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Goa Itinerary for 5 Days: Beach Bliss and Beyond

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Are you someone who is always planning a trip to Goa for a ridiculously long time and has never crossed the threshold of creating a Whatsapp group? Do you constantly save all the reels and posts about places to visit Goa and never execute them? Do you want a break from all the mundane life happenings and look at life from a different perspective? Or are you someone who is just jealous of your friends’ Instagram stories and posts bragging about their vacation to Goa? If any of this is you, I’m your genie. Stay with me till the end to get your Goa itinerary for 5 days. Trust me; you will not regret this time spent.

How To Reach Goa

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

Goa is a western Indian state with coastlines along the Arabian Sea. Goa has a long history as a Portuguese colony, with its vibrant culture still seen in every little aspect of its daily life. Being a central tourist attraction, Goa’s travel connections are universal. Here comes your Goa trip plan for 5 days.

By Flight: 

You can avail of regular flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Kochi. The fastest flight is from Mumbai, which takes up an hour approximately.

By Train: 

The 760 km long Konkan railway stretches from Mumbai to the North and Mangalore to the South. You can reach Madgaon or Vasco da Gama railway stations in Goa, and there are trains to Goa from major metro cities and towns.

Goa also has bus connectivity from cities like Chennai, Pune, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc. The dropping points are usually Panjim, Mapusa, and Madgaon.

By Road: 

Goa Road has been long on our bucket list as Spotify says, “You, the roads, and the music” Ah! What better combination could there be? Plan with our perfect Goa tour itinerary for 5 days for a blissful journey.

Highlights on Goa Itinerary for 5 Days 

Goa Itinerary for 5 Days

  • Your Local Tropical Paradise:

Enter Goa’s fresh flora and fauna with a blooming heart. If you are in India and have not explored the local Maldives of India, you are missing out!

2. Portuguese Architecture and Culture:

If you are an old soul inside and always want to try something new, Goa is the answer. Explore the ancient cultural traces of the Portuguese.

3. An Extravagant Party Culture:

Undeniably, North Goa has a happening party culture, and you will love it. In your Goa trip for 5 days, don’t miss out on this.

4. Meet People From Different Parts of the World:

Goa is where you can find a pool of people with different attitudes, traits, and cultures from all over the world. 

5. Come out as a Different Person:

In the end, when you talk with different people, try their local cuisine, wear the local clothes and try the local language – everything changes you as a person.

Goa Itinerary for 5 Days

Let’s explore together your Goa itinerary for 4 nights 5 days and make the best out of it.

Day 1 

The beach trail of north goa: ashwem-vagator-anjuna  .

Goa Itinerary for 5 Days

Today is your dream being realised on all the beach walks. Some of the top things to do and notable places here are:

1. Ashwem Beach

One of the beautiful beaches of North Goa with spectacular views and palm trees giving you shade.

2. Sweetwater Lake

The Sweet Water Lake is a fresh-water lagoon from within the Goan jungle and is surrounded by hills of greenery.

3. Ozran Beach

Along with the famous sunset views, the rocky terrain of Ozran Beach lets visitors enjoy adventure bike rides.

4. Our Lady of Piety

Our Lady of Piety stands at the bottom of a small forested hill on Divar Island. The first Christian structure dates from the early 18th century.

5. Parra Road

Parra Road, also famous as Dear Zindagi Road, is lined with palm trees and overlooks fields on both sides. 

6. Chapora Fort

Built on the rise of the Chapora river by a Muslim ruler Adil Shah. See the beauty of the deep blue ocean from the fort.

7. Anjuna Flea Market

Anjuna Flea Market on Wednesday is a treasure trove of souvenirs, handicrafts, hippie clothing, bags, footwear and much more.

8. Morjim (Little Russia)

Morjim, known as “Little Russia” because of the population of Russian immigrants, is home to many birds and is a nesting site for Olive Ridley sea turtles.

Recommended Hotels To Stay At Anjuna:

  • Casa Anjuna
  • The Ivy Anjuna
  • The Westin Goa
  • Zulu Land Cottages
  • Fairfield by Marriott

West Coast of Goa: Baga-Calangute-Candolim  

Baga Beach

The best places to visit in this beachside of Goa are:

1. Baga Beach

Baga Beach is where you find everything. Be it water sports, clubs, casinos, cafes, or anything you want in a breezy beach-style vacation.

2. Church of Our Lady of Hope

It is located in the foothills of Goa near the Nerul River. See the beauty of a Neo-Roman-style built church.

3. Tibetan Market

Purchase gifts from the local Tibetan market for all your friends and family. A wide variety of collections from market vendors.

4. Snow Park

A fun-filled experience in the snow park. Enjoy sledging, climbing an ice wall, building a snowman, have a snowball fight with friends and family.

5. St. Alex Church

St. Alex church has marvellous architecture and design. It is the only church in the whole of Goa which has the Indian style of architecture.

6. Calangute Beach

Calangute attract tourists from all parts of India to experience the water sports like parasailing, water surfing, banana riding and jet-skiing

7. Grand Island

During the Grand Island tour, spot dolphins and experience exciting water sports like snorkelling, where you explore the exotic underwater life.

8. Aguada Fort

This ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) protected monument is a well-preserved seventeenth-century Portuguese fort, along with a lighthouse, standing in Goa overlooking the Arabian Sea.

Recommended Hotels To Stay At Candolim:

  • Novotel Goa
  • Hyatt Centric Candolim
  • Seashell Suites and Villas
  • Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa
  • Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa

Day 3 

Panaji: the paradise.

Goa Itinerary for 5 Days

Being the state capital of Goa, it is one of the most beautiful and calming places in South Goa. If you want to be with yourself, this is the place. Some of the things to do in Panaji are:

1. Mandovi River Cruise

The Mandovi River Cruise starts from the Santa Monica boat jetty at a 1km distance from the Panaji bus terminus. It would be a forever memory cherished by you with the beauty of sunsets and rivers and being one with nature.

2. Fontainhas

Fontainhas is where you get to experience authentic Portuguese architecture in the quiet part of the city.

3. Divar Island

It is based in the Mandovi River of old Goa. You might have seen the ancient Goa islands in various movies with their rich, dense plants and bushes.

4. Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Named after the famous Indian ornithologist, some exotic birds and an array of birds can be spotted here in this small wildlife sanctuary. It is one of the biggest in India.

5. Chorao Island

It is one of the 17 islands in Goa and shows the real countryside of Goa, with a nature trail with all its greenery. Feni making process and boating are some exciting things to do there.

6. Basilica of Bom Jesus

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a Roman Catholic basilica known for its exemplary baroque architecture. It is a pilgrimage centre and the most iconic monument of Goa.

7. Miramar Beach

Miramar Beach is famous for its palm trees and soft golden sand. Locals and foreigners believe that the sand looks brighter in the moonlight.

8. Big Daddy Casino

The Big Daddy Casino is a live-spirited floating casino located offshore, on the breathtaking view of Mandovi River. Try your luck here!

Recommended Hotels To Stay At Panaji:

  • Vivanta Goa
  • The Hawaii Comforts
  • DoubleTree by Hilton
  • Fortune Miramar Goa
  • O Pescador an Indy Resort

The Start of South Goa Tour: Vasco-Colva-Benaulim

Goa Itinerary for 5 Days

1. Mormugao Fort

This is one of the popular tourist attractions in South Goa. It is a 17th-century fort built by the Portuguese on the outlook of Varca Beach with the scenic beauty of the Arabian Sea.

2. Japanese Garden

This is a perfect place for kids. It is a quiet and secluded small garden away from mainstream Goa.

3. Monkey Beach

It is based on the Mormugao taluk of Vasco. You can try water sports and adventure activities there.

4. Colva Beach

Colva Beach is again one of the famous beaches of Goa, which is easily accessible. This beach is known for its food, bars, pubs and serene atmosphere.

5. Indian Naval Aviation Museum

The Naval Aviation Museum is a military aviation museum focused on the history of the Indian Naval Air Arm. The museum is divided into two parts, an outdoor exhibit and a two-storey indoor gallery.

6. Our Lady of Merces Church

Our Lady of Merces Church was built in a cruciform style with a front wall resembling the Gothic style of church architecture.

7. Twin Waterfall

Twin waterfall is a pair of waterfalls falling down a cliff into a natural swimming pool. This is a hidden gem and hence less crowded.

8. Holy Trinity Church

The evidence of the Chapel of the Holy Trinity dates back to 1750. On March 1992, it raised to the status of a parish church of Holy Trinity.

Recommended Hotels To Stay At Benaulim

  • La Grace Resort
  • Fairfield by Marriott  
  • Azaya Beach Resort
  • Palm Grove Cottages
  • Pele’s Windsong Wood Cottage On The Beach

The Last Day of South Goa Tour: Agonda-Palolem

Palolem Beach (Best Hotels in South Goa)

Your perfect Goa itinerary for 5 days ends with this. Some of the must-visit places are:

1. Agonda Beach

Located in Canacona in the South Goa district, it is one of the four beaches designated as turtle nesting sites. Unlike other beaches, it is a 3km long beach with scenic beauty and a peaceful atmosphere.

2. Chapoli Dam

The perfect place for meditating, relaxing and spending a peaceful time with nature. It is an excellent eco-tourist spot where you can hear bird chirps.

3. Butterfly Beach

The hidden gem of Goa is famously called the honeymoon beach. Butterfly Beach is a coral stretch of fresh flora and fauna with breathtaking beauty.

4. Leopard Valley

Leopard Valley is a unique party place in Goa where you can enjoy meals and many activities in the club, decorated with impressive settings, laser lights, and fire pits.

5. Conco Island

Conco Island, also famous as monkey island, is enveloped with thick green forests and several shy monkeys who hide from visitors amid the woods.

6. Cabo de Rama

Cabo de Rama Cliff is the most beautiful place in south Goa to witness the sunset. It is the place that connects the sky, sea and land.

7. Palolem Beach

Palolem Beach is known for its calm waters and silent discos. Visitors can experience kayaking here amidst a beautiful panorama.

8. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

Gem for wildlife buffs, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a plethora of flora and fauna. It is the second-largest wildlife reserve in Goa.

Recommended Hotels To Stay At Palolem

  • The Lost Hostel
  • Oxygen Palolem
  • Whoopers Hostel
  • Sobit Sarovar Portico
  • Roundcube Beach Bungalows

Final Thoughts

I hope you liked my Goa itinerary for 5 days, and it would feel hardly like a day after the amazing adventures you will have in Goa. This beach destination makes your heart crave it more as if you belong there. Say Goodbye, until next time!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are 5 days enough for goa.

Yes, 5 days of fun-filled adventures and authentic Goan culture will make you feel fulfilled. 5 days or 10 days, it is not about the time but how much you enjoy your moments there. 

Where in Goa should I stay?

If you are a solo traveller, hostels are the best. Goa has some of the best staycation places if you travel with your family or friends. Goa also has luxury villas, spas and resorts for a memorable stay.

Which month is best for Goa?

It is always best to visit Goa in the off-season during February and March. But from November to February, Goa is at its peak tourist attraction. 

How do I plan an itinerary in Goa?

Before planning an itinerary, be sure which side of Goa you want to visit. Is it the party side of North Goa or the peaceful side of South Goa? Goa has everything you are looking for. Based on that, plan your trip with places in your interest.

How many days are sufficient in Goa?

To experience the entirety of Goa with all its beaches, festivals, authentic culture, Goan cuisine, famous places, cafes, water sports, adventure activities and museums – you will need a minimum of 2-3 weeks. Who knows, you wouldn’t feel like leaving even after that incredible trip.

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Goa 5 Days Itinerary

BEST 5 DAYS ITINERARY FOR GOA – Goa Like Never Before

Goa itinerary.

Goa is a complete package for all kinds of people looking out for a beach vacation in India. It has clean beaches, amazing food and great party places. I bet, one can never explore entire Goa in just a few days. Every time I go there I see a different part of Goa. Here, I am sharing a very interesting itinerary for 5 days in Goa especially for the first timers. It covers North as well as South Goa. North Goa is more popular and commercialised and because of that, it is usually very crowded. It has amazing lounges and nightclubs. South Goa, unlike North, is very quiet, scenic and has better beaches.

It is a 5 days itinerary for Goa – 2 days for North Goa and 3 Days for South Goa.

BEST TIME TO VISIT GOA

Mid November to Mid February are the best months to visit Goa. Weather is very cool and pleasant around this time. This is also the best time to enjoy all beach related activities. Temperature stays between 25-30ºC.

GOA TRIP COST FOR 5 DAYS

  • Flight/Train/Road Trip (from India): Roughly Rs 5000-10,000/Person (70-145 US$)
  • Hotels:  Rs 5000-10,000/Day (70-150 US$)
  • Food & Local Transport: Rs 10,000-12,500/Person (145-175 US$)
  • Miscellaneous: Rs 5000-7000/Person (70-100 US$)
  • Total Approx. Budget:  Rs 30,000-40,000/Person (428-570 US$) for 5 days

WHERE TO STAY IN GOA

Goa 5 Days itinerary

In North Goa, there are many areas to stay – Arambol , Morjim , Arpora , Baga Beach , Calungate Beach and Candolim Beach etc. We decided to stay at Candolim because it is a perfect area to travel easily to both North and South part of Goa. Moreover, Candolim is an amazing area with quite a good number of hotels, huge variety of restaurants, great nightlife and various shops.

There are plenty of choices to stay at Candolim – luxurious 5-stars hotels, home like villas at affordable prices and the very popular Airbnb homes and OYO rooms. One can decide on any facility based on their budget. Below is my suggestions for Hotels for stay in Candolim.

  • Taj Fort Aguada Resort and Spa
  • Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa
  • Park Inn by Radisson Goa Candolim
  • O Hotel Resort & Spa
  • Casa Da Praia
  • Casa Candolim Beach Front

For South Goa mostly people have to make a choice between Palolem Beach and Agonda Beach . Comparing both Agonda beach is neater, nicer, more scenic and an extremely romantic place as compared to Palolem. There are numerous sea facing beach huts here to choose from in Agonda Beach. Following are some choices. They are all ranged from 3000-9000 INR/Day (40-120 US$).

  • Agonda Beach Resort
  • Agonda Shell Beach Resort
  • Saxony Beach Cottages
  • Jordim E Mar
  • Rama Resort

TIPS FOR GOA TRIP

  • Try to avoid visiting Goa around Christmas and New Year . There is huge rush at this time and prices are hitting the roof. Plan around November or Mid January – Mid February.
  • Do go through www.whatsupgoa.com for more information about Goa. This is the best website I found so far with all the relevant information about Goa.
  • Always book hotel at a walking distance from the beach .
  • Hiring a Scooty/Bike or Car is the best way to go around places in Goa.
  • Apart from beaches, next thing to look up to in Goa, is food . Make sure you get an opportunity to taste the most. Take the help of Google, to know the popular restaurants and find their ratings and reviews.
  • Download Goamiles app before reaching Goa. This is like Uber/Ola of Goa. You can use that to reach your Hotel from the Airport.

GOA TRIP PLAN FOR 5 DAYS

  • 1st Day: Reaching Goa, Lower Fort Aguada, Saturday Night Bazaar and Club Cabana
  • 2nd Day:  Exploring North Goa – Fort Chapora, Mandrem Beach, Arambol Beach, Marbella Resort, Thalasa and LPK or Casino
  • 3rd Day: Reaching South Goa – Martin’s Corner, Agonda Beach, Jardim E Mar
  • 4th Day: Butterfly Beach, Honeymoon Beach and Palolem Beach
  • 5th Day: Cape Goa, Tropical Spice Market, Reaching the Airport

Goa for 5 days

GOA TRIP PLAN FOR 5 DAYS IN DETAIL

Day 1: reaching goa,  lower fort aguada, saturday night bazaar and club cabana.

We boarded the morning flight for Goa and reached Goa Airport around 11:00 AM – 12:00 noon. We had to take an expensive taxi as Ola and Uber don’t operate here. After a long negotiation, one of the taxi driver agreed to take us from the Airport to our hotel in Candolim for Rs 1000 (13.5 US$). It took us around 60-75 mins to reach Candolim. Thankfully, Goa now has Goa Miles !!! It is like Uber/Ola of Goa. They offer better rates than normal taxi’s.

We booked the Park Inn Hotel at Candolim, which is an amazing hotel. After checking in our hotel, we relaxed for a bit and moved out for lunch. You can try Tuscany Gardens , Inferno and Sunny Side Up etc. You can also check for other eating options from Google along with ratings, reviews and decide accordingly.

While on our way back to the hotel after lunch we checked with 2-3 vendors about car rentals. We decided and hire a car for 5 days on self drive. We got the deal at Rs 1200/Day (16 US$). Bike/Scooty is also an option, but we had to travel extreme south and north so this option was not feasible for us. Moreover, there is scorching heat in the afternoon in Goa, so hiring a car is always better.

Lower Fort Aguada, Condolim

We relaxed for some time at the hotel and then headed to Lower Fort Aguada . Do not go to Fort Aguada but to Lower Fort Aguada, which is adjacent to Taj Fort Aguada . This place is amazing around evenings and also a good spot for sun set view.

Lower Fort Aguada

Dinner/Saturday Night Bazaar/Club Cabana

After this, we went back to hotel. We were dying to go partying, as it was a Saturday night, so after relaxing for some time we got ready for Club Cabana . Since these clubs are open till late nights, we stopped midway at Calangute Beach for Dinner. Souza Lobo and Tibet Kitchen are good dining options at Calangute Beach. Baga Beach , just ahead of Calangute Beach, is also a very popular beach with huge number of dining options. The most popular and fun diner is Brittos . The cold coffee here is a must try.

Post dinner, on the way we stopped at Saturday Night Market . Since it was at a walking distance from Club Cabana, we decided to explore it a bit. As the name suggests, this market is set up only on Saturdays. You can get accessories like neckpieces, bracelets, decorative items, spices, long and short dresses etc. in this market. Prices in this market are relatively low. If not interested in shopping, visit to this market can be skipped.

Saturday Night Bazaar

Around late night we entered Club Cabana. Club Cabana is one the most popular nightclub in Goa, which is located on the hills on Arpora Road. It is a huge property with a closed disc inside, a pool, lounge and a huge open space. Entry was Rs 2000 (26 US$) per couple with specific drinks ‘On The House’, like Kingfisher Beer and Absolute Vodka. Other brands of liquors are chargeable by the peg and Beers by the bottle.

Curlies Shack , Anjuna Beach

We partied quite late and then went to Curlies Shack – a very famous rustic sea facing food shack at Anjuna Beach – 15 mins drive from Club Cabana for some late night snacks. Curlies is open quite late during the season time. As it was very late we left Curlies and went back to the Hotel and slept tight.

  • 11:00 AM: Reached Goa Airport
  • 01:30 PM: Reached Hotel
  • 02:00 PM: Lunch at Tuscany Garden
  • 04:30 PM: Lower Fort Aguada
  • 08:00 PM: Dinner at Souza Lobo – Calangute Beach
  • 10:00 PM: Saturday Night Bazaar
  • 11:00 PM: Club Cabana
  • 03:00 PM: Back to Hotel

Best 5 Day Itinerary for Goa - Day 1

DAY 2: Exploring North Goa – Fort Chapora, Mandrem Beach, Arambol Beach, Marbella Resort, Thalasa and LPK or Casino

This day we had to get up and start early because we had to cover the north most part of Goa and this is a long trip. We got up early and had our breakfast at the hotel and got ready for our day tour to North Goa. I suggest to pack 2-3 dresses, swimsuit, vanity kit etc., as this will be an entire day’s tour and you can halt, refresh yourself and change at any place in between.

Fort Chapora

We first went to Fort Chapora – the famous fort, where the movie Dil Chahta Hai was shot. It took us 30-35 mins from Candolim to reach there. Although it is the best place to see the sunrise but we were very tired from last night party so we went a bit later. We had to climb up a hill to reach there. It was a dilapidated fort but the view of the sea from there was worthwhile. It is an advice to cover this Fort before noon, as it gets really very hot in the afternoon.

If hungry, do try the amazingly great vegan restaurant in Goa – ‘ Bean Me Up ‘.  This place offers good ambience, delicious food and prompt services at a very economical price. If looking for some beach facing restaurant with fun music then try out Titlie Culinary Bar. If looking for fancy beach face property then Olive Bar & Kitchen should not be missed. All these restaurants are just within a kilo meter from Fort Chapora.

Chapora Fort

Manderem Beach/Arambol Beach

We then went to Mandrem Beach , which is a very popular beach of North Goa. It took us another 30-35 mins to reach there from Chapora. We had to pass through a long passage to reach this beach. Mandrem Beach is quite neat, serene and scenic. We took a shack there and relaxed for some time.

Manderan Beach

Later, we went to Arambol Beach , which is just a 10 mins drive from Manderam Beach. Again this is quite a popular beach of North Goa. We had our lunch here at one of the beach shacks.

Marbela Beach Resort/Thalassa

Then we went to Marbela Beach Resort for sunset view. This resort is located in the interiors and we had to cross quite steep roads. It took us 30 minutes to reach there. On reaching the destination, we were blown away with the beauty of this resort. Marbela Beach Resort is a premium property and has an amazing beach side view. They also have small tents with beds overlooking the beach. It was very romantic. If you have enough time you can plan to stay at this resort for a day to fully enjoy this property.

Marbela Beach Resort 

After witnessing the most romantic sunset, we decided to dine at another extremely popular restaurant in North Goa – Thalassa located at Vagator Beach , which was a half an hour drive from Marbella Resort. Thalasa is a Greek themed beach facing restaurant and bar. Food is okay but music and ambience is really great specially, the view of the sea from the restaurant. Be assured that there will be a long waiting queue here if you are planning to visit on weekends. I suggest pre booking before for safer side.  Thalasaa is again very famous for the sunset, so you can enjoy the sunset here and visit Marbela Resort later.

Thalassa Goa

LPK or Casino

After dinner, we headed back to our hotel. Later at night, we went to another very popular nightclub named LPK (Love Passion Karma). It was just 2 kms from Candolim. Entry was Rs 2000 (26 US$)/couple with unlimited drinks on selected spirits. Alike Club Cabana, this club was also totally fun, just that it was a Sunday and the crowd is much crazier on Saturdays.

If you are not much in the mood to party and have interest in gambling, you are very much in luck, as there are quite a few number of Casinos in Goa . Goa is amongst the few places in India, where gambling is legal. All of the popular casinos are set up on cruise ships, parked at the shores of the Mandovi River . These casinos are open 24×7 and charge a one-time entry fee of Rs 1500-3000 (20-40 US$) per person. Food and drinks are On The House. The biggest and the most popular casino in Goa is The Deltin Royale . The Casino Pride, The Deltin Jack, The Big Daddy etc are some of the other big Casinos worth visiting in Goa.

  • 09:00 AM: Breakfast at Hotel
  • 10:00 AM: Leaving for Fort Chapora
  • 11-12 PM: At Fort Chapora
  • 12:30 – 2:00 PM: Maderam Beach
  • 02:30 – 3:30 PM: Arambol Beach
  • 04:30 PM: Marbella Resort – Morjim Beach
  • 07:30 PM: Thalassa
  • 09:30 PM: Back to Hotel
  • 11:00 PM: LPK night club or Casinos

Best 5 Days Itinerary for Goa - Day 2

DAY 3: SOUTH GOA: Martin’s Corner, Agonda Beach, Jardim E Mar

After having an amazing breakfast, we packed our bags and left for South Goa by car. It’s a very long (2-2.5 hours) drive from Candolim.

Reaching South Goa – Agonda Beach

The entire way from Candolim to South Goa is very scenic – narrow roads with palm trees, beautiful hut houses and small lakes are a sight to behold. Throughout the way, the roads were well maintained. Midway we had our first stop at Martins’ Corner at Betalbatim . It is a very popular and vibrant Goan restaurant famous for its sea food. It is Sachin Tendulkar’s favourite restaurant in Goa. Martin’s Corner is also very popular with other celebrities.

On the way to South Goa, one can enjoy various beaches along the way – Dauna Pola, Colva, Benaulim, Varca etc. We did not stop anywhere because it was afternoon, way too hot and moreover we wanted to spend the evening in South Goa. For South Goa, we decided to put up at Agonda Beach . Palolem is also a good option but in comparison Agonda is quieter and neater.

After reaching Agonda we booked a sea-facing hut at Agonda Shell Beach Resort . Huts are quite popular in South Goa. These huts have attached open washroom and a small open area outside the hut with chairs and table. We enjoyed the entire evening soaking on the beach. As we had a beach hut to ourselves, it was much easier and convenient. Putting up in these huts was an amazing experience.

Agonda Shell Beach Resort

Agonda beach is full of amazing sea facing restaurants and lounges to choose from for dinner like Agonda Sunset, La Dolce Vita, Kopi Desa etc.

After dinner we then walked on the street along the beach. This place is quite romantic with beach facing restaurants having romantic set ups like candlelights for uplifting the mood of the tourist. The weather and the cool breeze adds to the romance. We then went back to our hut and enjoyed the rest of the night looking at the sea.

  • 10:00 AM: Breakfast at Hotel
  • 12:00 PM: Check Out and drive to South Goa
  • 01:30 PM: Martin’s Corner
  • 03:00 PM: At Saxony Beach Resort Agonda Beach
  • 05:00 PM: At Beach
  • 07:00 PM: Dinner
  • 09:00 PM: Sitting at the Beach Side

Best 5 Days Itinerary for Goa - Day 3

DAY 4: Butterfly Beach, Honeymoon Beach & Palolem Beach

It is so amazing waking up to the sound of sea waves. The view outside was very pleasant. After walking for a while on the beach, we went to catch out boat ride for Honeymoon & Butterfly Beach.

Butterfly Beach/Honeymoon Beach via boat ride

We took a boat ride (capacity of 4-6 people ) to Honeymoon Beach &  Butterfly Beach . Boats for reaching this beach are easily available for just Rs 1,000-2,000 (14-28 US$) to and fro from Agonda and Palolem Beach. You just need to get it booked one day prior. Hotel people can help in booking. Early morning around 7 is the best time to visit this beach. There are chances to spot dolphins around this time. This beach is secluded making it by far the most beautiful beach in South Goa. As the name suggests, Butterfly Beach is an abode to numerous species of butterflies and its shape also resembles a butterfly. It is a very quiet beach with beautiful landscapes, cool breeze and dense forest in the backdrop.

Butterfly Beach

Palolem Beach

After this amazing boat ride we went to Palolem beach for breakfast/Brunch. There are many options at Palolem Beach but we tried Cairans . It is a sea-facing restaurant serving amazing English breakfast. It had good reviews and it totally did justice. Coffee, Omelette, pancakes, all were amazing.

Back to Agonda

Later, after lazing around and whiling away some time walking peacefully on the beach, we went back to Agonda Beach. Around sunset we again enjoyed swimming and playing at the beach followed by dinner. If this happens to be a Saturday, then try Leopard Valley Night Club, which is very close to Agonda Beach.

  • 07:00 AM: Boatride to Honeymoon/Butterfly Beach
  • 11:00 PM: Brunch at Palolem Beach
  • 08:00 PM: Dinner

Best 5 Days Itinerary for Goa - Day 4

DAY 5: Cape Goa and Tropical Spice Market

After breakfast we checked out from Hotel and went to Cape Goa . It was around 13 kms from Agonda Beach, roughly a 30 mins drive. This is again a very secluded place and not many people know about it. Cape Goa offers some breath taking views of the sea. It was so beautiful that it wasn’t even looking like a part of India. With crystal clear blue water and green grass, palm trees and beautiful rocks, it was giving the perfect wallpaper view.

Cape Goa is also a premium property with very limited huts (just 4 to 5). Advance booking is required if one plans to stay here, else one can always come and visit this place and spend few hours at the open lounge.

You can visit Cabo De Rama Fort as well in place of Cape Goa, which is just 5 mins from Cap Goa.

Cape Goa

Tropical Spice Market

After visiting Cape Goa, we went to Tropical Spice Market , which was around 55 kms from Cape Goa and took us one and a half hour to reach there. Entry fee was just Rs 400 (5.5 US$) including lunch. We were given a welcome drink on entry. We were also given a tour guide to explain everything to us.

It was a very interesting tour and we saw how spices are grown and cultivated. The guide was quite knowledgeable and informative. Lunch included typical Goan style dishes and was good to eat. You can also purchase these authentic spices here at very affordable prices. The entire tour was very educational.

Tropical Spice Plantation Goa

If you have limited time you  can be skip this Spice Plantation. After the tour, we went back to Candolim and returned our car to the vendor. He was kind enough to arrange our drop to the airport at a reasonable price. We then catch our flight back. This ends our 5 days tour to Goa.

Salaulim Dam/Dhoodh Sagar

If one has more time they can also try Salaulim Dam and Dhoodh Sagar fall and trek in central Goa. These both places are very popular around rainy season. They are quite far around 1 to 1.5 hours from Agonda and 2 to 2.5 hours from Candolim.

  • 09:00 AM: Breakfast at Sonhe Do Mar
  • 10:00 AM: Checking out from Beach Hut and drive towards Cape Goa
  • 10:30-12:00 PM: Cape Goa
  • 01:30 PM: Tropical Spice Plantation
  • 04:00 PM: Way back to Candolim
  • 05:30 PM: At Candolim
  • 07:00 PM: At Airport

Best 5 Days Itinerary for Goa - Day 5

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How to Plan a 5 Days Trip to Goa for Complete Rejuvenation

Wondering how to plan a 5 days trip to Goa? Be it a family holiday, vaction with friends, honeymoon or couples, Goa packs the punch for all kind of travelers.

With a Goa 5 Days trip, you can actually explore most side of this tropical paradise sandwitched between Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats.

If you have never been to Goa yet and saw its pictures or videos on social media, we will take you to the virtual 5 days trip to Goa from the comfort of your couch.

Also explore our 5 days Goa tour itinerary to book your vacation

5 Days in Goa: A Guide To Plan Your Perfect Trip

  • Is 5 Days Enough to Explore Goa?
  • North Goa Vs. South Goa
  • Places in Goa to Cover in 5 Days Trip
  • In Which Part of Goa the Airport is Located?

International Airport in Goa for Commute

  • Perfect 4N/5D Itinerary of Goa

What Are The Highlights of Goa Tourism You Should Cover in 5 Days?

Although, tourism in Goa revolves mostly around 2 aspects – the beaches (adventure sports, casinos, cruises) and parties – there are an array of offbeat experiences in Goa includes historical attractions ( churchs and cathedrals ), nature and eco-tourism . The kind of experience you are seeking is what will decide what to cover during your 5 days trip to Goa.

We have tried to cover most of them.

Tourist Places in Goa to Cover in 5 Days Trip (From North to South)

Day 1 – Panjim and Old Goa Day 2 – Best of North Goa Sightseeing Day 3 – Best of South Goa Sightseeing Day 4 – Leisure Day in Goa Day 5 – Off to Airport

1st Day in Goa: Arrival at Panjim and Old Goa Exploration

1st day old church in goa

  • Cobbled pathways
  • Colonial structures

Pro Tip: Arrive Early in Panjim to have a full day sightseeing control of Old Goa.

Make Panjim the capital of Goa your base camp. The old Goa is situated 30 kilometers (approx.). Explore historical landmarks like churches , temples. Moreover, if you are on a shopping spree, you will find plenty of shopping markets in the heart of Panjim and Old Goa as well.

A combined trip to Panjim and Old Goa will give you the real authentic taste of Goa. You can explore the white-washed churches, beautiful beaches and hop on the rented scooter. A few of the best places to visit in Old Goa include the Basilica of Bom Jesus , Church of St Francis of Assisi, which has still retained the original charm of Portuguese architecture.

