Let’s find out the best places to visit in Goa :

CALANGUTE BEACH

Calangute Beach is also popularly known as the “Queen of beaches”. Calangute beach is sure to leave you mesmerized with a bundle of amazing sports activities and attractions nearby spots to visit.

• Location : Calangute Beach, Goa,  403519.
• Best time to visit : Late October to February.

FORT AGUADA

One of the beautiful prized possessions of the Portuguese Empire was Fort Aguada. This beautiful heritage has a history to unfold.

• Location : Candolim, North Goa.

TITO’S STREET

One of the happening places of Goa. The party hub of youths and couples is none other than Tito’s Street.

• Location : Tito’s Street, Baga Beach, North Goa.
• Timings to visit : 6 pm – 3 am.

BAGA BEACH

Baga Beach among the must visit places of Goa. The serenity you attain is inexpressible.

• Location : Baga Beach, Goa, 403519.
• Best time to visit : October to January.

THE CHURCH OF OUR LADY OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION

If you are trailing in Panaji, don’t miss out this beautiful standing architecture – full of calm and peace.

• Location : Emilio Gracia and Jose Falcao Road, Panaji.
• Timings : 10 am to 12:30 pm and 3 pm to 5:30 pm. (Monday to Saturday)

11 am to 12:30 pm and 3:30 pm to 5 pm. (Sunday) 8 am Mass. (Daily)

CHAPORA FORT

The name of the Bollywood movie “Dil Chahta Hai” is enough to describe and make you recognize this beautiful natural marvel. Chapora fort which beheld the significance for so long still keeps it as a popular destination among the crowd.

• Location : Chapora Fort Road, Bardez, North Goa.
• Timings : 9:30 am – 5:30 pm. (Everyday)

BOM JESUS BASILICA

Bom Jesus Basilica is one of the renowned heritages located in Goa. With a historic background, Bom Jesus Basilica never fails to attract a huge number of crowds from across the globe.

• Location: Old Goa.
• Timings: 07:00 am to 08:00 am (Mass) and 09:00 am to 06:30 pm. (Weekdays) 08:00 am to 09:15 am. (Mass) (Sunday)

BONDLA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

The Bondla wildlife sanctuary is a beautiful paradise to every individual who is crazy about photography and also who loves nature. The Bondla wildlife sanctuary will definitely make you awestruck with its varied range of species of plants and animals.

• Location : Usgao-Ganjem VP, Goa, 403105.
• Timing : 9:00 am. (Entry)

ANJUNA FLEA MARKET

Anjuna flea market is the best place to go shopping for Goa souvenirs. Make sure you remember the day to visit and dive into the fascinating stalls of the Anjuna market.

• Location : Anjuna, North Goa.
• Timing : 8:00 am. (Wednesday only)

GALGIBAGA BEACH

Galgibaga beach is still one of the untouched natural beauties of Goa. You can spot bales of Olive Ridley Turtle on the shores of this beach.

• Location : Galgibaga Beach, Canacona, South Goa.

CHRONICLE GOA

Chronicle Goa is one of the finest places to experience the best of Goan nightlife. The enthusiasm in the air of the Chronicle’s has a lot of surprises for you. Make sure you don’t miss this place when touring inside the State of Goa.

• Location : Ozran Beach, Bardez, North Goa.
• Timing : 4:00 pm to midnight.

SPICE PLANTATION

If you want to explore something beyond nightclubs, parties, and beaches. Go ahead and visit the magnificent spice plantations in Goa, which is going to hype your mood with all the activities and workshops awaiting you.

• Location : Approx. 30km from Panaji.

VERNA SPRINGS

Verna spring is one of the best choices while traveling in the State of Goa. This thrilling vicinity won’t let you down at all.

• Location : Cortalim, South Goa.
• Timing : 9 am – 7 pm.

DIVAR ISLAND

Divar Island is one of the beautiful places Goa has to offer. Through a ferry ride, reach this amazing island and go-ahead for the land covered with dense forests, with a few residents of this place. This place is sure to give you absolute peace and harmony.

• Location : Divar Island, Goa, 403403.
• Timing : 7 am to 8 pm. (Ferry travel)

Even though the State of Goa has a plethora of beaches and places to explore, we have made sure to list down the rare and beautiful places you can definitely go for. Explore the magnificently unique destinations of the State of Goa through this list of suggestions.

If you have any more unique places to suggest – head forward to our comments section.

Goa is also known as the “Rome of the East” or also as “The Miami of India” which has a direct blend of Portuguese culture because of the history. Goa is a popular destination with tempting and perky nightlife, mouth-watering food items, and natural wonders which is enjoyable throughout the year.

