging on Instagram ( @thespicyjourney ).
Table of Contents
Insider’s Travel Guide to Goa
My insider’s travel guide to Goa contains all the information about Goa that will help you plan your entire Goa trip on your own. I understand that as a first time visitor, doing research on a particular location can get overwhelming. And so, I've put together all the information on Goa in one place for you.
This Goa travel guide has information on all the beaches, places to visit in Goa, a list of extra activities you can indulge in, references to offbeat things to do in Goa, nightlife, flea markets, and lots more. So without further ado, dive right in.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Basic Info about Goa
How many days to spend in goa, how to reach goa, best time to visit goa, goa trip cost, where to stay in goa.
- Goa Toursim Hotels
Budget Hotels in Goa
Goa beach shacks, resorts in goa, getting around goa, what to wear in goa, best places to visit in goa for sightseeing, things to do in goa - list of activities, best beaches in goa, where to eat in goa, nightlife in goa, goa flea markets, events and festivals in goa, goa travel itinerary.
- Insider's Travel Guide to Goa
- Language : Konkani is the local language of Goa. Apart from that, English is widely spoken here. Keep in mind that locals aren't well-versed in Hindi.
- ATMS : There are ample ATMs in the cities. However, finding ATMs may be difficult in the villages and in areas farther away from the main cities.
- Petrol Pumps : The situation with petrol pumps is the same as that with ATMs.
- Currency Exchange : You will find counters at the Goa International Airport and various exchange shops in the cities as well as in the tourist hot-spot areas.
The answer depends on how much of Goa you want to see. In order to explore all of Goa in-depth, you will need at least 10-14 days in Goa. However, you can cover the major sightseeing spots in Goa within 3-4 days.
My personal suggestion is that you should spend 5-7 days in Goa to get its feel and cover some of the major sightseeing spots, beaches and everything else that Goa has to offer.
Goa is the most popular beach destination in India. Thousands of tourists - local as well as foreigners arrive in Goa on a daily basis. Thus, Goa is very well connected by flights, trains and road.
Goa has one airport - the Goa International Airport which is located at Dabolim in South Goa. The Goa airport has direct flights flying between Goa and major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Kolkata, to name a few. Furthermore, the airport connects Goa to many international cities as well. Both Panjim and Margao cities are located at a distance of roughly 27 km from the Goa airport in opposite directions.
Goa has 3 main railway stations - Margao, Vasco-da-Gama and Thivim. Margao railway station in South Goa is the main hub which is connected by an extensive railway network to other parts of India. Margao or Madgaon railway station to Panaji is a distance of roughly 37 km.
One can very easily find buses to Goa from metropolitan cities such as Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad etc on the redbus website. Moreover, there are state run buses such as Kadamba Transport Corporation (KTC), Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), and Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) between Goa and neighbouring states of Karnataka and Maharashtra. Alternatively, taking a road trip to Goa from Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu is an option that many tourists prefer to take. The drive to Goa is scenic and there are many beautiful stops along the way.
Goa has two main seasons - the tourist season (also known as the “on” season) between October and April and the monsoon season (or the “off” season) from May to September.
The dry or the “on” season is the best time to visit Goa. This is when beach shacks are set up across most beaches in Goa, lots of events and festivals going on and the entire place is a gala feast. Plan a Goa trip during the “on” season if you want to attend events, parties and meet other travellers.
On the other hand, the monsoon season is a time when most of the Goa beaches are nearly empty and there’s very little going on. This is the time to visit Goa is you’re looking for greenery and peace and quiet.
So how much will a Goa trip cost you? The answer completely depends on how flexible your budget is.
If you’re looking to make a budget trip to Goa, then staying at hostels, eating at authentic Goan restaurants and taking local buses to get around Goa will save you a whole lot of money.
If you have a mid-range budget then you can very easily find budget and mid-range hotels in Goa. You can hire a two-wheeler instead of a cab and eat at mid-range restaurants.
On the other hand, if you're willing to splurge then you can stay at a nice resort, eat at upscale restaurants and travel around Goa in a hired cab.
Goa, being a popular backpacking destination, has many-a backpacker hostels scattered throughout the state. Most hostels in Goa are located in North Goa - near Vagator, Anjuna, Candolim and Arambol. Similarly, there are hostels at the popular beaches in South Goa as well. A bed in a dorm will typically cost between INR 400 and INR 800.
Goa Tourism Hotels
If you’re looking for hotels that provide the bare minimum comfort and amenities on a limited budget, then look into the Goa tourism hotels. There are hotels run by the state government located in Panaji, Old Goa, Calangute, Mapusa, Colva and a few other places in Goa. Book rooms at the Goa tourism hotels on the GTDC website .
Despite Goa being a popular tourist destination in India, there’s no dearth of budget hotels in Goa. You can find budget stays in every location in Goa - be it South Goa or North Goa. One way to look for budget hotels in Goa is on a site like booking.com. If not that, you can even find rooms on airbnb at low costs. Sign up to Airbnb using my referral code to get a juicy discount on your first stay.
Find hotels in Goa on Booking.com
O3 Beach Resort, Palolem Beach, Goa
The Goa beach shacks are a ubiquitous choice of stay in Goa. While beach shacks can be found at almost every beach in Goa, it’s the Palolem beach shacks that are predominantly popular in Goa. Read my comprehensive breakdown of the Palolem beach huts in my blog post on Palolem beach.
Check availability at O3 Beach Resort on Booking.com
The infinity pool at Doubletree by Hilton, Panaji, Goa
While North Goa has quite a few resorts, I highly recommend staying at a resort in South Goa. This is due to the fact that South Goa sees a fewer number of visitors as compared to North Goa which makes staying there all the more peaceful and serene. That being said, there are peaceful hotels in North Goa as well. Take Doubletree by Hilton Panaji for example (shown in the picture above). This hotel, located on the outskirts of Panjim, has sweeping views of the Goan rivers and islands as seen from the infinity pool and rooms. Moreover, the two restaurants here serve all sorts of International, Indian and Goan cuisine.
Check availability at DoubleTree by Hilton Panaji on Booking.com
Hiring a two-wheeler is the most popular and budget-friendly way to get around Goa. it’s a well-known and unfortunate fact that taxi prices in Goa are sky-high. This is the reason why renting a two-wheeler is an affordable and rather fun way to see Goa. A scooter typically costs INR 200-250 for a day whereas renting a motorbike such as Royal Enfield for a day will cost above INR 300. In case you need a taxi service at affordable rates, install the GoaMiles app to book a taxi instantly.
Unlike most of North India, you have the freedom to wear whatever you like in Goa. There are no restrictions on clothing items when it comes to choosing what to wear in Goa. While at the beaches, you can wear a bikini and shorts or short skirts, while sightseeing you can wear maxi dresses, knee-length skirts, trousers and fancy tops. Read my handy little guide on what to wear in Goa for women and girls.
1. Visit the Forts in Goa
Before the Portuguese invaded Goa in the 1500s, Goa was under the rule of the Muslim ruler Adil Shah. While Adil Shah built a number of forts for himself, after the Portuguese takeover, they modified some forts to suit their needs. Thus every fort in Goa has a rich cultural and architectural significance. Chapora Fort , Aguada Fort , Tiracol Fort, and Reis Magos Fort are the forts located in North Goa. On the other hand, Cabo de Rama Fort is a well-known fort located in the South Goa district. Each of these forts offers spectacular views of the ocean. While Chapora fort and Cabo de Rama fort don’t have any timings, since they are cliff-top ruined forts, Aguada fort and Reis Magos fort are open from the morning till 5.30 pm in the evening. Tiracol Fort, on the contrary, has been converted to the Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel . You can book a stay here to live in a palace, dine with insane ocean views and to escape the hustle-bustle of the crowds.
Check availability at Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel on Booking.com
2. Take a Ferry Boat to an Island
Divar Island near Old Goa
Most tourists coming to Goa think of it as a beach destination. While this may be true, there is lots more to do in Goa that’s beyond the beaches. There are two main islands in Goa - Divar Island and Chorao Island . Both of these islands can be reached by taking a ferry from Ribandar, which lies on the road between Panaji and Old Goa. Chorao Island is famously known for the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. You can hire a little boat, watch the mangrove, spot birds and enjoy a languid boat ride in the Goan rivers.
3. Explore Waterfalls
Dudhsagar waterfall , located on the Goa-Karnataka border is a 4-tiered, 3-streamed, 320 m high waterfall. Apart from being surrounded by a lush forest, the waterfall also contains natural pools to wade into the waters. You can reach the mighty Dudhsagar waterfalls by either completing a trek to the bottom of the walls or by going via the government-approved jeep rides that start from Molem. The waterfall has been named after its milky appearance and is a worthwhile day trip from Panjim, which is located 60 km away. Other than that, there are tons of other smaller, albeit beautiful, waterfalls scattered across Goa.
4. See the Churches
Goa was under the Portuguese rule for over 450 years from the 1500’s until 19 December 1961. Due to this reason, there are striking churches scattered all across Goa. While the Panjim church and the Old Goa church are the two famous churches in Goa, it’s the offbeat ones that steal the heart away. The Mae De Deus church and the Siolim riverside chapel are both exquisite and worth exploring!
5. Visit Old Goa
https://www.instagram.com/p/B6XRlrtDVYY/
While Old Goa may be known for the Old Goa church, there is, in fact, a lot more to do in Old Goa that only the locals know about. Whether it’s a hilltop chapel with a view of the river and islands, a hauntingly beautiful ruined church complex or a restaurant right next to the river, Old Goa has lots waiting to be discovered. You can take a half-day trip to Old Goa from Panjim, which is the closest city. Take a look at my post on all the places to visit in Old Goa to discover the hidden gems of Old Goa!
6. Go Sightseeing in Panaji
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bv_uUgmDBkh/
Panjim or Panaji is the ever-lively capital city of Goa. While one might wonder if there’s hardly anything to do in Panjim, as a matter of fact, there are lots of things to do in Panjim. Whether it’s the famous Panjim church , Dona Paula jetty , Miramar beach , the chaat street of Miramar, the colour burst region of Fontainhas , there are so many popular as well as offbeat things to do in Panjim. Read this travel guide to Panjim city which contains all the top places to visit in Panjim, events, festivals and lots more.
7. See Salaulim Dam
Did you know that Goa has an extremely scenic dam called the Salaulim dam hidden away? This dam is the perfect example of a duckbill spillway, is surrounded by a botanical garden where you can indulge in a picnic and is located on the river Salaulim, a tributary of the Zuari river. Panjim to Salaulim dam is a distance of 61 km while Margao to Salaulim dam is a distance of 26 km. If you’ve explored Goa many-a-times and are looking to see a different side of Goa, visit this dam and enjoy the picturesque drive along the way.
8. Explore Offbeat Goa
Lately, more and more people are inspired to explore Goa beyond the beaches. Consequently, people are driven to explore offbeat places in Goa - such as the temples, the lesser-known churches, islands, lakes etc. If you too are keen on exploring another side of Goa, take a look at this blog post on the 17 best offbeat places in Goa .
1. Goa River Cruise
The Panjim river cruises that originate at the Santa Monica jetty in Panjim city are a great way to spend the evening cruising in the Goan rivers. The cruises usually last an hour, there are food and drink stalls present and an entertainment program which includes local dance performances. You can book tickets with various cruise companies online or book directly at the booking counters present at the jetty. Do note that it gets crowded in the evening so be prepared to wait in a queue. It’s ideal to take a cruise at 6 pm in order to catch the sunset from the boat.
2. Visit a Casino in Goa
There are lots of casinos, to indulge in a night of carefree fun, that are located in Panjim city. Most of these casinos have a package that costs approximately INR 2500 per person that includes a buffet dinner and a few complimentary chips to get you started. The ports of all the casinos of located on the main road of Panjim (DB road). You can buy your tickets right here, catch a boat to the casino and come back the same way.
3. E-Bike Tour
Want to ditch the car or motorbike and cycle around the quiet lanes of Goa? B: Live runs e-bike tours in many places all across Goa. These e-bikes are battery operated and they come with an accelerator which means that you don’t have to pedal the bicycle if you don't want to. The bikes can even go up a hill with great ease and comfort to the rider. Check out the B: Live website to choose an e-bike tour of your liking. What’s more, each tour comes with an authentic Goan experience, snacks and a tour guide who will assist you throughout the duration of the tour.
4. Heritage Walks
If you’re the one who prefers to walk around and soak in the essence of a place, then a heritage walk is the way to go for you. You can take all sorts of heritage walks which give you an authentic experience where you will learn about the history of Goa, gain an insight to the Goan culture and go back with a wealth of knowledge about Goa. Perhaps the most popular and the most loved heritage walk in Goa is the Fontainhas heritage walk . You can take a look at some of the heritage walks in the Airbnb experiences section.
5. Yacht Party
If you’re the kind of person who likes to throw lavish parties or add a magical touch to special occasions, consider renting out a yacht for a few hours. Depending on the kind of package you choose, you can get food, drink and entertainment services on board along with a wait staff. These yachts come in different budgets for all kinds of occasions ranging from birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, wedding functions to office events, social gatherings etc.
South Goa Beaches
The South Goa beaches are the laid-back beaches in Goa. As someone who has been living in Goa for over 13 years, I prefer the South Goa beaches as opposed to the North Goa beaches because of the lesser crowds and the pristine nature of the beaches. Read my guide on the South Goa beaches to explore the tranquil beaches in Goa.
North Goa Beaches
While the South Goa beaches are peaceful, the North Goa beaches are always a happening place to be at. Whether it’s a taste of the hippie culture, the best beach shacks, karaoke bars and beach clubs, you’ll find it all at the North Goa beaches. Take a look at some of my personal favourites as well as the crowd favourite North Goa beaches:
1. Arambol Beach
Did you know that Goa was a raging hippie paradise back in the ’70s? The first hippies arrived in Goa in the 1970s and settled onto the North Goa beaches of Arambol, Vagator and Anjuna. While Vagator and Anjuna are more commercialised tourist beaches, Arambol still retains the hippie spirit. Whether it’s vegan cafes, yoga centres, hippie stuff (you know what I mean), you’ll find Arambol to be the perfect hippie paradise even today. While you’re at Arambol, do not miss other great nearby beaches of Ashwem, Mandrem and Morjim, which are less popular but equally beautiful.
Read my complete travel guide to Arambol Beach, North Goa (opens in new tab).
2. Vagator Beach
In case you’re looking for a beach that has a hippie touch yet commercialised to the extent that you’ll find nice places to stay and good restaurants and cafes nearby, Vagator should be the beach of your choice. Vagator is a bustling area that’s known for the very famous Chapora fort aka the Dil Chahta Hai fort. You’ll find lots of hotels, hostels, upscale restaurants, cafes, shops and everything else in close proximity to the beach.
3. Anjuna Beach
Anjuna beach is yet another one of the North Goa beaches that’s on the way to becoming highly commercialised (read: Baga beach). Anjuna has some of the best restaurants and cafes in all of Goa. You can easily spend a whole day in Anjuna just eating at the beachside restaurants or exploring cafes nested in the tiny lanes of Anjuna.
My insider’s guide to Goa would be incomplete if I didn’t touch upon this extremely important subject. When it comes to trying food in Goa, there’s no one list that anyone can prepare. Goa is home to so many wonderful restaurants and cafes, with new places coming up regularly that it’s hard to keep track of all the places to eat in Goa.
Nonetheless, I’ve put together 3 rough guides to Goa’s food scene. Of the three, this list of the best North Goa restaurants and cafes is perhaps the most popular of them all. Coming to Panjim city, check out this guide to the best restaurants in Panaji city . Finally, if you’re in the vicinity of the airport and need to refuel, take a look at the best restaurants near Goa airport .
Goa has a raging nightlife that consists of nightclubs, beach clubs, karaoke bars, pubs. Pool parties, rave parties and everything else in between. There are plenty of nightclubs in the Baga-Candolim region such as LPK , Titos , etc that play Bollywood and Punjabi hits to cater to a North Indian crowd. Meanwhile, places like Favella and Soro are much classier establishments that come with a dining experience along with foot-tapping English hits. Moreover, they even have themed nights every once in a while.
Coming to Panjim city, Soho and Cafe Mojo are the favourite pubs among the locals.
Going down south, Silent Noise in Palolem is well-known for the Saturday night parties where you dance to music while wearing headphones. In any case, you’ll find nightlife in Goa quite easily at almost every corner.
Apart from boutique stores and beach-side markets, there are quite a few flea markets in Goa. When it comes to the most popular Goa flea market, the Arpora Saturday night market tops the list. This market is held every Saturday night during the “on” season in Arpora which is located close to Anjuna and Calangute. This market has everything ranging from clothes, bags, jewellery, shoes, art and handmade artefacts. Furthermore, there are performances such as fire eaters and dancers along with live music and plenty of food stalls to choose from. Apart from this, there are lots of other markets like the Anjuna Wednesday flea market that are set-up in the tourist season.
The Goa Carnival is one of the most popular events to take place in Goa. The carnival parades are held at multiple Goan cities like Panaji, Margao, Vasco-da-Gama, and Ponda over a span of a few days late in the month of February.
IFFI (International Film Festival of India) which is held every year in the state capital Panaji sees many movie screenings and talks attended by Bollywood as well as local celebrities.
Coming to art festivals, Serendipity Art Festival is as big as it gets. This festival is held in the month of December at various venues in Panjim city.
While there are many events music festivals held in Goa, Sunburn , which is held late in December, is the most famous of them all that sees well-known international DJs and singers perform.
Even though this is a complete Goa travel guide to let you plan your own Goa trip, I do have a suggested itinerary for you. While I strongly suggest spending AT LEAST a week in Goa, tourists choose to spend anywhere between 2 days to months in Goa.
If you’re on a quick weekend trip to Goa, check out these places to visit in Goa in 3 days . This itinerary covers all the basics of Goa within 3 days. On the other hand, if you have more time, spend your time exploring the popular beaches and places in Goa like Arambol, Vagator, Anjuna, Panjim, Old Goa, Agonda and Palolem at the very least.
Did You Enjoy my Insider’s Guide to Goa?
If you liked reading this insider’s travel guide to Goa that I’ve put together based on my experiences of living in Goa, follow me on my social media handles Instagram , Facebook , Pinterest , Twitter to receive quick updates and be the first one to know when I release a new blog post!