Later in the evening, head to the Museum of Christian Art, followed by satiating your hunger at River Aisle. Indulge in some authentic Goan meals like local Goan bread.

End your day by returning to the hotel at Panjim and retire for an overnight sleep.

Distance from Dabolim Airport to Panjim: 29 kilometers (approx.)

Travel Time: 45 minutes (approx.)

Also check out our collection of Goa family packages

2nd Day in Goa: North Goa Trip to Bask in the Beaches and Enjoy Nightlife

2nd day beach explore in goa

  • Beach hopping
  • Hike to Chapora Fort
  • Mapusa Market shopping
  • Enjoy nightlife

Pro Tip: Waking up early will allow you to enjoy the maximum sightseeing fun on the 2nd day!

Wake up with a delicious breakfast at the Panjim hotel and reserve your day to explore the oh-so-amazing North Goa today. Drive towards North Goa via tuk-tuk, bus, or private cab. This part of Goa is, however, a bit crowded, but it is worth every hype. Once you reach North Goa, indulge in watersports at Vagator Beach , Baga Beach , and Calangute Beach . These beaches are among the top places to visit in Goa for couples and families alike. If you are lucky, you might spot dolphins also, which is just a matter of luck!

Once you are done with sand-sational vibes, make your way to the Chapora Fort on an easy hike. You will get Goa’s spectacular view and discover the vantage point from the fort where the Dil Chahta Hai movie was shot. Proceed to Mapusa Market to unleash your bargaining skills to buy Goan handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and art items.

Evening and Night

Fix your hunger pangs in the evening, followed by a sundowner to a Greek-themed restaurant, Thalassa. Combine your delicacies with some mocktail or wine. Although, you will find tons of restaurants or pubs or bars dotted around the streets of North Goa because that is what North Goa is known best for!

Pro Tip: If you are looking for offbeat experience in North Goa, head to Sahakari Spice Plantation, spread across 130-acres of lush plantation growing spices, herbs & trees with resident elephants & a basic restaurant.

Distance from Panjim to North Goa: 23 kilometers (approx.)

Travel Time: 40 minutes (approx.)

Note: Book your accommodation in North Goa in advance to skip the last-minute hassle.

3rd Day in Goa: South Goa Trip for Seclusion Lovers

3rd day South Goa

  • The mystical and magical side of Goa
  • Romantic strolls amidst the sands
  • Hike to the Cabo De Rama Fort

Pro Tip: Cover as much as sightseeings today by waking up early in the morning!

You should be ready to explore the best places to visit in South Goa on the 3rd day of your trip to Goa. This side of Goa is mystical, magical and is best for those who love to cut from the noisy and chaotic North Goa. South Goa is the place where honeymooners and foreigners flourish the most. Start your morning with a hearty meal and set out to explore the first stop at Salaulim Dam to enjoy the bird-watching excursion.

Make your way to the Cabo De Rama Fort , which is sandwiched between Agonda and Cavelossim Beach . Attached to the fort is the Cabo De Rama Beach, where you can take romantic strolls amidst the sands. Take some cool photos here to envy your social media game. Moreover, a St. Antonio Church is located near the fort, which could be your afternoon highlight.

Reserve your evening for the full beach fun at Palolem Beach with an exciting range of watersports. This beach in South Goa is much more secluded than any other mainstream beaches of North Goa because only a handful of tourists (that too, international travelers) come here for rejuvenation. Take advantage of the awesome beach shacks and enjoy a well-spent evening with your special one.

Distance from North Goa to South Goa: 70 kilometers (approx.)

Travel Time: 3 hours (approx.)

Note: Don’t forget to book your accommodation in advance to dodge any last-minute booking problems.

Pro tip : If you are looking for an offbeat experience, head out to Dudhsagar Falls. You might need at least half a day to do this.

Also explore our collection of Goa honeymoon packages

4th Day in Goa: Full Leisure Day

4rd day explore beach in Goa

  • Explore Goa like a local
  • Unwind at the turquoise beaches
  • Good food with good views

Pro Tip: Don’t booze in a public area; otherwise, you will be penalized or in trouble.

Do you know the best things to do in Goa that are free of cost? Yeah! You can indulge in photography around the pristine blue beaches , play beach games, make sandcastles, and become a local Goan for one day!

A full leisure day on your Goa trip would be best enjoyed if you hire a scooty and wander in and around the vicinity of South Goa. Indulge in beach lazing, unwind at the themed restaurants while saving the beer or mocktail. Combine the different sets of things to do in South Goa on your 4th day of your trip to Goa.

Later, an overnight stay in the hotel followed with a sumptuous dinner.

5th Day in Goa: Say Goodbye to Goa

  • Lip-smacking breakfast

Pro Tip: Plan your sightseeing accordingly with your flight timings. Reach the airport 2-3 hours prior to your flight.

The sunshine capital of India, Goa, has many avatars, from beaches to nightlife combined with historical landmarks. Unparalleled fun is guaranteed on a trip to Goa with your near or dear ones. After a lip-smacking breakfast, pack your bags, complete the check-in formalities, and if you want, explore a few South Goa’s attractions before you arrive at the airport to board your flight back home.

Distance from South Goa to Dabolim Airport: 58 kilometers (approx.)

Travel Time: 1.5 hours (approx.)

Wrapping Up

That’s it, folks! Ain’t we have made it easy for you to explore the best of India’s party capital on a 5 day trip to Goa?

Explore our collection of Goa packages to plan your vacation

Goa Trip Cost for 5 Days

The average cost of 5 days Goa tour package is approx INR 13,000 to 16,000 per person. However, the budget of Goa trip will vary considerably depending on the choice of your hotels (budget/premium/luxury) and mode of transportation (private/state transportation).

Things to Know Before Visiting Goa

The Dabolim Airport is the sole international airport in Goa. It is well-connected with major domestic destinations, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Ahmedabad.

North Goa Vs. South Goa: Explained in A Quick Turnaround Time

Loud party scenes: north goa.

  • If you want to shake your booty on the rhythm of flashy disco lights, visit North Goa as it is the mecca of loud parties.

SILENT Party Scenes: SOUTH goa

  • Head to Palolem Beach and its nearby party places to spin your legs on the headphone parties while grooving on trance, retro, and techno music.

Seclusion and Tranquility

  • North Goa has a huge tourist influx, and budget tourists make North Goa their base camp. Thanks to the affordable homestay, and guest house options.
  • On the flip side, South Goa is more expensive than North Goa in terms of accommodation. South Goa is where foreigners used to come to laze around the sands and turquoise water.s

Sun-Kissed Beaches Affair

  • Beaches in North Goa are good and pristine, but mass tourism is heavy.
  • South Goa has white sandy beaches laden with palm-fringed trees along with exclusive beach shacks and private beaches.

3 Days Trip to Goa

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best places to visit in goa in 5 days

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A 5 Day Detailed Itinerary To The Sunshine State Of Goa

A 5 Day Detailed Itinerary To The Sunshine State Of Goa

A 5 Day Detailed Itinerary To The Sunshine State Of Goa

Goa – the land of sunshine and waves, the bringer of joy and good memories, and literally every college group’s rite of passage. There’s a lot to see and explore in Goa. The state may have a lot of attractions, but if you plan it well – you can cover a lot of Goa in just 5 days! Now who am I to be helping you with an itinerary? Well, my name is Natasha Monteiro and my traveller soul has wandered its way to Goa and its stuck there forever. I’ve travelled to the sunshine state over 50 times and here’s my itinerary on everything you can see, so and explore in Goa.

View this post on Instagram Oh Goa, why you so pretty? This is at a place called Brendon's at Palolem. The food is ordinary but they have this massive Rottweiler called Skyla who is the cutest patootiest, pet hungry doggo ever. If you love dogs, don't forget to go say hi to Skyla. . . . . . . #palolem #goa #girl #color #walk #goagirl #happygirl #like4likes #smile #travelblogger #travelgram #travel #igersdaily #igersgoa #igersindia A post shared by Natasha Monteiro (@ayewhatmen) on Feb 10, 2020 at 7:28pm PST

PS: Before you start, let me warn you that this is quite an adrenaline-filled, jam packed itinerary. If you’re looking at a more relaxed holiday, then I would suggest exploring only North Goa, South Goa or old Goa, but not the entire state together. 

How To Reach Goa?

By Flight: Getting to Goa by flight is pretty easy. Goa has only one airport at Dabolim, which is somewhat right in the middle of the state. From Dabolim airport, you can hire a local taxi or book a taxi through Goa Miles (an app by the government that is cheaper than the airport taxis)

By Train: Thivim is the major junction for North Goa & Madgaon for Sooth Goa, where all upcountry trains normally make a halt

By Road:  Depending on which part of India you are driving from, the directions will change. The route from Mumbai to North Goa is extremely beautiful and takes about  10 h 32 min  (578.8 km)  via AH47.

By Bus: There are a number of buses that ply from major metros in India to Goa, with Panjim being a major halt point. You can choose a luxury AC bus or a simple, single tier bus – depending on your budget and preference.

Day 1: Explore Old Goa

Basilica Of Bom Jesus Church of St. Francis of Assisi Se Cathedral Museum of Christian Art Meal At River Aisle

If you want to experience the real authentic Goa and delve deep into its history, well then Old Goa is where you need to start your journey. From rustic red stoned relics, white washed churches and beautiful beaches, hop on to to your scooter and get ready to zoom off. Start your day off at the Basilica Of Bom Jesus. This gorgeous Goa UNESCO World Heritage Site is indeed a sight to behold. With gorgeous red brick structure and stone walls, make sure you go Insta crazy. This also holds the remains of St Francis Xavier, a Roman Catholic saint who died on 3 December 1552, but whose body has still not decayed even today.

From the Basilica, head to the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, another architectural marvel worth visiting. It was built in 1661 by the Portuguese and even today has retained its original beauty.

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

From here head to Se Cathedral and the Museum Of Christian Art. Both are spectacular places to give you an idea of the lineage and history of Goa.

After a day of exploring, indulge in some authentic cuisine at River Aisle in Goa. Perched right atop the river, this is a great place to enjoy an authentic Goan meal. Don’t forget to try the Poe – the local Goan bread.

Day 2: Explore North Goa, Its Beaches & Night Life

Explore Little Vagator Beach Indulge in water sports Visit Chapora Fort Have A Meal At Thalassa Go Partying At Cohiba Go To Anjuna Night Market

North Goa is that part of Goa that’s most spoken about. It’s got the best clubs, the best beaches and the best places to eat at and explore. From forts to shimmering shorelines, cutesy eateries to beach shacks – North Goa has everything. It’s also extremely well connected to the rest of Goa through the local bus services and tuk tuks.

However, having said all that North Goa is not for the weak hearted. It is one of the most crowded sections of Goa. Now, i’ve purposely not chosen to put Baga & Calungute on this list – as its become too touristy, is not very safe after sunset for women and does not have authentic Goa vibes anymore. However, if you still want to check out this side of Goa, take a look at our video:

Start your day by exploring Little Vagator beach and indulging in some water sports. From banana boat rides to para sailing, there’s a lot to do here. The best part about Vagator is that you can also change at the shacks there, even if you;re just sitting for a meal. Once you’re done with some beach time, make your way to Chapora Fort – the same place where Dil Chahta Hai was shot. You get a spectacular view of Goa and its not a difficult climb to the fort.

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

Head for a sundowner to Thalassa – a Greek themed restaurant thats has the most exotic dances and great food and wine. Remember to book in advance as this place can get quite full during season time.

Now the reason I planned such a chill day for you’ll is because I’m asking you’ll to get party ready and head to Cohiba in North Goa for a night of dancing and sangrias (or whatever you prefer). This place is LIT especially on weekends. If you want a detailed guide on all the other things you can do in North Goa, then here are the  5 Best Beaches & Food Spots You Can Visit In North Goa .

Once you’re done partying, save up some energy to go late night shopping at the Anjuna Flea Market. With a range of knick knacks, jewellery, clothes and more – there’s lots to buy from here.

Day 3: Explore Panjim & Dona Paula

Get Mesmerised By The Beauty Of Dona Paula Chill at Miramar Beach Eat At Ritz Classic Shop At Panjim Market Visit the Floating Casinos

Panjim is the very heart of Goa. It’s the perfect mix of beaches, shopping, food, architecture, narrow winding lanes and more. Panjim is quite literally Goa’s heartbeat. Start your day by visiting Dona Paula. Blessed with a spectacular 360 view, it’s the perfect picture point of Goa.

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

From Dona Paula, make your way to Miramar Beach. Miramar and Dona Paula are where most of the affluent people of Goa stay and you’ll notice the difference in the wider lanes and the tree canopied roads. Soak in the sights and sights and make your way for a hearty lunch at Ritz Classic. You have to have their authentic, drool worthy fish thali. Just writing about it makes me want to have it!

With a full tummy and a fuller heart, head to Panjim market. It’s got the cutest knick knacks, Mario Miranda paintings, beautiful tiles and a lot more. In the night, indulge in one of Goa’s many floating casinos. Some ships have an entry charge while some don’t. You can check the numerous options available.

Day 4: Head To South Goa

Visit Salaulim Dam Cabo De Rama Eat At Martin’s Explore Palolem & Agonda Enjoy A Silent Party

View this post on Instagram If i could encapsulate all my joy and present it in one picture, this would be it. Sun, sand & waves. Pretty much, life goals! . . . . . . . #ilovesherayne #sunsets #sunset_hub #orange #girl #silhouette #beachlover #beach #goa #swim #sunset_pics #igersdaily #igers #happiness #travelphotography #beachphotography #instadaily A post shared by Natasha Monteiro (@ayewhatmen) on Feb 6, 2020 at 8:19pm PST

South Goa is that part of Goa that went abroad and got firang wala education. It’s softer, quieter, cleaner and definitely way more peaceful from the hustle & bustle of North Goa. South Goa is that part of Goa that not many people talk about, and so you tend to miss it in the mix. It doesn’t belong to the typical Goa stereotype of loud music, parties, clubs and a line of restaurants catering more to the rest of India than offering authentic Goan cuisine. Fair warning: South Goa is not for everyone and that’s okay. I’ve met a lot of people who visited South Goa and got bored out of their minds. And then again I’ve met a range of people (myself included) who have fallen in love with this magical, mystical side of Goa that will steal your heart away.

If you want to check out a detailed guide to South Goa, then do take a look at the  5 Best Places & Tourist Spots You Can Visit In South Goa .

Start your day by visiting the beautiful Salaulim Dam. It’s indeed a sight to behold and one of the best spots in South Goa for families and kids.

View this post on Instagram Mesmerising sight at the Salaulim Dam in Sanguem, Goa ? ? @dr_sujay27 A post shared by Goa (@goa) on Jul 16, 2018 at 2:45am PDT

What’s Goa without its forts? From Salaulim Dam, make your way to Cabo De Rama fort. This Fort was built by the local Soonda rulers but was overtaken & modernized by the Portugese in 1763. Sandwiched comfortably between Agonda & Cavelossim beach. Attached to the fort is a tiny 500 meter long Cabo de Rama beach. The fort is an ideal place to catch the sunset. The fort itself is spread over 18000 square meters and is presently in ruins, but given its picturesque location is still worth a visit and some cool photos. You can also visit the St Antonio church nearby that still has services every Sunday.

View this post on Instagram Day 51 #tropicalvibes #caboderama #goa A post shared by Sarah ? (@neverendingtravelst0ry) on May 11, 2020 at 9:42am PDT

Settle in to South Goa and stay over at Palolem Beach. This wonder is the laid back side of Goa and is just so stunning. You can walk up and down the beach, climb rocks and ride your way down to Agonda. This one is my FAVOURITE spot in all of Goa and to be honest, I’m in two minds as I write this out. Palolem is that gem of Goa that wasn’t even discovered by Indian tourists until a few years ago. Even today, Palolem gets relatively lesser tourists and is an absolute delight to the senses. It has one of the cleanest and calmest beaches in all of the South. The water is relatively shallow and the beach itself is a sight to behold.

Day 5: Chill In Goa Like The Locals

You know what makes Goa so unique? It’s the susegaad life. Susegaad literally translates to lazing around and doing nothing and that’s literally what Goa is all about. Eating, drinking and chilling! So on day 5 of your Goa itinerary, we’re recommending a day spent by the beach lazing and chilling while you sip on some delicious Kings beer.

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How to spend 5 days in Goa – A perfect itinerary

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Are you planning a trip to Goa and thinking how to spend 5 days in Goa? We have curated a perfect Goa itinerary for you to experience a fun-filled time in Goa.

Our Goa itinerary will show what to do in Goa, where to sleep, great beaches and how to make most of your holiday. After all Goa is all about making memories!

With a perfect blend of Indian and Portuguese culture, beach and water sports, relaxation and a nightlife, we bet, Goa will create an urge in you to return again and make some “more” memories! 

Yes, we know it’s hard to be in Goa only for 5 days and making a short itinerary for Goa is unnerving, however, our perfect Goa itinerary will let you experience the place to the fullest!  

Goa is a perfect fusion of beaches, trance parties, lip-smacking food, history and Indo-Portuguese culture.

Alawyersvoyage Goa

Central Goa  is historic and  home to capital Panjim. It has ancient glorious churches, bird sanctuaries, spice plantations and western ghats.

North Goa  is the Goa that you all have heard so much about! It has busy beaches, night parties, Goan trance, hippie markets, scrumptious food options and yoga retreats. The famous beaches like Baga, Calangute, Anjuna, Vagator are in North Goa.

South Goa is the state’s tranquil region with whiter, cleaner and quieter beaches including some sightseeing attractions.

Places covered

This sample itinerary covers Old Goa, North Goa and South Goa.

Getting there

Air:  Goa’s Debolim Airport is connected by several domestic flights and some international flights.

Train : Konkan Railway is the main train line connecting through the state. There are about 41 trains from Mumbai.

Bus: There are many private transit services that runs regularly to/from main hubs like Margao, Panaji or both.

Day-wise itinerary 

Depending upon your interest and time, you can follow the sample itinerary below.

Day -1 :  Explore Old Goa

Alawyersvoyage Se Cathedral Goa

Se Cathedral Goa. Image Credit: Heritage Hotels of India

Considered as “Rome of East”, old Goa is a historical city in North Goa district.

1. Basilica of Bom Jesus (7:30 am to 6:30 pm) :  It holds the tomb and mortal remains of St Francis Xavier.

2. Se Cathedral (9am to 6pm) : The largest Church in Asia.

 3.  Archeological Museum (9am to 5pm) : It houses sculptures from some Hindu temple sites, sati stones.

4. Church of St Francis of Assisi (9am to 5pm) : A beautiful roman catholic church sharing the (same) compound with Se Cathedral.

Day -2 & 3 :  Explore North Goa

Alawyersvoyage Fort Aguada Goa

Fort Aguada Goa. Image Credit- Goa Tourism

Sights and Activities

Explore the Candolim, Calangute, Baga, Morjim, Vagator beaches. Anjuna, Baga and Vagator are common choices for North Goa. If you are a water baby and adventurous, do not miss to visit Candolim and Sinquerim beaches to enjoy the following sights and activities:

1. Fort Aguada (Candolim Beach) : Fort Aguada Overlooks Mandovi river and highly popular for watching sunset spot.

2. Reis Magos Fort : This 16 th  century restored fort offers river and sea views. Reis Maos Fort is owned by Goa government.

3 .  Sequerim Dolphin Trips : One hour dolphin-spotting and sightseeing tour near Fort Aguada. Check website .

4 .  Dive Goa : Diving Centre in Candolim. Check website .

5. Dudhsagar Falls: Perched in the high peaks, this place 65 Kms from Calangute and 60 Kms from Panaji.

Alawyersvoyage Dolphin trips Goa

Dolphin Tour. Image Credit: Aquasports

1. If you are travelling as a couple or even smaller group, we recommend you to stay in Portuguese style villas, which will give you, local feel. You may check Shunya Noi Varo .

2. If you are in Goa on a Wednesday, you cannot miss “ Anjuna Flea Market ”. 

3. Nightlife: North Goa has some of best of the nightclubs!

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

Accommodation 

North Goa has several accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury!

Our favourites picks are: a family run guesthouse Bougainvillea  , Sinquerim  ( INR 3000-6000 plus taxes ); Portuguese architecture styled  Siolim House Heritage Boutique Hotel   ( INR 9000 onwards plus taxes ); luxury with ayurvedic regime Pousada Tauma ,  Calangute ( $ 350 – $ 500 plus taxes ); the heritage hotel Casa Anjuna,     Anjuna ( INR 7000- 14000 plus taxes ); one of the most popular backpacker’s hotels,  Jungle Hostel ,   Vagator (INR 500 – 1500 plus taxes); lovely beach resort   Montego Bay Beach Village , Morjim (INR 6000- 9000 plus taxes).   

Day 4 – Explore unusual side of Goa

Alawyersvoyage Mhadei-Wildlife-Sanctuary

Mhadei-Wildlife-Sanctuary. Image credit- Goa leisure

1 .  Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary:  Evergreen forest and wide range of wildlife makes this Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary  a paradise for wildlife lovers. Located in the North Goa district, this wildlife sanctuary is a protected area in Goa.  If you are a bird lover, you can also visit Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary , Goa’s only bird sanctuary.

 2.  Crocodile watching tour :   One of the off beat things to do in Goa, jump on to the boat and go crocodile watching  in Camburjua. The Camburjua canal connects 2 main rivers of Goa-  Mandovi and Zuari.

 3.  Go Kayaking and Cruising : Go kayaking in Goa and explore the off beaten and non-touristy Goan backwaters. Check Adventure Breaks .

Cost : INR 1000 onwards per person; duration: 2 hours.

Where : Bambolin Beach.

Go cruising! What’s the point of visiting Goa if you have not seen its beautiful sunrises and sunsets? Soak yourself into stunning views and go cruising with Konkan Explorers . Konkan Explorers combines cursing and maritime sports for a distinctive experience.

Cost :INR 3000 per person; duration 3 hours.

Where : Morjim beach.

 4.  Spice Plantations :  Get close to nature and breathe aroma of fresh spices! While there are many plantation farms, our favorite pick is Sahakari Spice Farms , one of the most popular attractions and a unique place wherein they offer the guests a bathing with elephants!

Cost : INR 400 adults and INR 200 for kids below 8 years.

Where : Ponda Belgaum Highway, Curti, Ponda, Goa. About 17 kms from North Goa.

5.  Divar Island : Isolated from the main island, surrounded by Mandovi river, this place is connected by a ferry boat from Old Goa. Marshy waters, narrow lanes and non-touristy, this island is a choice if you are looking for serenity in Goa. While we agree that there’s nothing much to do here, nevertheless, we strongly recommend this place if you want to taste the flavour of rural Goa, watch  different species of birds that you have probably never seen before and stay in typical Portuguese villas!

Where : Old Goa. Near Chorao island. 10 Kms from Panjim; 22 Kms from Mapusa.

Getting there : Can be reached by ferry only. You can pick for one of the three ferry options available, which is free of cost.

Alawyersvoyage Divar Island Goa

Divar Island Goa. Image Credit- Itsgoa

If you wish to reach south side of Divar island, take ferry that runs from Old Goa (near Viceroy’s arch); While east side of Divar island is connected to Naroa, Bicholim district,  there is another ferry, which operates, from Ribandar from south west of Divar from 7:00 am to 8 pm everyday .

Day 5 – Explore South Goa beaches and some watersport activities

Alawyersvoyage Scuba Diving Goa

Scuba Diving Goa- Image Credit Aquasports

  Sights and   Activities

South Goa has stunning range of beaches, luxury resorts and good shacks!

1. Varca beach : One of the most popular beaches in South Goa.

2. Palolem beach (palm groves and shacks): This is the most attractive and lively beach of South Goa. Stay in cool huts under the palm tress and enjoy the nightlife.

3. Betalbatim : Beautiful stretches of golden sand.   Do not miss to visit Martin’s Corner for some amazing Goan delicacy and live music.

 4.  Agonda : A very picturesque beach, between Palolem and Cola beach.

5. Sernabatim: Known for its tranquil and azure water, Sernabatim is a beautiful, less crowded beach of South Goa. This is an extension of Cola beach.

6. Scuba diving : Check Shanti Divers .

   Where : Palolem Beach.

   Cost : INR 4000 (For beginners).

   When : October to May.

 7.  Sailing/Kayaking/Standup Paddle boarding : Check  Sahasea .

  Where: Hollant beach .

 Cost : Depending upon the service provider (and the season) INR 800 onwards.

8.  Moonlight Kayaking : Enjoy this adventurous kayaking experience when the sun goes down with only moonlight to guide you! Each boat has a flicker light to locate it in the dark.

Where : Bambolim beach.

Cost : Depending upon the service provider (and the season), INR 2,100 onwards; 2 Hours.

 When : For 8 days in every month, depending upon the waxing phase (or lunar cycle) of the Moon.

Alawyersvoyage Moonlight-Kayaking

Moonlight-Kayaking

If you are looking for some secluded beach options, visit butterfly beach (concealed beach of Goa), Cola beach (enjoy safari tents) and Polem beach (clear water and fit for a swim).

We have shortlisted some of the unique, budget friendly / luxury places to stay in South Goa.

Our favourite picks are: Ciarans , Palolem beach ( INR 3000 onwards ); a boutique style 13 room hotel Banyan Tree Courtyard   ( INR 2400  onwards );  Beleza By the Beach Resort , Betalbatim beach (INR 6500 onwards); an exclusive tented resort Cola Beach Resort , Cola beach (INR 6000  onwards);   Dwarka Eco Beach Resort ,  Cola beach (INR 12000 onwards) ; an exclusive sea facing cottages with a private beach  The Cape Goa , Canaguinim  (INR 14000 onwards); with sweeping views of paddy fields  Alila Diwa , Majorda (INR 20,000 onwards) . 

When to Go?

November to February : Pleasant weather to relax on the beach.

March to May : Carnival and Easter festivals (Till April) are in full swing. All major beach shacks and restaurants are open. Most importantly, if you do not mind Goan heat temperature raising to 32°- 34°C, you will have lots of fun!

June to September : This is a typical monsoon season and Goa is beautiful during monsoon with green patchwork all over it! The place does not close completely but it’s a lot quieter. Therefore, if you wish to enjoy the more local side of Goa, then this is the time.

Getting Around 

Rent a bike or a car, depending upon your budget and number of people. Alternatively, you may ask your hotel for hiring a cab driver.

Tip:  Renting a bike in Goa is quite cheap. The per day  cost of Honda Activa is around INR 300-350, Vespa INR 350, Yamaha Motorbikes around INR 600-700, Harley Davidson Street 750 about INR 3000. On weekends (Fri-Sunday), the price increases to about INR 100-200 per day depending upon the type of bike.   

Read our blog on the best nightclubs, shacks and restaurants that you must visit when in Goa .  

We hope this is useful for you. If you any questions or suggestions then feel free to connect with us. Go Goa Gone! 🙂

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Amazing ! We love that you have put out even timings ,these sights are open for visitors. So detailed and planned… Now just waiting to land , this time a new kind of Goa visit !!!

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We are so glad you found this useful! Happy Goa! 🙂

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15 Top-Rated Attractions and Places to Visit in Goa

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Mar 6, 2023

With golden-sand beaches, tangled palm trees touching the sky, and a relaxed atmosphere, Goa stands in stark contrast from the other bustling urban destinations in India. Even just a short visit to this beach paradise feels like a vacation within a vacation. The beauty and serenity of Goa will rejuvenate you, while its robust calendar of events and activities give you plenty of things do to during your free time.

Popular coastal hot spots, like Colva Beach and Palolem Beach , draw tourists to Goa from around the world. But beaches are just the beginning of what makes Goa one of the most beloved places to visit in India. The destination also has unique Portuguese-influenced cuisine , historical churches and temples , vibrant wildlife , and fascinating spice farms . No matter how long you spend in Goa, you'll wish you had a few extra days to explore.

For more ideas to help plan your trip to India, see our list of the top tourist attractions in Goa.

1. Popular Beaches

2. beaches off the beaten path, 3. tanshikar's working spice farm, 4. portuguese-indian restaurants, 5. basilica de bom jesus, 6. dudhsagar falls, 7. anjuna market, 8. church of our lady of the immaculate conception, 9. braganza house, 10. mahadev temple, 11. palácio do deão, 12. mangeshi temple, 13. fontainhas, 14. bhagwan mahavir wildlife sanctuary, 15. reis magos fort, map of attractions and places to visit in goa, goa, india - climate chart.

Palolem Beach

Beaches play a starring role among the attractions in Goa, contributing to why it's one of the best places to visit in India .

Nearly every tourist who visits the area spends a day at Palolem Beach , a crescent-shaped stretch of white sand that overlooks the Arabian Sea in south Goa. While simply hanging out and soaking up the scenery is a perfect way to enjoy this beautiful area, Palolem Beach also offers an array of activities to fill your time. Choose from kayaking , yoga classes , dolphin-sightseeing trips, and swimming . You can also spend the night in one of Palolem's rustic coco huts , which are erected at the start of the high season.

Colva Beach is another one of the most famous beaches in Goa , especially among Indian tourists. It has swaying palms and a broad stretch of bronze sand, where you'll occasionally see herds of cows sunbathing next to tourists. You can rent Jet Skis , hop on a thrilling banana boat ride , and get a bird's-eye view of the beach on a parasailing adventure.

Homestay accommodations in the area will give you an authentic local-style experience – plus easy access to Colva Beach.

Sunset at Utorda Beach

While known for their spectacular scenery, the popular beaches in Goa tend to get crowded during high season, leaving some travelers eager for a quieter natural escape. Fortunately, Goa brims with undiscovered beach attractions and things to do that give you some distance from the throngs of tourists while still treating you to glorious sand and surf.

One of the best hidden gems in Goa is Butterfly Beach. It has a curving expanse of sand flanked by boulders that create a postcard-worthy cove, brimming with butterflies and blossoms. It's also a great spot to watch dolphins swim in the distance.

You'll need to embark on a boat ride from Palolem Beach or Agonda Beach, or tackle a challenging forest hike, to reach Butterfly Beach – but the obstacles to getting here help to thin out the crowds. You might even have the place to yourself.

While more developed than Butterfly Beach, Utorda Beach is another stunning getaway from the more crowded beaches around Goa. It features clean, blue water; silky sand; and a few small beach shacks. Look closely as you wade in the water, and you may spot some small starfish .

Nutmeg, mace, and curry leaf, Tanshikar Spice Farm, Goa

South India has been known for its abundance of spices, like black pepper, cardamom, and cloves, for centuries. In fact, these natural flavorings were a major appeal for Portuguese traders who came to Goa hundreds of years ago.

Tourists can see what the local spice scene is all about by touring Tanshikar's Working Spice Farm & Ecological Rest House . This agritourism attraction grows seven different spices: pepper, vanilla, nutmeg, turmeric, cardamom, and chili, using totally organic farming methods.

Tours of the farm, often led by its owner, will give you an in-depth understanding of these flavor-charged crops and a chance to see some of the other products, like betelnut, coffee beans, pineapple, and banana, grown on the premises. Tanshikar's also keeps bees and produces its own all-natural honey.

Spice farm tours aren't the only fun thing to do at Tanshikar's. Guests can also take a vegetarian cooking class , visit a bubbly lake , trek to Mainapi Waterfall, and train to become a yoga teacher. It's an attraction that has something for everyone.

Address: Netravali, near Smriti Yoga, Sanguem, Goa

Official site: http://www.tanshikarspicefarm.com/

Goan coconut fish curry

Food is a major attraction in Goa. This part of India has a distinctive cuisine that blends Portuguese and Goan flavors, setting it apart from all the other food around India. Expect fiery flavors, fresh-caught seafood, and an abundance of coconut in the dishes.

