Best Places to Visit in Goa

20 Best Places to Visit In Goa

Traveling to goa is a dream for every person who hit their teenage and Goa tour is probably like visiting a paradise of beaches. Goa is a small state in the country but holds many beautiful tourist places within the city. A merge of Portuguese and Indian culture Goa is the most popular tourist destination in India. The beautiful goa is full of sand dune beaches, waterfalls, many shopping markets and also yummy Goan cuisine for your tummy. With the backwaters, parks, museums and art markets Goa is a must-visit place for every tourist. As the monsoon season has come to an end this is the best season to relax in the lap of nature in Goa. The magical reflects sun waves on the beach will give you beautiful feeling and the view of sunset in goa is way admiring! With a wide range of beaches and parks here we have a list of the best places to visit in goa.

Don’t resist yourself to quickly check all the best places to visit in Goa and make sure you do not miss out on these amazing places in the tropical climate of Goa.

1. Baga Beach

Baga Beach is one of the most famous and largest beaches of Goa claiming to be one of the Goa tourist attractions. This is a quiet sandy shore place lined with palm trees in the North Goa. Get tanned in playing beach games with your friends and family here munching on the favourite Goan food found in famous shacks with the beach views. Baga Beach is famous for exploring the nightlife in Goa and Brittos is one of the famous shacks in North Goa that serves the best food pumping your heart overwhelming with good food and wine. Club Tito’s and Cafe Mambo are the famous night out places in Goa. 

You will locate many shops, cafes, beach shacks, bars, restaurants and besides food and nightlife, one can try beach games like banana riding, paddle and surfboarding, paragliding and more. You feel like you are in heaven when you spend some ample time in the backwaters of the beach!

The Specialty of Baga Beach:

• A serene place lined with palm groves to spend ample time relaxing in the white sand shores
• Famous place for a night out clubs and bars with good music and wine
• Street markets to collect some authentic Goan art pieces, clothes and much more

How to Reach Baga Beach:

You can easily reach the beach by renting a bike or scooter or hiring a private taxi as it is very accessible to every tourist destination and if you stay in North Goa, it is very easy to reach the beach you can just take a walk of 2 km admiring the climate as the breezy wind hits you enjoying sitting corner in the car or riding your bike.

Baga Beach Entry Fee: No entry fee

• For activities: starts from INR 550

Baga Beach Timings: opens all time 

Baga Beach Spending Time: 2-3 hours

Things to do at Baga Beach:

• Trying out all the beach sports and activities like paragliding and surfing
• Night partying in the famous shacks
• Shopping in the street markets near Baga Beach

Suggest For You: Book North Goa Tour by Bus Rs. 400/-

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2. Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach located on the northern part of Goa just brings life to your tourist vibes and this is a serene place to pick from the list of weekend getaways near Goa mounted with red cliffs and a smooth flow of clear water in the straws of the hills. Vagator beach is probably divided into two beaches which names little Vagator and big Vagator, both lay underneath the cliffs with white sand and clean water.

Vagator beach has most of the serene and calm views for which tourists flock to the place from all over the world to relax and enjoy the gourmet cuisine of Vagator beach. Many favourite shacks and beach view restaurants serve the delicious local seafood with music and party themes. Fusion restaurant and Antares Beach restaurant are the must ones to check when you visit Vagator beach.

The Specialty of Vagator Beach:

• Famous for the best view of the red cliffs mountains and watching the sunrise
• Party life of Vagator is every tourist enjoys here
• Nine bar, Hilltop, Fusion and Mezcal shacks are famous for Goan cuisine and night parties hit with live music and dance

How to Reach Vagator Beach:

Located on the northern part it is very near to Mapusa and Anjuna beach, if you are staying nearby you can just walk enjoying the Goan climate. If you are about to reach from Panaji which is 21km away you can better choose buses that are as cheap as 20-40 rupees or if you want to get the local nomad feel, just rent a bike and reach the place.

