Goa was the next destination on our itinerary in India, right after Mumbai. If you’re planning a trip and wondering what to do in Goa, we have tips to help you make the most of the best areas and experiences the region has to offer.
Goa is a vibrant mix of stunning beaches, rich culture, and a unique atmosphere. The city is divided into three main areas: the northern beaches, which are busier and more touristy, the southern beaches of Goa, which are calmer and more relaxing, and the center of Panjim, the capital, with a blend of colonial architecture and lively streets where, even after so many years, a bit of Portuguese influence can still be felt. During our stay, we spent 4 nights in Palolem, one of the most laid-back beaches in the south, and 2 nights in the Fontainhas neighborhood in Panjim.
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How to Get to Goa
The most convenient way to get to Goa is by plane. There are two main airports: the Dabolim International Airport, well connected to various Indian and international cities, and the Mopa Airport, located further north. It’s worth noting that if your destination is South Goa, like Palolem, Mopa Airport is a bit farther away. When we arrived in Mopa, we decided to take a taxi to Palolem. It was about a three-hour journey, but the route, filled with tropical landscapes, made us feel like we were entering the spirit of Goa.
If you’re traveling from other parts of India, trains and buses are great options. They offer a different experience and are undoubtedly more affordable. There’s something special about traveling through the heart of India by train: you’ll pass villages, rice fields, and lush mountains, all at a slower but fascinating pace. If you prefer exploring this way of traveling, you can see here how to book trains in India.
What to Do in Goa?
Palolem Beach: The Calm of the South
Palolem is one of the calmest and most relaxing beaches in Goa. Going to the beach is also what to do in Goa. Its golden sand and calm waters create the perfect environment for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the north. Here, you can enjoy boat rides to explore nearby beaches, walk along the shore, and even spot dolphins – activities you can’t miss.
The laid-back vibe of the beach bars and restaurants with fresh food is a highlight of the experience. Or, if you prefer, you can simply relax at one of the beach clubs. We chose to stay here for 4 nights and loved it! There are several accommodations right by the beach with great prices, elevating the experience to another level, complete with a beach club and loungers available.
Explore the Commercial Street of Palolem
Although Palolem is a small beach village, it has a street full of shops and restaurants. During the day, we always included a walk through it. It’s interesting to absorb the tranquil atmosphere of the place, where souvenir shops and local restaurants blend together. It’s not a very busy area, but its calmness and simplicity make it a very special place.
Explore the Beaches Around Palolem
Many people rent a scooter to explore other beaches around Palolem. We didn’t do this, but here’s a tip: here are some of the most well-known beaches in the area that you can explore from Palolem. Each one has its own personality, whether it’s the tranquility or the activities they offer:
- Agonda Beach: A peaceful and less crowded beach, ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
- Butterfly Beach: Accessible only by boat or a trail, this small beach has a unique beauty and crystal-clear waters.
- Cola Beach: Known for its untouched beauty and stunning landscape, it’s a great spot to relax.
- Rajbaga Beach: A more secluded beach, perfect for those wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy the silence.
Boat Trip to the Islands in Palolem
One of the most popular experiences in Goa is the boat trip in Palolem to the Goa Islands. Departing from Palolem, boats take you to explore the crystal-clear waters and lush landscape around, with plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel. It’s not hard to find people on the beaches offering this experience. You can also see the best activities in Goa here.
Cooking Classes in Palolem
Another very popular activity in Goa is cooking classes. In Palolem, there are several options where you can learn to prepare typical dishes from the local cuisine. We didn’t do one of these classes, as we had already participated in one in Delhi, but it’s an experience we always recommend. It’s a great way to better understand the local culture and flavors. You can also check out the best cooking classes in Goa here.
Fontainhas: The Colonial Neighborhood of Panjim
After a few peaceful days in Palolem, we moved to Panjim, more precisely to the historic neighborhood of Fontainhas. Here, the narrow, colorful streets, with Portuguese-style houses, transport us to another era. Stroll through the streets and discover the charm of this area, which still maintains much of its old colonial identity. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Church of São Caetano, one of the most beautiful in the city. We stayed here, and you can see the hotel we chose in Panjim further down.
Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
In Panjim, one of the main attractions is the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. The church, with its white and imposing facade, offers a stunning view of the city and the Mandovi River. It’s worth climbing the stairs for a panoramic view of the area.
Exploring the Streets of Panjim
After visiting the iconic Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, we began to explore the vibrant streets of downtown Panjim. We strolled without hurry, peeking into local shops and admiring the unique architecture that blends Portuguese and Indian influences. The colorful facades and old details told stories from other times.
On our journey, we discovered the Azad Maidan, a historic square full of significance. This space was once the scene of protests and important events during the struggle for Goa’s independence from Portuguese rule. Today, it’s a social and cultural meeting point where local life continues to thrive. Right at the center of the square is a memorial honoring independence heroes like Tristão de Bragança Cunha – a place that made us reflect on Goa’s rich and complex history.
Exploring Altinho
Altinho is a neighborhood in the highest part of Goa, perfect for a walk in nature. As you ascend, you are treated to incredible views, including the Maruti Temple and the city of Panjim below. The environment and the architecture of the houses make us feel as though we’re in Portugal, with that colonial charm we know well.
But our real destination was the Sunaparanta Goa Centre for the Arts. Unfortunately, when we arrived, there were no exhibitions, but that didn’t discourage us. The Al Fresco café, located within the center, is charming and perfect for spending some time relaxing. Imagine a space surrounded by greenery, with a peaceful atmosphere and the building’s architecture standing out in every detail. The visit was worth it just for that!
Where to Stay in Goa
Goa offers various accommodation options, depending on the area you decide to stay in. Here are some suggestions based on our itinerary:
Palolem (Southern Beaches)
- Budget Option: Cozy Nook Goa Palolem – Simple and well-located by the beach.
- Mid-Range Option: Coco Cabana – Cozy accommodation with a laid-back WelcomeHeritage Inn, ideal for relaxing and enjoying the best of Palolem. This is where we stayed, and we loved the experience!
- Luxury Option: Art Resort – For those looking for a more sophisticated experience with an amazing view.
Panjim (City Center and Fontainhas)
- Budget Option: The White Balcao – Simple with a welcoming atmosphere.
- Mid-Range Option: WelcomeHeritage Pousada – A charming choice with excellent access to the historic attractions of Panjim.
- Luxury Option: Cidade de Goa – A luxury beach resort, perfect for a relaxing stay.
Check other options where to stay in Goa in our guide.
Where to Eat in Goa
Cheers Café – Palolem Beach
If you stayed at Coco Cabana or are strolling along Palolem Beach, Cheers Café is a spot you’ll want to check out. Picture this: an amazing sunset, your feet in the sand, and the sound of the waves as you enjoy Indian, Goan, and international dishes. The food is great, and the prices are even better. Our tip? Stop by for a quick snack or spend the whole day on the sunbeds right in front.
Ton’s Café & Staycation – Palolem Beach
Sometimes, all we need is a good, affordable espresso, and that’s where Ton’s Café comes in. Though not right on the beach, it’s on the main street, just a few steps from the sand. A simple spot but perfect for a quick break and a light meal.
Cleo’s Café & Restaurant – Palolem Beach
For a break with an artistic touch, head to Cleo’s Café. The coffee is delicious, and the homemade cakes are irresistible. We loved the atmosphere, with its uniquely painted walls, reminiscent of Café Mondegar in Mumbai. Like Ton’s, it’s on the second row, but the short walk is worth it.
António @ 31 – Panjim
On our first day in Panjim, António @ 31 won us over with its tapas, snacks, and croquettes menu. Walking in felt like being transported to another place, with ambient music to accompany the meal. If you like to try different dishes, you’ll love the flavors and relaxed vibe of the place.
The Verandah Restaurant – Panjim
A Goan experience awaits you on the veranda of Panjim Inn. The Verandah Restaurant offers tasty food at fair prices. We admit we found it similar to many other restaurants in India, but that doesn’t take away from its charm: it’s a great spot for a simple, flavorful lunch.