Whether you are fond of nightlife or beaches or a fascinating lifestyle, Goa covers all of them. One of the happening states of India which has a beautiful fusion of Goan and dominating Portuguese culture marks the famous destination for tourists.

Even though several Empires laid their marks through heritages here, Portuguese culture had a larger impact. Portuguese culture still has an impression on the general attitude and lifestyle of Goans.

In the past few decades, Goa has become a significant holiday destination across the globe fascinating millions of travelers annually.

Goa earlier was declared as a Union Territory which was later in 1987 turned into the 25th State of India. The capital city of Goa is Panaji and Vasco da Gama is one of the largest and most popular cities of the State of Goa.

CULTURE AND TRADITION OF GOA

The interesting fusion of Indian and Portuguese culture is the best highlight, no one can overlook. Natives of the State of Goa are called Goans. They are extremely friendly and warm with visitors. The  Goans are usually always happy-go-lucky people and they showcase the holiday spirit in their attitudes as well. The major highlight of this State is that they hardly practice religious fundamentalism. They are Goans before their religious identities which is rare to witness.

Goans usually practice ‘siesta’ that is, pulling down the shop shutters from 1 pm to 4 pm. The peace and harmony of the environment here is inexpressible.

The cultural heritage of Goa incorporates mosques, churches, and temples. The richness of their culture is reflected widely in the Goan folk dances and songs.

Konkani is known to be the official language of the State of Goa. Yet the languages spoken here include Konkani, Hindi, Portuguese, English, and Marathi.

LIFESTYLE OF GOA

Goa is famous for its nightlife. Goa is known to be the place that never sleeps. The astounding night parties Goa has to offer is always sought after by the youth across the world. The beaches and streets of Goa come to life at night.

Cuisines of Goa is a blend of Muslim, Hindu and Portuguese styles. Seafood and Portuguese lunch are popular dishes. Seafood is prepared with several herbs and spices. Goans use vinegar and coconut oil, mandatorily in their recipe. A dish named Khatkhate which is a vegetable stew is really very popular. Once you taste the pork dishes here, you would be left craving for more and more. For instance, vindaloo, sorpotel, xacuti, and chorizo. If you are in Goa, during the Christmas season, don’t forget to check out Bebinca (a sweet dish with multilayers). Feni is a famous alcoholic beverage that is either coconut feni or cashew feni.

Goans usually wear cotton clothes that are favorable to their climate. Catholic women of Goa wear gowns or dresses while Hindu women wear nauvari saree. Other traditional attires of Goans include Valkal (still worn by tribals – a string of beads and a leafy loincloth), Pano Bhaju, and Kashti.

While Goan men wear western-styled attires. Fishermen resort to bright and vibrant shirts, bamboo hats, and pants. Goa Carnival is the perfect event to attend if you want to glance through the popular costumes of the state of Goa.

Dance and music are some of the best parts of the Goan lifestyle. Music and dance run deep in their blood. The abundance of folk music or songs doesn’t stop Goans to experience the best of western compositions as well. Portuguese community introduced the instruments piano, violin, and mandolin into Goan music and hence they have played a major role in music since then. Mando, dekhni, corridinho, and fugdi are the traditional folk dances of the State of Goa.

Goa is the only state in India that has legalized gambling. There are numerous fascinating casinos as well for leisure. Watersports are the major part of Goa. Bullfight and football are played a lot in Goa as well.  In Goa, performing arts has a beautiful touch of Goan culture. The handicrafts are popular among tourists, such as brass, bamboo, seashells, clay, paper and brass which are bought as Goan souvenirs by tourists.

There are several plantations which are tourist attractions of Goa. For instance, Tropical Spice Plantation, Sahakari Spice Farm, Savoi Plantation, and Pascoal Spice Village. The natural marvels of Goa are something that attracts swarms of domestic and international tourists throughout the year for decades.

Goa has always been an intriguing destination that never fails to satisfy any visitors or travelers. Don’t miss out to visit the breathtaking paradise nestled in the country of India.

Here we list down the beat and unique ways to celebrate the moments in Goa :

1. ADMIRING THE ARCHITECTURAL MAGNIFICENCE OF THE ‘BASILICA OF BOM JESUS’

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a UNESCO site that still holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier. This was the former capital of Portuguese India.

✓ ADDRESS : Old Goa Rd, Bainguinim, Goa 403402.