I have seen quite a bit of India but never been to Goa – looks amazing and I think I must really make a plan to go soon! Such a lovely post with such good tips 🙂
This guide is so informative- it’s great to read about Goa from someone who has lived there for so long rather than just visited. Saved for future travels 😀
Nice post!! It is really very informative content for everyone as there is many different information about the place to take decision to travel to goa with lot of memories of place which is unforgettable.
Great post and informative guide…thank you!?
Anjuna Beach is my favourite place in goa. Thanks for sharing this information to us.
Thanks for this info. I would like to add what i personally love about goa are the water sports.
Pingback: 15 amazing photos that will instantly tempt you to plan a Goa Trip! - Couple of Journeys
very useful post ,,,,these guide are very informative….thanks for sharing…
Comments are closed.
Explore Goa
Plan Your Trip to Goa: Best of Goa Tourism
Find flight deals to Goa
Essential goa.
Trending in the forums
Goa Is Great For
Phenomenal beaches.
Orange Wayfarer
Culturally Immersive & Responsible Travel
The Ultimate 7 days Itinerary for Goa with beaches, heritage, food trail and more!
About this blog: Seven days in Goa is a decent amount of time to design an itinerary brushing past Goa’s beautiful beaches and ancient heritage of ruins and churches. Needless to say, there are plenty of offbeat things to do in Goa which require a slow and immersive travel time. However, consider 7 good days to explore the state’s breathtaking beauty and indulge in fine coastal sea food that shall compel any gourmet to fall in love with Goa!
Please note, this week-long Goa itinerary is helpful for a first time visitor in Goa. It is packed with activities and day trips. If you are planning to relax, may be skip a few day trips and head straight towards South Goa, or Ashwem beach.
Read all the blogs related to Goa Travel!
By the shore of Arabian Sea, Goa, a small Indian state sits pretty on the Western coast. Aside numerous pretty beaches dotting the sea, Goa unfolds luminous layers of history for a curious soul. A walk on the old Goa’s narrow cobbled (and UNESCO heritage) streets tells volume on the 450 years of Portuguese colonial past. Tambi Surla, a Shiva temple hidden on in the forest of Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary has stories to tell from another era. Beyond the sunny long stretched shore of Baga and Candolim, Goa keeps her secrets in the lagoons and backwaters of Mandovi river. It had always been my dream to travel to Goa for seven days. When I finally did, I wished if only I would have had another couple of weeks to explore all the splendors the state has on offer.
7 days in Goa needs to be allocated wisely!
Just to give a rough idea before I explain this 7 days in Goa Itinerary further, Goa can be segmented in 4 parts. This includes the most beautiful beaches of Goa . You may explore some of them in a long weekend vacation to Goa as well!
- Baga and Calangute: The two beaches on the North Goa are strategically located closeby. This is where maximum number of tourists visit. These beaches are usually crowded on tourist season (super crowded on long weekends). However, there are plenty of activities, cafes, places to stay. Expect to pay tourist price for everything.
- North Goa : Beyong Baga, there are beautiful beaches at the wee end of the north. Consider Arambol, Ashwem, Mandrem. They remain pristine and away from the hawk eye of vendors.
- South Goa : Away from everything, South Goa holds the true secret of freedom, which gave Goa its fare share of fame. beaches, forts, hikes and plenty of unexplored regions lies here. If you seek quaint, you must visit South Goa!
- Panaji : The capital of Goa, houses only a couple of local beaches. Panaji is where you will be heading if you are in Goa for work. Despite a lack of beach life, Panaji is famous for old Latin quarters, UNESCO heritage churches and vibrant local life.
Also read: First time in Goa? Read this detailed guide to prepare for Goa travels!
Day 1: Reaching Goa & Stay at Baga
Stay at Baga, Dine by the beach
Assuming you are flying into Goa, you are ideally to reach Dabolim airport at the start of the day. If you are late, say reaching by 10 pm or so, it may be a challenge to get a mode of public transport to Baga. It is best if you get in touch with you accommodation provider.
Kadamba line of AC bus fleet runs at least till 6 pm. However, public transport in Goa is still in its nascent stage.
If you are traveling by train, you have plenty of cabs to hire from the station itself. indian railway stations are identical that way.
It will take at least an hour to reach from airport to Baga.
Reserve this day for rendezvous with the beach. Expect a glorious sunset.
Secure a seat by the beachside restaurants. Ratnakar is a fine choice if you like sheesha and alcohol with high streaks of energy. Tito’s is more famous among the tourists. Do make a reservation before you visit.
Alternatively , Goa also houses India’s only casino ships close to its shoreline. Since gambling is prohibited on Indian land, these casino ships are permanently anchored on the sea. They ensure even the rough waves of monsoon very well. I visited Deltin Royal Cruise on the fateful night of Cyclone Kyarr and did not feel a thing. The next morning, the fallen coconut trees of the Ashwem beach narrated the story.
Anyway, experiencing a cruise liner is a prized deal. The ship has various games on-board and forms of entertainment aside a large buffet. Sparkling goblets of wine galore everywhere. I did not find the food amusing though. If you like to party the night away, the Cruise liners of Goa will be your best choice!
Also read: A week in Shillong, Meghalaya, amidst clouds, valleys and flowers.
Day 2: Birding at Salim Ali Sanctuary, Divar Island & Latin quarter at Old Goa UNESCO sites
Birding and heritage walk in Old Goa
Since Goa will have you for good seven long days, we will allocate a day for the hinterlands of the coastal state.
Wake up early and head towards the Divar island, Goa’s largest riverine island on Mandovi river. Ironic because in Konkani language, Divar means small.
Home to an exclusive high class wellness resort Mercure Devaaya, Divar island is intense on local heritage. Timeless Portuguese bungalows sleep under the shadow of banyan trees. Old churches and quaint little sleepy neighborhood covers Goa’s Mantra for peaceful life, Susegad.
Next to Divar island, lies Chorao island , connected by Ribandar ferry. Chorao island houses the famed Dr. Salim Ali Bird sanctuary. I think this can be a great educational experience for kids too. From mangroves to crocodile and mud-skippers & crabs, all join in to celebrates the fast depleting bird population.
Best time for birding at Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary: 6 am to 8 pm. “Afternoon no bird”, told me the guard at Mercure Hotel.
Some species of Birds that can be seen at Chorao island: Brahminy Kites, Egrets, Heron, Little Black Cormorants, Paradise fly catcher, Kingfishers, woodpeckers, Drongo etc.
No cost for passengers on the ferry. INR 10 for vehicle, in case you are bringing in a cycle. There is a ferry at 6:20 am.
If you reach early, you will find a guide, who shows around the island on a private boat and charges a fee.
Also read: A travel guide to Dandeli, North Karnataka’s birding paradise!
On the way back, make a stop at Old Goa. Also known as Velha Goa, this is listed as WORLD UNESCO heritage site for cultural heritage of its numerous churches! It is also one of the first seats of Catholic Christianity in India.
Goa, during the rule of Portuguese was hailed as the Rome of the east. One look at the remnants of the Old Capital of the Portuguese in India, and you will know why.
Velha Goa houses some of the country’s finest cathedrals and Churches. Be it the whitewashed Se cathedral or the humongous Basilica of Bom Jesus, they are grand in structure, and stand witness to Goa’s regal past. A catastrophic plague outbreak and subsequent invasions led to Velha Goa being abandoned.
Also read: Top 12 Cultural experiences in Goa!
There are plenty of other churches and historical areas to be visited in close vicinity. Here is a list of Old Goa’s famed churches:
- Convent of Our Lady of Angels
- Church of Our Lady of the Rosary
- St. Augustine Tower
- Agustinian Convent
- Church of St. Cajetan
- Mill Stones of Gun Powder Factory
- Museum Of Christian Art
Old goa has beautiful Hotels and Home stays available for rent. Check out here .
Take care while exploring the area, especially if you are on your own. The narrow alleys and old houses are often prone to snake attacks.
Head towards Fontainhas , the Latin Quarter of Goa. This is the last stop before you are heading back to the beach at Baga.
Often termed as the Old Quarter or Latin Quarter of Goa , Fontainhas houses Old Portuguese Bungalows that are painted with a riot of color. Do not be surprised if they resemble like one quaint little town from an obscure European countryside. The houses has old school wall sized glass window, panes of which is colored in white. Oftentimes, an Azulejos tiles adorn the gate.
There are two beautiful eateries at Fontainhas. They are, Venite Bar and Viva Panjim . Both are quirky and very photogenic (okay, Instagrammable places in Goa). Google both and choose where you wanna visit. Joseph Bar remains as one old world wonder at Fontainhas! If you are craving for good Konkani cuisine, head towards Saib . I love their fish Thali. Awadh House is one of the better places to eat in Panjim if you are craving fro delectable Awadhi cuisine of North. It differs from the Punjabi Thalis to a large extent so try if you are a meatlover.
Truth is, I have seen neighborhoods like Fontainhas in multiple places while exploring the interiors of Goa. However, Fontainhas has opened its arm for tourists, with beautiful galleries, guest houses, and cafes and is located strategically in Panjim. You will not get these benefits in the rest of old neighborhoods in Goa, though they seemed to be more rustic and authentic.
The best part of Fontainhas is, you can retire here for a day, if you can let go the call of the beach. A few famous home stays at Fontainhas are: La Maison , the Caravela Homestay , Abrigo Fontainhas , Mateus Boutique Hotel, the White Balchao . A good Hostel in this area is the Old Quarter .
Check here for more stay near Panaji .
Considering it is a long day since early morning, it is recommended to put up at Fontainhas. However, if you have to, you can be back at Baga or Calangute. Try to make it before the sunset so that you have beautiful view of the setting sun behind ocean.
Baga has a number of beachside accomodation. Feel free to check the may. I would recommend a few based on previous experiences: Casa Cubo , Goa Beach House , Casa De Goa Boutique Resort.
Day 3: Beach Hopping to North Goa, Visit a night Market
Explore beaches of North Goa: Vagator, Anjuna, Morjim, Ashwem, Mandrem, Arambol
The day starts with exploring the beaches of North Goa. Rent a bike and start early. Things you need for a bike rental: 1. Government ID for deposit. You get it back once you return the bike, with fuel recharged. 2. INR 250 per day as rental fee (seasonal variation is expected) 3. Goa, like the rest of India, drives on the left of the road
Paved highway stretches till the wee end of the state border. You can ride as far as you want. Make pit stops on the way for a quick sugar cane drink, or snap a postcard of the rural huts adorned with floral design. You can take a detour off the highway and make pit-stops among the coconut groves for that quintessential Instagram shot.
Originally, it was shot in ar Parra. I am talking about the famous Goa scene from the Bollywood movie, Love you Jindagi, where Alia Bhat cycles amidst pristine verdant valley dotted with coconut trees with a hill at the backdrop. Now the village is raged with tourist footfall and is on the verge of charging tourists an entry fee.
I suggest skip Parra and look out for a similar setting off the main road, which lies plenty in Goa. Drive towards up north till you reach Vagator beach. The cliff hides the moon-shaped beach from prying eyes of the world.
From Vagator, head towards Morjim beach. Morjim is a rocky beach. Tidal waves bare up the sandy shore in day time. If you are looking for a beach to swim, head towards Ashwem. I stayed by the Ashwem beach at Yab Yum Resort for a couple of days and vouch for the relaxing vibe here. It is a crescent shaped beach, great for swimming. The waves swell well and make it a choice for surfers too.
I suggest stop at the La Plage for lunch. The beachside restaurant serves great French cuisine.
If you want to explore more beaches up north, you have Mandrem and Arambol on the same coast line. Saddle up the bike and wizz past green patches of verdant valley, cow shades, backwaters, dry river beds. You have reached the last wilderness of Goa!
Heading back to Baga from this area is a good 1.5 hours drive. Road is good. I have even seen traffic jams on certain days post sunset. In this route, there are 4 scenic spots to watch the sunset. You choose one based on your preferences.
Sunset points:
- Chapora Fort (of Dil Chahta Hain movie fame) for adventurers
- Sunset point at Anjuna for those who love a rocky beac
- Romantic sundowner at the Thalassa Cafe, small Vagator beach
- Arambol Beach where sunset takes place in the rhythm of iconic drum circle by the last remaining hippie trail (Far off from Baga hence be prepared for a long drive back home)
On the way back, make it a point to stop at the night markets of Calangute. You may also plan a visit to the iconic Anjuna Flea market which runs every Wednesday from 9am to 6pm. Once a place where Hippies traded their exotic European made items, now is flooded with Chinese products, swimwear and costume jewelry.
Once you are back in Baga, rest for a while. For dinner, head out to Souza Lobo. Now running by the third generation of a local family, Souza Lobo is a beach side iconic bar and served amazing cheese baked crab. Highly recommend.
Also read: 5 days travel itinerary for Leh with offbeat day trips suggestions
Day 4: Indulge in some watersports & reach South Goa
Fort Aguada, Sinquerim beach, Travel to South Goa
This is the last day in North Goa for this one week itinerary. To make the most of it, we will let our adrelanine rush through! Today, we will flirt with the crazy waves of Arabian sea.
From Baga, head straight towards Aguada beach. The Portuguese Fort stands erect for centuries keeping a close eye against enemy invasion. Aguada is also famed for filling ship tanks with potable water in olden days.
A four storey light house stand at the end of Aguada. Explore the fort and find a a way to the Sinquerim beach which lies next to Aguada.
Watersports at Sinquerim Beach
People from all over India head towards Sinquerim beach for a number of watersports. From benign banana boat to dangerous jet jet ski, you name it and you get it! Kitesurfing, parasailing etc takes place too.
I suggest go for parasailing. You fly high over the Arabian sea, with the Aguada fort on left and endless ocean on the other side. It is simply breathtaking.
Prices vary depending on demand and seasonal footfall. Also, water sports activity is closed during monsoon owing to killing wind and swells. we paid INR 2000 per head back in 2017 for parasailing.
Heading towards Palolem Beach, South Goa
It is time to head towards South Goa now. While South Goa does not match up to the North Goa when it comes to party or lively vibes, it hides stretches of pristine, verdant land and some of the finest beaches of Indian subcontinent.
From the Central bus station at Panjim, bus ply towards Margaon in South Goa till 6 pm. It charges a nominal INR 30/50. You can also rent a car or a bike and drive towards Palolem in south. On the way, make it a point to stop at the ruined fort of Cabo De Rama. If you can make it during Sunset, you will be getting pristine shots! Cabo De rama is one of the most offbeat things to do in Goa.
Day 5: Beach day at Palolem & Patnem
A relaxing beach day in Goa by the world famous Palolem beach
From Yoga to Cow watching to boat-ride to catch a glimpse of the Dolphins, you have an entire day to relax and soak in the glorious sun in Goa on this day! In this 7 day long itinerary of Goa, this is probably the first day of a beach living.
As we say, “Der Aye par Durast Aye.” It came late but it came in style!
One of the leading reporting agency listed Palolem as Top 20 places to visit in Asia or sorts, you know what I mean. Ever since, a number of tourists head towards Palolem and long for a stay by the coveted beach hut. Colorful bamboo made beach huts adorn the sea-shore. With tourists came shops and cafes too.
However, Palolem remains significantly off the beat beach destination in Goa, compared to Baga or Calangute. Tourist footfall has not yet disrupted local life. Early morning, you can see fishermen busying themselves for the day’s toil. A dog and a cow will join you at the beach as you tan yourself. Overall, it remains one of the laid beach beaches in Goa and feels nice.
In the evening, walk towards, Patnem, a smaller and lesser known beach located close by. I think it is 10 minutes walk. It is beautiful nonetheless.
Best beach huts to stay at Palolem beach in Goa
Dream Catcher Goa , Marron Resort , The Found Things , Beach Resort Palolem , Crystal G oa
Affordable Beach huts: Rainbow , The Charming Nights , Cozy Nook , Cube Beach Hut
Hotels: Summer , the Lost Hostel ,
Also read: 2 weeks in Myanmar, the only itinerary you need!
Day 6: Choose a day trip between Dudhsagar or Karwar
Dudhsagar Waterfalls embodies what monsoon does to the state of the Goa, with its lush green dense surrounding amidst the steep of the Wetern Ghats and four tiered cascading flow of white water, meaning ocean of milk. Located at Mollem, South Goa, Dudhsagar calls for a day trip and trekking up the hill to experience something ethereal. The waterfall is shared between the states of Karnataka and Goa.
It is located by the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. A few spice plantation and a farm stay is located close by too. Tambi Surla, a twelfth century Shiva temple is located here.
If you are heading towards Goa from Bangalore by train, make a stop at Castle Rock. From Pune or Mumbai, stop at Kulem. Shared Jeep goes till the waterfall if you are not too keen to trek the entire distance. Also, there is a daily cap on the number of people allowed to visit, especially during monsoon. Do take an account for that while planning for Dudhsagar trekking.
The trekking is through dark long tunnel made a century ago, now abandoned. Lifeless train tracks kiss the ground. Aroma of fresh rain makes one dizzy. You reach the fall and reach a small natural pool, where swimming is allowed. You can even change to a swimsuit.
If you are journeying by train through Konkon coast, you will get a full view of the falls. It looks spectacular during comsoon. earlier train used to stop for a few minutes. However, trains just slow down these days and do not stop.
Usually fed by torrential rain, Dudhsagar loses its glory during dry season. Though the trek is rewarding nonetheless.
Alternatively, visit the Karwar Beach
“The sea beach of Karwar is certainly a fit place in which to realize that the beauty of Nature is not a mirage of the imagination, but reflects the joy of the Infinite and thus draws us to lose ourselves in it. Where the universe is expressing itself in the magic of its laws it may not be strange if we miss its infinitude; but where the heart gets into immediate touch with immensity in the beauty of the meanest of things, is any room left for argument?” Rabindranath Thakur
If you are not too keen on trekking to Dudhsagar Falls or traveling during turbulent monsoon, I suggest drive towards Karwar. Located by the coast of Uttara Karnataka, Karwar is an untouched region, where local flavor is very strong. It is only half an hour’s drive from Palolem. It is where kali river meets Arabian sea.
Karwar has a beach named after Rabindranath Thakur. Tagore beach, as they call it, also houses the annual three days Karwar festival. For me that is reason enough to fall in lve with Karwar.
You can also visit nearby pristine islands, provided low tide, and a ruined fort named Sadashivgar.
Kurle Ambat , the delightful Crab Masala of Konkan region is a must have while traveling in Karwar. Also, the iconic Gadbad ice cream, where bits of fresh fruit tease cold cream gently in a tunbler! Hotel Amrut is particularly famous for sea food platter. The ghee roasts and sukka tells you that you are truding a fine border area, close to Goa yet so not Goa!