You can't leave Goa without trying its signature dish, vindaloo, a super-hot meat curry made with palm vinegar and dried red chili peppers. Hospedaria Venite in the capital of Goa, Panaji , wows tourists with its mouthwatering vindaloo. Dominick, a Benaulim Beach mainstay, is another favorite spot for vindaloo – plus it offers front-row seats for world-class sunsets.

Another Goan specialty is xacuti, a rich curry with poppy seeds, chili, and coconut. Try it at Souza Lobo , a beachfront restaurant in Calangute , or Fat Fish , a well-trafficked spot in Baga.

Tourists hankering for some fresh seafood are spoiled for choice around Goa. Zeebop , on Utorda Beach , offers delightful fish curry, prawn stew, and mackerel doused with spicy red sauce.

You also can't go wrong with dinner at Copperleaf. The upscale restaurant in Porvorim has a fish thali that you'll be dreaming about long after you've finished.

Basilica de Bom Jesus

While many tourists visit Goa for the beaches, countless others consider the trip to be a pilgrimage to important religious sites, like the Basilica de Bom Jesus.

This Old Goa attraction dates back to the late 16th century and contains the remains of the St. Francis Xavier . The "Apostle of the Indies" co-founded the Society of Jesus religious order with friend St. Ignatius Loyola and spearheaded an extensive mission in India. The basilica has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.

The modest yet imposing structure is a mix of Doric, Corinthian, and Baroque style with intricate carvings. Interestingly, the building was stripped of its lime plaster in the mid-20th century, making it the only church in Goa without plaster. The Basilica de Bom Jesus has since become worn by monsoons.

You can tour the church on your own, or hire one of the independent guides near the entrance for a small fee. Inside, you can see huge ornamental screens, along with the body of the resident saint in a casket that was once covered in precious stones. It's a compelling place that will transport you back in time.

Every year, the Feast of St. Francis Xavier draws big crowds to this church in late November and early December. It kicks off with a nine-day novena and open-air masses before concluding with the major holiday on Dec. 3.

Address: Old Goa Road, Bainguinim, Goa

Dudhsagar Falls

Aquatic adventures go beyond the beach in Goa. The state is also home to Dudhsagar Falls, a spectacular four-tiered waterfall that towers some 310 meters above the earth. It's one of India's tallest waterfalls and a perpetually popular attraction for day trips around Goa and Karnataka .

To reach the falls, you'll need to make your way to the village of Colem by taxi or train. Depending on which train route you take, you may get a glimpse of Dudhsagar Falls along the way. Then, you'll hop aboard a shared jeep through the jungle, passing Devil's Canyon along the way. Around 45 minutes later, you'll scurry over some boulders to finally reach the falls.

The best time to visit Dudhsagar Falls is right after the monsoon , when the water is gushing. Tourists who wish to take a dip can rent a life jacket from vendors at the attraction.

Hot tip: Only 300 jeeps are allowed to enter Dudhsagar Falls every day, although tour operators have been requesting to increase the capacity during high season. Make reservations in advance, or prepare to wait in long lines if you wish to visit.

Anjuna Market

Goa is home to a ton of markets, but none offer the liveliness or selection of products found at Anjuna Market. For roughly 50 years, hundreds of vendors have been setting up shop on Anjuna Beach every Wednesday to tempt free-spirited travelers with hippy-inspired trinkets and souvenirs.

Ornate textiles, woven bikinis, sculptures of deities, dreamcatchers, hammocks, magnets, t-shirts with sassy slogans, beaded jewelry, toys – you name it, you can probably buy it here.

But even if you don't want to shop, you should still make a point to visit Anjuna Market for the sightseeing. The flea market is a swirling array of colorful wares, salespeople driving hard bargains, big bags of fresh spices, and street food galore. The vibe alone is one of the reasons why Anjuna Market is one of the top places to visit in Goa.

Address: 10 St. Michael's Vaddo South, Anjuna, Goa

Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

Make your way to the laid-back city of Panaji to visit another one of Goa's historic churches: The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.

The pristine white church, which dates back to the early 17th century, stands atop a zig-zagging staircase that resembles the tiers of a wedding cake. Its perfectly symmetrical Portuguese Baroque architecture is a sight to behold. At night, twinkle lights make the church look like something out of a fairy tale.

While not ornate, the church's interior boasts bright, colorful decorations. Tourists can see the elegant main altar (dedicated to Mary, mother of Jesus) and gilded pillars with elaborate carvings. Vines of blue and white blossoms often adorn parts of the vaulted ceiling around various holidays.

Dec. 8 marks the Festival of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception , a major holiday at this church. Swing by to see it decked out in tons of colorful lights.

Address: Rua Emídio Garcia, Altinho, Panaji, Goa

Braganza House

See what houses in Goa looked like during the 17th century at Braganza House, a historical mansion that flanks the village square in Chandor. It's divided into an east and west wing, both of which are available for tourists to poke around at their leisure.

The east wing is home to members of the Pereira-Braganza family. It boasts a massive ballroom with an impressive marble floor, along with a small chapel that contains one of St. Francis Xavier's fingernails. This part of Braganza House also brims with antiques and international artifacts.

The western side preserves the original grandeur of Braganza House. Owned by the Menezes-Braganças, the museum-like space features an expansive library with 5,000 leather-bound books from the private collection of journalist Luis de Menezes Braganza, who played an important role in the Goan independence movement. Tourists can also see breathtaking Belgian glass chandeliers, antique portraits of the family, and Chinese porcelain.

Address: Guddi-Chandor Road, Culsabhatt, Chandor, Goa

Mahadev Temple

Located just 12 kilometers north of Molem , Mahadev Temple gives tourists a chance to see a structure that has been standing since the 12th century. Its remote location helped it survive centuries of conquests by the Portuguese and Muslim colonialists. Legend has it that the black basalt temple , which was built to honor Lord Shiva, has a resident king cobra. Step inside to see the detailed work of artisan carvers, including the lotus flower on the ceiling.

If Braganza House got you excited, just wait until you see Palácio do Deão. The 200-plus-year-old palace in Quepem has been restored to its original glory. It features a blend of Indian and Portuguese architecture. Tourists are welcome to explore the heritage home, including its game room and library filled with rare tomes.

The property also features sweeping tropical gardens that make for a pleasant place to spend the afternoon. Consider making reservations in advance for afternoon tea on the terrace.

Address: Opposite Holy Cross Church, Quepem, Goa

Official site: http://www.palaciododeao.com/

Mangeshi Temple

Goa's unique culture and heritage are on full display at Mangeshi Temple, a beautiful spiritual attraction that's been standing for roughly 450 years. The pastel blue, gold, and white temple features a seven-story tower that pays homage to one of the Hindu god Shiva's many incarnations: Manguesh. The temple structures surround a sacred pool of water , which is thought to be the most historic part of this religious site.

You can watch devotees perform pujas (worship rituals) at the temple every day. If you happen to be there on a Monday, you can watch the Manguesh idol taken out for a procession, complete with music, in the late afternoon or early evening.

Address: Dinanath Mangeshkar Road, Mangeshi Village, Mardol, Goa

Colorful buildings in Fontainhas

Lace up your most comfortable pair of walking shoes and head to Panjim for a stroll around Fontainhas, one of Asia's only Latin quarters . Once the headquarters for the Portuguese government in Goa, the UNESCO-recognized Heritage Zone features colonial houses and cottages decked out with pastel and fluorescent façades. Each of the houses get a fresh coat of paint after the monsoon season every year, ensuring that they always look vibrant for visitors. Don't miss the district's namesake Fountain of Phoenix.

You can explore the area on your own, or book a walking tour for a more in-depth look at the history of this fascinating neighborhood. Either way, you'll definitely work up an appetite as you wander the narrow cobblestone streets and snap photos in front of the candy-colored buildings. Refuel at one of the decades-old cafés or bakeries in the neighborhood. Confeitaria 31 de Janeiro , a bakery near Mary Immaculate School, is known for having a wide selection of tasty Goan cakes and sweets.

Macaque in the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

Wildlife lovers should put Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary at the top of their Goa travel plans. The state's largest protected wildlife area, which spans 240 square kilometers and is also home to Molem National Park , is home to all kinds of amazing creatures, including the black leopard, Bengal tiger, Malabar giant squirrel, wild boar, slender loris, Indian rock python , and ruby-throated yellow bulbul (Goa's state bird).

Hiring a guide through a travel agent, and visiting the sanctuary in the early morning or late evening increases your chances at catching a glimpse of these animals. During the daytime, you can see the natural wonders of Dudhsagar Falls and Devil's Canyon . You can also check out the Tambdi Surla Temple , a temple that has survived since the 12th century, thanks to its remote location in the forest. The structure is adorned with intricate carvings of the Hindu gods Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma.

Cannon at Reis Magos Fort

Dating back to 1493, Reis Magos Fort was once a defense structure aimed at protecting the area's then-capital, Goa Velha. Today, the fort is a top attraction in Goa for tourists looking to take a break from the beaches and dive into the state's fascinating history.

The site has a storied past not only as a military outpost, but also as a hospital and a jail. Tourists can see cannons, a small museum exhibit on the fort's history, and jaw-dropping views of the Mandovi River .

After your visit, head to the town's other famous attraction: Reis Magos Church. The pristine white church is one of just a handful of churches in Goa that has processions and re-enactments for the Feast of the Three Kings (Epiphany). Inside the structure, you can see an impressive multi-colored wood relief of a scene that depicts the Three Wise Men handing gifts to the Baby Jesus.

Address: Nerul-Reis Margos Road, beside Three Kings Church, Bardez, Verem, Goa

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Goa Itinerary | Top Activities & Things to See During a 5-Day Holiday

Goa offers travelers so much to see and do that it’s helpful to map out an itinerary to ensure visits to all the best places. Goa , of course, is world famous for its majestic beaches on the Arabian Sea . Visitors come to enjoy scuba, snorkeling, jet skiing, parasailing, and relaxing on powdery white sands. However, Goa has so much more to offer travelers with its cultural and historic attractions and natural attractions situated off the beach. When visiting, travelers will want to plan excursions to some of Goa ’s old forts, spice plantations, and animal sanctuaries if time permits.

Anyone planning to travel to Goa should check out Agoda to book Goa hotels near the best attractions of the state. Goa boasts a wide range of hotels and villas in close proximity to its most celebrated beaches. To find the best deals on luxury resorts or budget-friendly hotels, travelers can book their accommodations in Goa with Agoda.

Getting Around Goa

Getting Around Goa

To get around Goa , travelers have several public and private transportation options. Whether flying into Goa or traveling there by train, vacationers can take public buses to its most popular beaches and towns or opt for taxi service. Travelers in search of a luxury experience can hire a chauffeur with a private car to transport them during their stay. There are also budget-friendly options such as renting a car or scooter to visit the sites. For local travel throughout Panjim , for example, rickshaw service and bicycle rentals are also popular.

Goa Itinerary for 3 Days

Goa Itinerary for 3 Days

If you’re planning on a short visit to Goa , this 3-day itinerary will ensure that you visit the best attractions of North Goa . Tourists flock to the beaches of North Goa because of their fun party scene and myriad of nearby restaurants, hotels, and shopping venues. Although South Goa boasts equally stunning beaches, it’s best suited for vacationers in search of a quieter vacation without the all-night party scene.

Day 1: Explore North Goa Beaches

Day 1: Explore North Goa Beaches

The beaches of North Goa attract vacationers from all over the globe. Many are highly developed with plenty of amenities like beach chairs and showers as well as nearby restaurants and cafes. The following are among Goa ’s not-to-be-missed beaches and are celebrated for their beauty and exciting water sports.

Calangute Beach

Calangute Beach is the star of Goa , which might be why it’s referred to as the ‘queen of beaches’. Just a few miles from the capital of Panaji , Calangute Beach is easily accessible and home to a wide array of upscale and budget-friendly hotels. Visitors to the beach enjoy swimming, water skiing, snorkeling, and other water sports. Banana boat rides and sailing excursions to see dolphins are also popular here.

Located near Calangute Beach , Baga Beach is also a popular tourist destination with its picturesque stretch of coast and exciting water sports. Windsurfing and parasailing are popular pastimes here. Visitors will also find a wealth of restaurants and shops in close proximity to the beach.

Querim Beach

While many of North Goa ’s beaches get crowded, especially during peak tourist season between December – April, Querim Beach tends to remain quiet and more relaxed. Visitors enjoy shady palm trees and gentle waves. Parasailing and jet skiing are also popular activities here.

Dona Paula Beach

Dona Paula Beach is famed for its exciting water sports activities. In addition to water skiing and jet skiing, activities like kayaking, windsurfing, parasailing, yachting, and sport fishing are popular with vacationers.

Anjuna Beach

In many respects, Anjuna Beach offers a quintessential Goa beach vacation experience. Having long been known for its ‘hippie’ scene, the beach boasts an exciting atmosphere with its youthful atmosphere, flea markets, and music.

Day 2: Culture and History Tour

Day 2: Culture and History Tour

Although Goa ’s beautiful beaches remain its most popular attractions, travelers will want to set aside time to visit some of the state’s best cultural and historic attractions. Many of these sites are located near the beach or Goa ’s major cities and towns. When designing your travel itinerary, don’t miss the following:

Located on the banks of the Mandovi River , Old Goa dates to the 15th century, but soon after its founding, it was taken over by the Portuguese and became an important center for the spice trade. Filled with Portuguese Colonial architecture, Old Goa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Chapora Fort

One of the best places to enjoy a Goa sunset, Chapora Fort overlooks the Arabian Sea from its location on the Chapora River . Constructed by Adil Shah in 1510, the historic fort is one of Goa ’s most visited historic attractions.

Aguada Fort

Aguada Fort juts into the sea near Panjim . This coastal attraction dates to the 17th century and was constructed by the Portuguese. Many visitors pair their fort visit with time at Sinquerim Beach .

Goa State Museum

To learn about Goa , visitors should head to the Goa State Museum , which is home to a substantial collection of regional artifacts and exhibits.

Museum of Christian Art

As one of the only museums of its kind in Asia, Goa ’s Museum of Christian Art is popular with tourists. It houses collections of paintings, textiles, sculpture, and more.

Basilica of Bom Jesus

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a major Goa attraction for foreign visitors. The basilica is noted for its Baroque exterior and as a pilgrimage point for Catholics. The basilica holds the remains of St. Xavier and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Fontainhas is Goa ’s popular Latin Quarter. Founded by the Portuguese during the 19th century, the area brims with colonial architecture as well as churches, shops, and restaurants that retain the Portuguese culinary influence.

Day 3: Shopping and Nightlife in Goa

Day 3: Shopping and Nightlife in Goa

Goa ’s cities and most popular beaches are celebrated for their nearby shopping centers and lively nightlife scene. Shopping at Goa ’s marketplaces for handicrafts and other souvenirs and dancing the night away at beach clubs are quintessential Goa pastimes.

Shopping Spots

There are several iconic shopping venues in Goa that shopaholics won’t want to miss. The Anjuna Flea Market , for example, is celebrated for its bohemian vibe and wide selection of textiles and souvenirs. The Panjim Market is another popular venue. Because it’s located in the capital, it’s easy to reach. Many travelers also flock to the Night Bazaar at Arpora for its evening ambience.

Nightlife Areas

Goa ’s popular nightlife areas are located near Calangute Beach , Baga Beach , and Anjuna Beach , but there are also celebrated clubs at other North Goa Beaches . However, travelers who like to club or bar hop will find these areas especially lively. Goa ’s clubs feature music, dancing, and loads of cocktails.

5 Days

Goa Itinerary for 5 Days

Visitors to Goa who are able to stay a week or longer can luxuriate in Goa ’s beautiful beaches and other scenic and cultural attractions. Goa boasts many restaurants that celebrate its diverse food heritage. Visitors who have more time to spend in Goa may want to book a boat charter to explore the coast or do some scuba diving. While many visitors confine their stay to the north, South Goa boasts a wide range of things to see and do. Its more relaxed and undeveloped beaches is ideal for travelers looking for a quiet vacation experience.

Day 4: Explore South Goa

Day 4: Explore South Goa

Visitors to Goa who are able to stay a week or longer will want to spend time in South Goa to enjoy its more pristine atmosphere. South Goa is known for its clean beaches and myriad of nature-inspired attractions. The following South Goa attractions are perfect for visitors looking for a full Goa travel experience.

South Goa Beaches

South Goa beaches are less crowded than the beaches of North Goa , which is precisely their draw for many vacationers. South Goa ’s beaches are no less beautiful; in fact, they’re known for their pristine charm and breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea . The following are among the most celebrated South Goa beaches:

  • Varca Beach – Varca Beach is known for its postcard-worthy setting. Noted as one of the cleanest beaches in Goa , Varca Beach retains its air of untouched beauty. Its proximity to Benaulim makes it easy to access.
  • Palolem Beach – Also revered for its unspoilt beauty, Palolem Beach is backed by a lush fringe of palm trees that enhances its aura of paradise. Visitors here enjoy relaxing on the beach and water sports.
  • Velsao Beach – Though a remote beach, Velsao Beach is worth checking out because of its untouched beauty. Rarely visited by tourists, it’s a romantic destination and perfect for travelers who want to avoid crowds.
  • Mobar Beach – Mobar Beach is well known for its water sports scene, but it’s also an area that is rich in biodiversity. Many people enjoy snorkeling and scuba here in order to witness its diverse marine ecosystem.
  • Cavelossim Beach – Known for its lava rocks, Cavelossim Beach is a picturesque setting where beach goers enjoy relaxing on the sand or visiting its area markets or the Holy Cross Church. Its quiet ambience is popular with families and couples looking for a relaxing getaway.
  • Butterfly Beach – Butterfly Beach is best reached by boat, but it’s worth the trek. This South Goa beach is named for its resident butterflies. The beach is small and uncrowded. Its idyllic scenery makes it another of Goa ’s most romantic beaches for couples.
  • Agonda Beach – Agonda Beach offers visitors to South Goa a more lively experience. Though still lovely and less crowded than many northern beaches, Agonda Beach features many nearby restaurants and hotels. It’s also a great place to catch a glimpse of resident Ridley turtles.

Temples and Museums

South Goa is also home to many museums and temples. The following are some of the region’s most revered sites:

  • Mangeshi Temple – Mangeshi Temple boasts stunning architecture with its white tower and colorful adjoining buildings. The site is an important pilgrimage destination for Hindu people as well as a major South Goa tourist attraction. Its annual festival in February is one of the best times to visit.
  • Shri Damodar Sansthaan Temple – Located quite inland from Goa ’s coast, the Shri Damodar Sansthaan Temple is, nevertheless, worth trekking to. The temple is located a few miles from the city of Margao . The temple is known for its stunning architecture and festivals.
  • Big Foot Museum – One of the best-loved museums in Goa , the Big Foot Museum features exhibits–including interactive displays–of rural Goa life. It also features collections of handicrafts and art for sale that are popular with tourists.
  • Chitra Museum – South Goa ’s Chitra Museum features more than 4,000 artifacts, including pottery, musical instruments, and more. The museum celebrates the cultural heritage of Goa with its artifacts and exhibits.

Day 5: Day Trips from Goa

Day 5: Day Trips from Goa

Getting off the beaten path is a great way to get to know the state of Goa . Fortunately, there are some far-flung attractions that make it well worth the time to reach. The following are some terrific day trip options for visitors to Goa .

Dudhsagar Falls

With its four tiers and 1,000 feet, Dudhsagar Falls is one of Goa ’s most iconic scenic sites. The falls are the tallest in all of India. Located in Mollem National Park , they are just one of many natural attractions to enjoy. Visitors to the falls and surrounding park enjoy hiking and witnessing the diverse range of flora and fauna.

Chorla Ghat

The Chorala Ghat area is famous for its mountain landscapes and subtropical forests. Not surprisingly, the area attracts wildlife biologists from all over the world. Within the area, there are many treks, making this a must-visit site for hikers and eco-tourists.

Often dubbed the ‘adventure capital of South Goa ’, Dandeli is just over the border in the state of Karnataka. Visitors to Dandeli enjoy rafting the Kali River and exploring the Dandeli Wildlife Reserve , a great place to catch glimpses of leopards and rare equatorial birds.

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best places to visit in goa in 5 days

A 5 Day Travel Guide to Goa, India

Photo of Prashi

Dropping off the tourist radar, I painted a lyrical Goa dotted with boutique charms and bursting with bespoke treasures.

Goa inexplicably exploded into the international consciousness – and in the minds of young Indians – on a single evening, New Year’s Eve 2001. All over the world, people learnt that this beachside slice of the Konkan was the hedonistic party destination of the subcontinent. And overnight, the tourism floodgates opened up for good.

WALK OF LIFE

For my guests and friends, I always recommend that the journey off the beaten track start in Old Panjim, the charming 19th century neighborhoods which together constitute the largest and most significant Latin Quarter in Asia, and one of the unsung gems of Indian architectural heritage. Here, many houses are still maintained by the families that built them, connected through the generations by a sophisticated, cosmopolitan living culture that tourists rarely glimpse. But you’re in luck because Dr. Luis Dias, whose family home is the historic old Mint House of the Estado da India, conducts exclusive bespoke tours of his waterfront locality, which culminates in a visit to his stunning heritage residence.

Similar walks are offered on appointment by Jack Sukhija, proprietor of the Panjim Inn heritage hotel complex. Rooms are available in ‘Hindu Colonial’ and ‘Catholic colonial’ houses, but I recommend the unique, antique-filled suites carved out of the People’s High School.

Photo of Panjim, Goa, India by Prashi

Wendell Rodricks Showroom

BLUE SUEDE SHOESEqually inventive, the ‘adaptive reuse’ of heritage buildings has given Panjim several individualistic boutiques that are all worth visiting. Apart from the one by Goan Designer Wendell Rodricks, model Sacha Mendes has curated a charming selection of garments and objects d’art in a tiny corner of her ancestral mansion in central Panjim. And in the Latin Quarter is the more modestly priced Syne, which houses the spirited creations of local designer Syne Coutinho

Photo of Wendell Rodricks Showroom, Panjim, Goa, India by Prashi

Fort Aguada Road

But when the first five star hotel, Taj Fort Aguada (now Vedanta by Taj), had opened in 1974, it was thought to be a highly risky bet. Conventional wisdom held that foreigners wouldn’t travel this far for a seaside holiday, and also that Indians would always remain solar phobes. So while that first resort dominated a pristine arc of beach, every other strip of sand in Goa was gloriously empty: no shacks, no touts, no rooms for rent. Hard to believe, isn’t it?

All that changed rapidly when mass tourism took off. Without adequate planning in place, a veritable tsunami of concrete haphazardly overwhelmed much of the once – beautiful shoreline.

Now Goa goes 24 hours, 365 days a year, cramming in almost three million tourists annually, more than doubling its population all through the high season. Now dozens of flights pour into the state from across India , and another thousand charters annually connect the state to a bewildering array of countries: Iran , Ukraine , Finland , and Taiwan .

But even as the rustic has become overshadowed by rush hour, the fact is that most of Goa’s original charms are resolutely intact if you know where to look. Step slightly beyond the blinking neon of the main tourist drags, and a beguiling, diverse and unique cultural landscape unfolds right in front of you.

And there’s a song at every turn.

Candolim Beach

I greatly prefer it to most places ‘on the beach’, with the exception of Rockheart, the beachside retreat of late adman Frank Simoes and his family, which is nestled in a quiet nook of Mandolin beach. It’s remarkable how much of the original Goa experience remains intact behind the tall boundary walls of this truly private villa experience – it has only three rooms to let.

Enjoy the seclusion that reigns at local son Neville Proenca’s Pousada Tauma, the pioneering boutique hotel in Calangute which features one of the best Goan restaurants in the state. And do visit his rare oasis on the main North Goa beach drag from Aguada to Baga – Pousada By The Beach is an exquisite seaside eatery with a private patio surrounded by lush tropical plants.

Photo of Calangute, Goa, India by Prashi

‘THOSE LAZY HAZY CRAZY DAYS OF SUMMER’Right on the other side of Panjim is the charming O Pescador resort, perched on the water at Dona Paula where you can enjoy your solitude despite being within hailing distance of the city .

WILD THING As a father of three, I have come to greatly cherish the deep country peace still easily accessible in Goa. This is always particularly entertaining in the company of Rahul Alvares, the book writing, body-building snake rescuer who is one of the most experienced guides around. Rahul will consistently blow your mind with the marvels he unearths from every bush or thicket But if you prefer fish to birds, don’t hesitate to call Ajey Patil of Dive Goa, who is widely considered the best diving instructor in the country, particularly good with beginners and teens. He specializes in overnight trips to Netrani, an island 220km south of Goa where visibility is exceptionally good For large groups –especially those with seniors and children – there can be no treat more special than a private cruise on the 42ft motor yacht Solita. Up to 27 people can experience this luxury with a fully kitted lounge and pantry, and lots of seating on the fly bridge, front and rear decks

Photo of A 5 Day Travel Guide to Goa, India by Prashi

POUR SOME SUGAR The eating experience I share with my most discerning guests is lunch (reservations required 48 hours in advance with Dona Maria de Lourdes de Figueiredo de Albuquerque in the magnificent dining room of her private palace-turned – museum. It is a privileged immersion into the lifestyle and cuisine of the native Luso – Indian aristocracy that flitted easily between Lisbon, Macao, Sao Paulo and their south Goa holdings. Every aspect of the afternoon is highly enriching, capped by the hostess sinful home- made orange pudding. Like every good Goan, I have my favourite butcher, whose contact details I guard very closely. The meat man of my dreams happens to be a beefy Englishmen, Steven Barr of Arpora, whose bacon, bangers and burgers are hands down the best in India.

Photo of A 5 Day Travel Guide to Goa, India by Prashi

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1. Calangute Beach

Calangute Beach

10 km from city center 1 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located in : North Goa

Calangute is the largest beach in north Goa stretching from Candolim to Baga. It is a hub for tourists and backpackers as it is the perfect place to look for accommodation. It is known for the beach shacks and water sports like parasailing, water surfing, banana ride and jet-skiing.

2. Fort Aguada

Fort Aguada

6 km from city center 2 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Fort Aguada is a 17th-century Portuguese fort looking out at the confluence of Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea. The crumbling ramparts of the fort stand on the Sinquerim Beach. The highlight of the fort is a lone four-storey lighthouse (which is one-of-its-kind in Asia) and a stunning view of the sunset.

3. Cruise in Goa

Cruise in Goa

1 km from city center 3 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Cruise in Goa allows one to explore the exotic scenery, pristine waters and marvel the breathtaking view of the sunset. There are several types of cruises in Goa ranging from simple evening cruises, elaborate and romantic dinner cruises, backwater cruises, and casino cruises. All of these usually originate from Miramar Beach in Panjim.

4. Water Sports in Goa

Water Sports in Goa

26 km from city center 4 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Goa is a haven for water sports like kneeboarding, kite surfing, snorkelling, parasailing, paragliding, diving, and kayaking. The water sports in Goa can be enjoyed at any one of the beaches in the north or the south. You can also engage in your favorite activities through a number of licensed water sports package operators.

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3 Nights 4 Days Goa Holiday Tour Package

Time to unwind in goa, goa with amazing water sports fun, goa with family and kids, goa - winter special, offbeat tour package: chikmagalur, hampi & more with goa, 5. dudhsagar falls.

Dudhsagar Falls

52 km from city center 5 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located in : South Goa

One of India's tallest waterfalls, the Dudhsagar Falls is located inside the Mollem National Park. The Dudhsagar falls should be visited during the monsoon when it is in full flow and the surrounding deciduous forests are at their verdant best.

6. Anjuna Beach

Anjuna Beach

13 km from city center 6 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Anjuna Beach is among the most popular beaches in North Goa, stretching almost 2km. From family outings to adrenaline-filled adventures, Anjuna Beach is famed for its golden coastline, nightclubs, beach shacks, watersports, full-moon parties and flea markets.

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7. Chapora Fort

Chapora Fort

16 km from city center 7 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Chapora Fort is undeniably one of the most famous forts in Goa. More popularly known as the 'Dil Chahta Hai Fort', its claim to fame was the 2001 Bollywood blockbuster shot here. A scintillating escape, it offers beautiful views of the sea and Chapora River.

8. Thalassa

Thalassa

15 km from city center 8 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Thalassa- The Greek Taverna is one of the most popular restaurants in Goa. Having moved out to the backwaters along with Siolim (from its prior location of Vagator hilltop), it is famous for its signature cocktails and sunsets. Reverberating with the cultural flavour of Greece, it serves authentic Greek Mediterranean cuisine.

9. Basilica of Bom Jesus

Basilica of Bom Jesus

9 km from city center 9 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located in : Panaji

The Basilica of Bom Jesus Church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It houses the tomb and remains of St. Francis Xavier. Even after 400 years, the remains are in a good condition and are taken out once every decade.

10. Baga Beach

Baga Beach

10 km from city center 10 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

One of the most popular beaches in North Goa, Baga Beach is located close to Calangute beach, around 30 Km North of Panjim. It is the perfect destination to witness the dazzling nightlife of Goa as signature places such as Britto's, Tito's and Mambos are located in the vicinity. It is also known for a vast range of water sports.

11. Butterfly Beach

Butterfly Beach

56 km from city center 11 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

A little to the south of Palolem in Canacona region of Goa lies the Butterfly Beach. This beach, also known as Honeymoon Beach, is one of the most secluded and lesser-known beaches of Goa. The beach is mostly accessible by a boat (ferry) ride from the nearby beaches.

12. Divar Island

Divar Island

9 km from city center 12 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Divar Island is a slice of heaven tucked away in dense woods amidst the beauty of nature. Connected to Old Goa only through ferry service, this island is synonymous with natural beauty, serenity and tranquillity.

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Goa

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Beaches & Islands

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Experiences

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Adventure

Scuba Diving In Goa - Price, Location, & Operators

Religious

Beautiful Churches of Goa

13. Scuba Diving in Goa

Scuba Diving in Goa

14 km from city center 13 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Goa is one of the few places in India offering scuba diving. Diving in Goa is not the best owing to limited underwater visibility, but it is still popular among tourists as it is a good destination for beginners to explore the delights of the underwater world. The absence of strong water current with occasional surges adds serenity to the activity.

14. Shopping in Goa

Shopping in Goa

2 km from city center 14 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

For carrying back an authentic Goan experience with you, you can buy some feni, cashew-nuts, Goan hats and handicrafts. There are lots of shops in Panjim, the capital where you can buy interesting stuff. Goa is also known for its hand-painted ceramics.

15. Dona Paula

Dona Paula

5 km from city center 15 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Dona Paula is one of the most popular tourist hangouts in Goa famous for its vast stretch of beach. The small beach is also popular as the Lover's Paradise and features a jetty (Dona Paula Jetty) adjacent to it, which provides an ethereal view of the Arabian Sea and Mormugao harbour.

16. Arambol Beach

Arambol Beach

25 km from city center 16 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Beautiful and serene, Arambol Beach is among the best beaches of North Goa and is relatively unexploited by tourist activities. Considered to be one of the most spectacular beaches in Goa, Arambol beach has a distinct Bohemian feel to it, which attracts tourists from all over the world.

17. Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach

15 km from city center 17 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Vagator beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa. It is famous for its soft white sands and imposing but beautiful rocky cliffs. The beach is divided into two major parts, namely Little Vagator, also known as Ozran Beach, and Big Vagator. It is also popular for its sweeping panoramic views, beach shacks and trance parties.

18. Fontainhas and Sao Tome

Fontainhas and Sao Tome

0 km from city center 18 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Fontainhas and Sao Tome is a beautiful Latin Quarter located in Panaji on the banks of the Ourem Creek and named after the natural springs nearby. It was laid out on a piece of land acquired by a Goan in the 18th century who had made a fortune in Mozambique. The quarter is now recognised as a heritage site and is famous for its charming Portuguese style houses on the base of the Altinho hills.

19. Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

0 km from city center 19 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located in Panjim, Our Lady of Immaculate Conception is one of the oldest chapels in Goa. It is known to house the second largest church bells in Goa. The view of the sunset and the church lit up at night is a soothing sight to witness.

20. Tito's Nightclub

Tito's Nightclub

10 km from city center 20 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Titos nightclub is one of the top things to do in Goa for most tourists. Located in Calangute, Tito's is one of the most famous nightclubs in Goa. The entire lane in Baga, where the pub is located is popularly called Tito lane. 

21. Brittos

Brittos

11 km from city center 21 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Be it during the season or off-season, you cannot NOT come here if you're in Goa. It is amongst the best shacks in Baga Beach and is just perfect if you're seeking the company of the sea and the sand while you sip on that beer. 

Mambos

10 km from city center 22 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located in the famous Titos lane, Mambos is a popular nightclub in Goa. The open-air lounge encircles a dancing area with a host of Indian and international DJs playing every night. They also serve a variety of Hookahs.

23. Club LPK - Love Passion Karma

Club LPK - Love Passion Karma

5 km from city center 23 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Club LPK is one of the most popular nightlife spots in Goa. Surrounded by water on three sides, it was shifted to Nerul from its original location. The nightclub has generally some good DJs playing a mix of house, trance, and Bollywood music.

24. Anjuna Flea Market

Anjuna Flea Market

12 km from city center 24 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Anjuna Flea Market on Wednesday is a treasure trove of trinkets, handicrafts, hippie clothing, souvenirs and everything else from cheap bags to footwear and junk jewellery. Also popular as the queen of hippie flea markets, the Anjuna Flea Market as much a part of the Goa experience as the beaches.

25. Palolem Beach

Palolem Beach

58 km from city center 25 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Palolem Beach, located in the South Goa is one of the most beautiful beaches of the Union Territory has to offer. Mostly unspoiled, the beach is often flocked with foreign tourists.

26. Bungee Jumping in Goa

Bungee Jumping in Goa

56 km from city center 26 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located near one of the most popular beaches in Goa that is obviously Anjuna Beach, the Gravity Adventure Zone conduct Bungee Jumping from a height of 80 ft and has been installed by a US based company- Sports tower Inc. It is one of the lowest Bungee jumping site and is good for a first try and is priced at a reasonable rate.

27. Spa and Massages

Spa and Massages

8 km from city center 27 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Goa is full of spa resorts and Ayurvedic massage centers. Beachside massages are also available at some beaches. Various spas of Goa which are preferred by the tourists from all around the world are Sereno Spa and Leela Kempinski Goa Spa Center.

28. Colva Beach

Colva Beach

26 km from city center 28 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located in : Madgaon

One of the most happening beaches in South Goa, Colva beach is mainly renowned for its shopping and phenomenal nightlife. The beach is full of shacks and eating joints.

29. Morjim Beach

Morjim Beach

18 km from city center 29 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Morjim is sometimes referred to as "Little Russia" owing to the large population of Russian immigrants staying here. Morjim beach is home to exotic species of birds and some rare endangered animals such as sea turtles.

Casino

0 km from city center 30 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located on a yacht in River Mandovi, the casino is one of the coolest places to be when you're in the party state. The entry fee is placed high at Rs. 1600, and the casino holds ample number of tables of American Roulette, Blackjack and Rummy. Go ahead and try your luck!

31. Agonda Beach

Agonda Beach

53 km from city center 31 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

If you're looking for a place away from the hustle bustle of the crowd with more space and solitude, Agonda beach is the right place for you. With the clear blue water and coconut trees, this beach is a delight for nature lovers.

32. Candolim Beach

Candolim Beach

7 km from city center 32 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Candolim Beach lies around 15 kms ahead of Panjim, along the stretch of Fort Aguada. Forming a part of the trio of Calangute, Baga and Candolim party beaches in Goa, this beach is known for its pulsating nightlife and thrilling water sports.

33. Se Cathedral

Se Cathedral

9 km from city center 33 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Se Cathedral, or Sé Catedral de Santa Catarina, is one of the largest churches in Asia. Located in Old Goa, it is dedicated to Saint Catherine. It is a famous landmark in Goa exhibiting Portuguese-Manueline architectural style.

34. Cavelossim Beach

Cavelossim Beach

38 km from city center 34 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

With magnificent black rocks that contrast with the white sand shores of this idyllic beach, the Cavelossim Beach is located in South Goa. Cleaner and quieter than the cliched party beaches of Goa, it is the perfect spot for travellers looking to enjoy the endless expanse of the clear blue waters. 

35. Patnem Beach

Patnem Beach

60 km from city center 35 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Situated in Canacona, South Goa, Patnem Beach is one of the most secluded and tranquil beaches of Goa. It is the perfect place to laze by the beach and do absolutely nothing. The waters are quite safe to swim in, and the views of the sunset are magnificent and uninterrupted.

36. Betalbatim Beach

Betalbatim Beach

24 km from city center 36 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Located in South Goa between Colva Beach and Majorda Beach, Betalbatim Beach is one of the quieter beaches of Goa. Lined with a plethora of fast food chains, local restaurants and spas, the highlight of the beach is the easy spotting of the dolphins. You can ask the local fishermen who can hike you a ride in a sea to have a glimpse of the dolphins.

37. Fort Tiracol

Fort Tiracol

29 km from city center 37 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Across the Terekhol river from the Querim beach in North Goa lies the majestic Tiracol Fort. Once a crucial part of the maritime defence, it now serves as Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel. It is popular for an unbeatable panoramic view of the Arabian Sea.

38. Grande Island

Grande Island

17 km from city center 38 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Originally known as Iha Grande, Grande Island in Goa is one of the most sought after destinations, owing to its serene and tranquil environment and the availability of a plethora of thrilling activities like snorkeling, dolphin spotting, and scuba diving.

39. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

53 km from city center 39 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary is a 240 sq km protected natural habitat located in the Western Ghats of India, on the Goa-Karnataka border. Touted to be Goa's largest wildlife reserve, it is home to the famous Dudhsagar Falls, Mollem National Park, Tambdi Surla Temple, and Devil's Canyon among other attractions.

40. Arvalem Waterfalls

Arvalem Waterfalls

22 km from city center 40 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

One of the most beautiful spots to visit in North Goa, Arvalem Waterfalls is located in Sanquelim. Also known as Harvalem Falls, it forms a huge pool of water at its base - almost as big as a lake. This makes Arvalem Falls a popular tourist and picnic spot. 

41. Mollem National Park

Mollem National Park

41 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Mollem National Park part of the famous Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is the biggest national park in Goa that takes you on a fascinating wildlife adventure. Jeep safaris take the tourists right into the heart of the dense forest reserve.

42. Sunburn Festival

Sunburn Festival

14 km from city center 42 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Ranked amongst few of the world’s best music festivals, Sunburn Music Festival tops the list of every Electronic Music fan’s bucket list. It is mostly famous for its extravagance, fantastic music and noteworthy artist line-up.

43. Carnival in Goa

Carnival in Goa

43 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

The Goa Carnival is a legacy of the Portuguese rule and has grown from being a quiet event to a popular, massive scale festival, attracting thousands of tourists from India and abroad. One of the most awaited occasions in the state, the carnival has a long history of its origin, stretching back right to the ancient Roman Empire. The atmosphere is charged with spectacular parades, dances, musical events and the great food, all of which are major crowd pullers. Festivities occur in the cities of Panjim, Mapusa, Margao, and Vasco da Gama, with Panjim having it the largest of all

44. Church of St. Cajetan

Church of St. Cajetan

9 km from city center 44 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

The Church of Saint Cajetan, located in Old Goa close to the Se Cathedral, is one of the most beautiful churches in Goa. The only surviving domed structure in Goa, the church is admired for its wonderful and graceful architecture that reminds you of Basilica of St. Peter in Rome.

45. Bambolim Beach

Bambolim Beach

6 km from city center 45 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Bambolim Beach is a pristine beach located in Bambolim in North Goa, 7 kilometres away from Panjim. It is famous for being a virgin beach, untouched by commercialization and is barely ever crowded. 

46. Butterfly Conservatory Of Goa

Butterfly Conservatory Of Goa

21 km from city center 46 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

The Butterfly Conservatory of Goa is a butterfly sanctuary and garden in the Ponda district of Goa. Spread over 4000 square metres, it is designed as a place to stroll and absorb in the serene beauty of nature. In the vast expanses of the garden, one can take a leisurely walk and observe over a hundred different species of butterflies from close quarters.

47. Sri Mahadeva Temple

Sri Mahadeva Temple

46 km from city center 47 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Sri Mahadeva Temple, Tambdi Surla is one of the oldest temples in Goa to Lord Shiva. The inner sanctum of temple has a Shiva Linga mounted on a raised pedestal. There is also a statue of headless Nandi. The locals believe that there is a huge king cobra permanently sitting near the Shiva Linga.

48. Church of St Francis of Assisi

Church of St Francis of Assisi

9 km from city center 48 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Church of St Francis of Assisi is a 16th-century Portuguese church located near Se Cathedral in Goa. It is a famous landmark which exhibits an eclectic mix of stunning architecture and intricate carvings. 

49. Cabo de Rama Beach

Cabo de Rama Beach

45 km from city center 49 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Cabo de Rama Beach is a beautiful secluded beach located in Margao, South Goa. Surrounded by tall coconut trees, this beach is perfect for setting up a picnic, playing volleyball, or just spending some quality time. 

50. Church Of St Augustine

Church Of St Augustine

8 km from city center 50 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Church Of St. Augustine is a ruined church complex which was once the biggest church in Goa. Located near Nunnery of Santa Monica in Old Goa, there stands a solo tower (called St Augustine Tower) out of the four towers once forming the Church Of St. Augustine. 

51. Savoi Spice Plantation

Savoi Spice Plantation

19 km from city center 51 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Savoi Spice Plantation is a 40-hectare organic farm located 15km from Ponda. Established by Mr Shetye, the beautifully maintained farm is popular for the guided tour of the intercrop plantation and the Goan Saraswat Buffet at its Sadauli Restaurant.

52. Ashwem Beach

Ashwem Beach

20 km from city center 52 out of 184 Places To Visit in Goa

Ashwem Beach is one of the few beaches left in Goa that is yet to be discovered by the mainstream tourist crowd of Goa, offering its visitors an endless expanse of pearly white sands complemented well by the beautiful waves of the Arabian Sea. Surfing and Yoga are widely practised here.

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

Tarkarli, Maharashtra

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Pickyourtrail Travel Blog

Goa Itinerary For 4 Nights 5 Days – The Ideal Itinerary To Fulfill Your Goa Dreams

We all want to escape from our routine boring life, right? And yes, there are few destinations which can boast us and bring back us to life. Undoubtedly Goa is one of them. Goa is India’s smallest state which lies on the western coast. And yes, surprisingly the smallest state of India has a lot to offer for the tourists. Goa is filled with sun-kissed beaches, palm trees, nightlife, stunning festivals, flea markets, Goan fish curry rice, trendy bars, elegant restaurants and old monuments. Beautiful, huh? And yes, it’s time to plan a vacation to the stunning Goa. How about choosing a Goa itinerary for 4 nights 5 days? Sounds good? Well, have a read and find out everything about this Goa itinerary for 4 nights 5 days for a lovely vacation.

Vagator Beach in Goa

Goa itinerary for 4 nights 5 days

This Goa itinerary for 4 nights and 5 days will take you through North Goa and South Goa. Be it sightseeing tours, adventure activities, luxury accommodations, temples, or shopping, this itinerary covers it all and delivers an unforgettable holiday experience for the tourists. Excited? Well, keep reading…

This itinerary will introduce the dolphin sightseeing tour in Goa for the tourists and will make you soak in the beaches. Well, Goa is full of beaches and I am sure we all love beaches. Enjoy your day by visiting some of the famous beaches such as Anjuna Beach, Calangute Beach, and Baga Beach.

Maldives Packages Starting @ ₹78,000

5* Resorts. Water Villas. Customizable Itineraries.

Later on, you can continue your vacation with some adventure activities and have fun with your friends and family. Once you are done with beaches and water sports, get ready to explore the history of Goa by visiting Aguada Fort, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral and many more top attractions . Also, this itinerary will take you through the stunning Goa State Museum where you can witness some beautiful artefacts.

Also, not to forget the lip-smacking meals. From tantalizing seafood to coconut milk and rice, you have everything in Goa. High-class restaurants or street foods, the Goan dishes will make you drool. Amazing, huh? To experience all these, make sure you choose this amazing Goa itinerary for 4 nights and 5 days.

Also Read: One Day South Goa Trip – Eat, Party, Repeat

Day-wise Goa itinerary for 4 nights 5 days

  • Day 1 Say Hello to Goa
  • Day 2 Explore North Goa
  • Day 3 Explore South Goa
  • Day 4 Leisure Day
  • Day 5 Bid a Goodbye to Goa

1. Day 1 – Say Hello to Goa

A click in Goa

Once you arrive at Goa, take a cab and get transferred to your hotel and complete the check-in formalities. Also, make sure you take enough rest and enjoy the hotel ambience. You can spend the first day of your Goa holiday leisurely. Go out and explore the nightlife of Goa and rest in the sandy beaches. You can enjoy the atmosphere and use this time to click some Instagram worthy images. After an entertaining day, come back to the hotel and rest for the night.

Also Read: Best Places To Visit In Goa For 2 Days

2. Day 2 – Explore North Goa

Anjuna Beach

The second day of your Goa itinerary for 4 nights 5 days will take you for a dolphin sightseeing tour. Exciting, huh? Interestingly, you can watch the dolphins doing a somersault on the waves of the Arabian Sea. After experiencing the stunning dolphin sightseeing tour, you can come back to the hotel and have your breakfast. Relax for some time and get ready for an amazing North Goa sightseeing tour. You can visit Aguada Fort, Calangute Beach, Calangute Annexe, Baga Beach and Anjuna Beach. In addition, you can also try some water sports such as yachting, windsurfing, and parasailing for a thrilling experience. After enjoying your Day 2 in Goa, return back to the hotel and have a sound sleep.

Also Read: Best Beaches In Goa

3. Day 3 – Explore South Goa

Basilica of Bom Jesus

Start your Day 3 with a delicious breakfast and move towards South Goa for sightseeing. You will be visiting places such as Shri Shantadurga Temple, Shri Manguesh Temple, Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral. You can seek blessings from these places and admire the stunning architecture. Subsequently, have a walk in the vibrant Latin Quarter of Goa and heritage buildings of Goa. Also, pay a visit to the Goa State Museum which houses 8,000 artefacts on display. Interestingly, you will find sculptures, contemporary and Christian arts, and many more. Also, this museum will teach you about the struggle faced by Goa for their freedom. The museum is divided into numerous galleries and the notable ones are Banerji Art Gallery and Sculpture Gallery. Also, there is no entry fee for this museum. Amazing, right? After exploring all these places, you can return back to the hotel and fill your stomach with a lovely Goan dish and enjoy an overnight stay.

Also Read: All You Should Know About Fontainhas, Goa’s Latin Quarter

4. Day 4 – Leisure Day

A glass of juice

Day 4 is a leisure day for you. You can roam around the streets and get to know the culture of the people, start your shopping scenes, enjoy the mouthwatering dishes, and chill in the beach. All you need to do is to enjoy your Day 4 to the fullest. Also, make sure you pack your bags and keep it ready as tomorrow you will be departing from Goa.

Also Read: Best Casinos In Goa That You Should Definitely Visit Once

5. Day 5 – Bid a Goodbye to Goa

Train in Goa

This Goa itinerary for 4 nights 5 days finally comes to an end. Have a delicious breakfast and complete the check-out formalities. Proceed to the airport or railway station to return to your home destination. Depart from Goa with lovely memories!

Also Read: Top 5 Places To Visit In Goa – The Best Way To Spend Time In The Paradise

Goa is interesting, right? Goa is a place of happiness, fun, adventure, party, history, tasty food and many more. This paradise has everything to satisfy a traveller. We all wanted to visit Goa at least once in our lifetime , right? I am sure all of us would have planned a vacation to Goa with our friends since childhood and it’s time to make the plan for real. Now that you have this amazing Goa itinerary for 4 nights 5 days, you must quickly plan your vacation to Goa. All you need to do is reach Pickyourtrail and find some amazing travel packages. In addition, make sure you download the Pickyourtrail App to get your queries answered.

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A Complete Travel Guide to Goa for First Timers With a Superb Itinerary

This guide to Goa is perfect for those of you planning to travel there for the first time as it talks about the best time to visit, how to reach Goa, popular beaches in North and South Goa, where to stay for your first visit, and how to get around. Also included is Goa itinerary for 7 days.

Goa is a tropical paradise with endless white and golden sand beaches lined with swaying palm trees. This small state in the southwestern region of India is unlike any other with its laid-back culture balanced by its thriving nightlife. But that’s not all there is to Goa. It is a land of soothing bike rides, fascinating world heritage sites, plush resorts, friendly hostels, delectable seafood, and various forms of spiritual practices. It is definitely the most favoured destination in India amongst Indian and international travellers (after the Taj Mahal of course) as it has something for everyone.

Guide to Goa For First Timers

What is the best time to visit goa.

March-May : These are the summer months when Goa gets unbearably muggy with temperatures touching 40ºC (104ºF).

June – September : During these monsoon months, Goa becomes lush green. It is relatively quieter than other months. Most shacks are temporary structures that are dismantled during this period and water sports aren’t going on. But this is a charming time in Goa overall with plenty of restaurants and activities to keep you entertained.

November – February : Winter is the peak season here. Goa being a coastal area is balmy while the inland parts of the country go through typical winter temperatures. The sun is always out and the cool sea breeze blows through from time to time. December is the busiest month as Goa hosts the Annual Sunburn Music Festival which attracts people from all over. Plus people flock in to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s holidays at this party destination.

Verdict: For your first time in Goa, you should visit during the season time, Mid-October to Mid-March , so that you can see all that Goa has to offer. The shacks will be open, beach stays will be available in South Goa and the weather will be pleasant. However, the prices will be higher than any other time of the year.

pasture, low-land, buffaloes, Monsoon may not be the best time to visit Goa due to flooding

How to reach Goa?

Goa’s international airport is situated at Dabolim, near Vasco Da Gama. You can land here and hire a taxi to your hotel/hostel.

While most cities in India have an organized cab service like Uber and Ola, Goa has  GoaMiles  ( now also an app) that can pass for Goa’s very own Uber. We’ve used it a few times and found cabs at a good rate. People have always just relied on taxis lined up on the roads (be prepared to bargain and ensure to set prices before the start of the trip) or prepaid taxi stands at airports that have a set price. You can always ask at your accommodation if they provide airport transfers.

To get an idea of the distance from Dabolim Airport to major beaches and the taxi prices, see below. These may vary by a few hundred rupees depending on the taxi service.

To Anjuna Beach (north) – Approx. 50 km- Rs. 1400

To Panjim (capital city) – Approx. 30km- Rs. 900

To Palolem Beach (south) – Approx. 64 km- Rs. 2500

Local buses in Goa are significantly cheaper but also inconvenient as you would have to change multiple vehicles to get to your destination in Goa. You would have to get on a bus to Vasco da Gama (7 km from the airport) and then take another bus to your preferred region bus station. Further on, you would have to take a taxi to your accommodation.

Bus, Cab and Car

You can also opt to reach Goa by an overnight bus or cab from major cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and Hyderabad in India. If travelling by bus, Mapusa would be your de-boarding point for North Goa , Panjim for Central , and Margao/Canacona for South .

You can book your bus via Redbus.

We’ve driven it down from Pune a few times now and once from Hyderabad. The road is full of potholes as you get closer to Goa. But you’ll cross ghats and waterfalls. It is beautiful!

Goa is also well connected by train to the rest of India. The main train stations are Vasco da Gama (central), Margao (south) and Thivim (north) .

How to reach Goa? Have a fun time in a train

Which area to stay in Goa?

Goa is divided into North and South Goa with its capital Panaji (popularly known as Panjim) located around the centre. For your first time in Goa, it is confusing to decide where to stay as different corners of the state offer different experiences.

North Goa – The region is alive with its tourist-filled beaches, adventurous water sports, happening nightclubs, and vibrant flea markets.

South Goa – The region is slow-paced with unexplored beaches, a plethora of spiritual retreats, and luxurious resorts.

Panjim – It city is rich in history with Portuguese-influenced architecture and world heritage sites. It is lit up by floating Casinos on the Mandovi River, the first of its kind in India.

It is vital to get the place of stay right, as distances in Goa are large . For example, the distance between popular beaches Arambol (North) and Palolem (South) is over 100 km which translates into a 3-hour drive because Goa’s roads are very narrow and filled with potholes.

To break it down further, each beach has its very own distinct characteristics. So in this Goa Travel Guide blog post, we have provided a brief description of what the popular beaches offer so you can make a more informed choice.

Refer to the Goa Travel Guide Map to understand better the locations of the major beaches and attractions.

Popular Beaches/Areas in North Goa

Baga, calangute, candolim.

These beaches are the most popular beaches in Goa. They’re lined with  beach shacks and sun loungers . They’re where you’ll get plenty of water sports options . Candolim is a little less crowded than Calangute and Baga but still very much so. Lots of hotels, eateries, and shops are there in the Candolim area. 

This could be a good option for your first time in Goa as the area is very central so all places to see would be close to you. However, every Tom Dick and Harry visit these beaches so the crowd is also such. Be prepared to be hounded by tattoo shops and restaurants to visit them. There is no peace!

A fairly empty Baga Beach - One of the popular beaches in North Goa

Localities close to these beaches like Arpora, Saligao and Nerul will be quiet but also give access to all these beaches.

Restaurants: Caravela Cafe (Goan food), Toro Toro (multi-cuisine), The Lazy Goose (multi-cuisine), Tuscany Gardens (Italian), Pousada By The Beach (seafood), A Reverie (fine dining), Go With the Flow, Souza Lobos (beach shack at Calangute), Brittos (beach shack at Baga), Tomatoes (beach shack at Candolim)

Stay Options: Casa Cenica (2BHK in Arpora), Onastay  (2BHK in Candolim), Casa De Mezzanine (Beautiful 1BHK in Arpora)

Clubs : Las Olas (shack with good hookah and desi music), Hammerz ( popular music, I loved it but it gets mega crowded after midnight), Sinq, Love Passion Karma (LPK – heard the crowd isn’t great anymore), Titos, Mambos, Cape Town Cafe,

Anjuna, Vagator, Little Vagator

A little further north of the above beaches are Anjuna beach, Little Vagator and Vagator. This area has come up a lot in the past few years so you’ll find a lot of  must-visit restaurants in Goa  around this area. Staying in this area you’d be close to Anjuna Flea Market, have sundowners at cliff-top restaurants and party spots at Little Vagator, enjoy the sandy and rocky beach Ozran, hop on rocks at the rocky beach of Anjuna, and eat delicious food. Vagator isn’t a nice beach – it is small and has a lot of the crowd you’d like to avoid.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Modi & Trisha – Travel Couple (@trywanderingmore)

Restaurants : Felix (great for breakfast/brunch), Luna’s (Italian- interesting pizzas), Baba Au Ruhm (breakfast and lunch), Gunpowder (South Indian), Burger Factory (’nuff said), Antares (sundowner), Titlie (sundowner), Bomras (pan Asian), Babka (cafe), Mustard Cafe (French and Bengali), Bean Me Up (vegan), Olive Bar and Kitchen (sundowner), Cafe Cotinga (multi-cuisine)

Stay Options: Jade by CasaFlip (2BHK in Anjuna), Beach Villa With Private pool (luxury), OCEAN BREEZE (2 BHK in Anjuna), Canary By CasaFlip (1BHK in Anjuna), I Love BellBottoms Hotel ( Quirky Hotel in Vagator)

Party : Romeo Lane, Thalassa, Soro, Hilltop, Shiva Valley, UV Bar

Ashwem, Morjim, Mandrem , Arambol

Further north are the beaches of Ashwem, Morjim and Mandrem. If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, have some peace, and enjoy beautiful sandy beaches and the real laid-back vibes in North Goa , head here. They have some restaurants and accommodation too but know that you’ll be very far from central and south Goa. So, this area is ideal if you are willing to sacrifice exploring all Goa has to offer other than beaches.

Arambol Beach – Arambol used to have a rather boho feel where there were plenty of spiritual therapies practised but now it is extremely crowded and looks just like Baga. I’d say skip staying here. It is not only very far from the rest of Goa but also really not the best beach anymore. However, it does have a nice ocean-side trek through green groves and the Sweet Water Lake where you can enjoy a dip!

Restaurants : Prana Cafe (go for breakfast), Burger Factory, Felix Beach (go for brunch), La Cucina (Italian), Jardin D’Ulysse (Italian), Marbela Bar and Restuarant (multi-cuisine), Tomato’s (multi-cuisine), Totem (continental),

Stay Options: Jardin D’Ulysse , BaywoodGoa , Happy Panda Hostel Arambol Goa , Artist Cottages Morjim Beach , Morjim River Villa 2

Nightlife :  Boom Shack, Bora Bora, Junk Club Restro Bar, Cocoon Club, ASH, Club M, Liquid Sky

Beaches in South Goa

For your first trip to South Goa, you should stay at one of the two below-mentioned beaches and explore other beaches nearby. Remember that you should only stay in South Goa beaches beach from October to March as the huts and shacks are mostly dismantled before the monsoons and built back up when the monsoons get over.

Palolem Beach

Palolem is unexpectedly lively in comparison to other South Goa beaches and that’s why it’s on this list. For your first visit to Goa, you’ll have plenty to do here – shopping, restaurant/bar hopping, silent noise parties (wireless headphones provided for dancing), yoga, some water sports and boat getaways, and more.

Click to  know more about South Goa Beaches .

Restaurants: The Mill (Cafe), The Olive Room (multi-cuisine), Dropadi (multi-cuisine), Sundowner (for sundowners), Magic Italy (Italian)

Stay Options: Hitide Beach Resort , BunkNBrew (hostel)

Party: Silent Noise Club, Leopard Valley

Agonda Beach

This long stretch of beach is ideal for those who like peace, calm, and being close to nature yet not completely secluded. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars, shops and accommodations to choose from. This beach is the best of both worlds!

Restaurants: Zest, Tree Top Tava (multi-cuisine), The Cape Goa (multi-cuisine)

Stay Options: Jardim-a-Mar , Simrose , Agonda Serenity Beach Villa (has a jacuzzi on porch), Agonda Island View , Agonda Cottages , The beach house (2BHK beachfront villa) ,

Palolem Beach - One of the popular beaches in South Goa

Verdict on where to stay

We’d recommend that for your first visit you should:

1. If you have 3-4 days only then, stay solely in North Goa (around the Baga area) with a day trip to Panjim and Old Goa OR 2. Stay 80% of your trip in North Goa (around the Baga area) with a day trip to Panjim and Old Goa, and 20% in South Goa (Agonda/Palolem)

How to get around Goa?

Taxis are expensive in Goa and not ideal for everyday getting around and sightseeing. Busses are quite cheap but again inconvenient. Instead, opt for a scooty or motorbike for the duration of your stay in Goa. There is no better way to get around as it will give you the utmost freedom. The best bit is that it is inexpensive at about Rs.300-800 a day depending on the season (off-season or peak), type of bike (scooters like Honda Activa, low-end bikes like Bajaj Pulsar or high-end ones, like Royal Enfield) and your haggling skills.

If you don’t want to ride a bike or moped, you can hire a car . Most offer stick shifts so if you don’t know how to drive these, finding an automatic may not be easy. However, we have always managed to find one and so should you. The economy cars usually cost about Rs.800-1000 per day but may go up depending on the season.

You can get a bike or car on hire easily by talking to your accommodation host or hotel.

The perfect 1 week Goa Itinerary – North and South Goa

The Goa experience is different for every individual depending on their style of travel. It’s never a one size fits all because there is simply so much to see and do. We have stayed in Goa for 2 months and have yet not seen it all. Your personalised Goa itinerary would largely depend on what you enjoy – nature, culture, beaches, partying, etc. In this 7-day Goa itinerary, we’ve tried to include a bit of everything so you can get a true feel of the different sides of Goa and decide for yourself which aspect of Goa you enjoy the most!

Day 1-2 North Goa – Watersports, Shopping, Partying

Stay near the Baga Beach/ Arpora area. Despite being crowded, it is close to a lot of North Goa tourist spots you’ll be visiting. And also, hire a scooty, bike or car. You’ll need it to get around. Prior reservations for restaurants are needed!

Day 1: Beach, Water sports, Party

Visit Baga Beach during your first time in Goa

  • Reach Goa and check into your hotel or Airbnb
  • Rent a vehicle
  • Calangute Beach for lunch at Pousada by the Beach
  • Water sports and sunset at Baga Beach
  • At night go partying at Hammerz (popular music) in the Baga Area or Las Olas (Bollywood music) at Baga Beach. Or both as they’re close by! Start at Hammerz and end at Las Olas.

Day 2: Cliffside Restaurants, Fort, Sundowner, Party

You don’t need to do all of these things mentioned below. Select the ones you wish to do based on your preferences and how much time you have. I’d recommend not partying till late this night so you can be fresh to explore Goa the next morning.

Antares View Goa

  • Wake up late this day since you’ve partied the previous night
  • Lunch:   Titlie OR Antares OR Casa Playa at Little Vagator or Felix OR Artjuna or Vinayak at Anjuna.
  • Shop: Now go shop at Anjuna Flea Market!
  • Explore Chapora Fort (The movie ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ was shot here so expect it to be crowded)
  • Stay for sunset or go for a sundowner to Thalassa closeby
  • Dinner at Ida in Vagator
  • Party at one of the following – Soro (Siolim) or Romeo Lane (Little Vagator).

Day 3-4: North Goa – Culture, Heritage and Nature

Day 3: culture and heritage.

Head for a day trip to Panjim and Old Goa . On this day, you’ll get a good glimpse of Portuguese influence on Goan heritage.

Basilica of Bom Jesus

Old Goa Churches : Start with Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the following churches in this order:

  • St. Augustine Church Ruins
  • Basilica of Bom Jesus (the most renowned)
  • Convent of Santa Monica and The Museum of Christian Art (optional but good)
  • Se Cathedral
  • Church of St. Cajetan
  • Viceroy’s Arch
  • Our Lady of Mount Chapel (optional- for panoramic views of the Panjim area)

Ruins of the Chuch of St. Augustine is a fantastic spot to add to your Goa itinerary

Going on a tour will help you make the most of your time and understand the significance of Old Goa and its churches. It is highly recommended. We’ve taken several tours by this company and loved all of them.

Lunch : Head for either a local Goan lunch at Kokni Kanteen or Cafe Al Fresco By Cantina Bodeg a for continental food. Both are close to your next stop.

Fontainhas : After lunch, take a walk in Fontainhas – Asia’s largest Latin Quarter that has lanes lined with houses built in the colonial style and painted in bright shades of red, yellow, green, and blue. We highly recommend seeing this area on a walking tour by Make It Happen – only then will you truly be able to appreciate the history and architecture. However, if you don’t wish to take a tour, start your walk at Maruti Mandir or Phoenix Springs ending at the Church of Immaculate Conception. See the colourful houses, click a lot of photos at the colourful wall of Old Quarter Hostel, buy some Azulejo tile décor at Velha Goa Galleria, admire the white façade of St. Sebastian Chapel, and have some bebinca (Goan Dessert) at Confeitaria 31 De Janeiro .

