Goa is a party that never ends. Perhaps the quintessential Indian destination with its golden beaches, shimmering blue waters and sun soaked palm trees - there is never a dearth of amazing things to do in Goa. This is where the Flower Children once bloomed and where hippies still throng for that lingering of ecstasy. That in no way deters affluent travelers from spending cash on the millions of luxurious resorts dotting Goa's beaches.
Then there are the many students and backpackers travelling on a shoestring budget, drinking in the magic, often quite literally. There is a little bit of everything for everyone in this goodie bag of a place, so much so that it is almost impossible to not want to come back. So here's a Goa itinerary for 7 days and 6 nights, exclusively designed for those who like to travel in luxury and are confused about what to do in Goa. Visit Western India's shining gem and let it marvel you. This article will tell you about best things to do in Goa.
Places to visit Goa: For Architecture
Church of Immaculate Conception
Built in the year 1619, this church looks unique because of its design which is like a Christian Wedding Cake. The church was built by the Portuguese by replacing what was an even bigger church. The previous church was built in the 16th Century. Over the years there have been many additions and beautifications made to this church and this is also one reason for which it stands steady whereas the main church of Goa is almost in ruins in spite of being built in the 18th Century. This was earlier the place where the sailors from Lisbon used to halt and pray to thank the lord for their safety and then head towards Ela in the North Goa.
Fort Aguada
There are many amazing sunset points in Goa but Aguada Fort Sunset point is undoubtedly one of the top sunsets here. This place is not known to the tourists so you would have to explore a little before stumbling upon it. But once you do, you would have a hard time leaving it. And since not many people know about it, it is quiet and peaceful here and you can enjoy the perfect sunset sky here along with the cool, evening breeze.
Basilica of Bom Jesus
Pay homage to the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier at the Basilica of Bom Jesus. One of Goa tourism's most advertised attractions. Basilica Of Bom Jesus, probably the most famous church in Goa and one of the most revered by Christians globally, the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa is famed for housing the mortal remains of St Francis Xavier. This complex, along with some other churches of Old Goa, features on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Its exterior façade, built using black granite, is noted for Baroque architecture combined with Doric, Corinthian and composite influences.
Se Cathedral
The location and architecture of this church makes it instagrammable. Located opposite to the Basilica of Bom Jesus Church, the Portuguese architecture of this church in old Goa acts as a perfect setting for a picture to be clicked.
Chapora Fort
Located in Bardez, his fort rises above the Chapora River. This was a red laterite fort built by the Portuguese in place of an earlier Muslim structure in the 1th Century. It was then captured and again lost by a number of Hindu rulers before the Portuguese finally abandoned it in the year 1892. Fort Chapora in North Goa is one of the most famous forts in Goa. Now in ruins, this fort became popular in the movie Dil Chahta Hai where you find the lead actors sitting and discussing their future plans to visit Goa. The location of this fort, overlooking the sea and the remains from the past makes it one of the most instagrammable places in Goa.
Church of Our Lady of the Mount
One of my favorite sunsets in Goa has to be from the Church of Our Lady of the Mount in Ella. Situated away from the main towns and villages, this old church lies on a wooden hilltop and offers the most marvelous view of the Mandovi River and Old Goa.
Dandeya Bridge
Another offbeat location in Goa which makes for an amazing photography spot is the Dandeya Bridge in Arambol. It is not easy to find this bridge unless you know the roads well and we had to roam around a lot to actually find this place. But once you do, you can enjoy some quiet time at this place as almost no one passes from here. So, sit down on the bridge or walk around, you can make the most of your time here.
Safa Masjid
One of the few places in Goa are as mesmerizing as the Safa Masjid which holds crystal clear water with fishes in it. This mosque was built by Ibrahim Adil Shah in late 1510 and has a beautiful Portuguese architecture which makes it a sight to behold. Locals come here every evening to hang out and sit beside the water pool and feel the calm and peaceful environment here. Make sure that you pay a visit to this place in the evening to enjoy the beauty and the serenity of this place.
Places to visit Goa: For Sightseeing
Dudhsagar Waterfalls
It is a waterfall located on the Mandovani river and is one of the tallest waterfalls in India (about 310mts) and is about 60ksm from Panaji and forms the border between Karnataka and Goa and has a rich variety of flora and fauna.
Reis Magos
A small village located in Bardez, opposite to Panjim, is the Reis Magos village which is particularly famous for its church and fort. One of the best places to watch a sunset, Reis Magos predates the Aguada Fort but still is not known to many people. As a result, you don't have to fight hordes of tourists here and can learn more about the interesting history of Goa which is not possible at other popular tourist attractions. So, next time you plan a visit to Goa, make sure that you include a visit to this hidden gem.
Fontainhas
For people interested in colorful architecture and photography, Fontainhas is the best place to head to in Panjim. This place showcases beautiful Portuguese architecture in the numerous colorful buildings here which makes for a good photography backdrop. Also, this is one of the few places in Goa where Portuguese is still widely spoken. So, if you are looking to observe the Portuguese side of Goa then this is the place to head to.
Arambol Sweet Water Lake
Lying in the North Goa is a natural miracle, Sweet Water Lake which is also known as Vagkolam lake. This is the only fresh water lake on a beach which is in close proximation to the Arabian Sea and hence so popular among the locals in Arambol. There are many legends and historical stories associated with this lake which makes it a sacred place for the locals. But aside from that fact, it is a beautiful place to relax and take in the nature as well. You have to hike on the rocks to reach this place which makes it even more exciting to visit.