Karwar has plenty of water sports but rates are cheaper than Goa. The beach also houses INS Chapal Warship museum. INS Kadamba (named after the Kadamba dynasty of the region) is Indian naval base located at Karwar.
Day 7: Beach day & Return
The seventh day in Goa beckons. The seven days in Goa whizzed past, right?
I know. Goa always does this. She akes up for a tremendeous trip and only leaves you wanting more of Goa.
If you are roadtripping in Goa and live somewhere down south, afternoon is a good time to start. If you are headed back towards Mumbai or the airport, you need to pack up early. Palolem is is 60 KM away from Dabplim. On a good day, it is a 90 minutes drive. But we suggest account for another hour extra. Dabolim is a small airport and sometimes the queue can get painfully long.
Assuming the flight/train is scheduled at night, you still have the morning to explore a few more beaches of Goa. It is all the more possible since the drive is through the coastal route.
Following are the beaches you can stop by while heading back to the airport.
- Agonda beach
- Colva beach
- Betul beach
- Varca beach
- Benaulim beach
Instead of beach hopping, you can also make a quick day trip to the nearby Butterfly beach from Agonda. Secluded by high cliffs, Butterfly beach can only be accessed by a boat. It looks a lot like a small lagoon with clear water. Butterfly beach is famous for Sunset views.
Agonda has plenty of good places to eat. I love Little Plantain leaf in Agonda. Love Bite is a great choice too for cozy vibes.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Things2doinIndia (@things2doinindia_) on Jan 10, 2020 at 6:06am PST
Also read: Zakaria Street- Kolkata’s hidden streets w here food connects the worlds apart!
If you have a little longer than 7 days in Goa, I suggest follow this itinerary but spread it evenly. Keep a day to explore the beaches of south. Take two days to relax by Palolem beach and one extra day at Ashwem beach in North. Thus, you get to enjoy Goa for 10 days and indulge in the best things to do in the sunshine state. This itinerary equally covers the heritage and beaches of Goa.
If you are heading to Goa during monsoon, may be add one day for Divar island. Monsoon in Goa makes plenty of beaches off limit for tourists with coast guards barring entry. They are justified because Arabian sea becomes a demon with undercurrent pulls etc. Shacks do not open either. That said, monsoon in Goan hinterlands is breathtaking with lush green Western ghats and hidden waterfall trails!
Loved this Goa itinerary? Pin it for later use!
Let’s stay connected on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter !
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the disclosure post. If you have liked the article, you may support it by buying using these links without any extra cost to you.
5 Responses
I’ve never been parasailing but it looks so fun! Especially getting a view of the beautiful beaches.
Goa looks so beautiful to visit! Dudhsagar Waterfalls looks stunning with the train tracks that go beneath it. The food there looks really yummy as well.
Dudhsagar Falls looks particularly incredible – it kind of reminds me of Multnomah Falls in the US with the way the bridge goes across it. We didn’t make it to Goa on our India trip, but southern Indian food is one of my all-time favorites so next time we’ll definitely be checking this region out!!
Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us. We provide Watersports & Adventure trips. Convenient & affordable to your advantage.If you are looking for water sports package with scuba diving , do contact us.
Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us. We provide Car rental services in Goa. Convenient & affordable to your advantage.If you are looking for Self Drive Car Rental in Goa , do contact us.
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Top Hotel Collections
Beach Resorts
5-star Hotels
Goa Travel Essentials
Ideal duration: 3-7 days
Best Time: October to March Read More
Planning a Trip? Ask Your Question
"Beaches, Sunsets and Crazy Nights"
Goa tourism.
Lying on the western coast, Goa is India's smallest state and unlike any other, known for its endless beaches, stellar nightlife, eclectic seafood, world-heritage listed architecture. Spread across just 3,702 km, Goa lies in the Konkan region. It is a far cry from the hippie haven or a beach getaway, and one of the only few destinations that is open 24x7. The laid-backness (susegad) of Goa attracts as many international tourists as it does Indians, or even more so.
The Goans are quite friendly towards tourists and celebrate many festivals throughout the year, the most famous being the New Year and Goa Carnival. While the seafood is excellent, Goa has one of the best nightlife in India with trendy bars, beach shacks, elegant cafes and many clubs and discotheques. Thanks to lower alcohol prices in the state, Goa is also great for younger tourists with relatively tighter pockets. For those of us perpetually confused between North Goa and South Goa, this might help - the state of Goa is divided into North Goa and South Goa. While North Goa is the nightlife hub where all the touristy beaches, flea markets, and beach shacks are located, South Goa is the land of luxurious resorts and laid-back beach vibes. Having been a Portuguese territory for almost 450 years, the Portuguese architecture is nowhere as prevalent as in Goa - visit one of the many whitewashed churches, crumbling forts or spectacular churches. The yellow houses with purple doors, ochre coloured mansions and oyester shell windows is what completes the kalieodscope of Goan architecture. Panjim, the capital city located in the centre overlooks the calm Mandovi River where the famous floating casinos of Goa are docked. The centre is well-connected with an international airport and roads and trains run from North to South part of Goa. With a coastline stretching for over 100 kilometres, Goa has stunning beaches. While Baga and Calangute are more popular among the Indian family crowd, Anjuna and Arambol draw a lot of foreign tourists. The beaches in South Goa are relatively lesser explored, but some of them like Agonda and Palolem are more beautiful.
Must Know Before You Travel to Goa
- Some beach shacks and water-based activities may be shut down during the monsoon season (June to September).
- Pre-book accommodations, especially during the peak tourist season (November to February).
- When choosing accommodations, consider your preferences. South Goa offers serene beachside cottages and resorts, North Goa boasts vibrant parties, Panjim is rich in culture and heritage, and Vasco near the airport is ideal for business travelers.
- Some beaches in Goa, especially in North Goa, have strong rip currents, marked with red flags. Swimming in such areas can be dangerous, so heed warnings and consult lifeguards.
Must Visit Places in Goa
Calangute Beach
Fort Aguada
Cruise in Goa
Water Sports in Goa
Places To Visit In Goa
Dudhsagar Falls
Anjuna Beach
Goa Travel Packages
Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free
3 Nights 4 Days Goa Holiday Tour Package
Time to unwind in goa, goa with amazing water sports fun, goa with family and kids, goa - winter special, offbeat tour package: chikmagalur, hampi & more with goa, top hotels in goa.
₽ 2,108 onwards
₽ 2,886 onwards
₽ 6,792 onwards
₽ 5,549 onwards
₽ 2,719 onwards
₽ 553 onwards
Top Food and Dinning Collection in Goa
Food & Drink
Nightclubs in Goa - Best Clubs in Goa To Groove All Night Long
Food of Goa : 16 Must Try Dishes That Exemplify Food of Goa
Best Malls in Goa For Shopping, Food & Entertainment!
Cafes in Goa to Feed Your Appetite in Style
23 Best Shacks in Goa - Sun, Sand and Beach Time!
Street Food In Goa - Must Try Food and Popular Places For A Delectable Experience
More on Goa Travel
What makes goa an amazing tourist destination, beaches of goa, tips for visiting goa.
- Explore Goa's diverse culinary scene, from beach shacks serving fresh seafood to authentic Goan curries at local eateries. Don't miss traditional dishes like vindaloo and xacuti.
- Avoid wearing a bikini or skimpy clothes outside the resort area. Nudity on beaches is prohibited.
- Be aware that drug possession, consumption, or trade is illegal in Goa and can result in severe penalties. Drinking in public places, especially on beaches, is also prohibited.
- Exercise caution at Goa's beaches. Protect yourself from sunburn and sunstroke by applying high SPF sunscreen, taking sunbaths in small increments, and wearing sunglasses and a hat.
- Explore Goa on a bike or scooter. Roads are well-maintained, and rentals are affordable. Always carry your driving permit, wear a helmet (included in the rental), and inspect the bike's condition.
- Beyond beaches, explore centuries-old churches and temples, museums, forts, spice plantations, wildlife sanctuaries, and the picturesque Goan countryside.
- Dial 108 in case of emergency. To connect to police (100), fire brigade (101), and ambulance (102) can be dialled.
- Avoid walking along dimly lit or unlit deserted narrow road beach areas alone at night.
- Free wifi is common in beach shacks, nightclubs, and other eateries. Ask for the password!
- Smoking is banned at many (not all) restaurants though open-air eateries and beach shacks are mostly okay with it. It would be prudent to confirm before smoking in public places.
- While visiting churches in Goa, cover your legs and shoulders. Avoid beachwear in religious places.
Culture of Goa
History of goa, restaurants and local food in goa, best time to visit goa, top stories about goa tourism.
Beaches & Islands
Best Beaches In Goa for a Great Time in the Sun
Casinos in Goa
Experiences
Car Rentals in Goa - Helpful Guide on How to Rent a Car in Goa
Beaches in South Goa For A Perfect Beach Holiday
Scuba Diving In Goa - Price, Location, & Operators
Beautiful Churches of Goa
Nearby Places
Browse Package Collections
Goa package collections.
Goa Honeymoon Packages
Nearby Destinations for Packages
Mahabaleshwar
Browse Hotel Collections
By hotel type.
Best Resorts in Goa
Best Villas in Goa
Best Hotels in Goa
Best Resorts in South Goa for a quaint vacation
Best Homestays In Goa For A Pleasant Goan Retreat
Best Villas in Goa with Private Pool
Best Hotels In North Goa
Best Luxury Resorts In Goa
Best Cottages In Goa for a Rustic Stay
Best Villas in North Goa
Best Villas in Calangute
By Budget Category
Best 5-star Hotels In Goa
Cheap Hotels In Goa
Budget Hotels In Goa
ITC Hotels In Goa
OYO Hotels In Goa
Goa Hotels Near Airport
Best Budget Resorts In Goa
Hotels in North Goa
Cheapest 5 Star Hotel In Goa
Budget Hotels In Calangute
By Star Category
3 Star Hotels In Goa
4-star hotels in Goa
Best 5-Star Hotels in South Goa for the Beach Stay
Best 5-Star Hotels in North Goa
3 Star Hotels In North Goa
5 Star Hotels In Candolim
3 Star Hotels In Calangute
5 Star Hotels In Calangute
3 Star Hotels In Candolim
With Specific Facilities
Taj Hotels In Goa
Hotels In Goa Near Calangute Beach
Resorts In Goa With Private Pool
Best Hostels In North Goa
Hilton Hotels In Goa
Hotels In Goa With Bathtub
Resorts Near Calangute Beach
Hotels Near Candolim Beach
Lodges In Goa
Hotels Near Colva Beach
Hotels Near Palolem Beach
Near Landmarks
Resorts Near Anjuna Beach
Resorts Near Candolim Beach
Resorts Near Colva Beach
Resorts Near Palolem Beach
Villas Near Calangute Beach
Hotels Near Benaulim Beach
Hotels Near Bogmalo Beach
Hotels Near Morjim Beach
Resorts Near Dudhsagar Falls
Resorts Near Vagator Beach
Hotels Near Agonda Beach
For Special Purposes
Best Beach Resorts In Goa For a relaxing getaway
Best Hotels in Goa Near Beaches
Best Beach Resorts in South Goa
Resorts with Private Beach in Goa for a Luxe Beach Vacay
Best Beach Resorts in Calangute
Resorts in North Goa for the Perfect Beach Vibes
Best Beach Resorts in Anjuna
Best Beach Resorts in Candolim
Best Beach Resorts in North Goa
Best Beach Resorts in Arambol
Best Yoga Retreats In Goa
+ 48 photos
Things to do in Goa by Neighbourhood
Vasco Da Gama
How To Reach Goa
Faqs on goa, what are the top hotels in goa, who should visit goa, what is not so good about goa, how much does a package cost for goa, what are the things to do in goa, what is the best time to visit goa, what is the best way to reach goa, what is famous about goa, what are the places near goa, have a question on goa.
Popular Questions And Answers on Goa
Q. What is the best way to rent a self drive car in Goa, if I coming from Goa Airport ?
Akshobhya Abhigyan
Q. Is alcohol available at Baga beach? Where we can sit and chill?
booyah gamers
Q. When is best time to visit Goa ?
ashish jashupura
Goa Reviews
Antara Mandal
Ajay Jangir
Similar Places
Get the best offers on Travel Packages
Compare package quotes from top travel agents
- India (+91)
*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.
Log in to your account
Welcome to holidify.
Forget Password?
Share this page
Search Flights X
- Goa Tour Packages
Accommodation
Sightseeing
Packages available from
Rs. 9,500 - Rs. 19,963
Per Person on Twin Sharing
An OTP (valid for next 15 mins.) has been sent to you on your Mobile number
By clicking Submit, I agree to yatra.com Terms of use and Privacy Policy
A marketplace of suppliers
Real time, end to end customization
Stay in touch with our expert on live chat
Get the Best Holiday Planned by Experts!
- Enter Your Mobile Number
By submitting this form, you authorize Yatra.com and its partners to contact you for this enquiry.
- Get Free Quotes
Message Sent!
Thank you for submitting your holiday request. A Yatra representative will call you within the next 2 hours from 9990614615.
- By submitting this form I confirm that I am either over 18 years of age or possess legal authority to consent on behalf of the individual whose information has been provided above. I am willing to be contacted by Yatra and its third-party service providers for sale and promotion of travel related products and services. I allow Yatra to share my personal information like my name, email, phone number, destination city and date of travel with the third-party service providers. I understand that once my personal information is shared with the third-party service providers, Yatra would have no control over the same and these third parties may use my personal information for any subsequent marketing and sales communications for travel related products and services. Additionally, they may further share my information with their third parties.
- India Tour Packages
About Goa Tour Packages
An ode to old goa, south goa beach escape, when to visit goa, where to stay in goa, how to reach goa.
- All Packages (10)
- Customizable (10)
Amazing Goa Trip
- Seller : Holiday Season
Per Person on twin sharing
Goa Family Vacation
- Seller : ETravelMitra
Sun Kissed Goa Escape
Tropical Paradise Goa Adventure
Exciting Escape To Goa
Romantic Tour Of Goa With Sunset Cruise
- Seller : FLYTREAT
Amazing Goa Tour Package
Enchanting Goa Tour With Amara Grand Baga
Goa Honeymoon Package With Evening Dinner Cruise Party
Goa Tour Package For Family
Popular goa tour packages, goa tour packages faqs.
Q. Where is white water rafting available in Goa? A. Stoke up the adventurous streak in you with white water rafting on the Mandovi River from mid-June to mid-September. Take in the verdancy of Mandovi Wildlife Sanctuary hemming the river while you manoeuvre your way through the wild waves. The packages start at Rs 1,890 with two sessions daily. Q. How far is the Goa Airport from Panjim? A. Goa Airport is 30 km from the capital Panjim. It is located in the village of Dabolim in the district of Mormugao in south Goa. There are cabs available at the airport or you can book a taxi in advance online at GoaMiles managed by the tourism of Goa. Q. Is south Goa better than north Goa? A. There can’t be a definite comparison between the two regions of one of the most popular holiday destinations in the country. The distinction between the two should be drawn basis the type of vacation you are planning. While north Goa has a string of cafes, restaurants, watersports and a buzzing nightlife, the southern part offers quietude and secluded beaches. The first-timers should visit north Goa as it fulfills the typical touristy capers. Q. When is the best time to visit Dudhsagar Falls? A. Listed among the best waterfalls in India, the gushing waters of Dudhsagar cascade down from a height of 1,017 ft into the Mandovi River. The monsoon i.e. from June to August is when the waterfall comes to life tumbling down with full force forming a milky froth like spectacle. Take a train to Kulem railway station or a jeep to reach the falls. Q. Is there an Uber in Goa? A. You won’t find any app-based cab services in Goa. The state offers other options to get around. Hire a taxi from the airport to get to your hotel, get in touch with bike rental services to explore the city on your own or opt for the hop-on hop-off bus to cover the landmarks. Q. How do I hire a bike in Goa? A. Hiring bikes in Goa is pretty popular with tourists owing to which there are several options to choose from. Opt for a geared or a non-geared bike which cost between Rs 200 to Rs 1,000 per day. If you are travelling solo then go for pilot bikes which accommodate one passenger on the pillion. You can book a bike or a scooty on various rental websites as well. The prices tend to fluctuate with the season and demand, so book in advance if you’re travelling on-season. Q. How much does flyboarding cost in Goa? A. The thrilling watersport has made it to the list of top things to do in Goa and rightly so. The heart-pumping experience lasts for around 20 minutes and costs about Rs 2,800 per person. Plan your Goa trip between the months of October to May for flyboarding. Q. How far is Calangute from Fort Aguada? A. Aguada Fort is 7 km from Calangute and can be reached in about 18 minutes via Aguada-Siolim Road. Take a taxi or a bus to reach the 17th century Portuguese fort located on the Sinquerim beach. Q. Till when is Anjuna flea market open? A. Established by the hippies who settled in north Goa, Anjuna still remains one of the most popular flea markets in Goa luring tourists every Wednesday from 9 in the morning till sunset. The market is set up during the peak season from November to March. Q. Suggest some good family hotels in South Goa A. Although north Goa is better for a family holiday with restaurants and beach activities in vicinity but if you’ve planned a trip to south Goa then a few suggestions are Beleza by the Beach, The LaLit Golf & Spa Resort, Soul Vacation Resort & Spa, Caravela Resort, Palette Biera Mar Beach Resort and Regenta Resort Varca Beach.
