It is often said that if you are really craving an ultimate vacation, head to Goa to have the time of your life. Often called the pearl of the east, Goa is all sun, sand and the sea presenting a vibrant culture and an alluring landscape to enjoy a fun filled vacation. With pristine beaches, happening nightlife and lip smacking sea food, the popular tourist destination of Goa is neatly tucked into the Western Coast of India. Whether you are seeking relaxation or want to engage in adventure, Goa hits the spot in many ways. The vibrant culture of Goa shows strong influences of 300 year old Portuguese rule and boasts of warm hospitality. The azure blue waters of the sea besides the quaint villages of Goa are ideal for a laidback morning walk or set out for the day to the best places to visit in Goa. The happening nightlife of Goa is well known across the continent and often flocked by international artists who get you grooving with their sonic masterpieces.
The lush greenery and exotic flora and fauna are a pure delight for all the nature lovers and provide a respite from the chaos and pollution of the cities. Known for its Gothic churches, historical forts, palm fringed beaches, folk performances, Goa boasts of being the ultimate tourist hub to take a relaxing retreat from the humdrum affairs of life. There are also plenty of places to visit in Goa like Fort Aguada, Dudhsagar Falls, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Chapora Beach, Anjuna Beach, Baga Beach and Vagator Beach. Adventure aficionados can indulge in a wide array of watersports like windsurfing, scuba diving, dinghy sailing, angling, water skiing, water scooter, swimming and parasailing to canyoning, camping, quad biking, trekking and zip lining. Shopping lovers can find their love in the flea markets of Goa while the foodies can savor the mouthwatering seafood on the beach shacks as well as in the famous restaurants of Goa. Wondering how to plan your tour to Goa? Worry no more as you have landed at the right place. Take a look here to find the best places to visit in Goa on your dream vacation.
Goa Tour Packages
Newly Added
- 2H
- Panjim
- 1D
- Panjim
- 1D
- Panjim
- 1D
- Panjim
Goa Top Attractions
Places To Visit In Goa
Basilica of Bom Jesus
The oldest withstanding Church of Goa, beautifully built under the influence of Portuguese architectural style, is one of the best places to visit in Panjim. The lovely marble floor embellished with valuable stones adds up to the charm of the magnificent church.The cathedral of the Church holds the remains of St. Xavier's in a silver casket which is elegantly decorated and, worshiped by his devotees. Famed for its amazing architecture, this ornate structure survived since the 16th century.The locals believe the remains are eternal and, have obscure healing powers which in turn makes it one of the most attractive places to see in Panjim.Location: Old Goa Road, Near Gandhi Circle, Goa 403402, IndiaTimings: All days of the week except Sunday (9:00 AM - 6:30 PM) Sunday (10:30 AM - 6:30 PM)Entry Fees: FreeDistance from Panjim Bus Stand: Approximately 11 km
Read More
Fort Aguada
Pulled up with a dark bricked stretch within the sea waters, Fort Aguada invites the visitors even from far to take a walk in, take a peek into the sea differently and get clicked in a movie style. The architecture of the fort is in royal Portuguese style and its vastness within the fortress is just grand. One can witness the confluence of Mandovi river in the Arabian sea from here and the fort is a witness to the same since years. Embrace the old construction and military architecture here along with the lighthouse that stands tall. If the fort is not visited on a Goa trip, the trip is just not done right.Location: At the southern tip of Candolim beachTimings: Fort Aguada is open all days from 8.30 AM to 5.30 PMEntry Fees: Good news! There are no charges to visit this ecstatic location. Visit it like a free bird.