Confeitaria 31 De Janeiro – Panjim
It’s almost impossible to pass by Rua 31 de Janeiro without noticing Confeitaria 31 De Janeiro. Yes, it’s in an alley, but it’s one of the most colorful we’ve seen, decorated with flowers and small details that beg for a photo session. But what really charmed us were the sweets: a cashew cake and a “cá,” a real treat for an afternoon break. Definitely a place not to miss in the neighborhood.
Greener – Panjim
The best coffee we had in Goa! The atmosphere is calm and full of greenery, with plants incorporated into the interior decor, creating a relaxing vibe. It seemed to offer healthier food options, perfect for a refreshing break or for those looking for something light and nutritious.
Miski – Panjim
A community café where the experience goes beyond the food. Miski serves authentic Goan snacks in a lively setting, with music that makes the space even more welcoming. It’s the perfect place not only to snack but also to gather with friends, chat, and enjoy drinks at the end of the day.
Larder and Folk – Panjim
We stopped here for a coffee, and the exterior immediately caught our attention. In addition to serving excellent coffee, they have a wide selection of cakes and savory snacks that will leave you craving more. The interior is very charming, with a decor that invites you to stay and enjoy the moment.
Makutsu – Japanese & Asian Bar
If you’re looking for something different to eat in Panjim, Makutsu is a must-stop. The atmosphere is dark and mysterious, almost as if you’ve been transported to the neon-lit streets of Tokyo. The music is always just right, creating the perfect ambiance. The Asian menu is a true delight, and if there’s one thing you can’t miss, it’s the fried wontons – we were completely hooked. An experience worth every moment, especially if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary.
General and Safety Tips for Goa
Planning a trip to Goa? This Indian paradise is amazing, but there are some practical and safety tips that can make all the difference in helping you make the most of it, stress-free. Here are our tips based on our experience.
Travel Insurance: Don’t Risk It Without It
Before you start packing, make sure you have good travel insurance. You never know when an unexpected event might occur – a tropical fever, a health issue, or even losing your luggage at the airport. We chose Heymondo and were super satisfied. It’s easy to use, covers most unforeseen situations, and provides fast support directly on your phone. Seriously, it’s a small investment that can save your trip!
Transport in Goa: The Taxi Drama
In Goa, don’t count too much on transport apps like Uber or Ola. In most areas, they don’t work, and taxis are controlled by local monopolies. This means prices can be inflated, and negotiating isn’t exactly easy. The best trick? Talk to your accommodation. They usually have trusted contacts and can arrange your trips and airport transfers at fairer prices. We used this method and saved time (and patience).
If you decide to explore on your own, scooter rentals are very popular, but remember: always wear a helmet and check if you’re allowed to drive in India with your international driving permit.
Panjim: Respect the Rules and the People
Panjim is full of history and fascinating places to explore, like the Fontainhas neighborhood and the colorful streets full of Portuguese heritage. But be careful: not everything can be photographed. Many areas are residential or protected, and the locals value their privacy.
Remember to ask before taking photos – after all, no one likes to be invaded in their own home, right? Also, respect the signs and warnings you’ll find on the streets.
Mobile Data: Essential for Navigation
Traveling around Goa without mobile data can be tricky, especially if you need to use maps or contact your accommodation. The best option is to buy an eSIM.
Tip: Stay connected at all times with Holafly eSIMs, offering unlimited data so you're always reachable and safe. From our experience, Holafly was incredibly simple to set up and let us browse without worries about limits or connection failures, making it the perfect choice for stress-free travel. And now, you can even get 5% off your travel eSIM from Holafly!
Goa is the perfect destination for those seeking a mix of relaxation, culture, and great food. From the peaceful beaches of the south to the vibrant energy of Panjim, the region offers experiences for all tastes. If you have time to explore, don’t miss the local markets, historic churches, and of course, the stunning beaches that make Goa one of the most popular destinations in India.
If you plan to visit Goa, get ready to be enchanted by its beauty, diversity, and authenticity. And as always, make the most of every moment of this unforgettable experience!