Popular Tour Packages in India
- Places to visit
- Best time to visit
- How to reach
- Things to do
- Nainital Family Packages
- Goa Family Packages
- Gangtok Family Packages
- Manali Family Packages
- Kashmir Family Packages
- Ooty Family Packages
- Munnar Family Packages
- Kerala Family Packages
- Sikkim Family Packages
- South India Family Packages
- North East Family Packages
- Uttarakhand Family Packages
- Andaman Family Packages
- Darjeeling Family Packages
- Lakshadweep Family Packages
- Ladakh Family Packages
- Shimla Family Packages
- Jaipur Family Packages
- Coorg Family Packages
- Places to vist in Andaman
- Places to vist in Manali
- Places to vist in Ladakh
- Places to vist in Lakshadweep
- Places to vist in Shimla
- Places to vist in Ooty
- Places to vist in Gangtok
- Places to vist in Gulmarg
- Places to vist in Srinagar
- Places to vist in Pondicherry
- Places to vist in Visakhapatnam
- Places to vist in Chennai
- Places to vist in Delhi
- Places to vist in Jaipur
- Places to vist in Puri
- Places to vist in Kedarnath
- Best time to visit Ladakh
- Best time to visit Goa
- Best time to visit Manali
- Best time to visit Lakshadweep
- Best time to visit Mussoorie
- Best time to visit Nainital
- Best time to visit Dharamshala
- Best time to visit Kutch
- Best time to visit Ooty
- Best time to visit Shimla
- Best time to visit Coorg
- Best time to visit Auli
- Best time to visit Andaman
- Best time to visit Darjeeling
- Best time to visit Vaishno Devi
- Best time to visit Kedarnath
- Best time to visit Puri
- Best time to visit Badrinath
- Best time to visit Rameswaram
- Best time to visit Mahabaleshwar
- How to reach Manali
- How to reach Ladakh
- How to reach Gangtok
- How to reach Shimla
- How to reach Andaman
- How to reach Ooty
- How to reach Darjeeling
- How to reach Lakshadweep
- How to reach Coorg
- How to reach Mount Abu
- How to reach Gulmarg
- How to reach Auli
- How to reach Srinagar
- How to reach Naninital
- How to reach Hampi
- How to reach Kedarnath
- How to reach Vaishno Devi
- How to reach Puri
- How to reach Ujjain
- How to reach Badrinath
- How to reach Rameswaram
- How to reach Pondicherry
- How to reach Kolkata
- How to reach Delhi
- Things to do in Andaman
- Things to do in Manali
- Things to do in Ladakh
- Things to do in Lakshadweep
- Things to do in Shimla
- Things to do in Ooty
- Things to do in Pondicherry
- Things to do in Gangtok
- Things to do in Gulmarg
- Things to do in Srinagar
- Things to do in Visakhapatnam
- Things to do in Chennai
- Things to do in New Delhi
- Things to do in Jaipur
- Things to do in Puri
- Things to do in Kedarnath
- Honeymoon Packages
- Family Packages
- Religious Packages
- Winter Packages
- Summer Packages
- Hill Station Packages
- Exotic Packages
- Adventure Packages
- Wildlife Packages
- Bestseller Packages
- Group Packages
- Weekend Packages
Looking for a Holiday Package?
Our Company
- More About Us
- Leadership Team
Our Products
- Customer Testimonials
- Press Releases
- Support & FAQs
- Terms & Conditions
- Privacy Policy
- User Agreement
- Retails Stores
- Visa Information
Top Travel Destinations
- Switzerland Tourism
- Bali Tourism
- Dubai Tourism
- Maldives Tourism
- Bhutan Tourism
- Vietnam Tourism
- Srilanka Tourism
- Thailand Tourism
- Singapore Tourism
- Malaysia Tourism
- Andaman Tourism
- Lakshadweep Tourism
- Goa Tourism
- Kerala Tourism
- Himachal Tourism
- Kashmir Tourism
- Gujarat Tourism
- Uttarakhand Tourism
- Meghalaya Tourism
- Leh Ladakh Tourism
Popular Honeymoon Packages
- Maldives Honeymoon Packages
- Bali Honeymoon Packages
- Singapore Honeymoon Packages
- Europe Honeymoon Packages
- Dubai Honeymoon Packages
- Malaysia Honeymoon Packages
- Thailand Honeymoon Packages
- Mauritius Honeymoon Packages
- Indonesia Honeymoon Packages
- Manali Honeymoon Packages
- Goa Honeymoon Packages
- Andaman Honeymoon Packages
- Ooty Honeymoon Packages
- Darjeeling Honeymoon Packages
- Kerala Honeymoon Packages
- Ladakh Honeymoon Packages
- Shimla Honeymoon Packages
- Munnar Honeymoon Packages
- Himachal Honeymoon Packages
- Kashmir Honeymoon Packages
- Manali Tour Packages
- Andaman Packages
- Ladakh Tour Packages
- Kerala Tour Packages
- Kashmir Tour Packages
- Rajasthan Tour Packages
- Ooty Tour Packages
- Uttarakhand Tour Packages
- Himachal Tour Packages
- Darjeeling Tour Packages
- Sikkim Tour Packages
- Jaipur Tour Packages
- Srinagar Tour Packages
- Munnar Tour Packages
- South India Tour Packages
- North India Tour Packages
- Kedarnath Tour Packages
- Lakshadweep Tour Packages
- Shimla Tour Packages
- Goa Packages from Delhi
- Goa Packages from Bangalore
- Gangtok Packages from Delhi
- Gangtok Packages from Kolkata
- Kalimpong Packages from Kolkata
- International Tour Packages
- Maldives Tour Packages
- Bali Tour Packages
- Singapore Tour Packages
- Europe Tour Packages
- Greece Tour Packages
- Switzerland Tour Packages
- Dubai Tour Packages
- Malaysia Tour Packages
- Thailand Tour Packages
- Mauritius Tour Packages
- Bangkok Tour Packages
- Bhutan Tour Packages
- Nepal Tour Packages
- New Zealand Tour Packages
- Russia Tour Packages
- Turkey Tour Packages
- Egypt Tour Packages
- Canada Tour Packages
- Saudi Arabia Tour Packages
- Bahrain Tour Packages
Important Links
- World Tour Packages
- International Honeymoon Packages
- Weekend Getaways
- Chardham Yatra
- Pilgrimage Packages
- Cordelia Cruise Packages
- India Tourism
- International Tourism
- Holiday Offers
- Port Blair Packages
- Chardham Packages
- Chardham Yatra by Helicopter
- Dalhousie Packages
- Dharamshala Packages
- Havelock Packages
- Gangtok Packages
- Kalimpong Packages
- North East Tour Packages
- International Flights
- Domestic Flights
- Domestic Airlines
- Cheap Flights
- Flight Schedule
- Flight Status
- Web Check In
- Hotels in India
- Hotels Near Me
- Bus Booking
- Cab Booking
- Outstation Cabs
- Indian Railways
- Distance Between
- Train Running Status
- Train PNR Status
- IRCTC Forgot Password
- Domestic Tour Packages
- State Wise Travel Guidelines
- Monuments of India
- Charter Flights
- Qutub Minar
- Visa at Your Doorstep
- Uk Visa At Your Doorstep
- Armed Forces Flight Booking
- Senior Citizen Flight Booking
- Student Quota Flight Booking
- No Cost EMI on Flight Tickets
You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .
- 3 Days In Goa In 2024: A Guide To Help You Plan Your Getaway Better
26 Oct 2021
What comes to your mind when you hear Goa? Probably sun-kissed beaches, water sports, river cruises, gorgeous shacks, and seafood. Also, the fascinating flea markets and sizzling nightlife in Goa entice tourists from all over the world. But what is that you must do when you’re planning to spend 3 days in Goa on a long weekend is explained in our small 3-day Goa guide.
A Quick Peek At The Content
Weather in goa, best time to visit goa, 5 places to visit in goa in 3 days, 5 things to do in 3 days in goa, 5 places to eat in 3 days in goa, 5 places to stay at for 3 days in goa.
If you’re planning to explore Goa in 3 days, you must know beforehand the weather situation in Goa. We’ve compiled a guide for you to help you with that. Take a look:
Summer: The summer season in Goa commences in March and continues till May. The weather is hot and humid in summer and the temperature fluctuates between 28 degrees to 33 degrees Celsius.
Monsoon: Monsoon season hits Goa in June and goes on till September. Goa receives moderate to heavy rainfall and the beaches look opulent and fresh during the rainy season.
Winter: October to February is the winter season in Goa. The temperature ranges between 21 degrees to 28 degrees Celsius. The weather is cool, comfortable and appropriate for all water sports and beach parties.
Must Read: 29 Most Romantic Places In Goa For Couples
Goa Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle
Visit Goa – the beach capital of India. Explore golden sandy beaches, casinos, and night markets. Book your Goa holiday on TravelTriangle for the best experience of water sports, seafood, and luxury resorts. Inclusions: Hotels, cab, water activities, & sightseeing.
Wonderful Goa Family Package 3D/2N @ Rs 6,500
Plan your trip today!
Riveting Goa Honeymoon Package 4D/3N @ Rs 7,450
Get quotes from multiple travel experts.
Goa with Love: Sun, Sand & Shopping 5D/4N @ Rs 9,000
Compare & customize quotes before booking.
Best of Goa: Exciting Family Vacation 6D/5N @ Rs 12,500
Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.
Jumbo Goa Family Holiday Package 7D/6N @ Rs 14,950
Best prices guaranteed. EMI option available.
See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM
Winter months make the best time to explore Goa in 3 days. The weather remains cool and soothing, and tourists can enjoy exhilarating water sports and beach activities during winter. Moreover, there are a lot of Goa festivals like Sunburn, Christmas and New Year that are celebrated with immense grandeur and attract plenty of tourists during the season. Goa beaches look invigorating during monsoon season. Though water sports are not operational during the rainy season, refreshing rainfall and luxuriant vistas make monsoon the best time to head for a Goa trip for 3 days for all nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Goa has a plethora of destinations worth exploring. From pristine beaches to ancient forts, here’s a list of the top five places to visit, if you are planning to spend 3 days in Goa . Take a look:
1. Beaches Of North And South Goa
Goa is all about scenic beaches . Be it north or south, the beaches are truly mesmeric and one can chill out, sunbathe, relax or simply indulge in super thrilling water sports. If you have just 3 days in Goa, plan for half a day sightseeing and indulge in beach hopping. Visit Calangute, Baga, Candolim, Colva, Agonda and Palolem beaches and enjoy the natural beauty, happening crowd, beach shacks, and water adventure. This place is a must visit destination to add to your 3 day itinerary for North Goa.
Famous For: Toasted beaches and blue-green waters. Time required: 4 to 5 hours
Suggested Read: 22 Best Beach Resorts In Goa
2. Basilica Of Bom Jesus
Established in 1605, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Goa. Known as Old Goa Church, this marvellous structure is one of the ancient churches in Goa and boasts marvellous architecture, beautiful frescos, precious stonework and works of Dom Martin Basilica Bom of Jesus. The preserved body of St. Francis Xavier is one of the major things, that pulls tourists here. Do add this church to your Goa tour plan for 3 days !
Famous For: One of the oldest churches in Goa. Time required: 1 hour Opening hours: 9 am to 6: 30 pm. Only on Sundays, due to mass prayer sessions, the church opens for tourists at 10:30 am.
3. Fort Aguada
Tucked by the Candolim beach, Fort Aguada is an age-old Portuguese fort, built in the 17th century which you must include to your Goa itinerary for 3 days with family. The fort was built to safeguard the Portuguese community from Maratha and Dutch attacks. The fort was named Aguada which means water, because of a freshwater spring located inside the premises. Fort Aguada is counted as one of the most visited tourist places in Goa which has become more popular after the shooting of the Bollywood movie Dil Chahta Hai. So, if you are in Goa for 3 days only, make sure Fort Aguada is on your itinerary.
Famous For: A historical fort with Portuguese architecture. Time required: 2 hours Opening hours: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm
Suggested Read: 14 Most Haunted Places In Goa
4. Saturday Night Market
If one of your 3 days in Goa is a Saturday, head to the night market at Arpora for a hearty shopping scene. The Saturday night market is a buzzing place where tourists and locals flock to pick up trendy outfits, accessories, Goan handicrafts, ornaments, gipsy boxes, and leather goods. Moreover, the market is dotted with food stalls, so if you wish to relish authentic Goanese delicacies, this is the best option for you. Hands down, shopping in Goa is undeniably one of the many fun things to do in this exhilarating state that you must include to your 3 days itinerary for Goa.
Famous For: Unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Time required: 2 hours Opening hours: 6:00 pm to 2:00 am
5. Dudhsagar Falls
The 5th largest waterfall in India, Dudhsagar is one of the must-see places in Goa. Located near Kulem, this gorgeous cascade is a sight of delight and wonder that you must include in your 3 day plan for Goa. Enjoy the scenic drive of 60 km from Goa to see how this mesmerizing waterfall gushes down in multiple layers amid thick luxuriant greenery. You need to keep half a day for Dudhsagar, enjoy your time there, admire the beauty, click photographs and relax with this stunning backdrop. Make sure to add this gem to your Goa trip plan for 3 days and experience a fulfilling vacation amid these waterfalls.
Famous For: Lush greenery with picturesque views. Time required: 3 hours
Suggested Read: New Year Parties In Goa
Planning your holiday in Goa but confused about what to do? These Goa travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
Real travel stories. Real stays. Handy tips to help you make the right choice.
Romance, Beaches, & Churches! Rahul Talks Of A Sizzling Honeymoon In Goa
No wonder Goa is the Beach Capital of India!
Iresh Lists The Most Romantic Experiences From His Goa Honeymoon Trip
Dolphin spotting, snorkeling, & boat rides top the list.
Amit Shares His Experience Of An Unusual Romantic Tour Of Goa
Pristine beaches & backwaters! Take me there, now!
Prasham's Account Of A Goa Tour Proves That Goa Is More Than A Party Destination
Adventure, sightseeing, laid-back beach tours, and it doesn't stop there!
When In Goa, Do What The Johars Did On Their Family Holiday
Beach hopping, cruising, hiking through spice plantations, & more...
Mahesh Kumar Shares A Travel Tale Of 17 Men In Goa
Deltin Royale Casino cruise, beaches, churches, & more...
Goa has no dearth of avenues for adventure and entertainment. You can surf, scuba dive, gamble or spend the night dancing. Here’s a list of 5 things to do in 3 days in Goa. You’re in for a hell of a ride:
1. Goa – Try Water Sports
Holidaying in Goa and missing out on water sports is a sin. From surfing, knee boarding, white water rafting, and kayaking to scuba diving, snorkelling, parasailing, and jet skiing, Goa offers endless opportunities to entice the water baby in you which you must add to your 3 day goa tour plan. Don’t forget to keep half a day in your 3 days Goa vacation for such super fun activities. You can try these water sports on almost all the famous beaches in Goa like Calangute, Baga, Colva, Candolim, and Vagator.
Time required: 4 to 5 hours
2. Mandovi River – Cruise
Various tour operators organize evening cruises on the Mandovi River that you must enjoy during your 3 days holiday in Goa. These are mainly sunset cruises, where large boats or steamers sail through the river, while people can enjoy stunning sunset views. Many of the cruises present cultural programs, showcasing traditional Goanese dance and music, followed by dinner. There are also some special dinner cruises, that operate from 8:30 pm to 10:30 pm and let the guests admire the surrounding beauty over lavish Goanese dinner. Depending on your schedule of 3 days in Goa for couples, choose any of the Mandovi River Cruises and feel the charm of the place, post-sunset.
Time required: 2 to 4 hours, depending on the type of cruise you book.
Suggested Read: 29 Offbeat Things To Do In Goa
3. Goa – Dolphin Watching
The coastal strip of Goa is the habitat of beautiful dolphins and other marine creatures. Take a dolphin boat tour, while your 3 days stay in Goa and if you are lucky you may spot many of them. Beaches like Candolim, Butterfly, Baga and Sinquerim are much famed for dolphins and so is Grand Island. There are many boat tour agencies in Goa, that conduct dolphin spotting trips. Choose and book the one that suits you. So, when in Goa, don’t forget to meet these majestic creatures, and make sure to add this fascinating activity in your Goa itinerary for 3 days!
4. Goa – Enjoy Nightlife
3 days plan in Goa is not only about beaches and water sports. The nightlife in Goa is fabulous and offers amazing experiences for all. Enjoy this sizzling side of Goa, while you visit various pubs, clubs, shacks, and lounges, taste the best of food and cocktail and dance with peppy live music. So, if you are a party animal, make the most of your 3 days in Goa by enjoying this awesome nightlife scene. Most of the pubs are open till early morning, so you can even fit in this plan of club hopping after the cruise or night market visit.
Time required: 2 to 4 hours
Suggested Read: 55 Best Places To Visit In Goa
5. Goa – Go To A Casino
There are many permanently anchored ships on the Mandovi River, which run legitimate casinos for tourists. Try your luck and enjoy some exciting games there and you may earn a handsome amount of money on your 3 days plan in Goa. The casino offers a package inclusive of drinks and food and offers amazing ambience and live music. Every casino is open from 9 pm until midnight, so whenever you are free on any of the 3 days in Goa, pay a visit to this fun zone.
Time required: It is up to you how much time you wish to spend in the casino. People generally enjoy approximately 2 to 3 hours in Goa casinos Entry fee: Starting 1500/person
Curious about what to eat in Goa? Don’t fret, there is a myriad of options for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. If you think that Goa is synonymous with seafood, think again. From chocolate thali to the modern take on dosa, Goa’s culinary scene is taking India by storm:
1. Bhatti Village
Image Source When in Goa, eat as the Goans do. And if it’s homemade Goan delicacies, there is nothing that can surpass the charm of this cosy and popular family restaurant. Indeed, Bhatti Village is one of the best places in Goa to try local authentic dishes. Even a simple crab fry, pork vindaloo or Goan fish curry tastes surreal here. Don’t miss visit this place during your stay 3 days in North Goa.
Opening hours: 6:30 pm to 11 pm What to eat: Pork vindaloo, chicken xacuti, kaju feny, and cera dora- a Portugese sweet dish. Average cost for two: INR 500 Address : Bhatti Waddo, Nerul
Suggested Read: 12 Affordable Things To Do In Goa With Kids
2. Blue Whale
Image Source Blue Whale is an absolute favourite for those who love coastal cuisine. Be it a sumptuous seafood platter, varieties of pasta or the best of port wine; everything at Blue Whale is just mouth-watering. Moreover, the unobstructed view of the sea is surely an additional bonus.
Opening hours: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm to 11:30 pm What to eat: Prawn in butter garlic sauce and pomfret recheado Average cost for two: INR 650 Address : Baga Beach, opposite Royal Goan Beach Club
3. La Plage
Image Source
Flaunting its beachfront location, outdoor seating set up and artistic decor, this quaint and cosy La Plage restaurant is one of the must-eat places in Goa. This is indeed one of the best places to have French delicacies in Goa and its friendly and prompt service has won many hearts already. So, don’t miss this place to add to your Goa itinerary for 3 days for couples.
Opening hours: 8:30 am to 10:00 pm What to eat: Caribbean chicken and beef burger. If you have a sweet tooth, never miss their signature dessert item; Chocolate Thali. Average cost for two: INR 800 Address : Ashvem Beach, Mandrem
Suggested Read: 10 Cottages In Goa
4. Plantain Leaf
Craving for authentic South Indian food in Goa? If you plan to explore Goa in 3 days, then Plantain Leaf is exactly the place you should be heading to. Not only palatable food, and decent décor, but this quaint little place also offers respite to those looking for pure veg restaurants in Goa.