Read More
Se Cathedral Church
One of the most striking churches in India is the “Se Cathedral” located in the Southern part of Goa. This magnificent church exhibits excellent artistry of the Portuguese-Manueline style with beautifully arched interior and an impressive courtyard. Previously, the cathedral had two towers but one of them collapsed in late 17th Century and was never rebuilt.This cathedral is dedicated to St.Catherine, who belonged to Alexandria and there are six panels where her life scenes are beautifully carved. The most prominent feature of this cathedral is the huge “golden bell” which is one of the best bells in the world. This 250 feet high cathedral is a frequented spot and is visited by the tourists as well as locals. The tranquility and serene aura of the cathedral makes it a must visit spot in the list of places to visit in South Goa.Location: Velha, Goa 403402Timings: 7:00 AM - 6:30 PMEntry Fee: Free
Read More
Popular Related Destinations
Mumbai
680 Listings
Bangalore
642 Listings
Pune
344 Listings
Andaman and Nicobar
48 Listings
Alibag
40 Listings
Pondicherry
34 Listings
Gokarna
31 Listings
12 April 2019
Simply WOW!! Quite a thrillophilic journey with immensely warm hospitality, perfect planned schedules and of course amazing travel. As planned we were picked up @7 in the morning and were taken to the falls which happens to be around 100 kms. Bus they provide are very comfortable and AC will also be sufficient to beat the heat of sultry Goa. We also covered a landmark church of Goa enroute. They will give you around 15 20 mins to get that holy feel. Once we reached the venue we were given time to have breakfast, meanwhile the guide arranged tickets for the whole group and settled us up in the bolero which takes you from there further. It was again a Splendid journey of 45 mins through mahavir national park where you will cross several streams also. Pure off roading and adventurous experience. From the parking u have to walk for 5 mins to finally reach the destination which, you undoubtedly will feel deserving enough to have travelled for. Such a sublime scene and cool clear water with fishes around you will quench all the tiredness you might have had after traveelinh to several beaches. You get around 1.5 hours in total after final parking out of which for bathing you will get around 45 mins. Caution : please travel with good non slippery shoes as the rocks are too slippery and carelessness might get fatal. No worries though, you wont drown as they will provide you with life jackets so a good news for non swimmers. Post bath again you will be taken back and be served with complimentary lunch in goan style which is quite palatable. Then a short spice plantation tour followed by a return drop to the reapective pick up points. The trip will end in North Goa around 6 evening.
ps : If you have time on your goa trip, do visit this place and thrillophilia is definitely a good option to consider coz it will wave off your trip organisational headache.
+8
11 January 2016
An unforgettable experience for me. For the first time got a chance to get into snorkeling and see the marine life. Thanks alot guys for an amazing experience.
+6
12 December 2015
A well planned and executed sightseeing trip. Good for family tourists like us. We visited some of the famous beaches and churches of Goa. It was nice experience overall.
+5
06 December 2019
Goa is famous for its beaches and its parties but amid all the chaos of Goa, this is one soul-soothing experience. This a must-do activity and should be part of any goa itinerary. A 01-hour long cruise journey will give you immense memories.
+3
11 January 2016
It was so fun going for so many fun activities with family. Really enjoyed a lot. Specially the snorkeling part of the trip was a very nice experience.
+3
27 October 2015
If you are person who wouldn’t want to spend a long time in planning the whole trip, just like me, then you can take this. What I did was I planned south Goa by myself and we took the North Goa trip this entire tour package. I am glad to have taken this. We covered major attraction of North Goa is very short duration.
+3
Goa Travel Guides
Frequently Asked Questions About Goa Tours
-
What should my travelling luggage be like? What are the essential things to carry?
If you’re planning a Goa holiday, to enjoy the best of its beaches, parties, outdoor fun activities and water sports...knowing everything that you should pack is an important part of the tips you should know for a safe Goa holiday. Here’s everything you should have in your luggage bag which is an :
- Sunscreen and Sunglasses
- Footwear - a mix of flip flops, crocs and dancing shoes
- Jacket - It is going to be hot in the day but considerably cool in the night
- Fanny Pack - a tote that sticks to your waist, for all your essentials.
- Power Bank
- Water Bottle
- First Aid Box
- Clothes - Beach clothes, swimwear, extra pair for water sports and smart casuals for sightseeing.