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

Evening: Get drinks and small bites at Antonio@31 or head for a full-fledged dinner at Black Sheep Bistro . Please check the prices of these restaurants beforehand to see if they fit your budget and make reservations beforehand. You could also go for a fun Pub Crawl instead.

Night: Later you could head to a Deltin Royale Casino (buy tickets online for the best deals) OR go back home to rest for an early morning the next day.

Book Tours in Goa

Day 4: Nature and Heritage

Chorao Island and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary : Do this either on a tour or go by yourself. You’ll have to take a ferry from Ribandar. Don’t miss the famous Mangrove Broadwalk. It is beautiful. We haven’t been here yet but can’t wait to go!

Lunch: Lazy Goose , Nerul. Reserve the table with the lake view if you can.

Depending on the time you start the day, see one/two of the following attractions. Choose one museum and one fort:

  • Houses of Goa Museum (do this only after a walking tour of Fontainhas else nothing will make any sense) OR Museum of Goa (modern art tinged in Goan history).
  • Aguada Fort (great for sunsets but crowded) OR Reis Magos Fort (relatively less known and beautiful).

Reis Magos Fort is a hidden gem in North Goa.

Have dinner in the Candolim, Calangute, or Baga area. There are plenty of good restaurants.

A Reverie : Fine Dining Toro Toro : Continental/Goan Yazu – Pan Asian Beach Club: Asian

Day 5: Spice Plantations, Iconic Restaurants, Relaxation

Now, head to South Goa. Stay at Agonda or Palolem Beach- both are fantastic beaches for your first time in Goa.

But on your way, you have the option of making a few stops.

Visit Spice Plantations- A top suggestion for our Goa Travel Guide Blog

  • Sahakari Spice Plantation: Wonder why the Portuguese were so fascinated by Goa? The answer lies in the tantalizing smell and flavours of spices like Cardamom, Cinnamon, Cloves, Allspice, Cumin, etc. See how these spices grow and learn about them. End with a local buffet lunch at the plantation. I found the experience very interesting and learnt a lot. You can buy the ticket on reaching there.
  • Iconic Restaurants: If you’re not in the mood for the above, stop at Martin’s Corner or Fisherman’s Wharf for lunch. They are both very renowned.

Check into your hotel and use this day to do nothing and just relax on the beach, see the sunset etc. Else you could also choose to head to Sundowner Palolem (Bar) for a sundowner!

Day 6: Beaches and Viewpoints

Today is going to be a long day of beach hopping.

Cola Beach: Start your day at Cola Beach. It’s a bit of a hike down to the beach. You can even take the jeep to the beach to save time and effort but it’ll cost a bit. Cola Beach is famous for its lagoon where you can swim and kayak. You can have lunch here before heading to your next stop.

Kakolem Beach: This beach has a waterfall. Yes, you read that right. ( you can skip this beach if you’re running short on time or want to take it a bit slow).

Cabo De Rama Fort and Cabo De Rama Viewpoint for sunset . Both are gorgeous spots with fantastic views – you’ll love the sunset here. You can also choose to have a meal and drink at the Cape Goa restaurant near the viewpoint before heading back to your hotel.

Day 7: Butterfly Beach and Palolem/Agonda Beach

Agonda Beach in South Goa

  • Butterfly Beach : It’s a beautiful secluded beach. You can hike it to the beach or go via boat but I’ll suggest going as early as possible to avoid crowds.
  • Palolem/Agonda Beach : For lunch head to either of these beaches that you’re not staying at. At Palolem, you can have lunch at Dropadi by the beach and at Treetop Tava or Zest (vegan cafe) at Agonda. Walk around the beach later afterwards.

Depart for home this evening.

Tips to Stay Safe in Goa

This guide to Goa would be incomplete if I didn’t mention tips to stay safe there. Goa is really welcoming and locals-friendly. But because it is a  thriving party location and has people travelling from all over, you should take care of the following especially if you’re a woman.

  • Don’t hitchhike.
  • If you’re a woman travelling solo, preferably rent a car. If you’re a woman travelling in a group, bikes will do. 
  • Always get a video of the vehicle hired to avoid being ripped off on returning the vehicle.
  • Don’t go out with people you don’t know and never go to parties alone.
  • Watch your drink.
  • Try to stay vigilant even when drunk.
  • Some Indian men can assume friendliness as flirting. 
  • Be cautious of theft at your accommodation. Huts can easily be broken into.
  • Drugs are available aplenty in Goa. Avoid getting stuck in the middle of a drug racket. 
  • Avoid drunk driving. It is being monitored by the police more strictly than before.

Don’t let these scare you. I (Trisha) have  travelled solo to Goa  and also with my girlfriends and had an absolutely fantastic time. Most of these tips should be adhered to anywhere in the world. Here is a complete list of  ways to stay safe while travelling alone .

Wrapping up

Goa is a place that you can never get enough of. With each visit, you discover something new – a secret beach, a quaint café, a shack with amazing music, a magnificent fort, and so on. We have visited Goa about five times for short periods – with different people, as different people in different phases of our lives, or wanting something different from our trip- and Goa has never let us down. We are sure you will be taken by the charm of Goa and not want to leave just like the hippies in their heydays. Hope you found this Goa Travel Blog useful and have an amazing first trip to Goa. Tell us how it went!

This blog post on the ‘Travel Guide to Goa for First Timers’ has affiliate links that enable us to earn a small commission when you make a purchase, with no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and activities we like and those that might interest you. If you like any suggested product, do buy from the given links.

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Top 20 places to experience the best of goa tourism.

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

COVID-19 has really taken the wind out of the sails of those who love to travel, explore & experience all that the world has to offer. It has also affected those who treasure Goa for its beauty, heritage, beaches, nightlife and everything else that makes it a top tourist destination in India. We are sure that you are extremely eager to visit Goa and have a grand time, having been unable to visit it for so long! That is why we have come up with this blog, to remind you once again of the charm and attraction of Goa & what are the top places that let you experience the best of what it has to offer.

Utter the word Goa, and images of beaches with colourful beach shacks, wild parties, flea markets buzzing with tourists & fresh seafood flood your mind. Although it is counted among the top travel destinations in India because of those things, there is much more to this state with its coastline which stretches along the Arabian Sea. There are several points of tourist interest excellent for sightseeing, from waterfalls to spice plantations. You can avail the benefits of an Ayurvedic massage or take a heritage walk exploring the Latin quarters. It is for all these reasons, this wide appeal to everybody, that Goa stands out as both a favourite honeymoon destination and a tourist destination suitable for family holidays. In this blog, we bring you the top 15 places where you can experience the best that Goa has to offer.

List of 20 Best Places to Visit in Goa

  • Panaji, North Goa
  • Margao, South Goa
  • Vasco da Gama, South Goa
  • Mapusa, North Goa
  • Calangute, North Goa
  • Candolim, North Goa
  • Anjuna, North Goa
  • Bambolim, North Goa
  • Agonda, South Goa
  • Mandrem, North Goa
  • Morjim, North Goa
  • Sanquelim, North Goa
  • Ponda, North Goa
  • Bicholim, North Goa
  • Valpoi, North Goa
  • Canacona, South Goa
  • Sanguem, South Goa
  • Quepem, South Goa

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  • 5 Nights 6 Days Goa Beach Tour Package
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Panaji: A relaxed state capital!

Panaji-Church of Our Lady Goa

Panaji should occupy a place in your list of visiting places in Goa, not just because it’s the capital city, but because there are so many places that make for an incredible sightseeing tour. From taking a heritage walk in Fontainhas – the Latin Quarters to spending a day at the Miramar Beach, this city promises you a quality time. Ornithologists and bird lovers can also visit the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, situated just 7 kilometers from here & home to migratory birds as well as common & uncommon species of marsh dwelling birds.

Popular Things to See in Panaji

  • Resig Magos Fort
  • Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
  • Adil Shahi Palace
  • Miramar Beach
  • Kala Academy
  • Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
  • Divar Island
  • Shanta Durga Temple
  • Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Other Interesting Blog to Read

  • 20 Best Beaches to Visit in Goa

Margao: Cultural capital of Goa!

Margao -Damodar Temple Goa

Margao is not the kind of place which you would want to miss while planning to visit Goa. The town claims the tag of being Goa’s cultural capital, and after exploring it, you realize, it’s a tag well deserved. The prominent landmarks in the town are the Municipal Garden, The Holy Spirit Church, House of Seven Gables and Damodar Temple, all of which are famous points of interest for tourists. You should also visit the special market to explore the various species and dried fish. Almost all the specialties that make Goa famous are to be found in Margao, apart from the Margao curry. It’s interesting to know that Margao Curry is exported to Portugal and elsewhere.

Popular Things to See in Margao

  • Municipal Garden
  • The Holy Spirit Church
  • House of Seven Gables
  • Damodar Temple
  • Pandava Caves
  • Margao Market
  • Zalor Beach
  • Sri Chandranath
  • 15 Best Weekend Getaways from Goa for Couples

Vasco da Gama: Mostly the beaches!

Bogmalo Beach Goa | Vasco da Gama

The city of Vasco da Gama is named after the Portuguese explorer. If you are planning to visit Goa to spend time on its beaches, then this is where you need to be. There are several beaches like Cansaulim, which is great for watching the setting sunset, or Hollant, perfect for a wild ride with your friends! There are other attractions too, like the St. Andrews’s Church which is 400 years old. There’s also a Naval Aviation Museum, which is one of three such museums in India. If you visit it in March though, you can attend the Shigmo, a festival marked by street dances and colourful parades.

Popular Things to See in Vasco da Gama

  • Mormugao Fort
  • Arossim Beach
  • Bogmalo Beach
  • Cansualim Beach
  • Velsao Beach
  • Hollant Beach
  • St. Andrew’s Church
  • Kesarval Waterfalls
  • Sahakari Spice Farm
  • Naval Aviation Museum
  • Shri Ramnath Temple
  • Three Kings Church
  • 20 Popular Places of Tourist Interest in North Goa

Mapusa: Off to the Friday Bazaar!

Vagator Beach Goa | Mapusa

There are many reasons to visit Mapusa during your Goa tour, but one that mentions a special mention is the Mapusa Friday Market. Held every Friday, a visit takes you across stalls selling Goan spices, homemade sausages, fish with marsala ready to cook, vegetables, chillies, cashews and sweets. Located in the Bardez sub-district, it enjoys a close proximity to several beaches like Vagator & Chapora.

Best Things to See in Mapusa

  • Bodgeshwar Temple
  • Mapusa Friday Bazaar
  • St. Jerome Church
  • Maruti Temple
  • Cansaulim Church
  • Church of Our Lady of Miracles
  • Municipal Building (for its architecture)
  • 20 Best Holiday Luxury Villas in Goa

Calangute: A town with the Queen of Beaches!

Calangute Beach Goa

Calangute Beach is counted among the most beautiful beaches of Goa, and that is precisely why this town in Bardez district makes it to any Goa travel guide. On any given day on the beach, your eyes will meet scores of backpackers and tourist, all having a great time! There are shacks, lots of clubs, shows being held, open air dances being performed and people enjoying adventure sports like parasailing and water skiing.

Popular Things to See in Calangute

  • Calangute Beach
  • St. Alex Church
  • Tibetan Market
  • 15 Top Places to Visit in South Goa

Candolim: As relaxed as it gets!

Candolim Beach Goa

Candolim, just like Calangute, attracts tourists in Goa for its prime attraction, Candolim Beach . However, if you like your beaches crowded & noisy with a party like atmosphere, you won’t find much to do here! It is for you though, if all you are looking forward to is a sunbath, admiring the sunset, maybe a dip & enjoying parasailing. One other reason that you should visit the beach is the “River Princess”, a bulk carrier which ran aground 100 meters ashore. Pick a sunbed, watch the waves kiss the shore while they are tinged with red & yellow during sunrise and sunset.

Best Things to See in Candolim

  • Candolim Beach
  • Our Lady of Hope Church
  • Top 15 Luxury Resorts & Hotels for Holidaying in Goa

Anjuna: Still a bit hippy after all these years!

Anjuna Beach Goa

If you took a trip to Goa in the 1960’s & visited the village of Anjuna, you would find yourself in the middle of trance parties, hippies in psychedelic colours & free spirited backpackers. Today, you will find all sorts of tourists, both domestic & international, with some traces of that hippie era. One way of getting a feel of that is visiting the Flea Market, which opens on Wednesdays. You can lay hands on all kinds of stuff from sarongs, sandalwood & leather goods to crystals & stones. The other top place to visit is the Anjuna Beach , comparatively less crowded among the other beaches in Goa. To experience the trance scene, visit it in the evening and head towards restaurants like Curlies or Shiva Valley.

Popular Things to See in Anjuna

  • Wednesday Flea Market
  • Anjuna Beach
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Bambolim: So quiet, so lively!

Bambolim Beach Goa

Bambolim will always find a mention among the top 10 places to visit in Goa for its beach. It is a long white sandy stretch of sand, rocks and happily swaying coconut palms which serves both aesthetical & functional purposes (such as, offering shade from the midday sun). On some days, you might see groups of young boys & girls chilling out, but what you will often see are fishermen getting ready to go fishing. It is also a great picnic spot in Goa for a family, as it is pretty secluded and free from vendors and shacks. There is a Bambolim Beach Resort though, where you can try out a variety of cuisines, from Goan to Continental delights.

Popular Things to See in Bambolim

  • Bambolim Beach
  • Popular Bar, Pubs & Clubs in Goa

Agonda: Time and tide wait for Agonda!

Agonda Beach Goa

Agonda is a top travel destination in South Goa, as much for its “silent beach” as for the Olive Ridley Sea Turtles which lay their nests on it in September. The village by the beach is surrounded by dense vegetation, and is a place where you quite forget to remember words like “time” and “hurry”. Watch the waves of the Arabian Sea lapping the shore, cows enjoying a leisurely stroll and dogs having the time of their life! People who have visited Goa describe it as a top beach destination, it’s not to understand why!

Things to See

  • Agonda Beach
  • Top Secluded Beaches in India

Old Goa: Sweeping splendour & grandeur!

Church of St Franscis of Assisi Old Goa

There was a time when the capital of Goa was not Panaji but Velha Goa, better known as Old Goa today. It was a time when the grandeur and unparalleled splendour swept through the city, much of which was visible in its towering churches, cathedrals and majestic convents. It is those spectacular pieces of architecture that have secured for Old Goa a permanent place in any sightseeing tour. The popular tourist attractions that attract tourists today, are collectively referred to as “Churches and Convents of Goa”, and include monuments like Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites). This is the side of Goa that many more people need to see, a side that displays its rich history and heritage.

Popular Things to See in Old Goa

  • Basilica of Bom Jesus (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
  • Se Cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
  • Church of Our Lady of the Rosary (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
  • Church of St. Francis of Assisi (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
  • Chapel of Santa Catarina (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
  • Ruins of the Church of St. Augustine (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
  • Church of Divine Providence (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
  • Top 20 Places That Should Be in Your India Travel Itinerary

Mandrem: A sleepy coastal village!

Mandrem Beach North Goa

How about visiting a beach in Goa which also offers the opportunity to enjoy an Ayurvedic massage? Mandrem, a sleepy coastal village makes it to this list of top tourist places in Goa for its beach, which is perhaps the quietest in all of North Goa. It is lined with a few beach shacks and some hotels that offer some amazing food, including local delicacies. You can also hire sunbeds and spend a day getting a suntan and spending some quality time. If you are up for a massage, there is a small massage center where you can get one!

Things to see

  • Mandrem Beach
  • 30 Best Honeymoon Destinations in India

Morjim: Nesting site of Olive Ridley Sea Turtles!

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

Don’t bother visiting the town of Morjim stretched out on the banks of River Chapora if seclusion, solitude and tranquillity isn’t your thing. Visit it if you want a quiet day out on the beach enjoying the sunset, enjoying a few local delicacies and taking a walk in the village. Families and friends searching for a top beach destination without the usual commotion should head here. Morjim is also a nesting site for the endangered Olive Ridley Sea Turtle. You will find a post with a board on the beach pinpointing the spot where the turtles hatch their eggs. It is a wonderful site to come across!

  • Morjim Beach
  • Olive Ridley Sea Turtles
  • Why You Must Visit These 15 Ancient Cities in India

Sanquelim: Nature & Heritage!

Harvalem Caves Sanquelim Goa

The town of Sanquelim finds a place in the popular tourist attractions in Goa for the Harvalem Caves, Harvalem Waterfalls and Rudreshwar Temple. All of these three tourist places can be covered in one trip itself. The Harvalem Caves are a set of caves named after the five Pandavas of the Mahabharata. The caves themselves were excavated into the Laterite Hill and consist of two major caves including a residential chamber. Just 1 kilometer from here lie the Harvalem Waterfalls, which attain their fullest glory during the monsoons, and the Rudreshwar Temple, located close to the waterfall.

Popular Things to See

  • Harvalem Caves
  • Harvalem Waterfalls
  • Rudreshwar Temple
  • Most Celebrated Religious & Cultural Festivals and Fairs in India

 Ponda: Heritage and the smell of spices!

Nageshi Temple Goa

Another tourist destination in North Goa where you can explore the rich heritage of Goa is Ponda, with its temples, an ancient mosque and beautiful spice farms. One of these is the Sahakari Spice Farm, a visit to which acquaints you with various types of spices. The farm is set in a tropical garden. There are also a few stalls where you can purchase spices and oils. Tropical Spice Plantation is another spice farm where you see trees like Mexican Mirchi, Pepper Tree and Lavender Tree. It’s interesting to see & know about the various trees and plants which lend that peculiar taste to our food and make it so delicious!

Popular Things to See in Ponda

  • Tropical Spice Plantation
  • Shri Mahalasa Temple
  • Mahalaxmi Temple
  • Laxmi Narasimha Temple
  • Safa Shahouri Masjid
  • Vijaya Durga Temple
  • Shri Nagueshi Temple
  • Savoi Spice Plantation
  • Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Rich Mughal Art and Architecture: Historical Monuments in India

Bicholim – Offbeat Nature Getaway

Mayem Lake Goa

Home to the most scenic waterfalls at Aravalem, oldest mosques, ancient Hindu temples and Mayem Lake, Bicholim is a beautiful countryside to explore in Goa for a relaxing holiday. The popular Saptakoteshwar temple is the major tourist attraction here. Despite having no beaches, it is a blissful haven for nature lovers. The picture postcard settings, ancient rock caves add delight to the mind if you are interested in sightseeing of historical places. Though not much to see in terms of tourist places, this place is still worth a visit for a relaxing escapade into the lap of nature.

Popular Things to See in Bicholim

  • Aravalem Waterfalls
  • Saptakoteshwar Temple

Location – North Goa

Also Read: Beach Tourism in Goa

Sanguem, South Goa – Loners Paradise

Rivona Caves South Goa

Your travel experience will remain incomplete if you don’t visit Sanguem. It is one of the lesser-known destinations to visit in Goa. Though it does not fit in the commercial tourism destinations   in Goa, this place is worth a visit. It is blessed with numerous tourist attractions which will surprise you to the core of your heart. It boasts of mysterious caves in Rivona, which is also known as Pandava Caves the kind of which you will not find anywhere else. It is said that Pandavas of Mahabharata lived in these caves during their exile. Lots of spice plantations, dams and waterfalls makes Sanguem scenic and soothing to the heart and eyes. It’s not a place where you can enjoy the pleasure of beaches but if you want to experience something different from the usual beaches of Goa, Sanguem is a place for you.

Popular Things to See in Sanguem

  • Rivona Caves
  • Rivona Springs
  • Vimleshwar Temple
  • Tanshikar Spice Farm
  • Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple
  • Salaulim Dam

Location – South Goa

Also Read: Must Visit Beach Destinations in Goa

Quepem – Retreat for Magical Holidays

Chandranath Hill Temple South Goa

The lesser-known village of Quepem will enchant you forever with its serenity and tranquility. For a relaxed holiday it is the best place to visit in Goa. It is a small village but you will find everything here. Historical Landmarks, scenic Dams, Churches, awesome Beaches, Restaurants and stunning Temples. The tale of Bhoja Kings to the Portuguese rulers, this place echoes their history in the form of temples and dams. Don’t miss the authentic Seafood in Quepem, it is one of a kind. You must visit this place to blend in the secluded serenity of nature.

Top Places to Visit in Quepem

  • Shri Chandranath Temple
  • Shri Damodar Temple
  • Kushavati River
  • Morpila SacredGrove
  • Chandranath Hill
  • 2000 years old Banyan tree
  • Canaguinim Beach
  • Betul Beach

Also Read:  Top Things to Do in Goa

Valpoi – Adventure Paradise

Valpoi is a must visit tourist destination in Goa for nature lovers and adventurers. The thrills of water rafting, soothing Chorla Ghats and Vagheri hills for trekking and hiking, rocky hills, dense forests, the magnificent and ruined Nanus Fort, serene temples and mosques and the forever blissful Veluz Nagargaon Bridge will definitely blow your heart away. This village’s lifestyle, culture, festivals and folk songs are another delightful treat to make your journey here one of a kind.

Popular Things to See in Valpoi

  • River Mhadei
  • Veluz Nagargaon Bridge
  • Chorla Ghats
  • Vagheri Hills
  • Charavane Waterfall
  • Brahma Temple
  • Diamond Sports Club

Location – North Goa  

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Canacona: It’s all about the beaches!

Palolem Beach Canacona Goa

The city of Canacona lies in close proximity to wonderful beaches like Patnem, Rajbaga, Colomb and Talpona. Each of these beaches have something different to offer. At Palolem Beach, for example, you can go boating to Monkey, Honeymoon and Butterfly Islands. Talpona Beach, on the other hand, is untouched, pristine and secluded, with an extremely relaxed vibe.

Popular Things to See in Canacona

  • Rajbaga Beach
  • Colomb Beach
  • Talpona Beach
  • Palolem Beach
  • 10 Breathtaking Destination in India For Your Inner Adventure Devil

These are the top 17 places to experience the best of Goa that cover its various attractions including beaches, churches, spice plantations, waterfalls and temples. What part about Goa tourism appeals to you the most, and how many of these tourist places in Goa have you visited? Share your experiences with us!

Check out: Affordable Tour Packages for Goa

Complete Updated Goa Tourist Holiday Travel Guide | Tour My India

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Disclaimer: We do not take credit for some of the licenced paid images used in our blogs, whether from Google Images, Fotolia & Shutterstock. All such images are the copyrights of their respective owners and we try to provide credit for them wherever we can. If, however, any copyright image has been used on our blog, the concerned person can either mail us directly to remove the image or provide credit to whomsoever the image may belong to.

Q. What is the best time to visit Goa?

Goa can be visited throughout the year. Monsoons is the best time to visit it for its waterfalls, while winters are great for having a great time at its beaches.

Q. Which beaches of Goa are suitable for families?

Some of the beaches in Goa that are suitable for families are Morjim, Bambolim and Candolim.

Q. Does Goa have its own airport?

Yes, Goa has its own airport called Dabolim Airport or Goa International Airport.

Q. What type of accommodation is available in Goa?

Accommodation options in Goa are available in the form of resorts, hotels, beach shacks and guest houses, depending on your preference and budget. There are five star luxury suites as well as budget hotels, villas, midrange hotels, upmarket hotels and long term rentals.

Q. Which places in Goa are suitable for senior citizens?

Some of the places in Goa that are suitable for senior citizens are Old Goa, Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Aguada Fort and Basilica of Bom Jesus.

Q. Where can I experience the nightlife of Goa?

Some of the best nightclubs in Goa where you can experience its nightlife are Tito’s Bar and Club, Club Cubana, Sinq Night Club, Baga Beach and Candolim Beach (for night beach parties).

Q. Do I need a COVID-19 test to visit Goa?

No, you do not need a COVID-19 negative certificate to visit Goa. Domestic travellers too do not need to produce a COVID-19 negative report while arriving at the airport.

Published: 12 Nov, 2020 | Last Updated:  10 Mar, 2022

About the author

Vishwajit Sharma

Vishwajit Sharma

Writing, for me, is an artistic expression of the countless thoughts flooding my mind. For now, travel content writing is what keeps me going! In my spare time, I like nothing better than immersing myself in a book, along with a cuppa! A classic movie helps too! I define traveling as a process of self-discovery. Hailing from Darjeeling, my ultimate desire is to escape to the hills, with the mountain air and solitude as my constant companions!

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Dec 9, 2021

Need a 5-day itinerary for Goa? We got you covered!

Day 1: visit panjim and explore the region.

On day 1, head to the colourful capital of Goa, Panjim. Cobbled pathways and colonial structures will welcome you here!

​Day 1: Afternoon visit to Old Goa

You can have a combined tour of Panjim and Old Goa. The whole Old Goa is a real coastal beauty, where you can visit white-washed churches and incredible beaches. Basilica of Bom Jesus and Church of St Francis of Assisi are a must-visit in the region.

​Day 2: Head to North Goa

Chapora Fort, Mapusa Market, Baga Beach and Calangute are some of the prime highlights of North Goa. Those who wish to enjoy nightlife,these are the best places to be.

​Day 2: Watersports in North Goa

In North Goa, adventure seekers can indulge in watersports at Vagator Beach, Baga Beach and Calangute Beach. Dolphin watching is yet another interesting activity in the region.

​Day 3: Explore South Goa

If you are done partying and watersporting, head to south Goa for some little alone time.

​Day 3: Hike to the Cabo De Rama Fort

You can go hiking later in the day to the Cabo de Rama Fort in South Goa, which is a popular attraction here.

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​day 4: relish goan delicacies.

You can dedicate the fourth day entirely to Goan cuisine. Goa is home to some amazing restaurants, serving the best seafood in India.

Day 4: Romantic walk on the beach

Later in the evening, you can go on a romantic walk on the beach and enjoy a drink or two at one of the shacks while enjoying golden sunset views.

​Day 5: Bid farewell to Goa

On the last day of your Goa trip, you can enjoy a lip-smacking breakfast at one of the beach shacks and bid goodbye to the beautiful beaches until next time!

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Home » Asia » India » Goa

GOA Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

Gorgeous Goa is India’s smallest state stretching along the shores of the warm Arabian Sea. It has been a jewl in the crown of Indian tourism since the 1960’s attracting hippies and sun-seekers each winter.

Goa (like all of India) is a place of celebrations and you’re bound to experience a festival or parade sometime during your stay. The wonderfully festive province of Goa will remind you that there’s always a reason to celebrate (ie, you are alive)!

Its rich cultural history and lush forests make it a wonderful place to explore and there are some great guided tours on offer. If you’re looking for the perfect way to spend your time in Goa, you’ve come to the right place because we’ve put together the ultimate Goa itinerary.

Need some info about visiting Goa? Then read on!

A Little Bit About This Goa Itinerary

Where to stay in goa in 3 days, day 1 itinerary in goa – panjim & old goa, day 2 itinerary in goa – anjuna party time, day 3 itinerary in goa – arambol, what to do with more than 3 days in goa, best time to visit goa, how to get around goa, plan a trip to goa – what to prepare, faq on goa itinerary, final thoughts.

When you talk about backpacking India , you’ll quickly hear all about Goa, which is undoubtedly one of the most laidback and beautiful places in the entire country.

Whilst Goa is India’s smallest state, it is still nevertheless a state and is as big as some small countries. This itinerary covers the entire state from North to South and with several incursions inland.  Therefore, to execute this Goa itinerary in 3 days you will need to change accommodation a few times.

The good news is that finding places to stay in Goa is pretty easy wherever you are. There are loads of guest houses, party hostels , hotels and homestays all eager for foreigners to crash – it is usually as simple as turning up in town and asking around.

The itinerary does leave time for changing accommodation and moving around and has also been designed to be flexible enough to adjust to suit your own needs. In terms of traveling around Goa, the bus system is very cheap, but rides can be long and very uncomfortable. Therefore if you have the budget, we suggest taxi’s – if you book ahead and haggle you can cover even large distances for well under $30.

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

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Goa 3-Day Itinerary Overview

  • Goa Itinerary Day 1- Old Goa | Spice Garden | Panaji Tiatre
  • Goa Itinerary Day 2 – Vagator Beach | Foot Massage | Paddle Boarding | Trance Party
  • Goa itinerary Day 3 –  Querim Beach | Sweet Lake | Yoga Session | Drum Circle | Ecstatic Dance

where to stay in Goa

Let’s get this straight, Goa is a State. Whilst it is India’s smallest state it is still bigger than a lot of countries. You need to choose where to stay in Goa very carefully as it will inform your experience and will affect your Goa itinerary hugely.

Goa is roughly divided into North Goa and South Goa. North Goa has a few more famous attractions than South Goa so if you’re wanting to spend some time doing typically touristy things then North Goa is a great place to start!

Most visitors opt to stay in a beach town or village. The prime ones in the North are Anjuna & Arambol for hippies & backpackers, and Baga beach and Calangute for package tourists. In the South, Palolem Beach & Agonda and Candolim are popular. There are Airbnbs in Baga , Calangute & Candolim but very few in Arambol & Anjuna.

If you don’t want to be near the beach then there are a few nice towns and cities set further back inland, Goa Airbnb listings tend to provide a nice variety of options to choose from.

Panjim is a nice city in the Northern Goa region! It’s home to many gorgeous old Portuguese mansions and some good art galleries.

Best Hostel in Goa – Folklore Hostel

Goa itinerary

Situated in Vagator, Goa Folklore Hostel can only be described as a home away from home! With communal spaces that encourage interactions and facilities that you provide everything you need, there’s no better place to spend your stay in Goa if you’re looking for a hostel experience!

What’s more? If you don’t want to leave your furry friend at home, feel free to bring them with as the Folklore hostel is pet-friendly!

Best Airbnb in Goa – 2 Bed Lotus Villa @ Tito’s Street

2 Bed Lotus Villa Goa

This quirky and comfortable villa in Goa is located in the heart of the party district. With Bardez’s best beaches and hottest clubs within walking distance, you won’t find a better Airbnb in Goa.

Best Budget Hotel in Goa – Crystal Goa

Goa itinerary

This quaint hotel offers everything you’ve come to expect from a hotel, plus an incredibly tranquil setting! The restaurant and bar on the property are also a great place to dine during your stay in Goa. But don’t worry, should you feel like lying in and having a lazy morning, breakfast will be delivered to your door! Crystal Goa is located in Palolem in South Goa so perfect for those who prefer peace to partying.

Best Luxury Hotel in Goa – Vivanta Panaji

Goa itinerary

This incredibly beautiful luxury hotel is located right in Panjim center! But convenience is not its main drawing card.

A 24-hour gym and spa might have something to do with it! As well as the fact that the hotel is pet-friendly. This is very rare to find in such a luxurious venue! Live music is provided every night so there is no shortage of entertainment at the Vivanta Panaji!

goa itinerary

For the first day of our 3 day Goa itinerary we are gonna base ourselves in Panjim or Panaji, the Goan state capital. Whist this city is inland, away from the lush beaches, it is one of India’s cleanest and most pleasant cities. It abounds with beautiful old colonial mansions and is well situated for executing day 1 of our itinerary.

10:00 – Old Goa

Visit The Body of St. Francis Xavier

Old Goa is the former Portuguese Colonial capital. It was once considered a great city of the world rivalling even Lisbon itself I’m terms of its wealth, culture and beauty.

Most of Old Goa has been lost to the ravages of time but thankfully, enough has survived to justify a visit. The Dom Jesus Basilica is perhaps the grandest Christian temple in the whole of Asia. Then there are the ruins of the old Church of St Augustine. which blend into the Goan jungle like a level from Tomb Raider.

Old Goa can easily be explored in a day or even in half a day. The issue is getting there as it is about 20km away from the beaches. You can book a private or a bus tour from any travel agent in pretty much any resort which will leave in the morning and drop you back home after dark.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus Church is now a UNESCO world heritage site. Although the building is very rustic, it’s incredibly beautiful too. A church may seem like a strange place to visit while staying in Goa, India. But because Goa was colonized by the Portuguese for so long, many Hindus converted to Catholicism over this period of time. This is one of  Goa’s best places to visit  in 3 days.