Opening hours: 8:00 am to 11:00 pm What to eat: Dosa and south-Indian thali Average cost for two: INR 800 Address : Almita III, Beach Road, Calangute
5. Martin’s Corner
If you are dreaming about a superb fine dining restaurant, live music, delicious Goan delicacies and the best of cocktails; think no further and come to Martin’s Corner. Run by a Goan lady, Mrs Carafina Pereira; this restaurant boasts a sober ambience, a good crowd and incredible hospitality and all these have helped Martin’s Corner bag a few awards like the Times Food Guide Award in 2012 and the Life Time Achievement Award at the International Cuisine conference held in Goa in 2007. To add additional charm to your trip, this is a must-visit place to add to your South Goa itinerary for 3 days. Opening hours: 11:30 am to 4:00 pm and 6:30 pm to 11:30 pm What to eat: Fish rava fry, haldi-chili prawns, Calamari batter fry, and Chicken cafreal Average cost for two: INR 1600 Address : 69, Binwaddo, Betalbatim, Salcette
Suggested Read: A Romantic 5 Day Trip To Goa
If you’re spending 3 days in Goa with your family or friends, your first priority should be to book accommodation. There are plenty of places you can crash at. We’ve shortlisted 5 places to stay at, keeping in mind all budget types:
1. Taj Exotica, Benaulim
Image Source Located snugly by the private beach, Taj Exotica pampers all its guests with utmost luxury, comfort and world-class facilities. From poolside decks, luxury villas, lobster shacks, golf courses and personalised water sports facilities; this lavish hotel in Goa has everything for a dreamlike vacation. During 3 days in South Goa trip, you can choose this lavishing place your stay.
Starting tariff: INR 20,500/night
2. Grand Hyatt, Bambolim
Image Source Elegant ambience, fine dining, spacious suites and superb amenities pretty much sum up what Grand Hyatt is all about. There are indoor and outdoor pools to relax and Shamana spa to rejuvenate your senses and the unobstructed view of the azure sea makes this place, one of the most recommended stays in Goa.
Starting tariff: INR 15,500/night
Suggested Read: Goa Travel Guide [Infographic]
3. Goa Marriot Resort And Spa, Panjim
Image Source This is a fabulous resort that offers mesmerising views of the sea and the finest hospitality in Goa. Relax in the swim-up bar, or in-house spa or just spend some cosy time in the bay-view patio rooms.
Starting tariff: INR 11,150/night
4. Ramada Caravela Beach Resort, Varca
Image Source One of the best resorts in Goa, Ramada Caravela Beach Resort offers a plethora of luxuries to all its guests. Located by Caravela Beach, this resort is on the preferred list of those looking for a relaxed and laid-back vacation in Goa. Equipped with a discotheque, island bar, private beach and fine dining restaurants, this Goa resort will surely surpass all your expectations.
Starting tariff: INR 6100/night
Suggested Read: 13 Places To Munch On The Best Of Street Food In Goa
5. Casa Baga
Image Source If you are looking for a well-appointed hotel at moderate budget for a 3-day plan in Goa, book at Casa Baga. Featuring trendy décor, decent hospitality, an authentic Goanese restaurant and a refreshing swimming pool, this boutique Goa hotel is highly recommended for both couples and families. The hotel is 2 minutes away from Baga Beach and this makes it all the more special.
Starting tariff: INR 5850/night
Further Read: 13 Essential Goa Travel Tips
Although 3 days in Goa can never be enough, this quick guide is surely helpful and effective to revel in the spirit of Goa. We admit the plan looks little hectic, but trust us, it will be equally fascinating and enthralling. You will not be disappointed on your trip. We hope that we have convinced you that there are a myriad of things for you to do in Goa on your trip to Goa .
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here
Frequently Asked Questions About Spending 3 Days In Goa
How to plan Goa trip for 3 days?
Goa is known for its beaches, historical sites, flea markets, and much more. You 3 days trip to Goa can be planned around exploring all the major sightseeing points, indulging in water sports activities or just chilling by the beach.
What are the best months to visit Goa?
The months from November to February are considered a good time to visit the destination. The weather around these months is pleasant and ideal for exploring all the sightseeing places and beaches. You can also attend many parties during these months
Are 3 days enough in Goa?
3-4 days are sufficient when it comes to exploring all the famous attractions and engaging in the tourist activities in Goa. But if you want to just chill, relax, and unwind then no number of days are enough for Goa since people tend to get hooked on places and never feel like leaving this exotic paradise!
What is there to do in Goa at night?
Goa is known for its dazzling nightlife and there are a couple of places that one can visit for a party at night. Some of the best places to enjoy the nightlife in Goa are: 1. Curlies Beach Shack 2. Café Mambos 3. Casino Pride 4. Club Ozone 5. Club Cubana
Is Goa good for a honeymoon?
Yes, Goa is one of the best honeymoon destinations in India. It is also a great beach destination where one can either indulge in partying in North Goa or choose to spend some quality time with their partner on the beaches of South Goa or both. The place is amongst the most popular places for honeymoon in India.
Which are the best places to visit in Goa for 3 days?
Goa is home to numerous tourist attractions. Some of the best places to visit in Goa are: 1. Beaches - Baga beach, Arambol beach, Vagator beach and Palolem beach. 2. Forts - Chapora fort and Aguada fort. 3. Nightlife - Club Cubana and LPK Waterfront
How much will a Goa trip cost?
Ideally, a budget of INR 6,000/- per day is enough for Goa (excluding flight cost) in the following circumstances: 1. Staying in a normal 3-star accommodation. 2. Using local transport to get to places. 3. Eating at medium-range restaurants and cafes. However, if you plan to spend the festival of Christmas in Goa, this cost would go up since prices for accommodations tend to be higher in the peak season.
How can I travel cheap in Goa?
One of the best ways to travel in Goa without spending much is by hiring a bike or scooter the very first day. Taxis are quite expensive in Goa and one ends up spending a lot in getting around. If you wish to grab the best travel deals to save then plan a holiday in the offseason, that is, between May to September. Hotels, transportation, and activities are comparatively cheaper during these months.
Is food expensive in Goa?
No, food isn’t very expensive in Goa. The shacks at the beach are reasonably priced. If one is looking for a seafood delicacy, that might be a bit pricey. Local food is comparatively affordable as compared to opting for a multi-cuisine kitchen in Goa. North Goa offers some pocket-friendly eating alternatives.
Looking To Book A Holiday Package?
Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.
Spellbinding Cochin Family Tour 2D/1N Package @ Rs 2,750
Himachal Family Tour Package 4D/3N @ Rs 8,750
Exciting Andaman Family Trip 5D/4N @ Rs 10,250
Gangtok & Darjeeling Tour Package 5D/4N @ Rs 13,000
Best prices guaranteed.
Riveting Rajasthan Vacation 3D/2N Package @ Rs 6,499
EMI option available.
Enchanting Uttarakhand Tour 4D/3N Package @ Rs 7,199
Explore best destinations with our experts.
Delightful South Weekend Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999
Thrilling weekend full of fun.
Marvelous Gujarat Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999
Talk to our experts today.
People Also Read:
8 Days in Spiti Valley 3 Days in Jim Corbett 5 Days in Sri Lanka
Recent Posts
52 Lieux touristiques près de Chennai pour profiter d’un merveilleux voyage
Voici les 26 meilleurs endroits à visiter en avril 2024 si vous vous demandez où aller
37 Meilleurs endroits à visiter en mars dans le monde pour satisfaire votre envie de voyager en 2024
Lieux à visiter en février dans le monde pour une tournée internationale romantique en 2024
30 Meilleurs endroits à visiter en février en Inde en 2024
34 superbes escapades de week-end au départ de Gurgaon lors de vos vacances extravagantes en 2023
Trending Blogs
20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle
10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare
101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024
35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation
60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024
95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!
Best Places To Visit In India By Month
Best places to visit outside india by month.
- TravelTriangle
- Goa »
- Tour Packages
- Honeymoon Packages
- Family Packages
- Budget Tour Packages
- Luxury Tour Packages
- Adventure Tour Packages
- Group Tour Packages
- Kerala Tour Packages
- Goa Tour Packages
- Andaman Tour Packages
- Sikkim Tour Packages
- Himachal Tour Packages
- Uttarakhand Tour Packages
- Rajasthan Tour Packages
- Tour Packages From Delhi
- Tour Packages From Mumbai
- Tour Packages From Bangalore
- Tour Packages From Chennai
- Tour Packages From Kolkata
- Tour Packages From Hyderabad
- Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
- Kerala Tourism
- Goa Tourism
- Sikkim Tourism
- Andaman Tourism
- Himachal Tourism
- Uttarakhand Tourism
- Rajasthan Tourism
- Hotels in Kerala
- Hotels in Goa
- Hotels in Sikkim
- Hotels in Andaman
- Hotels in Himachal
- Hotels in Uttarakhand
- Hotels in Rajasthan
- Travel Blog
- Top Attractions
- Hill Stations
- Places to Visit in India
- Things To Do
- Weekend Getaways
- Historical Places
- Tours & Itineraries
- Festival & Events
- Food & Restaurants
- Delhi Travel Blog
- Jaipur Travel Blog
- Goa Travel Blog
- Mumbai Travel Blog
- Bangalore Travel Blog
- Chennai Travel Blog
- Pune Travel Blog
- Hyderabad Travel Blog
- Kolkata Travel Blog
- Indian Holidays Calendar 2024
- Long Weekends 2024
- Travel Tips & Hacks
- Top 10 in India
- India Tourism Guide
- Indian Railways (IRCTC)
- Indian Railways News
- Metro Rail Networks
- Web Check-in
- Hotels in Delhi
- Hotels in Mumbai
- Hotels in Gurgaon
- Hotels in Bangalore
- Hotels in Jaipur
- Hotels in Chennai
- Hotels in Goa
- Hotels in Pune
- Hotels in Hyderabad
- Hotels in Kolkata
3 Days Goa Itinerary: A Perfect Plan for Sightseeing
Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Tours & Itineraries > 3 Days Goa Itinerary: A Perfect Plan for Sightseeing
No wonder Goa tops the list of best holiday destinations in India. The sun, sand and the sea together with the party hotspots in the north and the serenity down south make it an irresistible combo of fun and leisure. But scenic beaches and eccentric nightlife are not the only attractions that await you in Goa. From exploring ancient temples and churches, age-old forts and pretty Portuguese villages to captivating sunsets, flea markets, exciting water sports and a night of gambling at the casino, there’s a lot more to experience in this beach paradise.
With so much to see and do, even a week’s time might seem less to explore this beautiful state. But if you can’t accommodate such a long trip, choose a Goa itinerary for 3 days.
Here’s a perfect itinerary to help you explore the best of North and South Goa:
8.00 am – 10.00 am: Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast in North Goa
Breakfast in North Goa | 3-Day Trip to Goa
As you arrive in Goa early in the morning, you probably wouldn’t want to waste even a split second to delve in the amazing vibe of the state. So just drop off your luggage at the hotel and head for an appetizing meal at one of North Goa’s most-loved breakfast places.
Where to eat?
- Infantaria, Calangute
- Baba Au Rhum, Anjuna
- Lila Café, Anjuna
- Artjuna, Anjuna
10.00 am – 4.00 pm: Visit the sun-kissed beaches in the north
Beaches in North Goa | 3-Day Trip to Goa
Post a sumptuous English breakfast or an authentic Goan morning feast, it’s time to hit one of the popular beaches in the north… after all, isn’t that why you planned a trip to Goa in the first place? Depending on what you want to do, choose where you wish to go.
Where to go and why?
- Baga Beach : For water sports like scuba diving, jet skiing and paragliding, dolphin cruises and banana, bumper and boat rides
- Calangute Beach : For swimming, yoga, long walks, sunbathing, surfing, catamaran sailing and water skiing
- Anjuna Beach : For water sports, Ayurvedic massages, hair braids and temporary tattoos
In case it’s a Wednesday, don’t miss out on the popular Anjuna Flea Market to buy souvenirs, beachy clothes, home décor, artificial jewellery, spices and much more.
- Timings : 9.00 am till sunset (November to March)
After strolling down the long stretches of golden sand and indulging the water baby in you, you must have worked up an appetite by now. You can try the seafood delicacies and other local fare served at one of the beach shacks or head to a good restaurant nearby.
- Pousada by the Beach, Calangute
- Souza Lobo, Calangute
- Britto’s, Baga
- Fat Fish, Baga
- De Baga Deck, Baga
- Purple Martini, Anjuna
- Burger Factory, Anjuna
- Café Cotinga, Anjuna
Thereafter, continue your Goa journey to the iconic Chapora Fort.
- By road : Approx. 20-30 minutes’ drive
Do check our blog: North Goa vs. South Goa
4.30 pm – 6.00 pm: Recreate ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ pose at Chapora Fort
Chapora Fort | 3-Day Trip to Goa
If you’re a Bollywood buff at heart, you wouldn’t want to miss out on exploring the historical ruins of Chapora Fort located next to Vagator Beach. You might find the trek up to the fort strenuous but the captivating views of the sunset sky above and the sea below will be worth it! Plus, you’ll get to click a picture at the place where the blockbuster, Dil Chahta Hai was shot.
- Last Entry : 5.30 pm (All days)
After sunset, carefully climb down the fort and proceed to Vagator.
- By road : Approx. 10 minutes’ drive
6.10 pm – 8.00 pm: Unwind under the starlit sky at Vagator Beach
Vagator Beach | 3-Day Trip to Goa
Unlike its counterparts that are known for tourist traffic, Vagator Beach is one of the cleaner, quieter and rather isolated beaches in North Goa. You can just relax here; soaking in the cool sea breeze, the sound of the waves lapping the shore and the beautiful night sky.
If you stay at the beach for long, you can even attend one of those famous Goa parties that go on till the wee hours of the night and play some hypnotic trance music.
8.00 pm onwards: Eat, drink and make merry till late night hours
Eat-Drink late Night | 3-Day Trip to Goa
Should you wish to stay back in Vagator for dinner, it has some of the finest European restaurants in the area serving exotic Goan cuisine especially seafood delicacies.
- Olive Bar and Kitchen
- Spice Traders
Another option would be to get in your car and drive down to Thalassa.
- By road Approx. 15 minutes’ drive
This happening Greek tavern in Siolim is all the rage amongst party seekers and popular for its good food, electrifying music and spirited ambience. And to top it all, it offers the most beautiful views of the Arabian Sea owing to its amazing location right on the shore.
You can party here till late amidst music and madness and then come back to the hotel in North Goa for a goodnight’s sleep so you wake up refreshed the next day.
8:00 pm onwards (alternate option): Shop at Goa’s night markets
NIght Market in Goa | 3-Day Trip to Goa
If it’s a Saturday, then you can leave Vagator Beach for one of the famous night markets in Goa: Saturday Night Market (Arpora) and Mackies Saturday Nite Bazaar (Baga).
- By road : Approx. 15 minutes’ drive
These markets are not just great to shop for an extensive selection of handmade goods but they also have everything you need to feel the true Goa vibe. There’s live music; food stalls serving salads and waffles and other local fare; cocktail bars; fun zones; and more.
- Timings : Saturday Night Market (Arpora): 4.00 pm – 11.00 pm (November-April) Mackies Saturday Nite Bazaar (Baga): 6.00 pm – 1.00 am (November-May)
You can shop your heart out, binge on savoury and sweet treats and have a gala time at the markets before retreating to your hotel in Goa to sleep off the night.
9.00 am – 12.00 pm: Delve into history with a trip to Old Goa
History in Goa | 3-Day Trip to Goa
Goa is not all about partying and chilling… it also has a totally different side to it that speaks volumes about the state’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. So start your second day with a quick breakfast at the hotel followed by a long drive to Old Goa (or Velha). Once the capital of Portuguese India, Velha has many colonial-era buildings for history buffs to explore.
What to see?
- Basilica of Bom Jesus
- Se Cathedral
- Church of St. Cajetan
- Church of St. Francis of Assisi
- Church of Our Lady of the Mount
- Chapel of St. Francis Xavier
- Augustine Tower
- Museum of Christian Art
Click as many pictures as you can at these magnificent edifices dating back years and thereafter, take the road back to Panaji, the state capital, to explore its gems.
12.30 pm – 5.00 pm: Take a tour of the best of the best in Panaji
Panaji | 3-Day Trip to Goa
Drive through the cobblestone streets and bright, colourful Portuguese-era houses of Panaji to get a true feel of what the real Goa is. En route, catch a glimpse of some of the most popular landmarks in the area and if you have the time, don’t miss to capture them.
- Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
- Fontainhas Latin Quarter
It’s almost time for lunch now, so take a break from all the sightseeing and halt at one of the popular restaurants or cafes in Panaji to sample an authentic Goan meal.
- The Fisherman’s Wharf
- The Black Sheep Bistro
- Kokni Kanteen
- Ritz Classic
Once you’re full, continue your sojourn in Panaji with a visit to its most frequented place – Miramar Beach. Clean and filled with soft sand, this beach is perfect for unwinding or taking an evening stroll or even binge drinking at one of the pubs or bars along the shore.
5.00 pm – 7.00 pm: Go for a boat cruise on the River Mandovi
Boat cruise on River Mandovi | 3-Day Trip to Goa
After spending a couple of hours at the tranquil Miramar Beach, prepare yourself for the experience of a lifetime: an hour-long boat cruise on Mandovi. The relaxed sail, traditional dance performances like Dekhni and Fugdi , DJ music, sightseeing and the best of all, the enchanting Goan sunset all make it the best way to spend some quality time with friends or family.
- Last Cruise : Around 8.00 pm
7.00 pm onwards: Try your luck at Goa’s anchored casinos
Goa’s anchored casinos | 3-Day Trip to Goa
When in Goa, you definitely shouldn’t miss out on the memorable gaming experience offered by the state’s offshore casinos. Who knows, you just might get lucky!
Where to go?
- Deltin Royale
- Deltin Jaqk
- Deltin Caravela
- Big Daddy Jetty
- Casino Pride
You can also enjoy live music and dance from 9 pm onwards along with a world-class gourmet buffet and free drinks that make the casino visit all the more worth it.
- Entry Fee : Starting @ 1500 per person
Spend as much time as you wish at the casino; you can even stay here till the dawn of light and keep playing and hopefully, winning before you return to your hotel.