2. LENS THROUGH THE WILDLIFE OF BHAGWAN MAHAVIR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the largest variety of birds, animals, and plants. It also has some famous natural wonders, for instance, Devil’s Canyon, Dudhsagar Waterfall, etc, and also numerous religious sites. Nature lovers will find their paradise here for sure.

✓ ADDRESS: Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Sonaulim, Goa, 403410

3. CANYONING  IN THE WATERFALLS LOCATED AT THE NETRAVALI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Make sure you don’t miss out on canyoning at Savari or Minapi waterfalls located in the Netravali wildlife sanctuary.

✓ ADDRESS : Netravali, Goa, 581187.

4. TRY YOUR LUCK AT CASINO CRUISES

Cruising in Goa is the best activity to engage with. Make sure you don’t miss out to experience such activities once in your life. This is the best choice, even if you are traveling alone or with family or with friends.

✓ ADDRESS: Goa Tourism Development Corporation Ltd. Paryatan Bhavan, 3rd Floor, Patto, Panaji-Goa, India 403001.

5. WATCHING DOLPHINS AT THE PALOLEM BEACH

Want to see the dolphins swim through the rhythm of the sea? Head over to Palolem Beach for the best sightseeing of dolphins in their natural habitat.

✓ ADDRESS : Market town of Chaudi, Canacona, Goa, India.

6. SHOPPING AT MAPUSA

Mapusa – the Friday market awaits a lot of things you would like to buy. The flea market situated at Mapusa is the best place to do some Goan shopping.

✓ ADDRESS : Mapusa Municipal Market, Mapusa, Goa, India.

7. TRY THE DELICIOUS TRADITIONAL GOAN SEAFOOD AND PORTUGUESE LUNCH

Your trip stands unsuccessful if you didn’t check out the local cuisines of the destination you are visiting. Traditional Goan seafood and Portuguese lunch are some famous food items you should definitely not miss.

✓ ADDRESS : Goa, India.

8. HEAL YOURSELF  BY AYURVEDIC TREATMENTS IN THE KERI VILLAGE OF GOA

India always has been the ultimate center of ayurvedic treatments. One of the really popular centers is located in Keri Village.

✓ ADDRESS : Keri, Goa, 403115.

9. SUNBURN FESTIVAL

Sunburn Festival is one of the best events in India. No other events can substitute this terrific and ultimate event held in Goa during new year celebrations. People from across the globe hail here. Do you still want to miss it ?

✓ ADDRESS : Bardez Vagator Beach, Vagator, North Goa, India.

10. CHECKOUT THE WORLD’S HOTTEST CHILLI AT THE SAHAKARI SPICE PLANTATION

The world’s hottest chili plantation is done in the Ponda area known as Sahakari Spice Plantation in Goa. If you are heading to Goa, make sure you visit this plantation and experience some unique choice.

✓ ADDRESS : Belgaum Highway, Curti, Ponda, Goa, 403001.

11. KAYAKING AT GOAN BACKWATERS

Kayaking is one of the best water sports to try in life. And which better place than Goa, to try such water activities? Make sure you enjoy your bit while living the best time in Goa.

✓ ADDRESS : Goa, India.

12. OCEANIC YOGA IN GOA

If you are fond of practicing yoga, this is the best activity you can engage with Goa apart from the parties and clubbing. And what more do you prefer than an oceanic Yoga? Experience the best of your life by trying out such unique activities in Goa.

✓ ADDRESS : Junas Wada, Mandrem Beach, Goa, 403527.

13. CHECKOUT MARKET DJ AT DANIEL’S BAR IN ARPORA

We all dance in our house, bars, clubs, functions, halls – but have you ever imagined yourself dancing in the middle of the market or street? Make sure you don’t miss out on this thrilling experience in Arpora.

✓ ADDRESS : H. No. 392 , Casa Babu, Aguada – Siolim Road Near Chauranginath Temple, Arpora, Goa, 403516 India.

Also Read: Top 10 Events in Goa to Enjoy

And anything left to be the cherry on the top of the cake is none other than the best cafes to trail along in Goa. The crispy creamy prawns or Nutella pancakes or a variety of hot/cold beverages, Goa has it all. The best cafes to pay a visit are as follows :

CAFE CHOCOLATTI, CANDOLIM

Nestled inside the premises of a local residential villa, Cafe Chocolatti as the name evokes is an elegant atmosphere to pay a visit. The best sweet dishes around the corner of the city are available here. The refreshing gardens makes a peaceful environment and offers a rest from the extraordinary bustling streets of Goa.