A solid option, is to join an electric bike tour so you can really explore the jungles and roads!

  • Cost – Most of the sites here are free
  • How Long Should I Spend Here? Half a day
  • Getting There – Old Goa is about 30 minutes drive from Panjim. I recommend getting a taxi or joining a tour bus

 15:00 – Sahakari Spice Farm

At the Sahakari Spice Farm , you’ll get the chance to take in the incredible fragrance of the beautiful spice farm! These lush plantations are not all there is on offer at the spice farm though.

During your tour, you’ll be shown how to climb the trees and swing from palm to palm! If any guest on the tour is brave enough to give it a try, they’re encouraged with enthusiasm. This often creates a lot of laughs among the tour group!

For those interested in a more relaxing form of entertainment, you will be treated to a folk dance by some of the female laborers and children who live on the farm. These often contain lots of color and excitement!

  • How Long Should I Spend Here? 90 minus is plenty
  • Getting There – It’s a 20-minute ride from Old Goa. Get a cab.

18:00 – See a Tiatr Production

See a Tiatr Production

The Hanuman Theatre in Mapusa is home to some of the most incredible Tiatr! Just like Broadway there are many different types of Tiatr that take place, these all have different names and contain different entertainment elements (dancing, singing, etc.)

To be honest, it doesn’t really matter which you decide to go see, they’re all great and can be enjoyed whether you understand the words or not.

The word Tiatr comes from the Portuguese word ‘Teatro’ – meaning theatre. As you know by now, Goa is heavily influenced by the Portuguese because of its previous colonization by Portugal.

  • Cost – $1.45
  • How Long Should I Spend Here? 2 hours
  • Getting There – Get a taxi back to Panaji and then either walk or take a Tuk-Tuk to the theatre

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

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Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Goa Day 2 Itinerary Map

For day 2, we’re gonna head for the beaches. Pack your bag into a taxi, or jump on a bus towards Anjuna. Whether you decide to base yourself in Anjuna or Vagator is fine.

 10:00 – Relax on Little Vagator Beach

Little Vagator Beach

Once you’ve checked in to your new digs, hit the beach!

Although it’s free to relax on the beach, if you’d like to make use of the loungers that line the beach, you’ll have to buy something from the restaurant. This isn’t a bad deal at all, cause trust me, you’ll want to be there a while! You can have drinks and food brought to you.

While lying back on your lounger, it’ll be hard to miss the many cows that stroll past and sit on the beach alongside you. There’s nothing to be scared of though, they are very peaceful creatures!

Due to the Hindu culture in Goa, it’s illegal to kill or harm these beautiful creatures. This means that you’ll find them roaming the streets and congregating in open areas – such as the beach.

  • Cost – Free – but bring money for food and drink
  • How Long Should I Spend Here? A good few hours
  • Getting There – Depending on where you are staying, either walk, get a cab or hire a scooter

 14:00 – Foot Massage on The Beach

Foot Massage on The Beach

After all your gallivanting around you’ll be doing during your trip, you’ll be in need of a great foot massage! Luckily for you, they offer them right on the beach – along with a variety of other treatments. So it’s about time you put your feet up and enjoyed some good ol’ relaxation!

Be sure to ask around for the best price before settling on a masseuse, some tend to charge a lot less than $6!

  • Cost: Bater hard and it will by anywhere between $2 – $5

14:30 – Sea Rafting

Goa Sea Rafting

After all that relaxing, I’m sure you’re down to try something crazy. How about a bit of sea rafting?

After about half an hour of training on the beach, you and your team will be ready to hit the waves! Don’t worry, your guide will be with you to lead you every step of the way! The waves can be a bit daunting at first, but once you’ve caught your first wave, you won’t want to stop!

Be sure to head up the beach for some beers at one of the many beach shacks that call this beach their home.

  • Cost: $6.50
  • How Long Should I Spend Here? 60 minutes is usually enough
  • Getting There – It’s on the beach

17:00 – Dinner at Artjuna

Artjuna is one of my favourite spots in Artjuna. It is a cafe with spacious grounds where you can spend the whole day for a price of a few coffees. The food is proper decent offering a mix of Indian food, vegan grub and a few Israeli specialities.

Other excellent dinner spots include Sakana in Vagator (delicious, pricy, sushi) or you can just hit up on the beach shacks like Curries for a fish tandoori.

  • Cost: $5 – $10
  • How Long Should I Spend Here? 60 – 90 minutes. Service takes time in India
  • Getting There – Walk, ride or jump a cab

18:00 (Onwards) – Attend a Goan Trance Party

Attend a Festival/Parade

Goan Trance (latterly Psytrance) is perhaps Goa’s greatest gift to the world and you absolutely should not miss the chance to experience a Goa Trance party first-hand. The scene emerged in and around Anjuna in the early 90’s and reached worldwide fame with “Goa parties” popping up all around the world.

The music itself, is a fast, intense and utterly trippy form of electronic dance music. If you have never heard it before, it may be a bit much for you but bear in mind that it is a sound best heard in altered states . There’s a reason Goa ranks as one of the best places in the world to party !

There are trance parties most nights during high season (Nov – Mar) but the scene is curtailed a bit during election years. My personal picks are Shiva Valley (Anjuna) on Tuesday nights and the occasional, underground parties organised by The Trip Foundation in and around Arambol. The parties start after sunset (around 18:00) and go on until well after sunrise the following morning.

Another great venue is House of Chapora (Chapora is a 10 minute aside from Anjuna). I particularly recommend following Pandora Collective who are organising 2-3 great parties each week all across North Goa – there Instagram handle is @pandoracollective.

Hilltop (Anjuna) attracts the big names but is a bit over-priced and soulless but still the Sunday afternoon sessions are nice if you want to be in bed early.

  • Cost: $0 – $10
  • How Long Should I Spend Here? All night!
  • Getting There – Get a taxi. Walking at night in Anjuna can be risky

Goa Day 3 Itinerary Map

For day 3, we’re heading North across the river up towards Arambol. If you stayed out all night partying, either skip over the morning section of this itinerary or sack it off altogether and spend today hanging out in Anjuna’s German Bakery.

 10:30 – Ride to Querim Beach

Braganza House

For a taste of true paradise, you must make the 30 minute scooter ride North from Arambol towards Querim (Keri) beach. Keri is a small village set in the mangrove forests and is home to one of North Goa’s quietest beaches. You can rent a sun longer, order food and drinks from the shacks or even rent a surfboard.

As well as exploring the beach, the ride itself is also worth savouring. There is little traffic in and around Keri and plenty of back roads that lead through the forest to explore. Bring a bottle of water and sun cream and simply enjoy the experience of being in the riding seat watching beautiful Goa pass by.

  • How Long Should I Spend Here? 3 hours minutes including the ride
  • Getting There –  Rent a scooter and ride. Wear a helmet as the road does pass a police checkpoint.

13:00 – Fish Thali at the Thali Shack

Just by the first, main park on Arambol beach, there is a completely unassuming looking little shack (a man selling coconuts sit’s by the door). Whilst you may be tempted to walk right past, don’t; because it offers the best and possibly cheapest Thali’s in Arambol.

A Thali is a big silver tray filled with rice, veg and a few different types of curry. The options are Veg, Chicken or Fish – the latter is particularly sublime.

 14:00 – Visit the Sweet Water Lake in Arambol

Sweet Water Lake in Arambol

The Sweet Water Lake is a freshwater lagoon with a source that originates in the Goan Jungle. The Sweet Water Lake is warmed by a natural hot spring, so going for a swim is a must in the late evening!

The Lagoon is surrounded by luscious greenery, overhanging thick jungle branches, and coconut groves. Steam rises slowly from the lagoon, making it a beautifully picturesque scene to take in, and the perfect place to snap some pics for the gram!

There is a beach just a short walk from the lagoon that is only accessible by foot. There are loads of shack’s and restaurants selling classic Goan food.

  • How Long Should I Spend Here? 60 – 90 minutes
  • Getting There – Walk here from Arambol beach – it is the only way!

15:00 – Join a Yoga Session

I once checked the notice board in Arambol and realised that there is a yoga class taking place somewhere in town, at every minute of the day. Arambol is a proper yoga Mecca and churns out newly qualified yoga teacher like Yale & Oxford churn out future venture capitalists and war-mongers.

Therefore you won’t have to try too hard to find a Yoga class. Either check the notice board, ask around or ask any slender, toned yogini you encounter.

17:30 – Sunset Drum Circle & Market

Every evening on Arambol beach, the place to be is the drum circle. It is literally a circle where anybody can come, bring a drum and bang it. Whilst the sound is (for me) a bit tedious, it is nevertheless a very pleasant gathering and attracts the Goa freaks who come to congregate.

From here, walk down to the sunset market where you can barter for hand made jewellery, post cards and other wares.

  • Cost: $4 – $8
  • Getting There – Most sessions are within walking distance from the beach

19:00 – Ecstatic Dance at The Source

Dance is a way of life in Goa. Whilst you may be exhausted from last nights trance session, I guarantee your legs will still summon the energy for one more boogie! Ecstatic Dance is a giant sober (no drugs or alcohol) party that takes place around a giant Banyan tree at the source.

You may initially need some time to get over your inhibitions (dancing sober?!) but you’ll soon get into it. Ecstatic Dance is massive fun, don’t miss it. If this is your first time in Goa, then its time to embrace your inner hippy!

  • How Long Should I Spend Here? Stay as long as your energy lasts
  • Getting There – Walk from the beach or get a taxi

21:00 – Late Dinner at Aladdin’s

Aladdin’s is one of Arambol’s best restaurants. It has massive menu ranging from bar-bq, Indian classics and some very interesting vegetarian dishes. It is quite pricy for Indian standards but worth it for a treat.

  • How Long Should I Spend Here? Until they throw you out!
  • Getting There – Walk from the Source – bring a torch though as the way is dark

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Goa

Tiswadi-District, Goa

Tiswadi is the best place to stay if you’re visiting Goa for the first time. Home to the capital city, Panjim, Tiswadi is where you’ll find most of Goa’s cultural sights, the vibrant Latin Quarter, and charming Old Goa.

  • Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which contains the tomb and mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.
  • Explore Fontainhas, Goa’s Latin Quarter full of colonial character, cobblestone streets, and vibrant, and colourful houses.
  • Be amazed at Sé Cathedral, the largest church in Asia measuring more than 76 meters long and 55 meters wide.

If you are planning a trip that is longer than 3 days in Goa, then here are a few things you need to add to your itinerary for the rest of your trip.

Arpora Night Market

The Saturday night market in Arpora is a true Goa institution. It is a weekly mega market where you can barter hard for incense, jewellery, stones, gods, clothes, sheets and wonderful things you probably don’t even know exist!

As well as being a shoppers delight, the market has plenty of food stalls and a few bars mixing Techno into the early hours.

All of the above said, the word on the street is that the sun is setting on the Arpora Night market. Apparently the conduct of management has forced a lot of boutique owners and niche designers away and they can now be found at the Hilltop Friday Night Market instead. The Night Markets are amongst the best things to do in Goa in 3 days.

Visit Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary Near Ganjem

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary contains a mini zoo so that children and adults alike can see the animals up close. Plus, it has a massive deer park, which means that the deer can roam freely in their natural habitat! It also contains a botanical garden and a rose garden, for those who love flowers!

Here you’ll be educated about the animals and the bird life, as well as the vegetation found in Goa! This is a trip that will intrigue nature-lovers, so be sure you don’t miss out!

  • It’s only 38 kilometers from Margao.
  • There is a jungle resort containing tourist cottages on the property, just in case you want to stay the night.
  • There are plenty of different attractions, so you’re bound to find something that will suit your taste.

Visit Brahma Karmali Temple

The Brahma Karmali Temple is one of the oldest temples in Goa! The temple attracts a lot of devoted worshippers from around the region. Based in Carambolim, this temple is said to have played a pivotal role in Goa’s struggle for freedom. Many sessions were held in the building by a member of Congress during the time of struggle.

Learning about the fascinating history of this temple is spiritually moving, and exploring the temple grounds is a wonderfully relaxing experience!

  • This temple is named after a nearby town – Brahma Karmali.
  • The main idol inside the temple is said to date back to the 12th century.
  • Visiting and exploring this temple is absolutely free.

Hike to Hivre Waterfall

This waterfall is a great place to visit for nature-lovers and adventure junkies alike! During the hike to the waterfall, you will walk along a narrow pathway through the forest. Along the way, you’ll see beautiful river creeks that wind their way through the forest.

The locals that visit the waterfall are always friendly and helpful, and don’t mind guiding tourists to the waterfall with them!

  • Hivre Waterfall is popular amongst locals and tourists alike so it’s often busy, especially on weekends.
  • The waterfall is located only 14 kilometers from Valpoi City.
  • You will need to travel through the Thane village to get to the Hivre falls!

Active Roots Security Belt

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

when to visit Goa

Goa is definitely a seasonal destination and best experienced during the Northern hemispheres winter. The crowds flock to Goa between November and February when the weather is perfect. If you come off-season, not much may be happening. The high summer months are best avoided altogether as this is when monsoon hits.

During peak tourist season in Goa, the beaches are the place to be! The water is perfect, there are nightly parties, and it never rains. As the monsoon season in Goa approaches though, the beaches become more and more empty.

However if you’re not a beach bum, then the rainy season can be equally as beautiful! During the summer in Goa, mist rises over the plantations and fields, and rain cleans the cities, leaving them smelling fresh and new. Visiting India during June will also allow you to attend the Sao Joao Festival, which is one of the coolest celebrations in Goa .

There are a number of Goa transport options available depending on where in Goa you are, where you are going and what you want to do. For example, beach towns and cities themselves are pretty easy to walk around. However, to get between them you will need an engine. Tuk-Tuk’s (Rickshaws) are available in some parts of Goa but are banned from a lot of the Northern tourist hubs. Taxi’s are easy to find but Goa’s are expensive by Indian standards.

Renting a scooter is the most popular transport method. They can be rented anywhere in Goa easily and cheaply.

Hiring a tour guide with a vehicle is also a good idea for tackling some of the suggestions on this itinerary.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or traveling with your posse, there’ll be plenty of activities to keep you occupied on your trip to Goa! Here’s just a few that you shouldn’t miss out on!

Travel in India does carry with it a set of risks and Goa is no exception.

The biggest danger is the endless raft of scams which are played on unsuspecting foreigners and of which there are too many to list. Other than this, never leave your valuables unattended and always lock your room.

Be very careful of bad drivers whether you are riding a scooter or simply a pedestrian. If you are riding a scooter, always wear a helmet.

Be careful when swimming whether in the sea or the delta as under-currents can be deadly, especially at night. Use lots of sunscreen and drink plenty of bottled, mineral water. Food hygiene is generally pretty good in Goa but use common sense.

Women travellers sadly need to be extra careful as each year they are the victims of rape, assault and even murders in Goa. Take great care at night and try to travel in a group whenever possible. Avoid dark, unlit areas as much as possible. If you are riding your bike at night, do not stop in lonely areas ( you may be being followed ). Be very careful in or around Trance parties, be mindful of what you consume and watch your drinks like a hawk.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Goa

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Goa itinerary.

How many days do you need in Goa?

Despite being India’s smallest state, Goa is packed with incredible experiences and attractions. We recommend visiting for 3-5 days minimum to make the most of it.

What should you include on a Goa 5 day itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these awesome places to visit in Goa: – Old Goa – Sahakari Spice Farm – Braganza House – Sunset Drum Circle & Market

When is the best time to visit Goa?

November-February offer the best weather for exploring Goa. March and April also get warm and have smaller tourist crowds.

Is Goa worth visiting?

Absolutely. From the verdant forests and stunning shorelines to the vibrant food and buzzing festivals, Goa is a very popular destination among travellers.

Goa is the perfect place for your next holiday destination! With white sandy beaches, a rich cultural history and some great architectural beauties, there isn’t a single thing you could possibly miss out on!

Its beautiful landscapes are begging to be explored and the culture that surrounds every building in Goa is worth learning about! No matter what time of year you choose to visit, there will always be something going on in this province. From festivals and parades to cultural ceremonies, there’s never a dull moment in Goa!

It’s a great place to travel whether you’re with your crew or a solo traveler. The safety of this beautiful province adds to the appeal of Goa for solo travelers. Be sure you’re not the only one missing out on the amazing experience of visiting Goa, India! And be sure to add a few of these great activities to your Goa Itinerary!

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Suzanne Borders

Suzanne Borders

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I’m confused – you have this article but also this warning people away from Goa? https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/is-goa-still-worth-visiting/

Where is the Braganza mansion (that you have mentioned close to Arambol). All search results only point to Menezes Braganza mansion in Chandor, South Goa.

Yes you are right. The Braganza mansion is in South Goa which is nowhere near Arambol at all. The writer who created this piece clearly had a moment of confusion. We have rectified the copy.

The typical mindset of western people. “watch your drinks like a hawk” hahaha! I hope you share some positivity also. Please teach your countrymen about Indian hospitality which is sorely missing in your country. I would love to read a blog about the USA itinerary mentioning “watch out for f…ing racists”

Personally I absolutely love Goa (Psytrance!!!!), have spent several months there and cannot wait to visit again. However, the FACT is that Goa can be very dangerous for women and there is no point in denying this – it doesn’t help anybody.

FYI – I am not from the US so cannot comment on American hospitality.

Good work on the blog, very helpful 🙂

This makes me want to rush to goa right now. Amazing blog

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India Travel Blog

7 Best Tourist Places to visit in Goa in 5 days

Goa is one of those places for which people can say, “love at first sight” exists. It is a place that offers something to everyone and rarely would have anyone found disappointment here. Goa is one of those rare states of India where people can spend as much time as they want without getting bored of it at all. Owing to its beaches, scrumptious cuisines, nightlife, rich culture, and spectacular places to visit this pint-sized state is always on the go-to list of travelers.

From beautiful beaches to offbeat pristine spots, it isn’t really difficult to figure out why and what makes Goa a top-notch destination to visit. The partying capital of the nation brings together a perfect melange of leisure and fun that makes every traveler go crazy on the beat. From ancient cathedrals to beaches, to sanctuaries; Goa has it all. Where people from nearby places visit here for the weekend, others prefer staying here for weeks.

Here are the top 7 places to visit in Goa in 5 days you should not miss out on.

  • Aguada Fort
  • Se Cathedral, Church
  • Anjuna Beach
  • St Augustine tower
  • Vagator Beach
  • Calangute Beach

Panaji Handicrafts Emporium

Goa trip plan for 3 days

1. Aguada Fort

One of the major attractions of Goa is the famous Aguada Fort . It was built by the Portuguese and the translation of this word is water. Its construction was done for one purpose and that’s to store water. In the early time, Aguada Fort was the biggest water reservoir in all of Asia. The location of this fort is amazing as by standing on any wall of this fort, you can see the beautiful horizon, a magnificently built lighthouse, and a plethora of beautiful things around.

Fort Aguada is a majestic fort in Goa.

Honestly, sightseeing of the city will be incomplete if you didn’t witness the magnificence of this fort. You can visit here for some quiet time with your friends and family. People also use this spot for clicking tons and tons of pictures.

2. Se Cathedral, Church

If you don’t believe in masterpieces yet, you should definitely pay a visit to the Se Cathedral Church in Old Goa. One of the best places to visit in Goa; the church is a Portuguese-Manueline-style built masterpiece that took about 80 years to complete. Due to its glorious stature and strong aura; the Cathedral has been recognized by UNESCO as one of the heritage sites of the world. The Se Cathedral Church is also the largest in all of Asia.

Se Cathedral Church

From the design to the woodwork, each and everything of the church is breathtakingly beautiful. So, while you visit Goa for a 5-day trip ensure your presence at this 250-feet-high beauty that offers flawless beauty to the visitors.

3. Anjuna Beach

Goa is popular for its beaches and one of the best and most visited beaches in North Goa is Anjuna Beach . If you love partying at night, this is your spot. If you love watersports, this is your spot. There are many reasons why people chose to stay around Anjuna Beach. Watersports including boat sailing, parasailing, bungee banana ride, snorkeling, boat ride, jet ski ride, and many more can be enjoyed here.

Anjuna Beach

The beach is also dotted with several cafes and restaurants around which is why it is popular for its nightlife. There are night parties and fun things that happen in these cafes. If you too are a party hopper, then you can visit Curlies, Club Cubana, Shiva Valley, Cafe Lilliput, Xtreme Sports bar, and a few more.

4. St Augustine tower

St. Augustine Tower is another wonderful destination in Goa that shouldn’t be missed. About 8 km from the Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand, 23 km from Mapusa, and 27 km from Vasco Da Gama Railway; this is another UNESCO World Heritage site situated in Old Goa.

ST Augustine tower in Goa

The ruins of the church show how beautiful it would have been during its reign. Built-in 1572 by 12 Augustines, this tower is still a prime attraction for the tourists visiting Goa. It is believed that the construction of this tower was finished in 1602 AD. On the premises, there are a 46m high bell tower that can be seen from a distance.

5. Vagator Beach

In the beach capital of India, there is another very distinct beach that lures a lot of travelers every year and that is Vagator Beach . Known to be one of the cleanest and beautiful beaches of Goa, Vagator offers all the visitors a chance to experience a beach trip of their life.

Vagator Beach

The Vagator Beach adorns the picturesque red cliffs that look down at two fresh hot springs a few steps away. Although you can visit here anytime in the year, it is recommended to visit during winters. Also, while visiting Vagator Beach ensure that you don’t miss the sight of Chapora Fort, our lady of piety, St. Alex church, Orzan, and Morjim beaches. There are some of the finest places to visit in Goa , near Vagator Beach.

6. Calangute Beach

Goa might be the beach capital of India but amongst all the beaches in this state, Calangute Beach is known to be the best. Also known as “Queen of Beaches”, Calangute is known to cater to all kinds of travelers. From nature lovers to adventure enthusiasts to party hoppers; this beach has a lot of things for everyone.

Calangute Beach is the longest beach in North Goa

The main attractions of North Goa, lie around this beach and the list includes Aguada Fort, Baga Beach, our lady of piety, St. Alex church, Kerkar art gallery, and much more. It is not just the sightseeing or the famous attractions or the beachside serenity that’s on offer here. Tourists also get to party and enjoy the water sports around the beach. From parasailing, banana ride, jet ski, and bumper ride to hopping from bars and cafes around the shoreline; you get everything here at Calangute Beach.

7. Panaji Handicrafts Emporium

Every destination is famous for something but when it is about Goa, it is popular for many things. One of the major attractions of Goa is the Panaji Handicrafts Emporium which is situated in the heart of the state capital.

Panaji Handicrafts Emporium is an apt destination for people who are interested in various handicraft items. If you want to buy some souvenirs from Goa, then this is the best place you can visit.

The reason why Goa is one the top of every traveler’s list is because of the attractions and places to visit in its vicinity. If you are visiting Goa on a 5-days trip then you need ample time to visit the major and popular attractions of the state. Ensure that you include all the above-listed places in your itinerary so that you at least get the hang of this state for a Lil-while. There are tons and tons of other places where you can enjoy your time depending upon your trip partner.

Read Also: Best places to visit Goa in 3 days Read Also: Places to visit in Goa

Shashank Yadav

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

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Meander Wander

30 Best Places to Visit in Goa That Aren’t Beaches

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Looking for the best places to visit in Goa? Well, look no more because this post covers all the top places to visit in north goa and south goa.

Goa, with its golden-sand beaches and palm-fringed villages, is a paradise for everyone. This perfect vacation spot will offer you plenty of beautiful and unique places to explore and rejuvenate your wanderer soul here.

From majestic forts to ancient churches, to lush waterfalls, there is everything here. If you are planning a trip to Goa, then check out our article on the top places that you can visit in Goa.

Best Places to Visit in Goa

Aguada fort.

Aguada Fort is one of the most popular Portuguese forts in Goa that was built in the 17 th  century as a defense against the Marathas and the Dutch invaders.

With a capacity to hold 79 cannons, this old fort was the prized possession of the Portuguese.

The fort lies between the Sinquerim and the Candolim beach and is one of the best places to visit in Goa with family. Inside the fort, you will see an old lighthouse that was constructed in 1864, the oldest of its kind in India.

Visit Aguada Fort to learn about Portuguese architectural techniques and the amazing views of the Arabian Sea.

There is also an underwater prison here that stays closed for most of the year. Plan a visit in the evening to Fort Aguada to enjoy the cool summer breeze as the sun slowly sets and disappears in the sea.

Entry Fee: Free

Camera Fee: Free

Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM

Chapora Fort

Chapora Fort

One of the best places to visit in North Goa, Chapora Fort gained popularity due to its feature in the hit Bollywood film – Dil Chahta Hai.

Travelers from all over India visited Goa and spent time at this fort which is also known fondly known as the Dil Chahta Hai Fort.

Overlooking the mighty Chapora River, this fort was constructed in 1717 and has witnessed several historical events.

Since it was a defensive fortress in the earlier days, it was the constant subject of fighting between the Marathas and the Portuguese.

You can plan a visit to this fort to enjoy the panoramic vistas around. Watch the beachgoers on the nearby Vagator and Chapora Beaches or adventurers experiencing water sports in the distance.

Timings: Throughout the Day

Corjeum Fort

Another popular island fort to visit in North Goa, Corjuem Fort was built in 1550 and has been ruled by several rulers over the years.

Due to its strategic position, it was a great defensive fort to protect Panjim which is why so many battles occurred here to take possession of this fort.

Rebuilt by the British in 1705, Corjuem Fort is a popular spot for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

Also, the breathtaking view of the Mapua river and the lush green countryside makes it a top attraction for the tourists in Goa.

Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM

Reis Magos Fort

Reis Magos Fort

Looking for the best places to visit in North Goa? Then you have to check out this offbeat attraction in North Goa.

Reis Magos is an ancient fort that was constructed in 1551 on the banks of the Mandovi River. This fort stands on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the Mandovi River and the village of Reis Magos.

What’s interesting about this fort is that it has served different roles and purposes in the last 4.5 centuries. It has served as the home for viceroys, prison, and an abandoned fort in the oh-so-many years.

If you want to visit an offbeat fort that is still more intact than the other forts in Goa, then you should check out this place. Currently, the fort serves as a museum to anyone who wishes to learn the history of this fort and Goa.

Entry Fee: 50 INR

Camera Fee: 100 INR

Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Mondays)

Cabo de Rama Fort

One of the best places to visit in South Goa, Cabo de Rama Fort is also known as The Cape of Rama.

Named after Lord Rama of Ramayana, this fort is said to be the exile place where Rama lived with his wife Sita for 14 years.

The cape was earlier a Hindu monument that was rebuilt into a Portuguese fort in 1763.

With an elaborate defense system that consists of a moat, gatehouse, and multiple bastions, this fort has changed many rulers over the past couple of hundred years.

One can visit this fort to get a look at the gorgeous architecture and to enjoy the surrounding green vistas. You can also see the famous Cabo de Rama Beach from the walls of the fort.

Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM

Fort Tiracol

Tiracol Fort

Are you looking for offbeat places to visit in North Goa? If yes, then Fort Tiracol is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in North Goa.

Since this fort has played a huge role in the independence of India, it has seen many wars over the years. In fact, Fort Tiracol has been destroyed and rebuilt once after which it has stood strong over the years.

With stunning architecture and intricate carvings, Fort Tiracol is the best tourist attraction for all the history buffs.

The fort is located on the northern tip of Goa and offers gorgeous views of the Arabian Sea. You can reach by road or take a ferry to reach the fort.

Currently, this fort has been turned into a luxury heritage hotel. Here, you can book your stay or you can dine in the restaurant while taking in the views of the Arabian Sea.

Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM

The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception

Another historic church in Goa that you absolutely must visit is The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception.

Dating back to the 17 th  century, this pristine white church is located at the top of zigzag stairs and has stunning Portuguese Baroque architecture.

The interiors of the church have colorful and bright decorations which impart peace to anyone who visits. Earlier, Portuguese sailors paid a visit to this church after their voyage to thank them for the safe journey.

This church looks beautiful at the night with the twinkling fairy lights. But if you want to see it in its full glory, then plan a visit during the feast of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception on 8 th  December to witness the church covered in colorful lights.

Entry Fee: 10 INR

Timings: 9 AM – 7:30 PM (Closed from 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM)

Divar Island

Divar Island

Divar Island is a gorgeous place that is slightly disconnected from the rest of Goa and offers a serene and scenic environment.

This small island is surrounded by a dense forest and has a small village where the residents live. Enjoy the beautiful hilltop views, learn more about the local culture, and enjoy the cashew fruits during your stay here.

The island can be reached through a 15-minute ferry ride that is free for everyone.

Mahadev Temple

Mahadev Temple is a 12th-century temple that is located 12 km from Mollem. It is one of the oldest temples in Goa that is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a Shiva Linga placed on a raised platform inside the temple.

Since it is situated in a remote location, the temple has survived years of conquests by the Muslims and the Portuguese.

According to the local legend, a king cobra resides in this basalt black temple in the honor of Lord Shiva. Visit this temple to check the detailed carving inside including the lotus temple carved on the ceiling of the temple.

Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Sao Jacinto Island

Sao Jacinto

Located close to Vasco Da Gama, Sao Jacinto Island is another must-visit place in Goa that is both offbeat and beautiful.

You will find an abandoned lighthouse and a church on this island to explore. Spend time on the river banks watching the fishing boats go on about their daily life.

Try to visit during sunrise as this island offers an amazing view of the Golden Hour.

Dudhsagar Falls

Do you love visiting waterfalls? If yes, then Dudhsagar falls is one of the best places to visit in Goa in the monsoon.

Located inside Mollem National Park, Dudhsagar Falls is a spectacular four-tiered waterfall in Goa. With a height of 310 meters, this is also one of the tallest waterfalls in Goa and is a great trekking spot for travelers.

Dudhsagar means a sea of milk in the Konkani language which is exactly how this waterfall appears.

It is not easy to reach this waterfall the water and the surrounding views are definitely worth the effort.

Camera: Free

Grand Island

Parasailing in Goa

Goa is quite famous for its water activities and while different beaches offer you options, Grand Island offers you everything in a single location.

This is why it is one of the best places to visit in Goa for bachelors. You can enjoy water activities such as scuba diving, jet-skiing, banana boat rides, and more.

Snorkeling, fishing, and scuba diving in Goa are quite popular as you have so much to explore underwater.

There are some really cool shipwrecks and underwater sites to explore around Grand Island. Plan a day at this island to enjoy the underwater sights, adventurous water activities, and a delicious BBQ lunch.  

Basilica de Bom Jesus

Although Goa is a popular vacation spot, many people visit this state to visit the pilgrimage sites here including Basilica de Bom Jesus.

Located in Old Goa, this basilica dates back to the 16 th  century and was declared a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1999. Here, you will find the remains of St. Francis Xavier.

This basilica uses a mix of Corinthian, Doric, and Baroque style architecture and has intricate carvings all over. It is also the only church in Goa without a plaster which is why you will notice monsoon effects on this structure.

Visit this attraction on the day of the Feast of St. Francis Xavier which is a nine-day novena and sees a lot of crowds every year.

Timings: 9 AM – 6:30 PM on Weekdays, 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM on Weekends

Fontainhas

Located at the foot of Altinho Hills, Fontainhas is the old Latin Quarter in Panjim that is a top attraction to visit in this state. The main USP of Fontainhas is its Portuguese influence, especially the architecture.

The narrow winding roads, the colorful tiny villas with projecting balconies and roofs made of red-colored tiles will instantly transport you to a European city.