(Alternate Option)
5.00 pm – 7.00 pm: View a spellbinding sunset at Fort Aguada
Sunset at Fort Aguada | 3-Day Trip to Goa
From the Miramar Beach, you can also head back towards the heart of North Goa but don’t forget to make a stop at Fort Aguada to enjoy a captivating view of the sea.
- By road : Approx. 45 minutes’ drive
Reach the fort via the 4 km-long road from Sinquerim Beach or take the shorter 2 km-long foot path; however, do note that it is a steep climb. But watching the sun setting on the horizon from atop this fort would be a memory that will be etched in your mind forever.
- Last entry : 6.00 pm (All days)
After experiencing the tranquillity and enjoying the natural beauty at Fort Aguada, proceed to one of the famous pubs along Candolim-Baga stretch for max-level fun.
- By road : Approx. 15-30 minutes’ drive
7.00 pm onwards: Party till you drop at North Goa’s pubs
North Goa’s Pubs | 3-Day Trip to Goa
You’ve spent time at Goa’s beach shacks that are open till late but your trip will be incomplete if you don’t witness the state’s happening nightlife at its various pubs. The delicious food, the cocktails and the peppy music are sure to bring out the party animal in you.
- Cohiba, Candolim
- SinQ, Candolim
- LPK Waterfront, Nerul
- Café Mambos, Baga
- Cape Town Café, Baga
- Tito’s, Baga
Do visit St. Anthony’s shack on Baga if karaoke is your thing.
Since most pubs are open till late, you can dance (or sing) your heart out while sipping on drinks and binging on snacks before you head back to sleep off the night.
Full Day: Explore the beaches of South Goa and more
Beaches of South Goa | 3-Day Trip to Goa
Relish a delicious breakfast at the hotel or outside and then get ready to explore the tourist hotspots down south. From serene and beautiful beaches to revered shrines to wildlife sanctuaries and more, South Goa has a lot on offer for people of different interests.
- By road : Approx. 2-3 hours’ drive
Since the first two days have been quite frenetic, it would be ideal to spend your last day of the tour just lazing around, away from the hustle-bustle of the north. The sun-kissed beaches and spectacular landscapes of South Goa are sure to offer you absolute bliss.
- Colva Beach: For adventure sports like skiing, parasailing and paragliding
- Benaulim Beach: For spice plantations, boat rides, bike rides and other water activities
- Agonda Beach: For windsurfing, hiking and dolphin rides
- Palolem Beach: For silent parties, dolphin spotting, scuba diving and sunset viewing
- Polem Beach: For swimming and sunbathing
You can also visit Shantadurga Temple, which is a sight to see.
Whenever you’re hungry, you can enjoy a sumptuous Goan meal or other multi-cuisine delicacies at any of the restaurants, cafes or shacks dotted across South Goa.
- Martin’s Corner, Betalbatim
- The Fisherman’s Wharf, Cavelossim
- Dropadi, Palolem
- The Red Ginger, Colva
- Mickey’s Colva
- Zeebop, Majorda
After spending whatever time you have at the most popular places in South Goa, it is best to head back to the airport in time for your flight with a bag full of memories.
I am interested
Related Blogs
Latest Travel Blogs
GET FAB BLOGS IN YOUR INBOX!
Book a hotel.
- Social Share
Discover Hotels and Places Nearby
Top places to visit in india, hotels in india, hotels near airport, hotels near railway station, budget hotels, couple friendly hotels.
- Places to Visit in Agra
- Places to Visit in Ahmedabad
- Places to Visit in Amritsar
- Places to Visit in Bangalore
- Places to Visit in Bhopal
- Places to Visit in Chandigarh
- Places to Visit in Chennai
- Places to Visit in Coorg
- Places to Visit in Dehradun
- Places to Visit in Delhi
- Places to Visit in Dharamshala
- Places to Visit in Goa
- Places to Visit in Gurgaon
- Places to Visit in Guwahati
- Places to Visit in Haridwar
- Places to Visit in Indore
- Places to Visit in Jaipur
- Places to Visit in Kolkata
- Places to Visit in Lonavala
- Places to Visit in Lucknow
- Places to Visit in Mahabaleshwar
- Places to Visit in Manali
- Places to Visit in Mumbai
- Places to Visit in Mussoorie
- Places to Visit in Nainital
- Places to Visit in Nashik
- Places to Visit in Noida
- Places to Visit in Ooty
- Places to Visit in Rishikesh
- Places to Visit in Surat
- Places to Visit in Thiruvananthapuram
- Places to Visit in Udaipur
- Places to Visit in Varanasi
- Places to Visit in Pondicherry
- Places to Visit in Coimbatore
- Places to Visit in Kochi
- Places to Visit in Kodaikanal
- Places to Visit in Pune
- FabHotels: Hotel Booking App
- Hotels in Agra
- Hotels in Ahmedabad
- Hotels in Amritsar
- Hotels in Chandigarh
- Hotels in Coimbatore
- Hotels in Coorg
- Hotels in Dehradun
- Hotels in Dharamshala
- Hotels in Gangtok
- Hotels in Haridwar
- Hotels in Indore
- Hotels in Kochi
- Hotels in Kodaikanal
- Hotels in Lonavala
- Hotels in Lucknow
- Hotels in Mahabaleshwar
- Hotels in Manali
- Hotels in Mohali
- Hotels in Mussoorie
- Hotels in Nainital
- Hotels in New Delhi
- Hotels in Noida
- Hotels in Ooty
- Hotels in Pondicherry
- Hotels in Puri
- Hotels in Rishikesh
- Hotels in Thiruvananthapuram
- Hotels in Tirupati
- Hotels in Udaipur
- Hotels in Ujjain
- Hotels in Varanasi
- Hotels Near Ahmedabad Airport
- Hotels Near Amritsar Airport
- Hotels Near Bangalore Airport
- Hotels Near Bhopal Airport
- Hotels Near Bhubaneswar Airport
- Hotels Near Chandigarh Airport
- Hotels Near Chennai Airport
- Hotels Near Coimbatore Airport
- Hotels Near Goa Airport
- Hotels Near Gwalior Airport
- Hotels Near Hyderabad Airport
- Hotels Near Indore Airport
- Hotels Near Jaipur Airport
- Hotels Near Kolkata Airport
- Hotels Near Lucknow Airport
- Hotels Near Mumbai Airport
- Hotels Near Nagpur Airport
- Hotels Near New Delhi Airport
- Hotels Near Pune Airport
- Hotels Near Vadodara Airport
- Hotels Near Agra Railway Station
- Hotels Near Ahmedabad Railway Station
- Hotels Near Amritsar Railway Station
- Hotels Near Bangalore Railway Station
- Hotels Near Bhopal Railway Station
- Hotels Near Bhubaneswar Railway Station
- Hotels Near Chandigarh Railway Station
- Hotels Near Chennai Railway Station
- Hotels Near Coimbatore Railway Station
- Hotels Near Dehradun Railway Station
- Hotels Near Ernakulam Railway Station
- Hotels Near Ghaziabad Railway Station
- Hotels Near Gorakhpur Railway Station
- Hotels Near Guwahati Railway Station
- Hotels Near Gwalior Railway Station
- Hotels Near Haridwar Railway Station
- Hotels Near Indore Railway Station
- Hotels Near Kanpur Railway Station
- Hotels Near Kolkata Railway Station
- Hotels Near Lucknow Railway Station
- Hotels Near Ludhiana Railway Station
- Hotels Near Madurai Railway Station
- Hotels Near New Delhi Railway Station
- Hotels Near Pune Railway Station
- Hotels Near Ranchi Railway Station
- Hotels Near Surat Railway Station
- Hotels Near Tirupati Railway Station
- Hotels Near Udaipur Railway Station
- Hotels Near Ujjain Railway Station
- Hotels Near Vadodara Railway Station
- Hotels Near Varanasi Railway Station
- Hotels Near Vijayawada Railway Station
- Hotels Near Visakhapatnam Railway Station
- Budget hotels in Agra
- Budget hotels in Ahmedabad
- Budget hotels in Amritsar
- Budget hotels in Bangalore
- Budget hotels in Bhubaneswar
- Budget hotels in Chandigarh
- Budget hotels in Chennai
- Budget hotels in Coimbatore
- Budget hotels in Coorg
- Budget hotels in Dehradun
- Budget hotels in Ernakulam
- Budget hotels in Gangtok
- Budget hotels in Goa
- Budget hotels in Gurgaon
- Budget hotels in Haridwar
- Budget hotels in Hyderabad
- Budget hotels in Indore
- Budget hotels in Jaipur
- Budget hotels in Kodaikanal
- Budget hotels in Kolkata
- Budget hotels in Lonavala
- Budget hotels in Madurai
- Budget hotels in Mahabaleshwar
- Budget hotels in Manali
- Budget hotels in Mumbai
- Budget hotels in Mussoorie
- Budget hotels in Nashik
- Budget hotels in Ooty
- Budget hotels in Pondicherry
- Budget hotels in Pune
- Budget hotels in Rishikesh
- Budget hotels in Shirdi
- Budget hotels in Thiruvananthapuram
- Budget hotels in Tirupati
- Budget hotels in Udaipur
- Budget hotels in Varanasi
- Couple friendly hotels in Agra
- Couple friendly hotels in Ahmedabad
- Couple friendly hotels in Bangalore
- Couple friendly hotels in Bhopal
- Couple friendly hotels in Chandigarh
- Couple friendly hotels in Chennai
- Couple friendly hotels in Coimbatore
- Couple friendly hotels in Coorg
- Couple friendly hotels in Dehradun
- Couple friendly hotels in Dharamshala
- Couple friendly hotels in Goa
- Couple friendly hotels in Greater Noida
- Couple friendly hotels in Gurgaon
- Couple friendly hotels in Guwahati
- Couple friendly hotels in Hyderabad
- Couple friendly hotels in Indore
- Couple friendly hotels in Jaipur
- Couple friendly hotels in Kanpur
- Couple friendly hotels in Kochi
- Couple friendly hotels in Kolkata
- Couple friendly hotels in Lonavala
- Couple friendly hotels in Lucknow
- Couple friendly hotels in Mahabaleshwar
- Couple friendly hotels in Manali
- Couple friendly hotels in Mohali
- Couple friendly hotels in Mumbai
- Couple friendly hotels in Mussoorie
- Couple friendly hotels in Nashik
- Couple friendly hotels in New Delhi
- Couple friendly hotels in Noida
- Couple friendly hotels in Ooty
- Couple friendly hotels in Pondicherry
- Couple friendly hotels in Pune
- Couple friendly hotels in Rishikesh
- Couple friendly hotels in Siliguri
- Couple friendly hotels in Surat
- Couple friendly hotels in Udaipur
- Couple friendly hotels in Vadodara
- Couple friendly hotels in Varanasi
- Be our Franchisee
- Travel Agent
- Corporate Enquiries
- Quarantine Hotels
- Terms & Conditions
- Privacy Policy
- Cancellation Policy
15 Top-Rated Attractions and Places to Visit in Goa
Written by Joni Sweet Updated Mar 6, 2023
With golden-sand beaches, tangled palm trees touching the sky, and a relaxed atmosphere, Goa stands in stark contrast from the other bustling urban destinations in India. Even just a short visit to this beach paradise feels like a vacation within a vacation. The beauty and serenity of Goa will rejuvenate you, while its robust calendar of events and activities give you plenty of things do to during your free time.
Popular coastal hot spots, like Colva Beach and Palolem Beach , draw tourists to Goa from around the world. But beaches are just the beginning of what makes Goa one of the most beloved places to visit in India. The destination also has unique Portuguese-influenced cuisine , historical churches and temples , vibrant wildlife , and fascinating spice farms . No matter how long you spend in Goa, you'll wish you had a few extra days to explore.
For more ideas to help plan your trip to India, see our list of the top tourist attractions in Goa.
1. Popular Beaches
2. beaches off the beaten path, 3. tanshikar's working spice farm, 4. portuguese-indian restaurants, 5. basilica de bom jesus, 6. dudhsagar falls, 7. anjuna market, 8. church of our lady of the immaculate conception, 9. braganza house, 10. mahadev temple, 11. palácio do deão, 12. mangeshi temple, 13. fontainhas, 14. bhagwan mahavir wildlife sanctuary, 15. reis magos fort, map of attractions and places to visit in goa, goa, india - climate chart.
Beaches play a starring role among the attractions in Goa, contributing to why it's one of the best places to visit in India .
Nearly every tourist who visits the area spends a day at Palolem Beach , a crescent-shaped stretch of white sand that overlooks the Arabian Sea in south Goa. While simply hanging out and soaking up the scenery is a perfect way to enjoy this beautiful area, Palolem Beach also offers an array of activities to fill your time. Choose from kayaking , yoga classes , dolphin-sightseeing trips, and swimming . You can also spend the night in one of Palolem's rustic coco huts , which are erected at the start of the high season.
Colva Beach is another one of the most famous beaches in Goa , especially among Indian tourists. It has swaying palms and a broad stretch of bronze sand, where you'll occasionally see herds of cows sunbathing next to tourists. You can rent Jet Skis , hop on a thrilling banana boat ride , and get a bird's-eye view of the beach on a parasailing adventure.
Homestay accommodations in the area will give you an authentic local-style experience – plus easy access to Colva Beach.
While known for their spectacular scenery, the popular beaches in Goa tend to get crowded during high season, leaving some travelers eager for a quieter natural escape. Fortunately, Goa brims with undiscovered beach attractions and things to do that give you some distance from the throngs of tourists while still treating you to glorious sand and surf.
One of the best hidden gems in Goa is Butterfly Beach. It has a curving expanse of sand flanked by boulders that create a postcard-worthy cove, brimming with butterflies and blossoms. It's also a great spot to watch dolphins swim in the distance.
You'll need to embark on a boat ride from Palolem Beach or Agonda Beach, or tackle a challenging forest hike, to reach Butterfly Beach – but the obstacles to getting here help to thin out the crowds. You might even have the place to yourself.
While more developed than Butterfly Beach, Utorda Beach is another stunning getaway from the more crowded beaches around Goa. It features clean, blue water; silky sand; and a few small beach shacks. Look closely as you wade in the water, and you may spot some small starfish .
South India has been known for its abundance of spices, like black pepper, cardamom, and cloves, for centuries. In fact, these natural flavorings were a major appeal for Portuguese traders who came to Goa hundreds of years ago.
Tourists can see what the local spice scene is all about by touring Tanshikar's Working Spice Farm & Ecological Rest House . This agritourism attraction grows seven different spices: pepper, vanilla, nutmeg, turmeric, cardamom, and chili, using totally organic farming methods.
Tours of the farm, often led by its owner, will give you an in-depth understanding of these flavor-charged crops and a chance to see some of the other products, like betelnut, coffee beans, pineapple, and banana, grown on the premises. Tanshikar's also keeps bees and produces its own all-natural honey.
Spice farm tours aren't the only fun thing to do at Tanshikar's. Guests can also take a vegetarian cooking class , visit a bubbly lake , trek to Mainapi Waterfall, and train to become a yoga teacher. It's an attraction that has something for everyone.
Address: Netravali, near Smriti Yoga, Sanguem, Goa
Official site: http://www.tanshikarspicefarm.com/
Food is a major attraction in Goa. This part of India has a distinctive cuisine that blends Portuguese and Goan flavors, setting it apart from all the other food around India. Expect fiery flavors, fresh-caught seafood, and an abundance of coconut in the dishes.
You can't leave Goa without trying its signature dish, vindaloo, a super-hot meat curry made with palm vinegar and dried red chili peppers. Hospedaria Venite in the capital of Goa, Panaji , wows tourists with its mouthwatering vindaloo. Dominick, a Benaulim Beach mainstay, is another favorite spot for vindaloo – plus it offers front-row seats for world-class sunsets.
Another Goan specialty is xacuti, a rich curry with poppy seeds, chili, and coconut. Try it at Souza Lobo , a beachfront restaurant in Calangute , or Fat Fish , a well-trafficked spot in Baga.
Tourists hankering for some fresh seafood are spoiled for choice around Goa. Zeebop , on Utorda Beach , offers delightful fish curry, prawn stew, and mackerel doused with spicy red sauce.
You also can't go wrong with dinner at Copperleaf. The upscale restaurant in Porvorim has a fish thali that you'll be dreaming about long after you've finished.
While many tourists visit Goa for the beaches, countless others consider the trip to be a pilgrimage to important religious sites, like the Basilica de Bom Jesus.
This Old Goa attraction dates back to the late 16th century and contains the remains of the St. Francis Xavier . The "Apostle of the Indies" co-founded the Society of Jesus religious order with friend St. Ignatius Loyola and spearheaded an extensive mission in India. The basilica has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.
The modest yet imposing structure is a mix of Doric, Corinthian, and Baroque style with intricate carvings. Interestingly, the building was stripped of its lime plaster in the mid-20th century, making it the only church in Goa without plaster. The Basilica de Bom Jesus has since become worn by monsoons.
You can tour the church on your own, or hire one of the independent guides near the entrance for a small fee. Inside, you can see huge ornamental screens, along with the body of the resident saint in a casket that was once covered in precious stones. It's a compelling place that will transport you back in time.
Every year, the Feast of St. Francis Xavier draws big crowds to this church in late November and early December. It kicks off with a nine-day novena and open-air masses before concluding with the major holiday on Dec. 3.
Address: Old Goa Road, Bainguinim, Goa
Aquatic adventures go beyond the beach in Goa. The state is also home to Dudhsagar Falls, a spectacular four-tiered waterfall that towers some 310 meters above the earth. It's one of India's tallest waterfalls and a perpetually popular attraction for day trips around Goa and Karnataka .
To reach the falls, you'll need to make your way to the village of Colem by taxi or train. Depending on which train route you take, you may get a glimpse of Dudhsagar Falls along the way. Then, you'll hop aboard a shared jeep through the jungle, passing Devil's Canyon along the way. Around 45 minutes later, you'll scurry over some boulders to finally reach the falls.
The best time to visit Dudhsagar Falls is right after the monsoon , when the water is gushing. Tourists who wish to take a dip can rent a life jacket from vendors at the attraction.
Hot tip: Only 300 jeeps are allowed to enter Dudhsagar Falls every day, although tour operators have been requesting to increase the capacity during high season. Make reservations in advance, or prepare to wait in long lines if you wish to visit.