Vagator Beach Entry Fee: No entry fee

Vagator Beach Timings: It is open all the time especially up for night parties during the season

Vagator Beach Spending Time: 4-5 hours in the evening

Things to do at Vagator Beach:

• Just sit back in the sands of the beach and enjoy the weather listening to the waves of the beach
• Try all the water sports like parasailing, dolphin sightseeing in a boat, ski motor rides and much more
• Attend the night parties held by the famous shacks in the beach

Suggest For You: Book South Central Goa Tour by Bus Rs. 400/-

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3. Chapora Fort

On the verge of Vagator beach is where you find the Chapora Fort which is located in North Goa. It is one of the places to visit in goa with friends and spend your best time seeing the architecture of the fort. The fort was built by Bijapur emperor Adil shah and so he named the place as Shahpura which is one of the historical places in Goa. The fort is adjoined by the  Chapora River where it meets the Arabian Sea. This is a must-visit place for the historical fort lovers in Goa sightseeing The fort is picturesque to the photographers to have many snapshots. The fort was diminished and rebuilt by the Portuguese. Then and there it was abandoned and now it is now near to ruins but still attracts tourists every year with its river views. But be careful while you take a walk along with the red laterite stones!

The Specialty of Chapora Fort:

• The historical story of the architecture of the fort witnessing multi-culture
• Picturesque for the Instagram influencers to the view of the fort with the coastline.
• The sunset from the fort view is a beautiful experience to be witnessed

How to reach Chapora Fort:

Chapora Fort located in Chapora village is very near to Vagator beach as it is only 2km and is 9kms from the Calangute beach. You can probably take buses from the city and reach the place and also hire private taxis or rent cabs, jeeps, and scooters at cheaper prices.

Chapora Fort entry fee: No entry fee

Chapora Fort timings: Early morning and evening 

Chapora Fort spending time: 1 hour

Things to do at Chapora Fort:

• Take glimpses of the Portuguese architecture watching the sunset and taking pictures in the view of the fort.

Suggest For You: Book North & South Goa Tour by Bus Rs. 700/-

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4. Anjuna Beach

The beach hippie in you must awake when you visit Anjuna beach in Goa, this is one of the most famous places to visit in Goa. Lose yourself in the lap of nature and try bungee jumping and other beach games on the Anjuna beach. Paragliding and windsurfing are the most games to try and also surfing on the beach meet the water babies are one of the best things to do in Goa here in Anjuna Beach. Rock the parties in the nightclubs held by the lilliput cafe and curlies situated near to the Anjuna beach. 

You can also find many handmade jewelry stalls and artwork shops to take as souvenirs for your loved ones from Anjuna beach. Every tourist finds the place so interesting pop-rocking and revisits the place until they end their Goa trip.

The Specialty of Anjuna Beach:

• Anjuna beach is all about adventures and night parties
• Famous burger factory where tourists overcrowd here to taste the burgers
• Nightlife party clubs like Shiva valley, Cafe cotinga, Lilliput cafe, Zero gravity, and Guru bar
• You can also find plenty of flea markets where you can find beautiful boho jewelry, beach clothes, bedsheets, and tote bags

How to Reach Anjuna Beach:

Anjuna Beach is 21km from Panaji and can be reached by bus which is cheaper and can probably rent scooter and bike and cabs from the local vendors showing your Id and license and can rent for a day pricing about 350-600 rupees depending on the seasons you travel to goa.

Anjuna Beach Entry Fee: free

Anjuna Beach Timings: No specific timings flea markets are opened by 9:00 am-9:00 pm

Anjuna Beach Spending Time: 2 hours

Things to do at Anjuna Beach:

• Enjoy the night parties moving your feet to the Dj music
• Shopping at flea markets
• Trying out all the beach activities

Suggest For You: Book North & South  Goa & River Boat Tour by Bus Rs. 1200/-

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5. Mangeshi Temple

Mangesi temple in Goa also known as Mangueshi temple is the oldest temple that holds the rale of Lord Shiva where he visited the village after he was defeated by his wife in the dice game and frightened her in disguise of the tiger. That moment she uttered words ‘Trahi mam Grisha’ and eventually Lord Shiva was known as Manguesh. Gaud Saraswat Brahmins built the temple in honour of their Kula Daivam and perform the ritual from then and Manguesh temple is one of the famous tourist places in Goa. 