The only place in Goa where Portuguese is still a widely spoken language, Fontainhas was established by a Goan expatriate – Antonio Joao de Sequeira.

In 1984, this place was declared a UNESCO Heritage Site and has attracted a lot of tourists from all over the world.

Some people also call it a small part of Portugal washed up on the Indian continent. If you love heritage and lively places, then walk around the streets of the Latin Quarter enjoying the stunning architecture here.

Naval Aviation Museum

One of the two military museums in India, the Naval Aviation Museum in Goa is another great tourist spot to visit.

This is of the best places to visit in Goa with family where you can learn about the different naval aircraft that have been commissioned over the years.

The interior of this museum looks like INS Viraat and has several galleries where you can read about the wars that the Indian Navy has been a part of.

You can also visit the room with all the naval equipment such as bombs, warheads, torpedos, and more. There is also a simulation room where visitors can enter the cockpit to experience it.

This is a great educational experience and you can end the day with a visit to the nearby beach.

Entry Fee: 20 INR

Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM

Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount

Chapel of Our Lady of the Mont

Located at a hilltop and overlooking the Mandovi River and St. Cajetan Church, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount is another great attraction to visit in Goa.

This place was built by Alfonso de Albuquerque after he defeated the Muslim ruler, Yusuf Shah, in 1510. And since it sits atop a hill, it offers enchanting views of Divar Island, Chorao Island, and Old Goa.

Make sure you visit this place during sunset because the evening colors from here are going to look quite mesmerizing.

And do you know an amazing fact about this place? This church has been featured in several Bollywood movies such as All the Best, Zeher, Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd., and so on!

Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM (Mon-Sat), 9 AM – 12 PM (Sunday)

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Named after India’s top ornithologist, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a hidden gem in Goa that you can visit with your kids. With 440 acres of dense mangrove forest, this place is home to diverse fauna, especially birds.

From Blue-winged teals to Pintails, to jackals, you will spot a wide range of bird and animal species here.

You can watch the birds from the nearby watchtower and spend a day here to enjoy the surrounding natural attractions.

This sanctuary is located on Chorao Island and can be visited by ferry.

Entry Fee: 10 INR – Indians, 100 INR – Foreigners

Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

Panjim

If you are traveling with friends, then Panjim is one of the best places to visit in South Goa. The capital city is a multicultural hub that boasts a laidback vibe and diverse architecture.

With a river running by its side, this is a great place to enjoy river cruises and other off-shore activities as well. Explore Panjim on foot and walk past the charming and colorful heritage homes here.

Learn about the trading history of Goa, walk around the Latin Quarter, check out the art galleries, or visit the nearby beaches. There is no shortage of places to explore in Panjim.

S ri Mangeshi Temple

Sri Mangesh Temple is a popular religious attraction in Goa for Hindus. It is one of the biggest temples in the state and dates back to the 1500s.

Over the years, many renovations and changes to the building have been carried out, a major one being in 1973.

Built during the rule of Marathas, this temple has a simple yet elegant design. Dedicated to Lord Shiva’s incarnation, Bhagavan Manguesh, you will find Mangesh Linga inside the temple.

There are several other colorful statues of deities such as Lord Ganesha, Lakshminarayana, Goddess Parvati, Garuda, Bhagavati, and more.

Watch the daily rites and rituals performed here or participate in a major celebration at the temple.

Timings: 6:30 AM – 11 AM, 3 PM – 6 PM

Cola Lagoon

Cola Lagoon

Searching for the best places to visit in goa for bachelors? Then, Cola Lagoon should be on the top of your list!

Surrounded by tall palm trees, Cola Lagoon aka The Blue Lagoon/Emerald Lagoon is a hidden gem in Goa. It is the end of a freshwater stream meeting Cola Beach and is one of the best highlights of Cola Beach.

One of the best places to visit in South Goa, Emerald Lagoon has clear green colored water that you can easily swim in. Plus, there are a lot of fun water activities to do here such as kayaking, banana boat rides, and more.

You can easily spend a few hours in this lagoon enjoying the lush greenery and the clear freshwater.

Goa State Museum

Housed in the former palace of  Adil Shah, Goa State Museum is a great place to visit with family. This museum was founded in Panjim in 1977 and is a great place to learn the history and culture of Goa.

The museum holds thousands of artifacts and exhibits in the galleries which will interest people of all ages. From religion to science, the museum covers a diverse range of topics and is perfect for history buffs and art lovers.

Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM

Church of Reis Magos

Reis Magos Church

Constructed in 1555 after the building of Reis Magos, the Church of Reis Magos is another beautiful place to visit with your family.

This church is dedicated to St. Jerome and is said to have been built on the ruins of an old Hindu temple.

The church has beautiful architecture and is a good place to visit in the evenings for some peace and tranquility.

If you want to see the true Goan spirit, then visit this church on 6 th  January when the locals celebrate the three kings who journeyed to worship baby Jesus.

Timings: 6 AM – 11 PM

Mapusa Market

If you wish to see a glimpse of the local Goan lifestyle, then head to the colorful and vibrant Mapusa market.

Open every day from morning to evening, this market has shops and stalls that sell a wide range of goods with vendors coming from several nearby villages and states.

From textiles to edibles, you will find everything here. So, taking a stroll around the market, taking pictures of the bustling streets, and eating street food are just a few things to do around here.

Make sure you carry cash to buy goods from this market.

Timings: 9 AM – 11:30 PM

Old Goa Church

Once the capital of the Portuguese, Old Goa was founded in the 14 th  century and is located in North Goa. It was abandoned due to disease and has been declared a UNESCO Heritage Site several years back.

One of the best places to visit in Goa with family, Old Goa is known for its historic churches, colonial architecture, and several scenic points.

You will find homes here with Indian and European influences and many popular landmarks which attract tourists and photographers.

A few places to check out here are the Church of Our Lady of the Mount, the Chapel of St. Catherine, the Basilica of Bom Jesus, and more.

You can explore around this region on foot or by bicycle to make the most of your trip.

If you have watched Dear Zindagi, then I am sure you know the place that I am talking about.

Remember how Alia Bhat cycled through a patch of palm trees in the countryside of Goa, well Parra is the very same place where this scene was shot!

Located on the outskirts of Mapusa town, Parra is a traditional village that is known for growing delicious watermelons.

Whether you want to experience Alia Bhatt’s movie moment or a quiet time in a scenic village, Parra is a great place to visit on your Goa trip.

Trust me, cycling on the narrow road while being surrounded by palm trees feels extremely surreal.

Mandrem

If you are looking for a quiet place to enjoy yourself with your friends, then one of the best places to visit in goa for bachelors is Mandrem. Popular for the Mandrem Beach, Mandrem is a village in the Pernem district of North Goa.

This part of Goa is known for its lush green fields and white sand beaches. Mandrem beach is quiet and peaceful and looks especially beautiful during sunset.

The best thing about this beach is that during high tide, the seawater rushes into the Mandrem Creek and gives the entire landscape a magical touch.

This place is also close to other offbeat beaches in North Goa such as Morjim Beach and Ashwem Beach. And there are lots of stalls and boutique stores where you can buy beautiful dresses, accessories, and more.

Mollem National Park

A part of Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary, Mollem National Park is one of the best places to visit in South Goa. It is a popular trekking spot in Goa and is a great destination for jungle safari for animal spotting.

You can find several birds and animal species here such as Indian Hornbill, Indian rock python, King Cobra, and more.

If you love to trek, then this is one of the best places to visit in Goa in the monsoon. You can trek to Devil’s Canyon, Tambdi Water Falls, Sunset Point, and many more places around here.

One of the most popular attractions in this park is the Dudhsagar Waterfalls which is one of the highest waterfalls in India.

Camera Fee: 30 INR

Video Camera Fee: 150 INR

Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM (Last entry at 3 PM)

Arambol

Arambol is a traditional fisherman village that has become a hub for yoga, meditation, and other activities. This place is perfect for backpackers as you can find many hostels and cheap stays in Arambol to suit your budget.

Here, you have the namesake beach where you will find shacks serving seafood, Goan cuisine, and more. One of the best places to visit in goa at night, the beach hosts a range of activities such as live music, drum performances, and more.

If you love shopping, then this is one of the cheapest places to buy souvenirs in Goa.

Apart from that, it is a paradise for hikers as well since there are several hiking trails nearby for you to explore.

You can hike to Arambol Mountain, Sweetwater Lake, and several other hidden places to enjoy the views and the ambiance around here.

Also, if you are looking to work out of Goa, then you will find lots of cafes with good WiFi in this area too.

Tito’s Street

One of the best places to visit in Goa at night for partying, Tito’s Street is a must-visit on your Goa trip. There are many happening clubs around here such as Mambo’s, Tito’s, etc. where you can dance to your heart’s content.

The street is also filled with many shops and restaurants where you can buy souvenirs, clothes, etc., and then have food and drinks later.

If you want to chill on the beach, then you can head to the Baga beach from the street and join one of the beach parties there too. Overall, Tito’s Street is the best place to hang out and have fun in Goa with your friends.

Saligao

One of the quaint villages in Goa that isn’t frequented by a lot of tourists, Saligao is one of the few places where you can experience the local lifestyle and culture of Goa.

Walk through the streets of Saligao to enjoy the beautiful green countryside and meet native Goans who have been living here for a few centuries.

There are many beautiful houses to witness here and several interesting local legends to hear about. Personally, I feel you need a guided tour of this village to truly understand its stories and history.

Explore the chapels, churches, and beautiful houses as you learn more about the culture of this village.

So, did you like our list of the best places to visit in Goa? Do you think we missed out on something? Let us know in the comments below!

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Hi Rachita, Nice piece of Content, very comprehensive, but I’d like to point out, Chapora fort the timings it closes at 6:30pm in the evening.

Hello Ganesh,

Thank you. As for the timings, is it a recent change? Because I can say for a fact that I was inside Chapora Fort in 2021 February in the evening for sunset till 7 PM easily. 🙂

Couple of Journeys

Best South Goa Itinerary (for 1,2,3,4,5 days in South Goa)

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

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South Goa is one of the most beautiful regions in India. Below is my detailed South Goa guide to help you plan the best trip to South Goa. It includes the best things to do in South Goa, where to stay in South Goa as well as a South Goa itinerary for your stay.

I have visited South Goa over 20 times. To say I love it is an understatement. I find the place charming, picturesque and quintessentially Goan in all its ways. Its charm hasn’t reduced the way North Goa’s charm has due to overtourism. And yet, there is enough touristic infrastructure to help regular tourists have the best South Goa trip. A South Goa trip should be full of visits to the spectacular beaches, old forts, wildlife sanctuaries, aesthetic cafés, delicious restaurants, serene backwaters and scenic islands.

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

But to get the best out of your trip to South Goa, you need to plan it well. You need to break down your stay in a workable South Goa itinerary. Read this full post for all the details that you need to perfectly plan a South Goa trip.

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read the  disclaimer  for more information.

Top Things to Do in South Goa

South Goa itinerary and things to do in South Goa

If you don’t want to read the full article, here are my top things to do in South Goa

  • Admire the beauty of the Palolem beach
  • Absorb the scenic beauty of the secluded islands – Butterfly Island and Honeymoon Island
  • Take in the spectacular views from Cabo de Rama
  • Visit the Dudhsagar Waterfalls

These are the top things to do in South Goa, but there is far more that South Goa offers. I would be writing all about it in this post.

South Goa – Map and Location

South Goa is to the South of Goa (duh!). It shares its border with Karnataka. It is bigger than North Goa. It is diverse as it has beaches, enormous wildlife sanctuaries, waterfalls and springs. Here is a Goa map to get you oriented

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

How to reach South Goa

Goa airport

The airport of Goa is located in Dabolim, Mormugao region of South Goa. It is the only airport in Goa and connects Goa to the rest of the country. That’s also why most major regions in South Goa are closer to the airport than those of North Goa.

Margaon is the major train station in South Goa.

Cancona, Vasco de Gama are also the other major train stations in Goa.

Get down at Margaon if you are staying between Majorda and Cavelossim. For Agonda and Palolem, see if you can get off at Cancona. But many trains do not halt at Cancona.

The main bus stand in South Goa is in Margaon – The Kadamba bus stand. It connects South Goa to various parts of Goa and the country. See schedule.

From here, you can take local buses to various locations in South Goa.

Where to stay in South Goa

The major areas where you will find touristic accommodation in South Goa are

  • Colva – the most popular tourist hub in South Goa. It mainly attracts Indian tourists. It is a short drive away from Margaon.
  • Benaulim – a lovely family and couple-friendly area in South Goa. It attracts both Indian and foreign tourists. It is also a short drive away from Margaon. 📍 The Azaya Beach Resort here is exquisite – the best beachside resort for families and couples with a fantastic pool for the perfect sundowner. See photos and availability
  • Palolem – a lovely town to the southern end of South Goa. It is very scenic and has lots of things to offer to tourists who love nature and beauty. It is a good base for families and couples but even more so for solo travellers who don’t mind visiting a few offbeat locations and staying at a hostel. 📍 The Lost Hostel in Palolem is the best – excellent staff, engaging on-site activities and very clean. See photos and availability

For more ideas on where to stay in South Goa, read my article on the best areas to stay in Goa

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

  • a full list of the best areas to stay in Goa
  • best accommodation options for your travel type

South Goa Travel Tips

Hari's German Bakery, Bakery

  • It’s best to rent a vehicle for commuting within South Goa. The public transport system in Goa is not reliable at all for those visiting Goa on a tight time schedule.
  • There are very few tourist areas in South Goa that are self-sufficient from a tourist’s point of view. Thus you won’t find a supermarket, medical store, grocery store, beauty salon, garment shop, foreign exchange store, vehicle rental or a tour operator in many South Goan areas. If quick access to these facilities is important to you – please stay in Colva, Benaulim or Palolem.
  • South Goa has no real party places and the nightclubs in South Goa are not comparable in scale to the ones in North Goa. The silent noise party at Palolem has also stopped taking place in recent years. Do not rely on other articles on the internet recommending that as a party avenue.

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

  • Many tourist spots in South Goa like Cabo de Rama, Cola Beach, Butterfly Island, Mollem Wildlife Sanctuary, and Dudhsagar Waterfalls get very deserted and dark at night. Avoid staying back in these regions as far as possible.
  • Many beaches in South Goa like Agonda, Talpona and Galgibaga are turtle habitats and therefore subject to many restrictions. Respect the rules of visit at these beaches.
  • If you plan to go on a day trip to North Goa , stay in the northern regions of South Goa like Majorda, Betalbatim, Colva and Benaulim. Avoid staying at Agonda or Palolem as the distance from these regions to North Goa is approximately 2.5 hrs one way making the day trip impracticable.
  • Cabs to your accommodation would be available from the airport and Margaon train station without much difficulty. But hailing a cab from other locations is often difficult. Plan your commute whenever you visit such places.

Things to do in South Goa

I have a detailed post on the best things to do in Goa that comprehensively covers options for both North Goa and South Goa in a very structured manner. You can get more in-depth information in those posts. In this post, I will give an excellent overview of everything that could keep tourists engaged in South Goa

Visit the spectacular South Goa Beaches

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

The beaches in South Goa are calm and blissful. Their natural beauty is also fairly intact as opposed to the bustling beaches of North Goa. Here are some of the beaches in South Goa that you could visit on your South Goa trip

  • Palolem beach : clean, calm, vibey. Plenty of shacks and things to do in surrounding areas. Lots of boat ride options to nearby islands as well.
  • Talpona/Galgibaga : Further south of Palolem. Known for their natural beauty and turtle nesting. Almost no shacks. Best for introverts or couples looking to escape the crowds.
  • Agonda : Next to a cliff, scenic, calm, few shacks. Beautiful backwaters. (Choose any Agonda or Palolem as both have similar offerings. But Agonda has fewer tourists)
  • Betul/Mobor/Cavelossim : Stunning whitish golden sand, flat and soft. Almost always deserted. Many luxury properties are nearby.
  • Benaulim: Benaulim is one of the most family-friendly beaches in South Goa. Quite a few shacks and accommodation options are nearby. See my article on the best things to do in Benaulim here .
  • Colva: One of the most crowded beaches of South Goa. Central, very touristy. Many properties in the nearby area. Close to Margaon.
  • Majorda/Betalbatim: Deserted and scenic. Hardly any tourists visit these beaches. Betalbatim is also known to glow on certain nights.
  • Cola Beach /Butterfly Beach /Cabo de Rama: Very remote, with improper access involving hiking, boat rides, etc. but breathtakingly beautiful

Read my full guide with practical insights on the best beaches in Goa here .

Get the best views from Cabo de Rama

View from Cabo de Rama Goa

I don’t think there is any other viewpoint in Goa that comes close to Cabo de Rama. Cabo de Rama is truly magical. The place is a flat land overlooking the South Goan coastline.

Vehicles can be taken right up to the viewpoint. But at the viewpoint itself, there isn’t much to do apart from taking in the jaw-dropping beauty of Goa.

  • Appreciate the view, click lots of pictures
  • Enjoy light snacks at a small shop near the viewpoint
  • If you’re interested and if time permits, visit the fort nearby.

Avoid staying back after sunset in this area if you’re riding alone or with your partner on a two-wheeler. The road gets pretty dark.

Try out delectable food

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

You’ll find plenty of good eating places in South Goa. Here are a few must-try ones

  • Fisherman’s Wharf, Cavelossim – Authentic South Goan food served in a restaurant with the best riverside views. Yummy all the way! But I also find it too commercial now. Expect a waiting period of about 30 minutes on weekends and during peak tourist season. But the food and the views are still very impressive.
  • Mike’s place. Cavelossim : A simple tourist-friendly restaurant – excellent for a hearty breakfast or a filling lunch. On all of my visits here, the staff was very kind and there is ample seating area to accommodate enough guests.
  • Roger’s, Benaulim : One of the best seaside shacks in South Goa, excellent for candlelight dinners as well. It is right at the entrance of Benaulim Beach.
  • Goodfellas, Benaulim: The best wood-fired pizza in South Goa. I keep raving about it and ensure I visit it every time I am in Benaulim.
  • Ciarans, Palolem: The kind of food you long for at the end of the day served right by the beach. The food is far tastier than most beach shacks around.
  • Kinara, Cavelossim : Modest place serving authentic Goan food cooked with warmth. Excellent for a homely family lunch.
  • Kopi Desa , Palolem : Filmy vibe, smashing food, best for hanging out with friends. I love the place for its vibe, the posters and the kick-ass food choices.

There are many more charming places to eat in South Goa that are spread out all over. The list above is just the tip of the iceberg.

Get lost in nature

South Goa is packed with natural beauty. There are countless opportunities to admire Goa’s flora and fauna.

South Goa Tourist Attractions

A few that are a must-visit are

  • Dudhsagar waterfalls
  • Tambdi Surla temple and waterfalls + lots of surrounding beauty near Mollem
  • Cola Beach for the lagoon
  • Palolem and Agonda backwaters
  • Sal river near Cavelossim
  • Bondla Zoo + surrounding forest area (including it here since it now forms part of South Goa)
  • Kesarval springs

Engage in memorable experiences

Simply visiting beautiful locations is not enough. To enhance the quality of your experience, you should also engage in activities that feel rewarding such as

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

Kayaking in South Goa is one of the most pleasant experiences. You can book a kayak at Agonda or Palolem and go kayaking in the sea or even in the river near Cavelossim. The river kayaking presents many bird-watching opportunities as well. You can book a tour in advance to avoid disappointment. ( See photos, details and availability here )

  • Eagle-feeding

This unique experience is offered in the Palolem backwaters. Head early morning for the best experience.

  • Island hopping

There are a few islands off the coasts of Agonda and Palolem that mesmerise with their heavenly charm. Visiting these islands on a single trip of a few hours is possible from either of the beaches, but you will get more options from Palolem Beach.

  • Heritage tour

If you want to visit some of the finest examples of local Portuguese structures, you must take this South Goa heritage tour that takes you to the Figueiredo Mansion, Menezes Braganza House and other heritage gems of South Goa. ( See the tour details and availability here )

If you want to skip the tour, you can also plan a quick stop at these places.

The many waterfalls in South Goa are also ideal trekking trails for those who enjoy trekking. You could go on a Dudhsagar trek, Tambdi Surla trek, and Netravali trek while in Goa.

It is best to hike in the late monsoon season when the rains subside but the greenery remains.

South Goa Itineraries

In this section, I will draw out quick itineraries that you can easily follow on your trip to South Goa. If the things to do in South Goa listed in this itinerary don’t match your travel taste, you’re free to make changes to it and pick another place from the list of places to visit in South Goa mentioned above.

1 day in South Goa Itinerary

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

If you have just one day in South Goa, here’s what you should do

Plan to stay at Palolem/Agonda ( see best-rated options in Palolem and Agonda )

  • Spend your morning on Palolem beach. Have breakfast in one of the shacks on the beach.
  • Follow with a trip to the nearby islands or go kayaking in the backwaters
  • For lunch, travel all the way to Benaulim and have lunch at Roger’s or Hideout. Relax on the beach here.

Catch the best sunset in South Goa from Cabo de Rama

2 days in South Goa Itinerary

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

Follow 1 day in South Goa itinerary.

Day 2: Visit Dudhsagar falls and the spice plantation. It’s a full-day tour with lunch included.

Check tour details here

3 days in South Goa Itinerary

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

Plan to stay at Benaulim ( see best-rated accommodations in Benaulim here – as stated earlier I love Azaya Beach Resort )

Day 1: Benaulim

If you have 3 days in Goa, it’s best to completely explore the magic in Benaulim for a full day.

Start with a breakfast at the German bakery , followed by lots of beach time. At the beach, you can have lunch at Roger’s or try out the delicious seafood at Johncy . Watch the sunset from the Southern Deck or have dinner at the best wood-fired pizza in town at Goodfellas .

Basically, spend a day chilling in the typical Goan susegaad (local word for laidback) style

Day 2: Palolem/Agonda

Start day 2 by going down south to the picturesque beaches.

Enroute make the following stops –

Quick Stop 1: Cavelossim Beach Quick Stop 2: Agonda Beach Brunch Stop: 📍 Kopi Desa near Palolem Beach

Once at the Palolem Beach, start by going on an Island boat trip.

Once you’re back, have a hearty meal at 📍 Ciarans .

For sunset, visit Cabo de Rama and after that, come back to Benaulim for dinner.

Day 3: Dudhsagar

Visit Dudhsagar falls and spice plantation. It’s a full day tour with lunch included at the Spice Plantation.

4 days in South Goa Itinerary

Tambdi Surla Temple

For the 4-day South Goa trip – follow the 3-day itinerary above.

Day 3: Dudhsagar/Spice plantations

Day 4: Temples and Museum

  • Visit one of Goa’s oldest temples – Tambdi Surla or if you don’t want to travel that far, visit the Shantadurga temple

Finish these off in the first half of the day.

  • For the second half, visit the Big Foot at Loutulim – a beautiful museum depicting the lifestyle of local Goans.

5 days in South Goa Itinerary

Big Foot Goa

If you can visit South Goa for 5 or more days, your experience is going to be far richer than typical tourists spending a couple of days in South Goa. You will be able to relax, take in the vibe of Goa, mingle with local Goans and admire the beauty of South Goa in an unrushed manner.

So here’s what I think you should do – follow the 4 day itinerary as above. And you can spend your last day in Goa doing one of the options given below

Day 4: Tambdi Surla/Shantadurga temple/Big Foot

  • Relax at a beach of your choice
  • Visit the offbeat Cola Beach
  • Check out the lighthouse at Betul
  • Go kayaking near Cavelossim
  • Visit the touristy Colva Beach
  • Check out the completely deserted Majorda/Betalbatim beaches
  • Visit India’s only naval museum at Vasco de Gama

Frequently Asked Questions – South Goa

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

How many days are enough for South Goa?

2 days in South Goa are enough for visiting all the touristy highlights. But a longer trip to South Goa feels more rewarding as it lets you absorb the natural beauty of South Goan beaches in a typical laid-back Goan style.

Is South Goa worth visiting?

South Goa is absolutely worth visiting for its natural beauty, serene beaches, delectable food, many waterfalls, treks and temples. It is far less commercial than North Goa and a trip to South Goa, thus feels, far more calming and rejuvenating.

Planning a trip to Goa soon? Read more articles

  • 46 best things to do in Goa – read article
  • 26 solid Goa travel tips – read article
  • Best places to visit in North Goa in 3 days – read article
  • The perfect Goa itinerary for 5 days – read article
  • How to plan a Goa budget trip: 12 super useful tips – read article

I have Goa – Planned for You – See my handy digital trip plan that includes the best places to visit, stay and do in Goa.

Goa: Planned for You (Cost-Saver Set)

Pin for later

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

TOP TRAVEL RESOURCES

Here is a list of our favorite travel resources- the ones that I absolutely swear by when planning almost every trip. Go through this list to plan a hassle-free trip and save a lot of money!

Flight Booking: Check the availability of tickets, the best time to fly, and the cheapest fares on Skyscanner . You may also find a cheap flight via CheapOair

Accommodation: I absolutely love booking through Agoda . In most countries and particularly in Asia, I often find the best fares on Agoda. But I also love the no prepayment and no cancellation fee policy of Booking.com . For cheap accommodations and hostels, nothing beats Hostelworld .

Car Rentals: You may find and rent an appropriate car via RentalCars . It’s hassle-free and reliable.

Guided Tours: I absolutely love GetYourGuide for local sightseeing tours, walking tours, history tours, and food tours. The booking process is seamless, and the tours are super affordable. But in Asian countries, I prefer Viator or Klook for their affordably priced tours.

Lounge Access : Get Priority Pass – my personal favorite card that gives me unlimited access to premium airport lounges all over the world

Hey, if you found this post helpful, share it with more people or buy me a coffee !

best places to visit in goa in 5 days

Vrushali Ketkar is a lawyer turned travel blogger. She has travelled to 14 countries. She travels like a regular working woman with family. Her lawyer-level research skills make her a destination expert and help her get the most out of my trips. Today, her travel articles and videos help thousands of people across the world plan their trips to various parts of the world.

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Goa Itinerary For 4 Days: Complete Details And Information

by Riya Jogi on February 16, 2023

As you think of Goa, azure waters and sandy beaches are sure to take your heart away! The destination is filled with abundant beauty, natural surroundings and bustling restaurants. Goa is majorly divided into North and South parts that have their own significance with various tourist destinations. If you think of exploring Goa, know that 4 days are enough to do it in full swing. While Goa has a fusion of history, art, culture and architectural wonders, it is always a good idea to follow a detailed Goa itinerary for the best of convenience.

With a detailed Goa itinerary for 4 days, you can save money and capture long lasting memories for life. Also, Treebo hotels in Goa are available for friends, families and couples at budget-friendly prices. Here is your quick guide to a planned Goa 4 days itinerary that helps you enjoy yourself with the best moments.

Here is Your 4 Days Goa Itinerary –

Day 1 – explore north goa.

Your Goa itinerary for 4 days has to start with the famous North Goa. This part of Goa is known for lively culture and rock music in some of the best restaurants here. Right from beaches to churches, North Goa speaks of bustling markets, cafes and adventure water sports. So, check the best places to visit in North Goa as the day begins.

Anjuna Beach

Kick start your day with mouth watering breakfast options available at the Anjuna Beach. After your breakfast, Anjuna Beach is all set to welcome you to experience serenity and adventure, all at once! You can find various rocky outcrops at the beach making it a perfect spot for photography. Since it is the first day starting with your Goa itinerary, make sure you soak in the sun or swiftly swim through the waves. 

Goa itinerary for 4 days

It is always a good idea to start it light and then get to the adventure mode next day. Also, Anjuna beach has different beach shacks and night parties elevating the experience in Goa . You can see a lot of tourists from different walks of life making it a wholesome experience with unexpected conversations. 

Chapora Fort

After enjoying the beach vibes and clicking pictures of your dazzling hat, this is the time to move to the Chapora fort. Goa 4 days itinerary remains incomplete without missing the famous Chapora Fort. This Fort has also been featured in one of the famous Bollywood movies called Dil Chahta Hai. 

Goa Itinerary

So, this is your time to recreate the scenario with your travel buddies. It is one of the best destinations in Goa to watch the sunset and enjoy the scenery around. Also, the Fort has an undeniable marvellous Portuguese architecture that you cannot miss on your journey!

CHECK THE BEST TIME TO VISIT GOA FOR A FUN LOVING TRIP  

Anjuna Flea Market

No Goa itinerary can be made without shopping in the vibrant streets here. After making memories at the Chapora fort, straightaway head to the Anjuna Flea Market to collect souvenirs depicting the Goan art and culture. Also, it is a good idea to first shop for your loved ones so you do not fall in the trap of paying more towards the end of your trip to Goa.

Goa itinerary for 4 days

The flea market is famous for floral clothing and colorful bags. You can also buy from a huge range of hats, handicrafts and accessories. Make sure to negotiate with the sellers for the right price. After filling bags, head to one of the restaurants at Anjuna and end your Day 1 with all the peace and shopping!

Day 2 – Adventure is Calling!

Paradise of Goa is known for the best adventure activities and you cannot miss them out. Your 4 days Goa itinerary brings all the thrill on Day 2 with water sports. Check out amazing water sports and the best places for them.

Parasailing

Do you want to fly but are not ready for skydiving yet? That’s why Goa offers one of the stimulating adventure sports for beginners too! Parasailing is flying in the air and also being in the waters everytime you slide downwards.

Goa itinerary for 4 days

If you are with your adventure junkies, you must go parasailing and watch the unexplored views of the beach from the top. Also, click as many pictures as possible because such experiences are worth saving! Anjuna, Majorca and Calangute beach are famous destinations for this water sport.

Scuba Diving 

What better than watching life under the waters? Scuba Diving is one of the best experiences you can have in life. Goa is a famous spot for this adventure as it is home to many beaches and rich marine life. Also, Goa has various instructions and diving schools that help you easily through the process.

Goa itinerary for 4 days

Diving under the waters and hearing the silence of your thoughts is not an ordinary experience. So, take this time and go into the world that you have never seen! Famous spots for scuba diving in Goa include Navy Island, Grande Islands and Devagh Islands.

For a comfortable stay, check 10 BEACH RESORTS IN GOA IS THE ULTIMATE VACAY DESTINATION OF ALL SEASONS!

Jet Skiing 

When in Goa, you have to kick off your bucket list. Jet skiing is one of the common activities here because of the huge availability of instructors and safe water strides. Jet skiing is more like riding a bike at extreme speed and experiencing the currents of water in real time.

Goa itinerary for 4 days

What an amazing way to splash water on yourself as you keep riding through the vastness of waters. Go to Calangute, Colva or Miramar beach for the best jet skiing time.

Aqua Zorbing 

You must have heard of zorbing but Aqua Zorbing is just another level of adventure activity for the real thrill! It is indeed a great experience to roll down a transparent ball on the surface of blue waters.

4 days Goa itinerary

The adventure is all about balancing yourself on the bouncy waters and enjoying the most out of it. As you roll and twist through the waves, the activity totally gives you a feeling of an Adrenaline rush yet in a safe space. Mayem Lake offers this adventure for tourists from across the globe.

Day 3 – Witness the Charm of Old Goa!

Goa offers a rich architectural background due to the strong influence of Portuguese in the ancient times. So, as you go through your Goa itinerary for 4 days, Goa presents you with colonial Era monuments and structures taking you back to Portuguese designs and styles.

Basilica of Bom Jesus 

Your journey to exploring Old Goa definitely has to start from the Basilica of Bom Jesus . It was constructed in 1605 AD and remains one of the famous tourist attractions here. Also declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the church remains to be a place of worship along with being an iconic monument from the historical point of view. 