Goa is home to a ton of markets, but none offer the liveliness or selection of products found at Anjuna Market. For roughly 50 years, hundreds of vendors have been setting up shop on Anjuna Beach every Wednesday to tempt free-spirited travelers with hippy-inspired trinkets and souvenirs.
Ornate textiles, woven bikinis, sculptures of deities, dreamcatchers, hammocks, magnets, t-shirts with sassy slogans, beaded jewelry, toys – you name it, you can probably buy it here.
But even if you don't want to shop, you should still make a point to visit Anjuna Market for the sightseeing. The flea market is a swirling array of colorful wares, salespeople driving hard bargains, big bags of fresh spices, and street food galore. The vibe alone is one of the reasons why Anjuna Market is one of the top places to visit in Goa.
Address: 10 St. Michael's Vaddo South, Anjuna, Goa
Make your way to the laid-back city of Panaji to visit another one of Goa's historic churches: The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.
The pristine white church, which dates back to the early 17th century, stands atop a zig-zagging staircase that resembles the tiers of a wedding cake. Its perfectly symmetrical Portuguese Baroque architecture is a sight to behold. At night, twinkle lights make the church look like something out of a fairy tale.
While not ornate, the church's interior boasts bright, colorful decorations. Tourists can see the elegant main altar (dedicated to Mary, mother of Jesus) and gilded pillars with elaborate carvings. Vines of blue and white blossoms often adorn parts of the vaulted ceiling around various holidays.
Dec. 8 marks the Festival of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception , a major holiday at this church. Swing by to see it decked out in tons of colorful lights.
Address: Rua Emídio Garcia, Altinho, Panaji, Goa
See what houses in Goa looked like during the 17th century at Braganza House, a historical mansion that flanks the village square in Chandor. It's divided into an east and west wing, both of which are available for tourists to poke around at their leisure.
The east wing is home to members of the Pereira-Braganza family. It boasts a massive ballroom with an impressive marble floor, along with a small chapel that contains one of St. Francis Xavier's fingernails. This part of Braganza House also brims with antiques and international artifacts.
The western side preserves the original grandeur of Braganza House. Owned by the Menezes-Braganças, the museum-like space features an expansive library with 5,000 leather-bound books from the private collection of journalist Luis de Menezes Braganza, who played an important role in the Goan independence movement. Tourists can also see breathtaking Belgian glass chandeliers, antique portraits of the family, and Chinese porcelain.
Address: Guddi-Chandor Road, Culsabhatt, Chandor, Goa
Located just 12 kilometers north of Molem , Mahadev Temple gives tourists a chance to see a structure that has been standing since the 12th century. Its remote location helped it survive centuries of conquests by the Portuguese and Muslim colonialists. Legend has it that the black basalt temple , which was built to honor Lord Shiva, has a resident king cobra. Step inside to see the detailed work of artisan carvers, including the lotus flower on the ceiling.
If Braganza House got you excited, just wait until you see Palácio do Deão. The 200-plus-year-old palace in Quepem has been restored to its original glory. It features a blend of Indian and Portuguese architecture. Tourists are welcome to explore the heritage home, including its game room and library filled with rare tomes.
The property also features sweeping tropical gardens that make for a pleasant place to spend the afternoon. Consider making reservations in advance for afternoon tea on the terrace.
Address: Opposite Holy Cross Church, Quepem, Goa
Official site: http://www.palaciododeao.com/
Goa's unique culture and heritage are on full display at Mangeshi Temple, a beautiful spiritual attraction that's been standing for roughly 450 years. The pastel blue, gold, and white temple features a seven-story tower that pays homage to one of the Hindu god Shiva's many incarnations: Manguesh. The temple structures surround a sacred pool of water , which is thought to be the most historic part of this religious site.
You can watch devotees perform pujas (worship rituals) at the temple every day. If you happen to be there on a Monday, you can watch the Manguesh idol taken out for a procession, complete with music, in the late afternoon or early evening.
Address: Dinanath Mangeshkar Road, Mangeshi Village, Mardol, Goa
Lace up your most comfortable pair of walking shoes and head to Panjim for a stroll around Fontainhas, one of Asia's only Latin quarters . Once the headquarters for the Portuguese government in Goa, the UNESCO-recognized Heritage Zone features colonial houses and cottages decked out with pastel and fluorescent façades. Each of the houses get a fresh coat of paint after the monsoon season every year, ensuring that they always look vibrant for visitors. Don't miss the district's namesake Fountain of Phoenix.
You can explore the area on your own, or book a walking tour for a more in-depth look at the history of this fascinating neighborhood. Either way, you'll definitely work up an appetite as you wander the narrow cobblestone streets and snap photos in front of the candy-colored buildings. Refuel at one of the decades-old cafés or bakeries in the neighborhood. Confeitaria 31 de Janeiro , a bakery near Mary Immaculate School, is known for having a wide selection of tasty Goan cakes and sweets.
Wildlife lovers should put Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary at the top of their Goa travel plans. The state's largest protected wildlife area, which spans 240 square kilometers and is also home to Molem National Park , is home to all kinds of amazing creatures, including the black leopard, Bengal tiger, Malabar giant squirrel, wild boar, slender loris, Indian rock python , and ruby-throated yellow bulbul (Goa's state bird).
Hiring a guide through a travel agent, and visiting the sanctuary in the early morning or late evening increases your chances at catching a glimpse of these animals. During the daytime, you can see the natural wonders of Dudhsagar Falls and Devil's Canyon . You can also check out the Tambdi Surla Temple , a temple that has survived since the 12th century, thanks to its remote location in the forest. The structure is adorned with intricate carvings of the Hindu gods Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma.
Dating back to 1493, Reis Magos Fort was once a defense structure aimed at protecting the area's then-capital, Goa Velha. Today, the fort is a top attraction in Goa for tourists looking to take a break from the beaches and dive into the state's fascinating history.
The site has a storied past not only as a military outpost, but also as a hospital and a jail. Tourists can see cannons, a small museum exhibit on the fort's history, and jaw-dropping views of the Mandovi River .
After your visit, head to the town's other famous attraction: Reis Magos Church. The pristine white church is one of just a handful of churches in Goa that has processions and re-enactments for the Feast of the Three Kings (Epiphany). Inside the structure, you can see an impressive multi-colored wood relief of a scene that depicts the Three Wise Men handing gifts to the Baby Jesus.
Address: Nerul-Reis Margos Road, beside Three Kings Church, Bardez, Verem, Goa
More on India
New Delhi to Goa
Goa Packages for 3 Days
- 15 / 15 Package s
Experience beaches and sunset
SEARCH THIS PAGE:
About 2 Nights Goa Packages
Browse other popular Holiday packages in International: International Tour Packages , International Honeymoon Packages , International Cruise Packages , International Beach Packages , International Family Packages , International Adventure Packages , International Luxury Packages , International Leisure Packages , International Pilgrimage Packages , International Wildlife Packages . So select your pick for your Goa trip today!
Popular Goa Packages for 3 Days
The dashing and adventurous goa.
Goa is on everyone’s bucket list. And why not? It is a vibrant land, offering almost everything for every kind of traveller. The lively and tranquil vibe of the destination is enough to make you want to keep coming back. So, are you planning a quick getaway to Goa? If yes, then the 2 nights 3 days Goa holiday package from MakeMyTrip is ideal to suit your requirements. This is a short but sweet holiday package that you will absolutely consider!
Goa is undoubtedly one of the finest seaside destinations in the country. It is closely at par with several global holiday destinations, in terms of its natural beauty, hospitality and accommodation, culinary prowess and cultural and historical legacy. There is no surprise that Goa is frequented by a large number of global tourists every year! It will be your window into a whole new world of recreation and relaxation.
Highlights of a 2 nights 3 days Goa holiday packag e
Goa’s enduring beauty is what makes it popular amongst travellers. It offers lush greenery, forests, picturesque natural reserves, waterfalls, lakes and of course, the lovely coastline with its beautiful beaches.
There is a lot in store for any traveller visiting Goa. A 2 nights 3 days Goa holiday package is just what you need for the ultimate relaxing experience that you always desired. Picture delightful beachside attractions with a spot of flora and fauna or witness amazing nightlife fused with shopping, Goa is just a perfect destination for your next vacation. You should start looking up goa 2 nights 3 days package s or goa 3 days package s on MakeMyTrip.
The fabulous 2 nights 3 days Goa holiday package can be a wonderful option for de-stressing and enjoying nature’s beauty like never before! A goa holiday package 2 nights 3 days or a 3 days goa tour package will come with several exquisite and unforgettable experiences.
Keeping these aspects in mind along with your preferences, MakeMyTrip offers spectacular attractions and key highlights for your 2 nights 3 days Goa holiday package . Some of them include the following:
- Going dolphin watching will be a major highlight of any goa trip plan for 3 days package .
- You will love cruising the waters with a special ride that allows you to see some landmarks up close. This will be another memorable part of your 3 days goa tour package .
- View historical churches and forts and learn about their chequered past as part of your goa tour package 3 days 2 nights .
- Shop at popular markets and pick up the best souvenirs and other treats during your 2 nights 3 days Goa holiday package .
- View some of Goa’s best beaches as a part of your goa 2 nights 3 days package , while feasting on the tantalizing local cuisine.
The 2 nights 3 days Goa holiday package will be a wonderful addition to your travel list. You will find several compelling goa 3 days package s online. You can choose goa honeymoon packages for 3 days , goa packages from Bangalore for 3 days or Bangalore to goa package for 3 days . You can also find packages starting from several other cities online.
Brief Itinerary for your 2 nights 3 days Goa holiday package
Goa still maintains its rustic yet romantic charms for travellers. It is a land of sunshine, great beaches, clean air and welcoming residents. It is also famous for its monuments and landmarks that people visit in droves every year.
Your 2 nights 3 days Goa holiday package will be a window into the world of creativity, culinary extravagance, adventure and watersports, warmth, vibrant nightlife and a lot more. Do you want a trip that is exciting and fun-filled? You can always check out available goa holiday package 2 nights 3 days in this regard.
MakeMyTrip has several 2 nights 3 days Goa holiday package as per your specific needs. You may find readily accessible 3 days goa tour package s at your fingertips online.
Your 2 nights 3 days Goa holiday package will begin with your arrival at the Dabolim Airport in Goa. After two days of endless fun, you will depart from the Goa Airport on the third day.
Day 1: Arrival in Goa
Your 2 nights 3 days Goa holiday package starts with landing at the Dabolim Airport in Goa. Staying near Calangute Beach will help you make the most of your vacation. You will spend time at leisure, explore the beach, shop at the markets and enjoy the nightlife at the shacks here.
Day 2: Dolphin Excursion and North Goa Exploration
Your goa trip plan for 3 days package will turn more exciting on the second day. You will start your day with a shared boat ride to Sinquerim Jetty and then a cruise along the sea, enjoying the gorgeous views on offer. The highlight of your 3 days goa tour package will be watching dolphins in their natural habitats. This will undoubtedly be the biggest marvel of your 3 days goa tour package . You will also enjoy views of the Coco Beach, Light House, Millionaire’s Palace and the Central Jail. This will be a one-hour activity and unlike any other you have experienced!
The second half of the day will revolve around exploring North Goa. As part of your goa tour package 3 days 2 nights , you will explore the major markets, attractions and beaches in this zone, including the Chapora and Aguada Forts, Vagator Beach, Anjuna Beach, Baga Beach, Sinquerim Beach and more. The night can be spent at leisure.
Day 3: Departure from Goa
Your 2 nights 3 days Goa holiday package comes to an end with your departure from the Dabolim Airport in Goa.
You will find the best possible 2 nights 3 days Goa holiday package options available on MakeMyTrip. This trip will be memorable for multiple reasons, right from the lovely food, weather and attractions to the sheer charm of a beachside lifestyle.
Best Sellers at Epic Discounts
Customizable
Amazing Goa Flight Inclusive Deal...
2 Transfers
She Travels - Amazing Goa Package...
4 Activities
- Dolphin Trip
- Half Day Tour
All-Inclusive 2N Holiday - Flight...
2 Activities
- North Goa Sightseeing
Young & Free - Short Stay in Goa...
Starting from : Goa
3 Activities
- Water Sports
All-Inclusive Goa Packages
Choose from our hassle-free holiday packages inclusive of flights, hotels and transfers.
For the Lovebirds
Let love bloom on these romantic getaways specially curated for you and your partner!
Marvel at the beautiful sunsets on the serene beaches of Goa.
Romance & the Wilderness in Goa -...
Best selling india tour packages.
- Manali Tour Packages
- Andaman Tour Packages
- Goa Tour Packages
- Kerala Tour Packages
- Ladakh Tour Packages
- Ooty Tour Packages
- Rajasthan Tour Packages
- Kashmir Tour Packages
- Darjeeling Tour Packages
- Coorg Tour Packages
- Gangtok Tour Packages
- Sikkim Tour Packages
- Himachal Tour Packages
- North East Tour Packages
- South India Tour Packages
- Bhubaneshwar Tour Packages
- Nainital Tour Packages
- Mahabaleshwar Tour Packages
- Shillong Tour Packages
- North India Tour Packages
- Agra Tour Packages
- Shirdi Tour Packages
- Mussoorie Tour Packages
- Shimla Tour Packages
- Uttarakhand Tour Packages
- Munnar Tour Packages
- Jaisalmer Tour Packages
- Delhi Tour Packages
- Bangalore Tour Packages
- Hyderabad Tour Packages
- Udaipur Tour Packages
- Gujarat Tour Packages
- Chennai Tour Packages
- Mumbai Tour Packages
- Holiday Packages
- Cordelia Cruise Packages
- Kullu Tour Packages
- Rann Utsav Packages
- Andaman And Nicobar Tour
- Kullu Manali Packages
- Shimla Manali Package
- Delhi Agra Tour Package
- Mathura Vrindavan Tour Package
- Leh Ladakh Packages
- Jammu Kashmir Tour Package
- Darjeeling Gangtok Tour Packages
- Chardham Yatra Package
Best Selling International Tour Packages
- Bali Tour Packages
- Maldives Package
- Dubai Tour Packages
- Thailand Tour Packages
- Europe Tour Packages
- Singapore Tour Packages
- Bangkok Tour Packages
- Sri Lanka Tour Packages
- Malaysia Tour Packages
- Switzerland Tour Packages
- London Tour Packages
- Mauritius Tour Packages
- Australia Tour Packages
- Hong Kong Tour Packages
- Pattaya Tour Packages
- Paris Tour Packages
- Phuket Tour Packages
- Greece Tour Packages
- Vietnam Tour Packages
- Indonesia Tour Packages
- New Zealand Tour Packages
- South Africa Tour Packages
- Bhutan Tour Packages
- Nepal Tour Packages
- Egypt Tour Packages
- Russia Tour Packages
- International Tour Packages
Best Selling Honeymoon Packages in India
- Manali Honeymoon Packages
- Goa Honeymoon Packages
- Kerala Honeymoon Packages
- Andaman Honeymoon Packages
- Ooty Honeymoon Packages
- Shimla Honeymoon Packages
- Darjeeling Honeymoon Packages
- Munnar Honeymoon Packages
- Kashmir Honeymoon Packages
- Kodaikanal Honeymoon Packages
- Coorg Honeymoon Packages
- Sikkim Honeymoon Packages
- Nainital Honeymoon Packages
- Gangtok Honeymoon Packages
- Chennai Honeymoon Packages
- Rajasthan Honeymoon Packages
- Mumbai Honeymoon Packages
- North East Honeymoon Packages
- Mussoorie Honeymoon Packages
- Port Blair Honeymoon Packages
- Honeymoon Packages
Best Selling International Honeymoon Packages
- Maldives Honeymoon Packages
- Mauritius Honeymoon Packages
- Dubai Honeymoon Packages
- Bali Honeymoon Packages
- Bangkok Honeymoon Packages
- Thailand Honeymoon Packages
- Singapore Honeymoon Packages
- Switzerland Honeymoon Packages
- Europe Honeymoon Packages
- Sri Lanka Honeymoon Packages
- Greece Honeymoon Packages
- Malaysia Honeymoon Packages
- Phuket Honeymoon Packages
- New Zealand Honeymoon Packages
- Paris Honeymoon Packages
- Seychelles Honeymoon Packages
- Australia Honeymoon Packages
- Italy Honeymoon Packages
- Santorini Honeymoon Packages
- Nepal Honeymoon Packages
- International Honeymoon Packages
Best Selling Domestic Tourism Packages
- Manali Tourism
- Andaman Tourism
- Goa Tourism
- Kerala Tourism
- Ladakh Tourism
- Ooty Tourism
- Rajasthan Tourism
- Kashmir Tourism
- Darjeeling Tourism
- Coorg Tourism
- Gangtok Tourism
- Sikkim Tourism
- Himachal Pradesh Tourism
- North East Tourism
- South India Tourism
- Bhubaneshwar Tourism
- Nainital Tourism
- Mahabaleshwar Tourism
- Gujarat Tourism
- North India Tourism
- Agra Tourism
- Shirdi Tourism
- Mussoorie Tourism
- Shimla Tourism
Best Selling International Tourism Packages
- Bali Tourism
- America Tourism
- Maldives Tourism
- Dubai Tourism
- Thailand Tourism
- Europe Tourism
- Singapore Tourism
- Bangkok Tourism
- Sri Lanka Tourism
- Malaysia Tourism
- Switzerland Tourism
- London Tourism
- Mauritius Tourism
- Australia Tourism
- Hong Kong Tourism
- Pattaya Tourism
- Paris Tourism
- Phuket Tourism
- Greece Tourism
- Vietnam Tourism
- Indonesia Tourism
- New Zealand Tourism
- South Africa Tourism
- Bhutan Tourism
- Nepal Tourism
Best Selling Night Packages
- Goa Packages for 3 days
- Thailand Packages for 7 days
- Maldives Packages for 3 days
- Goa Packages for 4 days
- Maldives Packages for 7 days
- Bali Packages for 4 days
- Thailand Packages for 3 days
- Maharashtra Packages for 3 days
- Bali Packages for 7 days
- Coorg Packages for 3 days
- Dubai Packages for 7 days
- Goa Packages for 5 days
- Maldives Packages for 5 days
- Manali Packages for 3 days
- Udaipur Packages for 3 days
- Karnataka Packages for 4 days
- Auli Packages for 4 days
- Dubai Packages for 5 days
- Jaisalmer Packages for 3 days
- Karnataka Packages for 3 days
- Krala Packages for 4 days
- Uttarakhand Packages for 10 days
- Manali Packages for 4 days
- Maldives Packages for 4 days
- Manali Packages for 5 days
MakeMyTrip Gift Cards
- Wedding Gifts
- Wedding Gift Card
- Anniversary Gifts
- Anniversary Gift Card
- Birthday Gifts
- Birthday Gift Card
- Diwali Gifts
- Diwali Gift Card
- Valentines Day Gifts
- Valentines Day Gift Card
- Farewell Gifts
- Gifts For Men
- Christmas Gifts
- Gift For Boys
- Gifts For Sister
- Bhai Dooj Gifts
- Gifts For Boyfriend
- Mother's Day Gifts
- Gifts For Couples
- Raksha Bandhan Gifts
- Gift For Husband
- Gifts For Girls
- Corporate Gifts
- Gift For Girlfriend
- Gifts For Friends
- Gifts For Women
- Gifts For Mom
Best Selling From City Packages
- Goa Packages From New Delhi
- Goa Packages From Mumbai
- Goa Packages From Bangalore
- Goa Packages From Hyderabad
- Goa Packages From Ahmedabad
- Goa Packages From Kolkata
- Goa Packages From Chennai
- Goa Packages From Chandigarh
- Goa Packages From Lucknow
- Goa Packages From Pune
- Goa Packages From Indore
- Goa Packages From Jaipur
- Goa Packages From Nagpur
- Goa Packages From Cochin
- Goa Packages From Patna
- Goa Packages From Raipur
- Goa Packages From Bhubaneswar
- Goa Packages From Varanasi
- Goa Packages From Surat
- Goa Packages From Amritsar
- Goa Packages From Goa
- Goa Packages From Vishakhapatnam
- Goa Packages From Ranchi
- Goa Packages From Guwahati
- Goa Packages From Bhopal
- Goa Packages From Srinagar
- Goa Packages From Jammu
- Goa Packages From Vadodara
- Goa Packages From Vijayawada
- Goa Packages From Coimbatore
Best Selling Pilgrimage Packages
- Kedarnath Tour Package
- Vaishno Devi Tour Package
- Tirupati Package
- Amarnath Yatra Package
- Murudeshwar Tour Packages
- Do Dham Yatra Package
- Kanchipuram Tour Package
- Hemkund Sahib Package
- Guruvayur Tour Package
- Puri Tour Package
- Rameshwaram Tour Package
- Haridwar Tour Package
- Vrindavan Tour Package
- Dwarka Tour Package
- Mathura Tour Package
- Varanasi Packages
- Badrinath Tour Package
- Somnath Tour Package
- Ayodhya Tour Packages
- Mahabalipuram Tour Package
- Ujjain Packages
- Mahakaleshwar Tour Package
- Omkareshwar Tour Package
- India Tour Packages
- goa Tour Packages
- 2 Nights goa Packages
Follow Us:
0832-2437132 / 2438866 / 2438002 Tourism Helpline : 1364
Goa Tourism Development Corporation A Government of Goa Undertaking
Find Yourself
Go slow. Be sossegad. Live Local. We promise you won't be disappointed.