-
When is the best time to holiday in Goa?
The best time to visit Goa is from the months between October to February as this period has many celebrations like Christmas and New Year’s going on and the state experiences many parades and carnivals. However, this time is also the costliest time to be in Goa as rates of accommodation, transport etc becomes double the price due to an increased demand.
On the other hand, the months from June to September are also considered as a great time to visit Goa as the state looks like a beautiful painting during the rains. As many tourists avoid rains, this time is when you can incur accommodation, flights and overall expenses at half the prices than usual.
-
Is it worth visiting Goa for honeymoon? What will be the cost of honeymoon tour?
Goa is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in India and it is popular for a reason. With beautiful beaches, mesmerising sunsets, fancy restaurants and pleasant weather, Goa offers every aspect of a romantic trip. The cost of your trip depends on the kind of trip you undertake. There are various companies that have Goa honeymoon package which include almost everything required by a honeymoon couple.
As Goa has everything for a budget traveller as well as luxury traveller, the average cost ranges between INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000
-
What sort of climate can I find in Goa?
Goa falls under the tropical zone and near the Arabian Sea, so has a hot and humid climate for most time of the year. The month of May is usually the hottest that witnesses a daytime temperature of over 35 °C (95 °F) coupled with great humidity. The monsoons and winters here, on the other hand are moderate. It is never too rainy or cold.
-
Is it safe for solo female travellers to visit Goa?
Goa is one of the top visited cities by female travellers. It is safe and takes care of every tourist need. It has immense to offer, one of which is safety and precautions for travellers. Solo female travellers in Goa can enjoy their trip without any hesitation.
-
What is the ideal duration of a Goa tour?
The ideal duration for a holiday in Goa is 10 to 15 days. Within this span, an individual will have enough time to undertake all water sports activities like snorkeling, sailing, jet skiing, scuba diving etc and adventure activities like trekking, hiking, quad biking and many more.
You can also cover sightseeing to various places like Aguada fort, Chapora fort, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Dudhsagar Falls and others.
-
Is it worth visiting Goa for adventure?
Goa has a lot of adventure activities for all enthusiasts. It is an adventure paradise where you can engage in a number of adventure activities in Goa. Some of them are:
- White water rafting in Mandovi river
- Snorkelling at Bogmalo Beach
- Adventure trek to Dudhsagar falls
- Dolphin viewing at Mobor beach
- Scuba Diving at Grande Islands
- Hot Air Ballooning in Assolna grounds
- Cruising in the Arabian Sea
- Kayaking and coracle boat ride in Dandeli
- Natural Jacuzzi in the river Kali
- Camping at Palolem beach.
-
Is Goa a good option for family holiday?
Goa is a destination that has something for everybody. Families can have some of the best times in Goa. They can start by booking a villa, preferably with a pool where the entire family can stay together and take a dip in the pool to play water volleyball.
Next, you can engage in water sport activities in Goa like scuba diving, parasailing and banana ride to tease the one cousin who runs away from it!
Next, you can hire cars that again, are easily available to go for some sightseeing tours to places like chapora fort, aguada fort, baga beach, anjuna beach etc.
-
What kind of accommodation I can find in Goa?
Goa has tons of hotels, homestays, villas and backpacker hostels. You can find absolutely any accommodation of your choice. You can look for a stay that matches your budget and preferences. It is never difficult to find an ideal accommodation as there are tons of options of stunning resorts in Goa.
-
Which are must visit beaches in Goa?
Out of so many beaches in North Goa, the below ones will melt your heart with their beauty and facilities and adventure activities-
- Arambol Beach
- Kerim Beach
- Arambol Beach
- Morjim Beach
- Anjuna Beach
- Vagator Beach
- Agonda Beach
- Bogmalo Beach
- Colva Beach
- Benaulim Beach
- Majorda Beach
- Varca Beach
-
Can I go on cruise or yacht tour in Goa? What will be the cost of cruise for one day?