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{ Must Try Dish : Homemade chocolates and strawberry jam }

• ADDRESS: 409A, Fort Aguada Road, Candolim, Goa
• TIMINGS: 9 am to 7 pm (Every day)
• CUISINE: Continental

BABA AU RHUM, BARDEZ

Baba Au Rhum is one of the best Goa has to offer. The paddy fields and lush bamboo forests surrounding this cafe gives out a beautiful ambiance worth the visit. This rustic cafe is sure to take you back to the rich history of the Anjuna.

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{ Must Try Dish : Cortado coffee and Hercules burger }

• ADDRESS: House No. 1054, Sim Vaddo, Anjuna, Bardez, Goa
• TIMINGS:  9 am to 11 pm (Wednesday to Monday)
• CUISINE: Italian, and French

THE RICE MILL, MORJIM

Rice Mill was established in 1955. This is a yellow walled cozy restaurant that is vibrant and positive all around. The natural and earthly atmosphere makes it a beautiful spot to visit. A number of travelers take a halt here for some crunchy quick bites and to also experience the minimalist beauty it has to offer.

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{ Must Try Dish : Chicken Xacuti, and the Prawn Danggar }

• ADDRESS: H. No. 384, Near Bank of Baroda, Varchawada, Morjim, Pernem, Goa
• TIMINGS: 9.30 am to 11 pm (Monday to Sunday)
• CUISINE: Continental, and Goa

 LILA CAFE, ANJUNA

Fan of European dishes? Head forward to this cafe which is inspired by shacks to treat yourself in the best of European cuisine. This cafe is run by German couples who are warm and attentive to the customer’s needs and are sure to keep your taste buds craving. This is a Multi-Cuisine cafe.

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{ Must Try Dish : Croissants, Ratatouille, and Ham Omelette }

• ADDRESS: Tito’s White House, Calangute-Arpora-Siolim Road, Anjuna, Goa
• TIMINGS:  8.30 am to 6 pm (Monday to Sunday)
• CUISINE: German, European, and Continental

SAKANA, VAGATOR

Connoisseur of  Japanese cuisine? Sakana located in between the Vagator beach and Anjuna beach is one of the best places to visit. The hot kingfish sashimi here is one of the popular delicious food items you should try while in the State of  Goa.

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{ Must Try Dish: Sushi (of course), Beef Curry, and California Roll }

• ADDRESS: Chapora Main St, Vagator, Goa
• TIMINGS: 12 Noon until midnight (Monday to Sunday)
• CUISINE: Japanese

CAFE AL FRESCO BY CANTINA BODEGA, PANJIM

The artistic and gorgeous environment of Cafe Al Fresco is a beautiful cafe to visit to spend some ‘me time’. The quiet and calm surrounding is sure to make you feel refreshed after quick snack time.

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{ Must Try Dish : Vegetarian Quiche, Cucumber Cooler, and Carrot Cake }

• ADDRESS: 63/C-8, Sunaparanta Centre For The Arts, Near Lar De Estudantes, Altinho, Panaji, Goa
• TIMINGS: 10 am to 7 pm (Monday to Saturday)
• CUISINE: European

BLACK VANILLA, PANJIM

Imagine yourself with the company of books and food? Sounds amazing right? Black Vanilla Cafe is a famous cafe in Goa with vibrant and creative decor with cozy seats which offer delicious food.

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{ Must Try Dish : Beef Burger, and Chicken Barbecue Burger }

• ADDRESS: S-4, Ground Floor, Landscape Excelsior, Campal, Panjim, Goa
• TIMINGS:  8 am to 11 pm (Monday to Sunday)
• CUISINE: French

EVA CAFE, ANJUNA

Eva Cafe rests on the coast of the Arjuna beach. The sky, sea, and breezy weather makes it an exciting place to take a break from your busy schedule or while trailing through the Arjuna beach. There are several best food items to experiment with.

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{ Must Try Dish : Green Shakshuka, and Blue Cheese Salad }

• ADDRESS: North Anjuna, Prais de San Anton, Anjuna, Goa
• TIMINGS: 9 am to 8 pm (Monday to Sunday)
• CUISINE: European

THE SPACE GOA, PALOLEM

This serene cafe is also among the highlights of Goa. The organic food supply is a major attraction here. The cafe here is part of the institution, The Space Goa with several other departments like craft shop, ayurvedic treatment centers, and so on.