What to See
All seasons, all inclusive, whats happening in goa, exclusive events, shisha ranni, homkund utsav, ghode modni, feast of st francis xavier, serendipity art festival, calender of events, tripurari poornima, vasco saptah, discover goa.
Discover Goa as never before. Your travel plan starts here.
FlyingFish Scuba School
Paragliding or paramotoring, bungy jumping, konkan explorers (nautical tours), 9d cinema & entertainment park, hop on hop off.
Go on tour of some of the best sights in Goa.
Goa Inspires
A picture can speak the unspoken, unearth the hidden or hold memories for life.
Lakes, Falls, Springs, Dams
360 panorama, bird watching.
Catch the latest developments, stay updated with all the past events and more.
From houseboats to spice gardens, there’s far more to Goa than its beautiful beaches
Goa is looking to attract more ‘high-quality tourists’ with a new airport and luxury hotels.
Tucked into the western coast of India, Goa is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history.
Once a Portuguese colony, this small coastal state has a blend of Indian and European influences, evident in its architecture and cuisine.
The beaches of Goa are its most famous attraction, drawing visitors with their golden sands, azure waters, and thrilling water sports.
From the sandy shores of Calangute and Baga to the secluded coves of Agonda and Palolem, each beach has its own unique vibe.
Beyond its beaches, Goa has a wealth of cultural and historical treasures. The state's capital, Panaji, features Portuguese colonial architecture, winding streets, and spice-filled markets.
Goa is also known for its lively festivals, including Carnival and Shigmo, which showcase traditional music, dance, and cuisine.
Goa is focusing on spiritual and eco-tourism
After a dip in visitors due to the impact of COVID-19, Goa's Department of Tourism has increased its focus on spiritual tourism, cultural tourism, eco-tourism, and conference tourism. A new airport is opening, and more luxury hotels are also pegged to open.
According to Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS Secretary (Tourism), the department wants to target “high-quality tourists” and encourage them to stay longer.
"We want them [tourists] to experience waterfalls, spice gardens, the temples and the festivals,” Ahuja adds.
Along with sand rakes, beaches, and lush landscapes, Goa has plenty to offer curious visitors. Here are our top picks for unmissable experiences.
Houseboats: Cruising the backwaters of Goa
Houseboat experiences in Goa offer a unique opportunity to explore the region's picturesque backwaters and float past natural beauty.
These traditional wooden boats, known locally as ‘kettuvallams’, have been a part of Goa's cultural heritage for centuries and provide a peaceful retreat away from the busy tourist area.
Step aboard a wooden boat and glide by Goa's lush mangrove forests and small fishing villages, and spot local wildlife .
The Mandovi River, in particular, is a popular destination for houseboat cruises. These cruises offer panoramic views of Goa's verdant landscapes and riverside vistas.
Choose from day cruises, sunset cruises, overnight stays, or multi-day excursions to explore remote and lesser-known areas of the backwaters.
Temples and churches: Discover spiritual sites in Goa
Explore Goa's ancient temples, each a testament to the region's rich cultural tapestry, to learn more about its spiritual legacy.
Visit the UNESCO -listed Bom Jesus Basilica, a 16th-century marvel renowned for its exquisite Baroque architecture and housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, a prominent Jesuit missionary.
One of the most revered temples in Goa is the Shree Mangesh temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated in the village of Mangeshi in Ponda taluka, this temple is renowned for its exquisite architecture, intricate carvings, and spiritual significance.
Another must-visit temple in Goa is the Shanta Durga Temple, dedicated to Goddess Shantadurga, the goddess of peace and harmony. Located in the village of Kavalem, this temple is an architectural marvel, with its towering spires, ornate pillars, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
The deity is depicted seated on a lotus flower, flanked by two lions, symbolising strength and courage.
Goa's most beautiful beaches: Stretch out on sandy shorelines
Goa is well known for its laid-back beaches and secluded coves where you can sunbathe, swim, hop on a jet ski, and rip along the waves.
Calangute Beach, often called the ‘Queen of Beaches’, is one of the most popular beaches in Goa.
Stretching for miles along the Arabian Sea, the beach is dotted with shacks, cafes, and water sports operators offering various activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.
Adjacent to Calangute Beach lies Baga Beach , famous for its golden sands, colourful fishing boats and energetic vibe.
It's a hotspot of Goan nightlife and is lined with beachfront clubs, bars, and restaurants where you can feast on traditional cuisine and hit the dancefloor as dusk falls.
Agonda Beach and Palolem Beach are ideal for a more serene beach setting. Located in South Goa, these beaches are renowned for their pristine beauty, soft golden sands, and crystal-clear waters.
World Heritage Sites: Discover Goa's rich history
UNESCO has honoured some of the magnificent monuments in Old Goa with world heritage status.
These impressive sites, recognised for their outstanding universal value, spotlight Goa's enduring cultural significance.
Constructed in the late 16th century, the Basilica of Bom Jesus showcases exquisite Baroque architecture, with intricately carved wooden altars and frescoes depicting scenes from St. Francis Xavier's life.
Adjacent to the basilica stand the Ruins of the Church of St. Augustine, another UNESCO World Heritage Site that echoes the region's colonial past.
Built by Augustinian friars in the 16th century, the church was one of the largest in Goa until it fell into disrepair and was eventually abandoned in the 19th century.
The Church of St. Francis of Assisi and Convent, situated in Old Goa, is another architectural gem that forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site ensemble.
Built by Franciscan friars in the 17th century, the church features a striking façade adorned with intricately carved statues and reliefs depicting scenes from St. Francis of Assisi's life.
Spice gardens offer a fragrant journey through Goa
Goa is famous for its exotic spice plantation farms. India is a world leader in the production and export of spices, and spice farms offer insight into agricultural heritage and spice cultivation practices.
Tropical Spice Plantation provides a sensory journey through its sprawling grounds. Spanning over 100 acres, this plantation is home to diverse spices, herbs, and tropical fruits cultivated using organic and sustainable farming methods.
Guided tours are led by knowledgeable hosts who provide insights into cultivating, harvesting, and processing spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, and nutmeg.
The Sahakari Spice Farm, located in the picturesque village of Curti in Ponda, is another renowned spice destination in Goa. Spread across acres of fertile land, this family-owned farm has cultivated spices for generations, preserving age-old traditions and techniques passed down through the ages.
Guided tours of the farm offer visitors a holistic experience, encompassing spice plantations, herbal gardens, and traditional Goan architecture.
You might also like
Why you should consider visiting a ‘local island’ in the Maldives
Kazakhstan: A rising star on Central Asia's culinary map
Here’s how you can use TikTok to plan your next holiday
Call Us: +91-0832-2494204
Email:dir[hypen]tour[dot]goa[at]nic[dot]in
Tourism Helpline: 1364
Department of Tourism
Government of Goa
Welcome To Goa Tourism Department
The Administrative head of the Department is Shri Sanjeev Ahuja , IAS, Secretary Tourism. The Department has zonal office in North Goa at Headquarters, Panaji and in South Goa at Margao.
The Current Director of Tourism is Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS. The Public Grievances Officer is Dy. Director (Administration).
The Tourist Information Centres/Counters are located within the State and in Mumbai (temporarily closed). The Zonal Officers are primarily responsible for monitoring the Registration of Tourist Trade under the Tourist Trade Act, 1982.
Read More..
Latest Announcements
Homestay and Bed & Breakfast Policy
Caravan Tourism Policy
- Tender – Appointment of a Project Management Unit (PMU) for providing Project Management Support on various Tourism works undertaken by Goa Tourism Board (GTB), Government of Goa October 28, 2023
- Expression of Interest for introduction and operation of various Tourism activities in Goa. September 5, 2023
- Order under Goa Tourist Places Protection & Maintenance Act October 31, 2022
- Q-system of water sports on Goan beaches notified on Official Gazette October 4, 2022
- Water Sports Rules 2005 September 30, 2022
- Policy for regulation of Water Sports in Goa September 30, 2022
Latest News & Events
Incredible india tourist facilitator (iitf) (basic) certificate programme., order under goa tourist places protection & maintenance act, q-system of water sports on goan beaches notified on official gazette, water sports rules 2005, policy for regulation of water sports in goa, brief tender notice on o & m of tourist infrastructure near panaji ferry point (panaji park), draft jetty policy 2022, public notice – jetty policy 2022, user manual for registration on nidhi portal, result of the evaluation and technical presentation for empanelment of event management agencies cum advertising agencies for department of tourism under (category – a) held on 22.08.2022.
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
Tripadvisor Always Has Low Prices on Hotels in Goa. Spend Less Here. Find Discounts on the Best Goa India Travel. Tripadvisor Helps You Spend Less.
Booking.com Official Site - Vacations. Choose From a Wide Range of Properties Which Booking.com Offers. Search Now!
Day 1 Itinerary in Goa - Panjim & Old Goa. 1.Old Goa, 2.Spice Garden, 3.Panaji Tiatre. For the first day of our 3 day Goa itinerary we are gonna base ourselves in Panjim or Panaji, the Goan state capital. Whist this city is inland, away from the lush beaches, it is one of India's cleanest and most pleasant cities.
Here are the steps to book tour packages with assistance from MakeMyTrip Holiday Experts: Choose Goa tour package and a query form for the selected destination will pop-up. Fill the necessary details like the destination, departure city, name, phone number and email address. Click on Get a Callback. Choose the travel date.
About Goa Tourism: A state on India's Konkan coast, Goa is perhaps the first thought that comes to mind when one thinks of a beach vacation. Its beaches and lively nightlife, festivals, adventure sports and heritage sites make for an exciting yet cultural trip. ... Plan your trip to Goa with the help of local experts. Choose hotel-type ...
Plan Your Trip to Goa: Best of Goa Tourism. About Goa. The sandy coast of Goa is perfect for reclining by the sea. Nestle into a cushioned chair at a beach shack and savor a curry while you sip a Kingfisher beer, watching the sun slip lazily below the horizon. In Old Goa, the beautiful Basilica of Bom Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a ...
Chapora fort: Head to this fort, also known as the Dil Chahta Hai fort, for the best sunset views. Reach the top at least 30 minutes before sunset to get a good place on the wall. Also, visiting the Chapora fort involves a bit of a climb. So plan accordingly. Vagator Beach: Vagator beach is also famous for its sunset.
Planning Your Trip . Best Time to Visit: Goa's tourist season runs from October to March, when the weather is warm and dry.Most beach shacks open in November. They pack up by April or May due to the extreme heat and humidity. The southwest monsoon brings rain from June to September.; Language: Konkani is the native language of most Goans, however, English and Hindi are widely understood and ...
Day 3: Culture and Heritage. Head for a day trip to Panjim and Old Goa. On this day, you'll get a good glimpse of Portuguese influence on Goan heritage. Basilica of Bom Jesus. Old Goa Churches: Start with Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the following churches in this order: St. Augustine Church Ruins.
Goa's tourism industry really took off back in the 1960s. ... You can plan a fantastic Goa travel itinerary year-round. Whilst Goa is almost always warm and sunny, there are some times of the year that are more favourable than others. Peak season. Peak season in Goa is winter time (November-February). ...
Tourism in Goa: Goa is a paradise for people who love to spend their vacations and Honeymoon Holidays at beaches. Explore Goa's best sightseeing places, tourist attractions and customized holiday packages for Goa. ... Tell us details of your holiday plan. After you submit the form, one of our travel experts will get back to you with ...
Plan a Goa trip during the "on" season if you want to attend events, parties and meet other travellers. On the other hand, the monsoon season is a time when most of the Goa beaches are nearly empty and there's very little going on. ... then look into the Goa tourism hotels. There are hotels run by the state government located in Panaji ...
Plan Your Trip to Goa: Best of Goa Tourism. About Goa. East meets West in this sun-soaked state, where Indian culture intertwines with Portuguese influences left over from a 500-year occupation. The beaches have long served as a magnet for serene hedonists. To the north, the tourist-centric scene is prevalent, with an international flair that ...
About this blog: Seven days in Goa is a decent amount of time to design an itinerary brushing past Goa's beautiful beaches and ancient heritage of ruins and churches. Needless to say, there are plenty of offbeat things to do in Goa which require a slow and immersive travel time. However, consider 7 good days to explore the state's breathtaking beauty and indulge in fine coastal sea food ...
Get the best Information about Goa Tourism. Get travel guides and plan your trip to Goa with tour packages, places to visit, sightseeing, hotels, and reviews by other travellers. ... The other big thing in Goa is its nightlife, which is a critical aspect of Goa's tourism. The juxtaposition of beaches and parties is the focal point of Goa's ...
Goa was a Portuguese colony until 1961, and this influence is still evident in the state's architecture, cuisine, and culture. The state is divided into two districts, North Goa and South Goa, and the capital city is Panaji. Goa is famous for its beautiful beaches, such as Calangute, Baga, Anjuna, and Palolem.
Visit Goa - the beach capital of India. Explore golden sandy beaches, casinos, and night markets. Book your Goa holiday on TravelTriangle for the best experience of water sports, seafood, and luxury resorts. Inclusions: Hotels, cab, water activities, & sightseeing. Wonderful Goa Family Package 3D/2N @ Rs 6,500.
800 pm onwards (alternate option) Shop at Goa's night markets. Day 02. 9.00 am - 12.00 pm Delve into history with a trip to Old Goa. 12.30 pm - 5.00 pm Take a tour of the best of the best in Panaji. 5.00 pm - 7.00 pm Go for a boat cruise on the River Mandovi. 7.00 pm onwards Try your luck at Goa's anchored casinos.
1. Popular Beaches Palolem Beach. Beaches play a starring role among the attractions in Goa, contributing to why it's one of the best places to visit in India.. Nearly every tourist who visits the area spends a day at Palolem Beach, a crescent-shaped stretch of white sand that overlooks the Arabian Sea in south Goa.While simply hanging out and soaking up the scenery is a perfect way to enjoy ...
tourist arrivals, putting immense stress on Goa‟s ecology, infrastructure and tourism assets. The Government of Goa has developed the Goa Tourism Master Plan, 2016 („GTMP 2016‟) to harness the full potential of its tourism sector and to address existing challenges in a systematic manner. The Goa Tourism Policy 2019 („GTP 2019‟, „the
Beaches. By Passport36059126589. A very beautiful beach in North Goa until the date where you can enjoy it with family and friends. 12. Calangute Beach. 3,043. Beaches. By Varungupta2014. Water sports were closed due to Monsoon but lots of people are on beach daily so you can enjoy sea water, sand, sea w...
Goa tourism is becoming popular with tourists these days. MakeMyTrip is the best stop for personalised holiday packages for Goa. Find perfect combinations with inclusions such as flights and hotels for a hassle-free trip to Goa. ... Day 2: Dolphin Excursion and North Goa Exploration. Your goa trip plan for 3 days package will turn more exciting ...
GTDC official website book tourist budget hotels in Goa with range of discounts Holiday Packages, water sports activities & tours ... 0832-2437132 / 2438866 / 2438002 Tourism Helpline : 1364. About Us - Contact Us - ...
After a dip in visitors due to the impact of COVID-19, Goa's Department of Tourism has increased its focus on spiritual tourism, cultural tourism, eco-tourism, and conference tourism.
Hi All-Are you looking for Goa tour Guide with full and detailed information then this video will surely help you to take you through Beautiful North and Sou...
Welcome To Goa Tourism Department. The Administrative head of the Department is Shri Sanjeev Ahuja , IAS, Secretary Tourism. The Department has zonal office in North Goa at Headquarters, Panaji and in South Goa at Margao. The Current Director of Tourism is Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS. The Public Grievances Officer is Dy.