Sao Jacinto Island
A small island located near Vasco Da Gama, Sao Jacinto Island is connected to the mainland via a causeway. So, you can take your bike or car and reach here in a matter of minutes and explore this almost-abandoned island. There is an abandoned lighthouse and a magnificent church here which is well-protected by the locals. But one can come here in the mornings to watch a peaceful sunrise and observe the local kids throwing out their nets to catch the fishes.
Japanese Garden
If you're looking for a unique garden picnic with your kids, this is a good place to start. The Japanese garden is in Vasco Da Gama. It has a kinds play area, a small waterfall, and lovely greenery for some good photos. It is also a good sunset point.
Divar Islands
The beauty of Divar Islands is that it is very peaceful. As it was monsoons during our time of visit, the surroundings were lush green and added to the effect. You can click really beautiful pictures on the roads here with greenery on both the sides. Seen here is Saumya literally dancing in the middle of the road as it was her first time and first day in Goa and in Divar Islands.
Vashi Island Old Church
Vashi is a very small island near the Divar Island. This church is more like a hidden gem which provides a perfect backdrop for a picture perfect click. The ruggedness of this church and the silence in the surroundings makes it a perfect location for an Instagram upload.
Places to Visit Goa: For Food
Joseph Bar
One of the most authentic Goan place to experience the local vibe is the Joseph Bar in Fontainhas. Here, you will see the Goans form groups every night to relax and share stories and the décor here gives it a vintage vibe, making it one of the most amazing places to visit. You can try here the local Feni which is popular in Goa and some seafood snacks and just sit and enjoy your friend's company.
Curlies Beach Shack
Curlies is a small stretch of a beach with 3-4 restaurants/shacks. Although its charm seems to have faded over the years, being here nonetheless, gives one a feeling of serenity and peace. A good place to have dinner and end the day. However, its accessibility is an issue. The road leading to it is in shambles and you will need to drive carefully. If you plan on drinking, make sure you have a designated driver.
Thalassa
If you're looking for the best Greek food in Goa, this is your place. From the brilliant sunset vibes, to weekend parties, their breezy and chic atmosphere is extremely inviting and totally Insta-worthy picturesque. Do make prior reservations as they run full most of the times.
Mum’s Kitchen
From food that is intrinsically Goan, every ingredient is locally handpicked. This restaurant has won many accolades and awards and is listed as one of the best restaurants in goa by Conde Nast. Mum's kitchen was started over 2.5 decades ago, with dishes from both Hindu and Catholic homes. They believe strongly in community living. They also are strong pillars of women empowerment and employ mothers from different villages. Your Goa trip would be incomplete without a visit to this place.
Yazu Goa
This place serves by far the best pan-Asian food in Goa. Slightly heavy on the wallet, this place serves the best black rice sushi's and tempura loaded dim sums too. Please make prior reservations, as this place is always full.
Martin’s Corner
Was our favorite place back during Engineering. The food is good, service is decent and prices are reasonable too. Also, they mostly have bands playing on specific days.
Café Mambo
The typical Goan restaurant - drinks, cocktails, sizzlers, seafood, hookah, loud music and dance.
Titli
If you want to dress up and dance it out all night, Titli is your place. They host some of the best DJ's in town and have dance-worthy commercial and Bollywood's nights thrice a week. It is also a perfect spot for a nice date as this place overlooks the ocean.
Places to Visit Goa: For Shopping
Mapusa Market
It is located just outside the Mapusa Municipal market in Goa. Once here, you will find yourself amidst local vendors and traders who come bearing the Goan treasures from the length and breadth of the state. If you are a person who is fond of unique textiles and antiques, then you are going back home loaded with souvenirs. You'll find yourself in the heaven of local spices, homemade pickles, sausages and more.
The Anjuna Flea Market
Every Wednesday the town of Anjuna experiences a great influx of tourists. And they all head straight to none other than the Anjuna flea market. The Anjuna Flea market owes its swarming tourist footfall to its proximity to the popular Anjuna Beach.
The huge range of local handicrafts, clothes, footwear, beach wear, artificial jewelry and accessories available here will make your head go round. One can also purchase many dresses, silver ankle chains, coconut wood neck pieces, CDs of Goa's popular trance music and cashmere shawls for your loved ones.
The Calangute Beach Market
An array of shacks and stalls line the beach for shopping enthusiasts. The sarongs and trinkets made of seashells bought from here will be the perfect reminiscent of your beach vacation. You can binge on the fried prawns and sip your favourite beer at any of the restaurants in the string of shacks along the beach, and have a great time shopping. The beach is also a good place to find carpets and items made of metal, leather and clay.
Arpora Night Bazaar
The popularity of this market can be estimated by the special packages designed by travel agencies including trips to Saturday night bazaar for tourists vacationing in South Goa. The bustling market is complete with a huge number of stalls that offer anything from spices, carpets, embroidered textiles, hammocks, clothes, and accessories. The USP of this market is its range of handicrafts.
Whatever your reason is to travel to Goa, this place has something for every body. From partying, to flea shopping, to good food and mesmerizing sunsets, Goa a something to offer for every body. So what are you waiting for? Plan a trip to Goa already.
Know of any other place that deserves to be in the list of best beaches in Goa? Comment your answers below!