Inviting travellers to experience a breezy and carefree beach life, Goa is known for its party culture, colonial heritage, and exceptional nature coves. One is sure to find rustic city streets and roads bordering oceans, fancy beach shacks and quaint markets selling oceanic produce, and cerulean shores bidding orange sunsets. Take a stroll across the iconic pastel streets of Panjim, tickle your tastebuds with delish street food in Anjuna, explore the elite neighbourhoods of Assago, and hop islands of North Goa-- you will never fall short of things to do when in Goa. So, wondering what holidaying in Goa is made of? Picture a pint of beer, a plate of garlic prawns, and a relaxing evening by the beach.

Places to Visit in Goa

Offbeat Beaches - Explore Goa's quiet and calm at some offbeat beaches, such as Patnem, Kakolem, Butterfly, and Ashwem, among many others.

Divar and Chorao Islands - Witness the magic of Goa across its hidden gems, Divar and Chorao Islands. While the former is made of ancient churches, Portuguese-style houses, and winding roads, the latter is known for its rich flora and fauna. At Chorao, home to the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, you can spot exotic birds during your visit. Both of these islands can be reached by ferries that run on a daily schedule. 

Braganza House - Among the biggest Portuguese mansions in Goa, the Braganza House bids daily tours to visitors to learn more about the Goan lifestyle amid Portuguese rule. The mansion, located in South Goa, was built in the 17th century and houses a range of antique treasures, which are maintained by the family who continues to reside there.

Goa Chitra Museum - Just 3 km from Benaulim beach, the museum is home to over 4000 traditional objects collected from within Goa, aimed at preserving the ancient Goan Culture. Timings: 9 am to 6 pm (Tues-Sun)

Reis Mago Fort - Located right by Kekdole beach, this fort is a culture and heritage centre overlooking the Mandvi river estuary. People can enjoy various exhibitions and the surrounding view from its ramparts. Timings: 9:30 am to 5 pm (Tues-Sun)

Aguada and Chapora Forts - Walking distance from the Aguada Rocky beach, the former is best known for its beautiful sunset display and an undisturbed view of North and South Goa. While the latter, just 5 km from Anjuna beach, now just picturesque remains of the fort, bids outstanding views of the surrounding coastline.

Top experiences

Go on a Heritage Walk - Take a stroll around old Goa to explore the grandeur of historical edifices and heritage sites across the area, including Basilica de Bom Jesus, Sé Cathedral, Church of our Lady Rosary, and Church of St. Agustine, among others.

Try Water Adventure Sports - Across the beaches of Goa, especially at Anjuna and Candolim, travellers can indulge in a range of water adventure sports, including rafting, kayaking, parasailing, and scuba diving, among others.

Explore the Sea Turtle Nests - The Morjim beach in the North and Galgibaga and Agonda in the south are some beaches where travellers can spot nests of Olive Ridley turtles between October-April.

Witness the Bioluminescent Display - View this exotic natural phenomenon live at Betalbatim beach, where the illumination of the bioluminescent algae sets the shoreline aglow.

Visit the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Dudhsagar Waterfall - This is the largest protected wildlife area in Goa, home to sambars, leopards, jungle cats, and gaurs, among others. Visitors can also explore the Dudhsagar waterfall, which is 16 km away.

Where to Eat

Viva Panjim - A family restaurant inside a heritage home offering ethnic Goan cuisine and seafood delicacies, including dishes like Xacuti, Sorpotel, Cafreal, Vindaloo, and others. Cost for two: ~1200 INR

Thalassa - Right by the Chapora river, Thalassa is a popular waterfront restaurant serving Greek delicacies that go with the spectacular view and live performances. Cost for two: ~2500 INR

Bean Me Up - For some extravagant vegetarian and vegan options, Bean Me Up offers an extensive continental menu. The gorgeous decor and lighting of the restaurant further accentuate the flavours. Cost for two: ~1400 INR

Go with the Flow - The restaurant offers terrace and garden seating with white-wicker furniture that is lit neon in the evening lights. They provide a range of European, Asian, and African dishes. Cost for two: ~1900 INR

Artjuna Cafe - This cafe boasts a rustic decor and serves Mediterranean and Italian cuisines in an all-day breakfast and seafood menu. Cost for two: ~950 INR