6 Best Things To Do in Goa, India [with Suggested Tours]

By: Fatima Turla

Are you planning to travel to Goa, India soon? Read our tips below on the things to do in Goa with suggested tours!

Photo by bamml82 CC BY 2.0

Goa’s rich history relating to the Portuguese colony can be seen in its well-preserved 17th-century churches. If, however, you’re not fond of historical stuff, then you can go hang out at the beach. Since Goa is also popular for its beaches, there are several options you can choose from such as Baga and Calangute Beach. Learn more about the things to do in Goa below.

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Table of Contents

List of Best Things to do in Goa, India

Photo by Satyendra Kumar CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

A very nice temple that is mostly visited by locals. Tourists are welcome, but the rules should be followed: Take off your shoes before entering, do not take photos inside, keep your knees and shoulders covered, and do not disturb the believers. On the way to the temple, you can buy flower donations for a few rupees to be donated in the temple.

After the Old Goa was left by an epidemic in 1738, the inhabitants settled in the suburb of Panjim, also called the New Goa. The most attractive area here is the Fontainhas district, which was shaped by the Portuguese occupiers. Cobbled streets, whitewashed facades, Portuguese carved wooden balconies, and Mediterranean flora convey a picture of how the Portuguese lived here for centuries. A stroll through the angled streets is definitely recommended.

Suggested Tour: Cultural Fontainhas Walk

Photo by Ipshita B CC BY 2.0

Saturday night at the Arpora Market is one of the best nighttime activities to visit. The market is open until late every Saturday evening. There are many stalls selling clothes, antiques, food, beer, whiskey dresses, shoes, lamps, accessories, and many more. Another great surprise is the appearance of different bands and artists. You can sit and enjoy live music. There is various culinary and varied food.

When you come from Mapusa to Calangute or from Panjim to Calangute this beautiful white church just cannot be missed. The church of St. Alex is awesome and is painted white and was built in the middle of the 17th century. It was one of the oldest churches in Goa. It also has twin towers on either side of a huge dome.

The beach is very beautiful, well-kept, and clean. The sea is gently sloping and there are big waves. There are also countless restaurants on the beach that provide loungers with umbrellas free of charge. The beach is particularly popular on weekends and there are already a lot of people there so it’s not exactly quiet.

Baga Beach joins Calangute to the north. All kinds of water sports are possible and the choice of restaurants is almost unlimited. Small shops on the feeder streets bring small souvenirs. It can get crowded and noisy especially in the evening. Those who prefer places where there is a lot going on would feel great here.

Where to stay in Goa, India

Budget Hotel

Hotel City Garden

Located on the beachfront in Madgaon and featuring a private beach area, Hotel City Garden has free WiFi. Guest rooms at the hotel are equipped with a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and a private bathroom with free toiletries and a shower. The rooms at Hotel City Garden include air conditioning and a wardrobe.

Price: Starts at $22 per night for Deluxe Room, add $3 for taxes and charges, and it offers a free cancellation.

Luxury Hotel

Grand Hyatt Goa 

Set in heart of Goa offering sweeping views of Bambolim Bay, Grand Hyatt welcomes guests with a 25 m outdoor pool, indoor lap pool, and 7 dining options. Decorated in a warm palate, elegant rooms are furnished with a flat-screen cable TV and a coffee machine. Guests can also relax on the balcony. A bathtub is included in the private bathrooms. Choose from an array of cuisines ranging from, local Indian, Mediterranean, Asian, and seafood specialties to Grand Hyatt’s various restaurants.

Price: Starts at $200 per night for King Room, add $36 for taxes and charges, breakfast included, and it offers a free cancellation.

These are the possible things you can do in Goa, India. So if you are ready to have a fun and exciting trip, you know what to do and where to go! So pack your things now and prepare yourself for a wonderful adventure in Goa.

Fun Facts About Goa

• 1/3 of Goa is forest.
• There are around 400 species of birds in Goa.
• Goa is also home to the first printing press and medical school in India.
• There are about 7000 bars in Goa and most of them have licensed to sell alcohol.
• In Goa, you will find the non-decomposing body of St. Francis Xavier. His body is enshrined in a glass casing and is in the Basilica of Bom Jesus church.

About the Writer

Hi there! I’m Fatima. My first major travel was in 2016 in the beautiful city of Cebu. After that, I got interested in traveling. Now I enjoy learning languages and other country’s cultures. My goal is to visit at least one country each year and to share my experiences with other people through writing or blogging. Witness my journey by following me on Instagram.​​​​​​​

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