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{ Must Try Dish : Chocolate Beetroot Cake, and Bean & Corn Quesadilla }

• ADDRESS: 261, Devabag, Palolem, Canacona, Palolem, Goa
• TIMINGS: 8.30 am to 5.30 pm (Monday to Sunday)
• CUISINE: Mediterranean

AROMA, BENAULIM

Aroma Cafe has several delightful and delicious food to offer such as pancakes, smoothies, and so on. This cafe is located in Colva road near Maria Hall. The congenial staff and lovely ambiance makes it one of the best spots to visit.

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{ Must Try Dish : Lemon Cheesecake, and Mediterranean Pasta Salad }

• ADDRESS: Maria Hall, Benaulim, Goa
• TIMINGS: 7 am to 10 pm (Everyday)
• CUISINE: European

CARPE DIEM, MAJORDA

Carpe Diem is settled within the Art Gallery and therefore has its own charm. Cafes have several delicious food items to offer. The comfortable ambiance and amazing food of this cafe make it a great experience. It is considered to be one of the best cafes in Goa.

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{ Must Try: El Chancho, and Bachao de Camarao }

• ADDRESS: 81/2, Godinho House, Gomes Waddo, Costa Vaddo Road, Majorda, Goa
• TIMINGS: 10 am to 7 pm (Tuesday to Sunday)
• CUISINE: Continental

BLUE PLANET CAFE, CANACONA

This relaxed open-air cafe is perfect for the vegans. Blue Planet Cafe is nestled amidst the encircled hills and lush forests which will definitely assist you out of stress. The peaceful atmosphere makes it worth the visit.

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{ Must Try Dish: Peanut Chocolate Banana Smoothie }

• ADDRESS: Agonda, Canacona, Near Palolem, Goa
• TIMINGS:  9.30 am to 3 pm, and 6 pm to 9.30 pm (Monday to Sunday)
• CUISINE: Vegetarian

CAFE INN, PALOLEM

Cafe Inn is an open-air cafe which is the best hangout place. This cafe definitely evokes a Goan essence. The peaceful music and lively nature is always the highlight of this cafe. A number of tourists visit this cafe frequently. This cafe is also famous for its English breakfast.

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{ Must Try Dish : English Breakfast, and Turkish Coffee }

• ADDRESS: Palolem Beach, Palolem, Goa
• TIMINGS:  8 am to 11 pm (Monday to Sunday)
• CUISINE: Goan, and European

WATERFALLS CAFE, BENAULIM

Waterfalls Cafe is a Multi-Cuisine cafe and restaurant which is best for a romantic dinner. This beautiful cafe is a popular one in Goa. The outstanding environment and food that keeps your craving are the highlights of this cafe.

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{ Must Try: Wildberry Cheesecake and Pomfret Papico }

• ADDRESS: The Zuri White Sands Resort, Pedda, Varca, Benaulim, Goa
• TIMINGS: 24 Hours × 7
• CUISINE: Continental

VILLAGE CAFE, MAJORCA

Village Cafe gets you covered for all your demands, way it is a light breakfast, a stomach full lunch, or even a cozy dinner. Village Cafe is located inside the premises of Park Hyatt Resort with amazing interiors that suit all occasions. Breakfasts offered in Village Cafe are popular among the crowd.

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{ Must Try Dish: Classic Tenderloin Cheeseburger, and Thai Spicy Vegetable Soup }

• ADDRESS: Park Hyatt Resort, Arossim Beach, Cansaulim, Goa, Majorda, Goa
• TIMINGS: 24 Hours × 7
• CUISINE: Asian, and Continental

Can’t wait to taste the delicious food in a beautiful and calm environment? Make sure you visit these cafes whenever you travel to the State of Goa.

From north Goa to south Goa, numerous beaches calangute , baga, anjuna, candolim, arambol, colva and many more are there for rejuvenation and recreation of the tourists. In north Goa, calangute is the largest beach. It is quite famous and connected to other north beaches like Baga, Anjuna, Candolim, Aguada.

One can enjoy water sports activities parasailing, water surfing, banana ride and jet-skiing. To witness the nightlife, one should visit the Baga beach which is an extension of calangute beach.  All the beaches has something different to offer to the tourists. In Goa, people can experience body tattoes, bars offering alcohols at low price, palmistry shops, non stop music and exotic sea food. Apart from beach, other sight- seeing includes Churches, fort aguada, chapora fort, dudhsagar fall and many more. As Goa lies on west coast, it is rich in biodiversity too. Tourists can feel Portuguese culture here as Goa is a former Portuguese province.

The best time to visit Goa is from October to February as weather is quite moderate and New year is the perfect time to visit as it hosts Christmas and New year parties at a grand scale.