There are a variety of yacht as well as cruise rides in Goa. The cost of these tours range from INR 200 for one day for a simple one hour ride to INR 8000 for a overnight luxury tour. Prices may differ depending upon the type of cruise. Here are the various kind of cruise rides available in Goa-
- Luxury Cruise
- Private Cruise
- Casino Cruise
- Sundown
- Sunset
- Dinner
- Backwater Thrills
-
Which all are some famous tourist attractions in Goa?
Goa has got ample of places to visit and roam around. It is very difficult to choose a handful of places in Goa. Every place is beautiful and well maintained. However, if you are going to visit Goa for the first time or you are short of time. Here’s where should head first-
- Pandava cave complex and Arvalem waterfalls
- Dudhsagar Falls
- Ashwem and Arossim Beach
- Mollem National Park
- European Fontainhas Area
- Calangute beach
- Fort Aguada
- Deltin Royale Casino boat
- Chapora fort
- Basilica of Bom Jesus
-
What all activities are best for children in Goa?
Kids can indulge in a number of activities in Goa like banana ride, kayaking, and swimming in Goa. Usually, the minimum age required to participate in other adventure activities is 12 years but kids below that age can also have fun in Goa provided necessary safety measures are taken beforehand.
You can smartly choose beaches like Palolem and Patnem that have calm and shallow waters that ensure the safety of kids while they undertake any adventure activity.
-
What sort of nightlife is there in Goa?
Goa has a fun filled nightlife. Though it is the smallest state, it has some of the most exciting nightlife options in the country. The dizzy neon lights, great music and delicious food make up your night and create the perfect ambiance.
You can party till you drop, try your luck at the casinos or have a beachside bonfire night. Here’s a glimpse the best party places in Goa:
- Chill at the beach shacks
- Try your luck at the casinos
- Cruising all night
- Party hard in the discos and clubs
- Bars and pubs for the ones who wish to get high!
- Night Flea markets for the shopaholics
- Silent Noise Parties
-
Which restaurants serve the best food in Goa?
Restaurants in Goa have a variety of cuisines and people from all over the world. It has Spanish, European, Chinese, Italian etc. However, the authentic local Goan food is the ethnic speciality here. Most of the food items are prepared using coconut. One of the famous dishes is Chicken Xacuti, so make sure you don’t miss out on trying this one!
There are a number of vegetarian as well non-vegetarian cafes in Goa. Try out a few of them!
Top Vegetarian Restaurants:
- Navtara Pure Veg Restaurant
- Bhojan
- Bean Me Up
- Saraya Art Cafe
- Jalsa
Top Non-Vegetarian Restaurants:
- Ritz Classic
- Fisherman’s Wharf
- Zeebop
- Suwadik
- Souza Lobo
-
Can I do a cycling tour of Goa? How many days will I require to explore Goa by cycle?
Yes, a cycling tour in Goa is a great way to explore the state through its interiors. You may dedicate 2 to 3 days for this activity and choose one of the below listed areas for your expedition. Many travel companies offer cycling tours that take you through different parts of Goa.
However, if you plan to have your private cycling expedition...here’s where you should head:
- Miramar - To cover places like Taleigao Church, St. Cruz Church, FontainhasBylanes, Old GMC, Kala Academy, Adil Shah Palace, Panjim Church, and Ferry Point.
- Divar Island - To explore old world charm of ancient dwelling of Old Goa along with the massive Mandoviriver.
- Royal Road - To explore Velha along with the quaint village of Batim and then ending at Oratorian Convent, the headquarters of the Blessed Fr Jose Vaz
- Bridges of Bardez - To explore the less traveled streets of Goa starting from O Coqueiro circle at Porvorim and then heading to the villages of Moira, Nachinola and Aldona.
- Chorao - To explore Goan village called Aldona and historical fort of Corjuem along with Corjuem Church and Ravalnath temple
-
Where can I do shopping in Goa? What things are a must to buy in Goa? Which flea markets are famous in Goa?