4 days Goa itinerary

The church holds mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier making it one of the significant churches in India. It is one of the famous destinations for photography enthusiasts as the church offers a fusion of Baroque and Portuguese architecture. Look for Treebo hotels near the church for a relaxing stay.

St. Augustine Tower  

Goa surprises you in several ways and all you need to do is walk to the path of history while exploring Old Goa. After exploring the Basilica of Bom Jesus, here’s your next destination! The popular St. Augustine Tower is four-storey high and remains as a historical ruin. 

4 days Goa itinerary

The church has also been featured in a popular Bollywood movie. While the church talks highly about the Goan history with Portuguese influence, it is also a scenic destination with a surreal landscape. Do not forget to include this photography destination to your Goa itinerary for 4 days!

Museum of Christian Art

For the history buffs who love to explore mysteries, here’s your favorite destination in the Goa 4 days itinerary. Museum of Christian Art is a popular place that houses an authentic collection depicting Christianity. Most of these collections are straightaway linked to Portuguese rule in the past. 

4 days Goa itinerary

Since Goa is all about different cultures, Christianity is one of the major religions followed here. With more than 150 artifacts, you get an opportunity to understand more about the lifestyle, habits and cultural practices of people in Goa. Most Christian sculptures depict Indian carvings creating an instant relatability.

Archeological Museum of Goa  

Moving to your next destination in the Goa itinerary. That is the Archeological Museum of Goa! Your Goa itinerary for 4 days ends by witnessing stunning Portuguese collections and artifacts at this museum. You can find a huge collection of coins, statues and paintings ranging from the ancient era. 

You guide to 4 days Goa itinerary

The museum is famous for intricate sculptures defining the beauty of archaeology. Also, the museum is home to mysterious inscriptions, maps and portraits taking you to an unknown destination just with the view. Make sure to book hotels near the Museum for a comfortable stay after a tiring day.

Also check out HISTORY AND SERENITY: CHECK OUT THE BEST MUSEUM IN GOA

Day 4 – Bid Bye with South Goa 

After you have explored North Goa and soaked your feet in the thrill of crazy adventures, it is time to explore South Goa! With minimal travel, it is now time to bid goodbye to this wonderful destination.

Bamanbudo Waterfall

Your Goa itinerary for 4 days remains incomplete if you do not witness the mesmerizing beauty of Bamanbudo waterfalls. Located in South Goa , this is an unexplored destination allowing you to soak in nature like no other destination! 

You guide to 4 days Goa itinerary

It is also known as one of the pristine waterfalls where tourists come for a bath! The divinity comes from the backdrop as the Amba Ghat is located there. As you start your journey in South Goa, visiting Bamanbudo waterfalls is a comfortable option that does not require much hassle.

Big Foot Goa

Also known as Ancestral Goa Museum, Big Foot Goa is a significant contribution to understanding rural Goan life. Along with the museum, it is a theme park located in South Goa. The Big Foot museum allows you to witness different statues of Portuguese soldiers, fisherman and other villagers. 

You guide to 4 days Goa itinerary

The Museum has access to different paintings and furniture dating back to the ancient era. If intrication inspires you, you can find a lot of furnishing with intricate carvings on wood.  The Goa itinerary for 4 days definitely sums up with vibrant statues, serenity, mild wall colors and warm welcome at the Big Foot Goa.

For additional fun in South Goa, check 10 SOUTH GOA BEACHES FOR WAVES, WANDERING AND WILD EXPERIENCES

Colva Beach

As it is the time to end your holidays, Colva beach in South Goa is definitely a place to be! As you must have seen in movies, Colva beach is all about long stretches of white sand adored with coconut palms. While beaches in North Goa offer a lively environment, most of the beaches in South Goa offer a rather relaxing vibe due to less tourists around. 

You guide to 4 days Goa itinerary

Since this is your last day in Colva beach, make sure you soak your feet in the white sand and admire the beauty of the beaches. You can also engage with the locals here or shop quirky accessories from the jewellery stalls nearby. Colva beach is definitely a fusion of beach shacks, romantic cafes, rejuvenating aroma of waters and the perfect spot for strolling!

Nobody ever wants the Goa itinerary to end because it is the place that offers so much warmth, love, adventure and unbeatable hospitality of locals. As you think of exploring Goa in future, save this complete guide for mapping your journey. 

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The best time to visit Goa

By Arundhati Ail

Surfers in Goa

Most people consider Goa for a year-end beach vacation, but the state has become a year-round destination over the years, with different seasons offering different experiences to tourists. The best time to visit Goa really depends on what you want from your trip. There’s a lot to the destination beyond beaches : local tavernas, exciting street food , monsoon treks, hidden waterfalls and homestays on quiet beaches. Plan wisely and you can explore a side to Goa that isn’t all over Instagram. Here’s a handy guide on the best time to visit Goa.

Jump to: The best time to visit Goa Temperature in Goa Is monsoon a good time to visit Goa? The cheapest time to visit Goa The best time to surf in Goa Which is better: North or South Goa? How many days are enough for a Goa trip? Is Goa good to visit with family? Plan your stay

What is the best time to visit Goa?

The best time to visit Goa is from November to February. The heat and humidity give way to more pleasant sunny days by December, and the waves are gentler during this time. December also brings the Christmas spirit to several local homes, and bakeries and decades-old stores stock up on Christmas sweets like kalkal, dodol and neureos . This is also peak tourist season in Goa, which means hotel and flight prices shoot up at this time. While most people visit Goa in December, January brings better weather and slightly fewer crowds.

Temperatures begin to rise from March, with summer settling in by April. The months between March and June see hot sunny days, with the mercury climbing to 35°C. If the heat and humidity doesn’t bother you, you can still make the most of a trip to Goa during this time by planning any sightseeing and beach visits either early in the morning or in the evening. June to September is monsoon in Goa and the state experiences heavy rainfall. Frequent showers make beach visits difficult, but also offer the opportunity to experience the state’s offbeat natural experiences.

Temperature in Goa

March to May: 25°C-35°C June to October: 24°C-30°C November to February: 20°C-30°C

Is monsoon a good time to visit Goa?

Monsoon is an underrated time to visit Goa and is best for folks with a sense of adventure and a love for the unmanicured outdoors. Monsoon brings beautiful waterfalls and lush greenery to the Western Ghats. You can trek through forests to find natural pools and falls, hike through the thriving forest of Mollem National Park, take rainy boat rides in the mangroves and enjoy seasonal seafood and vegetable preparations beyond recheado and cafreal.

What is the cheapest time to visit Goa?

The monsoon season is off-season and therefore the cheapest time to visit Goa. Expect flight and hotel prices to drop during this time. However, remember that you may not be able to lounge on the beach or visit shacks in the monsoon. Many beach shacks, outdoor restaurants and hotels shut for the season.

What’s the best time to surf in Goa?

“The best months to learn surfing in Goa are from October to March,” says Arun Vasu, President of the Surfing Federation of India. “During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the conditions in the sea are generally favourable for beginners. Monsoon, which lasts from June to September, is not recommended for learning due to the unpredictable and rough sea conditions.” There are several surf schools in Goa, including Surf Wala in Arambol, Octopus Surf in Morjim and Vaayu Kula in Mandrem. More on where to learn surfing in Goa here

Which is better: North or South Goa?

This depends on what kind of trip you’re looking for. North Goa typically sees more tourist crowds and consists of neighbourhoods like Panaji, Assagao, Anjuna, Baga and Calangute, which are home to several buzzing restaurants and bars. While beaches like Baga and Calangute are typically full of tourists, North Goa does have less crowded beaches such as Mandrem, Ashwem and Morjim. If you would prefer to steer clear of large tourist crowds, South Goa is a quieter option, with beaches like Palolem, Varca and Colva.

How many days are enough for a Goa trip?

Three to four days are enough for a Goa trip in either North or South Goa. If you plan to spend time in both parts of Goa, it’s best to add a day or two to your trip so you get to explore the best of both. When in Goa, go bar-hopping in Panaji, visit old local churches and bakeries, spend long, lazy days on the beach and go shopping at quaint boutique stores.

Is Goa good to visit with family?

There are several family and kid-friendly activities in Goa. Families will enjoy watersports, visits to museums and heritage trails in Panaji. Responsible adventure company Konkan Explorers can organise kayaking programmes and yacht cruises for groups, coupled with open water swimming if the weather and tides permit. If you’re travelling with kids , try boat trips, art walks and workshops with Make It Happen and surf lessons.

Plan your stay:

The best hotels in Goa Boutique hotels in North Goa The best restaurants in North Goa Boutique hotels in South Goa The best restaurants in South Goa What to do in Goa in the monsoon The best sundowner places in Goa Homestays in Anjuna , Moira , near Dudhsagar , Galgibaga Villas to book in Goa

This story was first published on Condé Nast Traveller India

ABP Live

Travel Goa: Exciting Things To Do On A Long Weekend

G oa is a beautiful coastal state in India known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. In recent years, Goa has undergone a profound shift, emerging as a global hotspot for wellness and fitness enthusiasts, in addition to the beach wonder. This transformation has seen the fusion of traditional practices like yoga and meditation with contemporary fitness trends, creating a unique wellness ecosystem. From yoga retreats on serene shores to high-intensity fitness festivals, Goa can be an ideal place to visit on a long weekend.

Places to Visit In Goa:

1. Baga Beach : Baga Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Goa, known for its lively atmosphere and water sports activities. You can relax on the sandy shores, take a parasailing or jet-ski ride, and enjoy the beachfront shacks serving delicious seafood.

2. Old Goa : Explore the historical side of Goa by visiting Old Goa, which is home to several magnificent churches and cathedrals, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites offer a glimpse into the state's colonial past.

3. Anjuna Flea Market : If you love shopping and vibrant markets, don't miss the Anjuna Flea Market. Held every Wednesday, it's a treasure trove of unique items, including clothing, jewelry, handicrafts, and souvenirs. It's a great place to shop for mementos.

4. Dudhsagar Waterfalls : Located in the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Dudhsagar Waterfalls is one of India's tallest waterfalls. You can take a trek to reach the falls, or opt for a jeep safari. The view of the cascading water amidst lush greenery is breathtaking.

5. Aguada Fort : Visit Aguada Fort, a well-preserved 17th-century Portuguese fort that offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. It's a great place to learn about Goa's history and enjoy the scenic beauty.

Other Things To Do In Goa:

SKF Goa River Marathon: The SKF Goa River Marathon is a renowned annual running event held in the scenic state of Goa, India. This marathon offers a unique and captivating experience to participants as it weaves through the enchanting banks of Goa's serene rivers. Athletes from across the globe converge here to test their endurance and revel in the beauty of their surroundings. With varying race categories, including a full marathon, half marathon, and a 10K run, the event caters to runners of all levels. Runners not only enjoy the physical challenge but also the picturesque vistas, making it a standout marathon that seamlessly blends athleticism with the natural splendor of Goa.

Connect Fest 2023: Connect Fest is a dynamic and holistic health and fitness event designed to inspire and educate individuals on their wellness journeys. This annual gathering brings together fitness enthusiasts, experts, and influencers from diverse backgrounds. Attendees can participate in a wide array of activities, including workout sessions, nutritional workshops, wellness discussions, and motivational talks.

The fest aims to foster a sense of community and empowerment, encouraging individuals to prioritize their physical and mental well-being. It provides a platform for networking, learning, and sharing knowledge about fitness, nutrition, and overall wellness. It serves as a catalyst for positive lifestyle changes and personal growth. This time, the fest will happen on 9-10th December. Some confirmed guests attending the event will be singer Lucky Ali, Comedian Aakash Gupta, YouTuber Nas Daily.

International Yoga Festival: The International Yoga Festival in Goa is a highly anticipated annual event that celebrates the ancient practice of yoga. Held against the backdrop of Goa's tranquil beaches and lush greenery, this festival draws yoga enthusiasts and practitioners from all corners of the globe. It offers a diverse program of yoga workshops, meditation sessions, and spiritual teachings led by renowned instructors and gurus. Attendees immerse themselves in various yoga styles, from Hatha to Vinyasa, fostering physical well-being and mental serenity. This festival serves as a hub for holistic healing, mindfulness, and self-discovery, promoting harmony between mind, body, and spirit in the idyllic setting of Goa's natural beauty.

Ironman 70.3 Goa: It is a prestigious triathlon event that combines endurance, athleticism, and the stunning coastal beauty of Goa, India. Athletes from across the globe gather annually to tackle this grueling race, which includes a 1.9-kilometer swim in the Arabian Sea, a 90-kilometer bike ride through scenic landscapes, and a challenging 21.1-kilometer run along Goa's picturesque shores. The event embodies the spirit of determination and perseverance, attracting professional triathletes and passionate amateurs alike. Beyond the competition, it fosters a sense of camaraderie and achievement, as participants push their limits against the backdrop of Goa's sandy beaches and lush greenery, making it a standout event in the world of endurance sports.

Goa International Fitness Festival: The Goa International Fitness Festival is a dynamic and exhilarating annual event that celebrates health and wellness against the backdrop of Goa's vibrant culture. Fitness enthusiasts and professionals from around the world converge here to partake in a wide array of activities, including CrossFit, yoga, martial arts, and dance. The festival features workshops, competitions, and fitness expos, providing attendees with valuable insights and experiences. It encourages people to embrace an active lifestyle and discover new fitness trends while enjoying the scenic beauty and lively atmosphere of Goa. This festival combines the best of fitness and fun, making it a must-attend event for those seeking a holistic approach to well-being.

These festivals not only promote fitness but also provide an opportunity to soak in Goa's vibrant culture and natural beauty. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just looking for a fun way to stay active during your vacation, these events offer a unique blend of fitness and fun in the beautiful setting of Goa.

Cuisines To Try In Goa:

Goa offers a delightful culinary experience, blending Indian and Portuguese flavors, seafood, and vibrant spices. Here are some must-try Goan dishes and cuisines:

1. Fish Curry Rice : This is a Goan staple. The fish curry is made with coconut milk, tamarind, and a blend of aromatic spices, served with steamed rice. It's simple yet incredibly flavorful.

2. Vindaloo : A spicy and tangy curry made with marinated pork, vinegar, and aromatic spices. You can also find chicken or vegetarian versions of Vindaloo.

3. Xacuti : A rich and aromatic curry made with chicken or lamb, roasted spices, and coconut. It has a unique and complex flavor profile.

4. Sorpotel : A spicy and tangy stew made with pork, liver, and other organ meats. It's a traditional Goan delicacy, usually served during special occasions.

5. Feni : This is a traditional Goan alcoholic beverage made from cashew apples or coconut sap. It's a strong liquor and a unique local specialty.

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The best time to visit Goa

By Arundhati Ail

Surfers in Goa

Most people consider Goa for a year-end beach vacation, but the state has become a year-round destination over the years, with different seasons offering different experiences to tourists. The best time to visit Goa really depends on what you want from your trip. There’s a lot to the destination beyond beaches: local tavernas, exciting street food , monsoon treks, hidden waterfalls, and homestays on quiet beaches. Plan wisely and you can explore a side to Goa that isn’t all over Instagram . Here’s a handy guide on the best time to visit Goa.

Jump to: The best time to visit Goa Temperature in Goa Is monsoon a good time to visit Goa? The cheapest time to visit Goa The best time to surf in Goa Which is better: North or South Goa? How many days are enough for a Goa trip? Is Goa good to visit with family? Plan your stay

What is the best time to visit Goa?

The best time to visit Goa is from November to February. The heat and humidity give way to more pleasant sunny days by December, and the waves are gentler during this time. December also brings the Christmas spirit to several local homes, and bakeries and decades-old stores stock up on Christmas sweets like kalkal, dodol and neureos. This is also peak tourist season in Goa, which means hotel and flight prices shoot up at this time. While most people visit Goa in December, January brings better weather and slightly lesser crowds.

Temperatures begin to rise from March, with summer settling in by April. The months between March and June see hot sunny days, with the mercury climbing to 35°C. If the heat and humidity doesn’t bother you, you can still make the most of a trip to Goa during this time by planning any sightseeing and beach visits either early in the morning or in the evening. June to September is monsoon in Goa and the state experiences heavy rainfall. Frequent showers make beach visits difficult, but also offer the opportunity to experience the state’s offbeat natural experiences.

Temperature in Goa

March to May: 25°C-35°C June to October: 24°C-30°C November to February: 20°C-30°C

Is monsoon a good time to visit Goa?

Monsoon is an underrated time to visit Goa and is best for folks with a sense of adventure and a love for the unmanicured outdoors. Monsoon brings beautiful waterfalls and lush greenery to the Western Ghats. You can trek through forests to find natural pools and falls, hike through the thriving forest of Mollem National Park, take rainy boat rides in the mangroves and enjoy seasonal seafood and vegetable preparations beyond recheado and cafreal.

What is the cheapest time to visit Goa?

The monsoon season is off-season and therefore the cheapest time to visit Goa. Expect flight and hotel prices to drop during this time. However, remember that you may not be able to lounge on the beach or visit shacks in the monsoon. Many beach shacks, outdoor restaurants and hotels shut for the season.

What’s the best time to surf in Goa?

“The best months to learn surfing in Goa are from October to March,” says Arun Vasu, President of the Surfing Federation of India. “During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the conditions in the sea are generally favourable for beginners. Monsoon, which lasts from June to September, is not recommended for learning due to the unpredictable and rough sea conditions.” There are several surf schools in Goa, including Surf Wala in Arambol, Octopus Surf in Morjim and Vaayu Kula in Mandrem. More on where to learn surfing in Goa here

Which is better: North or South Goa?

This depends on what kind of trip you’re looking for. North Goa typically sees more tourist crowds and consists of neighbourhoods like Panaji, Assagao , Anjuna, Baga and Calangute, which are home to several buzzing restaurants and bars. While beaches like Baga and Calangute are typically full of tourists, North Goa does have less crowded beaches such as Mandrem, Ashwem and Morjim. If you would prefer to steer clear of large tourist crowds, South Goa is a quieter option, with beaches like Palolem, Varca and Colva.

How many days are enough for a Goa trip?

Three to four days are enough for a Goa trip in either North or South Goa. If you plan to spend time in both parts of Goa, it’s best to add a day or two to your trip so you get to explore the best of both. When in Goa, go bar-hopping in Panaji , visit old local churches and bakeries, spend long, lazy days on the beach and go shopping at quaint boutique stores.

Is Goa good to visit with family?

There are several family and kid-friendly activities in Goa. Families will enjoy watersports, visits to museums and heritage trails in Panaji. Responsible adventure company Konkan Explorers can organise kayaking programs and yacht cruises for groups, coupled with open water swimming if the weather and tides permit. If you’re travelling with kids , try boat trips, art walks and workshops with Make It Happen and surf lessons.

Plan your stay:

The best hotels in Goa Boutique hotels in North Goa The best restaurants in North Goa Boutique hotels in South Goa The best restaurants in South Goa What to do in Goa in the monsoon The best sundowner places in Goa Homestays in Anjuna , Moira , near Dudhsagar , Galgibaga Villas to book in Goa

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Best Places To Visit 2024: Revealing India's Charms At Top March Destinations

From ancient temples to tranquil lakes, explore india's vibrant culture and majestic landscapes this march at the best places to visit..

By: Esha Dasgupta Published: Mar 02, 2024 02:00 PM UTC

Best Places To Visit 2024: Revealing India's Charms At Top March Destinations

Welcoming the arrival of spring, March in India promises a vibrant tapestry of cultural experiences, festivals, majestic landscapes, and natural beauty. Whether it’s ancient temples, national parks, wildflower meadows, or tranquil lakes, we have spared no effort in compiling this list of the best places to visit in India in March. Explore these enchanting destinations with us before you begin planning your spring sojourn.

India: Weather and temperature in March

March marks the beginning of the summer season in most of India, with temperatures reaching the low 30s. While the days are hot and sunny, the temperatures are still mild enough for day trips and sightseeing expeditions. With the winter chill dissipating across India, a vibrant tapestry of rich travel experiences unfolds, from Goan beaches to Himalayan peaks .

Best places to visit in India in March

Coorg, karnataka.

Abbey Falls

Also known as Kodagu, Coorg is India’s largest producer of pepper and coffee, and one of the most scenic hill stations on the Western Ghats. Lush green rolling meadows, breathtaking landscapes, misty hilltops, historical structures, and a wide range of adventure activities make Coorg one of the best places to visit in India in March.

Things to do: Embark on a tiger safari at the Nagarahole Tiger Reserve, enjoy river rafting on the Barapole River, and trek to Iruppu Falls.

Places to visit: Coffee plantations, Madikeri Fort, Raja’s Seat, and Abbey Falls.

Best hotels: Purple Palms Resort & Spa, Coorg Cliffs Resort, and Paddington Resorts & Spa

Best restaurants: Coffee Blossoms, Green Cardamom by Club Mahindra, and Nellaki

How to reach By air: Mangalore International Airport is approximately 140 km away By train: Mysore Railway Station is approximately 107 km away

Book your stay at Purple Palms Resort & Spa via Booking.com

Yumthang Valley, Sikkim

Yumthang Valley

Yumthang Valley in Sikkim’s Lachung is famous for its breathtaking scenic beauty. March brings to life its numerous grasslands and meadows, adorning them with wildflowers of every hue, from the deep reds of the initial rhododendrons to the deep purple of the delicate irises. With stunning snow-capped mountains as the backdrop, Yumthang Valley is one of the best places to visit in India in March.

Things to do: Trek over to Mt Brumkhangse, drive over to Zero Point , and enjoy a soak in the Yumthang Hot Spring.

Places to visit: Phuni Valley Viewpoint, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, and the Valley of Flowers.

Best hotels: Magellan’s The Golden Bridge, Mystique Valley, and The Country House

Best restaurants: Big Mountain Resort, Lachung Heritage Bar & Restaurant, and Yaksha Resto Bar

How to reach By air: Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal is approximately 220 km away By train: The nearest railway station is in New Jalpaiguri, approximately 205 km away.

Book your stay at Magellan's The Golden Bridge via Agoda.com

Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

Vrindavan

The beautiful temple town of Vrindavan is one of the best places to visit in India in March, not just because of the salubrious weather, making way for great sightseeing, but also because of its vibrant Holi celebrations. From architectural heritage to religious spots, from verdant gardens to delicious street food, Vrindavan has something for everyone.

Things to do: Attend the Holi festivities, enjoy evening aarti at Prem Mandir, and visit Nidhivan.

Places to visit: Prem Mandir, ISKCON temple, Seva Kunj, and Banke Bihari Temple.

Best hotels: Resort Hare Krishna Orchid, Nidhivan Sarovar Portico, and Anandam Clarks Inn Suites

Best restaurants: Flowers Rooftop Cafe, 56 Delight’s Restaurant, and Sheel Gopal

How to reach By air: Kheria Airport in Agra is approximately 53 km away By train: Vrindavan Railway Station is located in the city

Book your stay at Anandam Clarks Inn Suites Vrindavan via Agoda.com

places to visit in india in march

Goa is a delight in March, with sunny days and pleasant nights. This month also marks the driest period of the year for Goa , ensuring comfortable sightseeing, beach activities, and island hopping. Clear skies and calm seas create the perfect setting to enjoy many thrilling watersports and other adventures.

Things to do: Go island hopping, enjoy a picnic at the beach, go scuba diving, and shop at Mapusa’s local market.

Places to visit: Dudhsagar Falls, Aguada Fort, Palolem Beach, Se Cathedral, and Chapora Fort.

Best hotels: ITC Grand Goa, Hilton Goa Resort, and Oberoi Palace

Best restaurants: Elephant And Co. Anjuna, Café de Port by Radisson Resort, and Chef Peter’s Kitchen

How to reach By air: Dabolim Airport is located in Goa By train: Margao and Vasco-da-Gama Railway Stations are located in Goa

Book your stay at ITC Grand Goa via Booking.com

Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

places to visit in india in march

Tawang is one of the most ideal places to visit in India in March, especially during the famous Losar Tibetan Festival. Several trekking routes, suitable for novices as well as experts, open up from the Tawang Valley, offering spectacular mountainscapes. The Sessa Orchid Sanctuary, home to more than 200 species of orchids, also starts to bloom in March.

Things to do: Trek up Gorichen Peak, explore the Tibetan settlement market, and spend a day at Shonga-Tser Lake.

Places to visit: Sela Pass, Tawang War Memorial, Nuranang Falls, and Tawang Buddhist Monastery.

Best hotels: Taj Vivanta, Dondrub Homestay & Resort, Hotel Tawang Heights, and Hotel Mountain Mist Resort

Best restaurants: The Dragon, Orange Restaurant & Lounge Bar, and Greenwood Restaurant

How to reach By air: Tezpur Airport is approximately 320 km away By train: Bhalukpong Railway Station is approximately 298 km away

Book your stay at Hotel Tawang Heights via Booking.com

Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Gadisar Lake, Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer , a culturally vibrant desert city, is best visited in the cooler months when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing, desert camping, and camel safaris. With March marking the beginning of summer, it is the ideal time for visiting Jaisalmer. The 18-day-long Gangaur Festival, one of the biggest celebrations in Rajasthan, is held in March in Jaisalmer.

Things to do: Camp at Sam Sands Dunes, go parasailing, hike across Desert National Park, and enjoy a camel safari at the Khuri Sand Dunes.

Places to visit: Jaisalmer Fort, Gadisar Lake, Bada Bagh, and Vyas Chhatri.

Best hotels: WelcomeHeritage Mandir Palace, Hilton Heritage Resort – Jaisalmer Desert Camp, and Fort Rajwada

Best restaurants: Jaisalmer Kitchen, Wyra – The Rooftop Restaurant, and Hotel Pol Haveli Restaurant

How to reach By air: Jodhpur Airport is approximately 269 km away By train: Jaisalmer Railway Station is located in the city

Book your stay at WelcomHeritage Mandir Palace via Agoda.com

Shop the best travel experiences here

Puri, Odisha

Puri Beach

Puri starts to experience warm weather from mid-March, with temperatures ranging from 33°C to 36°C during the day and cooler evenings at 26°C to 28°C. With nearly 12 hours of daylight, this is a great time to enjoy the sunny beaches, tranquil lakes, blissful nature reserves, thrilling national parks, and other attractions near and in Puri.

Things to do: Attend the three-day annual Chhau Festival, enjoy a boat ride on Chilika Lake, and explore the beaches in Puri.

Places to visit: Shree Jagannatha Temple, Mukteshvara Temple, Konark Sun Temple, Chilika Lake.

Best hotels: The Chariot Resort & Spa, NRS Royal Palace, and The Bay Suites

Best restaurants: Taste of India, Song of Bengal Restaurant, and The Fisherman’s Kitchen

How to reach By air: Biju Patnaik International Airport is approximately 60 km away By train: Puri Railway Station is located in the city

Book your stay at NRS Royal Palace via Agoda.com

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Srinagar, kashmir.

Dal Lake, Srinagar

Srinagar in March is a feast for the senses, with breathtaking snow-capped landscapes, rolling meadows covered in wildflowers, and lush green gardens. The weather remains pleasant throughout the month, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C, and night temperatures dropping to as low as 2°C. March also marks the beginning of the famous Tulip Festival in Srinagar, adding vibrancy to the visitor experience.

Things to do: Spend a night on a houseboat, savour a plate of Wazwan cuisine, and glide on a Shikara ride on Dal Lake.

Places to visit: Mughal Gardens, Nigeen Lake, Dal Lake, and Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden.

Best hotels: Fortune Resort Heevan, Vivanta Dal View, and Radisson Srinagar

Best restaurants: Cafe Tulip, Ahdoos, and The Chinar at The LaLit Grand Palace

How to reach By air: Srinagar Airport is located in the city By train: Srinagar Railway station is located in the city.

Book your stay at Fortune Resort Heevan, Srinagar via Booking.com

Lakshadweep

Agatti Island

March is the perfect time to explore Lakshadweep , a paradisiacal group of islands waiting to be discovered. With pleasant weather, cool sea breeze, swaying palms, sandy beaches, abundant watersports, and vibrant marine life, Lakshadweep is one of India’s best destinations to visit during March.

Things to do: Experience scuba diving, explore coral reefs, and enjoy beach hopping.

Places to visit: Agatti Island, Kavaratti Island, Minicoy Island, and Kalpeni Island

Best hotels: Bangaram Island Resort, White Pearl Beach Resort Agatti, and Kadmat Island Beach Resort

Best restaurants: Hotel Aboo’s, Paragon Restaurant, and Al Bharath Restaurant

How to reach By air: Agatti Airport is located on Agatti Island By train: Kannur Railway Station is located 338 km away

Book your stay at Bangaram Island Beach Resort via Agoda.com

Bharatpur, Rajasthan

places to visit in india in march

Bharatpur, home to the renowned Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is an ideal destination for a getaway in March. It’s not only one of the best times for bird watching, with indigenous and migratory birds flocking to the forests, wetlands, ponds, and marshes of the sanctuary, but also perfect for sightseeing, thanks to the pleasant weather. Brij Festival, one of the most popular festivals of Bharatpur, takes place in March, just before Holi.

Things to do: Explore birdwatching and visit the Government Museum of Bharatpur.

Places to visit: Lohagarh Fort, Bharatpur Palace & Museum, and Banke Bihari Temple.

Best hotels: Laxmi Vilas Palace, Amritara Chandra Mahal Haveli, and Regenta Resort

Best restaurants: The Courtyard, City Spice, and Gulmohar Restaurant at The Bagh Resort

How to reach By air: Agra Airport is approximately 47 km away By train: Bharatpur Junction is located in the city

Book your stay at Laxmi Vilas Palace via Agoda.com

(Feature image credit: Sakshijain/Shutterstock)

Related:  Bookmark This: Your Treasure Map To The Most Beautiful Places In India

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

-What makes March a good time to visit India? Pleasant weather almost all across the country makes March a good time to visit India.

-What adventure activities can I do in India in March? Watersports such as scuba diving and snorkelling in Lakshadweep, parasailing in Jaisalmer, and hiking in Tawang are some of the best adventure activities you can indulge in during March in India.

-What should I pack for a trip to India in March? India’s diverse climatic conditions mean that what you pack for India depends on which places you are planning to visit. For instance, Kashmir and Himachal experience cold waves even in March, whereas Pondicherry and Goa start experiencing warmer temperatures.

-Is March a peak tourist season in India? Yes, March is part of the peak tourist season in India.

-Is it safe to travel to India in March? Yes, it is safe to travel to India in March or any other time of the year.

-What are the cultural or religious festivals in India in March? Holi (March 25), Maha Shivratri (March 8), and Tulip Festival in Srinagar (March-May) are some of the best cultural and religious festivals in India in March.

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Esha Dasgupta

Esha Dasgupta

Esha is a traveller at heart, with a penchant for exploring the unchartered. She has previously worked with TravelTriangle and Internet Moguls. When not in work mode, she can be found downing endless cups of coffee while reading Enid Blyton/Sidney Sheldon.

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March 05, 2024

International Women's Day 2024: Budget-Friendly Places For Women To Travel In India

By Ananya Jain

Image Courtesy: IMDB

In 2024, International Women's Day falls on Friday, March 8th, coinciding with a long weekend. Women are making plans to vacation with friends or family.

Image Courtesy: iStock

If you're also considering traveling on Women's Day, we have curated a list of the best destinations in India for female groups.

If your girl gang is fond of adventures then celebrate International Women's Day in Rishikesh. Here you will get a chance to do adventures like white-water rafting, bungee jumping and trekking.

Pondicherry, renowned for its French colonial architecture and tranquil beaches, offers an affordable vacation destination.

McLeod Ganj, also referred to as Little Lhasa in Himachal Pradesh, is the ideal destination to celebrate International Women's Day 2024 with your female friends.

Gokarna, situated in Karnataka, is famed for its unspoiled beaches, economical guesthouses, and peaceful ambiance.

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