9 Memorable Places to Visit in Goa

Goa popularly known as the Pearl of the Orient is a tourist’s bliss located on the Konkan coast. The alarming beauty of Goan temples, churches, old houses and beaches make Goa the most favourite holiday spot in India. Let’s explore some of the most memorable places to visit in Goa.

One can reach Goa by roadways, airways or railways easily as it is well connected by all the three modes. November to February is the most preferred time to visit as monsoon brings heavy rains and summer is quite hot.

1. Calangute

Though there are so many beaches that make Goa spectacular, but none of them can beat the beauty of Calangute beach. Thus, it’s the most recommended tourist place in Goa. You can see people here from all over the world exploring clubs, restaurants, shacks, and shopping outlets. This is one of the places to visit in Goa with family.

Things to do:

Popular Hotels:
There are many hotels in and around the Calangute beach. Some nice stay options are Renzo’s Inn Beach Resort Hotel, Calangute Residency (GTCDC), Hotel Windsor Bay, Estrela Do Mar Beach Resort.

2. Fort Aguada

If you want to have a glimpse of the rich history of Goa then visiting Fort Aguada is a must! It is one of the popular forts of the Portuguese that was built in the seventeenth century on the Sinquerim Beach. It features a lighthouse too. When you visit the fort, you can feel past. It was built to guard from the Dutch and the Marathas.

Things to do:

  • Check out the lighthouse
  • Enjoy the view of the sea from the fort
  • Click pictures with a nice backdrop

Popular Hotels:
If you are looking for a luxurious stay , then Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa is the place for you, you can also check Aguada Anchorage and Bougainvillea Guest House.

3. Fontainhas

Want to take a heritage walk visit the old Latin quarters, Panjim. Similar to the Mediterranean city Fontainhas, has natural picturesque, European cities, Old buildings, etc. It is like entering into a new world altogether. Everything is unique and mesmerizing here starting from roads and houses. This is one of the most important places to visit in Goa before you die.

Things to do:

  • Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
  • The Cabo Palace
  • SinQ Night Club
  • Ayurtouch Ayurvedic Massage

Popular Hotels:
Experience staying in unique European style hotels and guest houses like La Maison Fontainhas, Mateus Boutique Hotel and Afonso Guest House. If you are looking for cheap hotels then Paradise Inn and Old Quarter is the place for you.

4. Reis Magos Fort

If you want to go back in time, then a visit to the Reis Magos Fort is a must! It is the oldest fort in Goa, which was the Viceroy’s residence initially and now it is converted into a fortress. It served as a prison till a few years ago.

Things to do:

  • Reis Magos Church
  • Beautiful countryside
  • Portuguese watchtowers

Popular Hotels:
Copa Cabana Goa, Goa Short Stay, Deltin Royale Jetty, Dolphin Bay Hotel are the places for you to stay and explore the beauty around!

5. Arpora Night Market

Goa’s flea market, once run by the hippies should not be missed. You would be missing a lot of fun if you miss the Arpora Night Market. It is one of the most happening holiday destinations in Goa. Everything is available here from all cuisine food stalls to live concerts, etc.

Things to do:

  • Shopping
  • Enjoy Live Music
  • Purchase Traditional Stuffs as well as Modern Art
  • Souvenir collection
  • Dance to the beats of Live Music

Popular Hotels:
There are many cheap hotels in Arpora that are centrally located and thus convenient to visit various places easily. To name a few, some of the famous ones are Apple House, Resort Lagoa Azul, Resort Rio, La Sunila Suites and more.

6. Basilica of Bom Jesus

If you want to explore Goa’s religious legacy, then visit to this church is a must. Apart from being a place of worship, it holds historical and cultural significance as well. It is a World Heritage site and is known for its impeccable beauty!

Things to do:

  • Take a tour around the traditional houses
  • Tomb of St. Francis Xavier
  • Museum of Christian Art
  • Old Goa
  • Se Cathedral

Popular Hotels:
Stay at Old Goa Residency if you want to have some calm and peaceful night with all amenities at an affordable price. Another budget Hotel is Gomes Pousada Guest House, stay here for an amazing experience. The Fern Kadamba is another option to try for sure!

7. Deltin Royale Casino

If you believe in trying your luck, then visit the Deltin Royale Casino! It is the largest casino in Goa with full on entertainment, authentic food and most importantly, a chance to win lots and lots of money. You are sure to have a lot of fun here.

Things to do:

  • Fun and Games
  • Gambling
  • Live Entertainment and Drinks
  • Relish the lavish spread of food

Popular Hotels:
Mateus Boutique Hotel, Casa Paradiso, The Crown, Hotel La Capitol, Hotel Park Plaza are some recommended goa hotels for you to enjoy your stay!

What we know about Goa that it is only known for its beaches and nightlife, but as you can gauge from this article, there is much more to this place. No wonder people around the world visit Goa once in their lifetime and take back some fond memories.

8. Dudhsagar Falls

Dudhsagar Falls is one of India”s tallest waterfall which means Sea of Milk. This is a beautiful four-tiered waterfall on the Mandovi River. It is at a hieght of 310 metres an is 60 km from Panaji. You can reach via taxi, train or bus.

Things to do:

  • Have fun time with family
  • Click pictures
  • Visit Mahadeva Temple near the fall
  • Visit Sahyadri Spice Farm near the fall

Popular Hotels:
You can easily find many stay options near this waterfall like Jungle book Resort, Dudhsagar Spa Resort and more.

9. Candolim Beach

Candolim Beach is just 5 km from Fort Aguada that offers many activities to indulge in. Couples can have a great romantic time here. Visit the churches nearby along with Fort Aguada. This is a comparatively quieter beach, so if you want to enjoy some peace, this is for you.

Things to do:

Popular hotels:
Many nice stay options are there near Condolim beach. You can check out Novotel Goa Resort & Spa, Lemon Tree Hotel, Golden Tulip Goa, Baywatch Express Urbane and more. It is wise to book in advance.