Goa is a hub of tourist destinations and one reason that makes it so, is its contribution as a shopping destination. From junk jewellery and gothic accessories to hippie clothing from shell and bamboo work to brassware and terracotta, from cashewnuts and Goan sausages to feni and bebinca to; you will find anything and everything in Goa! All you need to do is...keep those eyes wide open!
You can buy souvenirs like jewellery made out of sea shells, precious stones, fancy wallets, bags and clothes, local Goan food masalas, special Goa made cashews, etc. All these items are easily available in the below listed flea markets-
- Flea Market Baga And Anjuna
- Chapora Fish Market
- Tibetan Markets
- Mapusa Friday Market
- Calangute Market Square
- Saturday Night Bazaar at Arpora
-
What sort of wildlife adventures can I experience in Goa?
Goa has so much more to offer than just beaches and nightlife. There are some of the most beautiful wildlife sanctuaries in Goa. On your next trip to Goa, you should definitely consider visiting the below wildlife sanctuaries that are famous throughout India.
- Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
- Molem Wildlife sanctuary
- Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
- Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
- Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary
A safari ride in any of the above mentioned wildlife sanctuaries will cost you approximately INR 400 to 700 ($6 to $ 10) per head.
-
How to experience the art and culture of Goa?
The art and culture of Goa is spread throughout the state. You can see it in the monuments, churches, museums, forts and other places having historical importance. Another best way of experiencing art and culture in Goa is to be a part of various local festivities.
Some places you can visit to witness the art and culture of Goa-
- Chapora Fort
- Cabo De Rama Fort
- Corjuem Fort
- Francis Of Assisi Church
- Church Of Our Lady Of The Immaculate Conception
- Shri Mahalaxmi Temple
Some festivities you can be a part of to witness the art and culture of Goa-
- Shree ShantadurgaZatra, Fatorpa
- Goa Carnival
- Shigmo or Shigmotsav
- Easter
- The Goa Food and Cultural Festival
- Sao Joao Festival
- ChikalKalo Festival
- Touxeachem Fest
- Ganesh Chathurthi
- Dussehra
- Christmas
- Diwali &Narkasur Nights
-
Which beach shacks are good for stay in Goa?
Beach shacks in Goa are beautiful! They have ample of space and shed that let you get out even on a bright shining sunny day. You can relax and sip a mug of beer at any of these shacks and your day feels bliss!
Here are some of the best beach shacks Goa has:
- La Plage
- Sublime
- Thalassa
- Villa Blanche
- Beam me up
- Brittos
- Martin’s Corner
- Curlies
- Dream Catcher
- Anthony’s
-
Which are some famous churches in Goa?
Goa is known for having some of the most pristine and beautiful churches. They depict the Goan culture and traditions very well and have attracted tourists from all over the world. If you haven’t visited Churches in Goa yet, here’s where you should go:
- Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church - Panjim
- Francis of Assisi church - Goa Velha
- Basilica of Bom Jesus - Old Goa
- Location: Old Goa Rd, Bainguinim
- Se Cathedral - Old Goa
- St Alex Church - Calangute
More Things to do in Goa
Sightseeing in Goa
Day Outs in Goa
Attractions in Goa
Adventure in Goa
Nature and Wildlife in Goa
Cruises in Goa
Elephant Safari in Goa
Trekking in Goa
Scuba Diving in Goa
Water Sports in Goa
Wildlife in Goa
Birding in Goa
Transfers in Goa
Walking & Biking in Goa
Food in Goa
Sports & Games in Goa
Sailing in Goa
Photography in Goa
Boating in Goa
Water Rides in Goa
Jeep Safari in Goa
Walking in Goa
Romantic in Goa
Kayaking in Goa
Biking in Goa
Houseboat in Goa
Nightlife in Goa
Paragliding in Goa
Parasailing in Goa
Cycling in Goa