Temple was built in traditional Hindu and Goan architecture with the domes situating the Lingam the main deity of the temple, Bull and small shrines for goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesha. The attraction of the temple is the seven storeyed tower which is known as ‘Deepastambha’ is the tallest tower and looks magnificent when lit with traditional oil lamps on the sacred days. Maga Pournami is the grand annual festival of the temple, people from all over the country visit the temple for Lord Shiva darshan.

The Specialty of Mangeshi Temple:

• Temple holds the tale of Lord Shiva and built in honour of his incarnation Manguesh Bhagwan
• The Deepastambha of the temple which is the attraction
• Magam Purnima festival is grandly celebrated with the Ratha yatra
• The beautiful architecture of the temple

How to Reach Mangeshi Temple:

Mangeshi village is located at a distance of 21km from Panjim Kadamba Bus stand and 34km from Vasco Da Gam railway station and can be reached by buses, autos, and taxis. One can also hire private taxis or rent cabs, jeeps, and scooters at cheaper prices.

Mangeshi Temple Entry Fee: No entry fee

Mangeshi Temple Timings: 6:00 AM- 9:00 PM

Mangeshi Temple Spending Time: 1-2 hours

Things to do at Mangeshi Temple:

• Spend some time and feel revitalized in the positivity of the temple
• Admire the architecture of the temple and Deepastambha
• Attend the Maga Purnima festival in the month of February

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6. Calangute Beach

Calangute beach located in the northern Goa is one of the longest and beautiful places in Goa extended for four miles from Candolim to Baga. It is popularly known as “Queen of Beaches” in the entire Goa. Reach the beach before sunset and enjoy the real charm of the beach and peep in to the night party located on the beach shore. The beach is quite surged with tourists during the month of December and January as the beach festivals with rock music, parties are held in the famous restaurants serving beer, wine and cocktails with lip-smacking seafood to the hippies.

Calangute with its huge size is one of the Goa tourist attractions and famous for beach sports like parasailing, gliding and banana boat rides one must try when visited the beach. The place is not suitable to visit in the monsoon season due to heavy tides though it holds its natural charm.

The Specialty of Calangute Beach:

• The longest beach and popularly known as the Queen of Beaches
• Popular for night parties, Christmas and new year celebrations with rock band
• Famous shacks serving best cocktails, liquor, and mouthwatering seafood

How to Reach Calangute Beach:

Calangute beach is well connected to all bus stations and railway stations in Goa and can be reached by bus or taxi transportation. From Panjim, it is 16km and be reached easily by taking a taxi or riding a bike which can be rented by local vendors or travel agencies for 300-500 rupees.

 Calangute Beach Entry Fee: No fee

 Calangute Beach Timings: No Timings

 Calangute Beach Spending Time: 1-2 hours

Things to do at Calangute Beach:

• If you are a party freak, then this place for you, Calangute beach holds many famous shacks and bars hosting the best chilling parties. Some of them are Tio Tilly’s Bar and Kitchen and Spice it shacks
• For adventure hippies, discover the best water sports like windsurfing, parasailing, water-snorkelling, spotting dolphins and a lot more.

Read More: 20 Best Tourist Places in Ooty

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7. Se Cathedral

Se Cathedral is one of the largest churches in Asia and is one of the historical monuments in Goa that took almost 80 years to complete the entire construction of the majestic monument. It was built by the Portuguese as the remembrance of their victory over the Muslim emperors. It has wonderful architecture consists of 14 altars with detailed carvings and on the walls, you can see the elements of Gothic and Portuguese style of architecture. The church has four large bells of them one is very huge called golden bell and probably the largest one in the Goa and its vibrations sound is heard the entire city.

The religious monument is recorded as one of the heritage sites by UNESCO and is one of the popular churches in Goa. One of which with gold plate embellishments is dedicated to the sacred priest of Goa St. Catherine who was very intelligent and a reason to spread Christianity and showed the path of Jesus o more than 200 people in Goa. Tourists from all over the world visit the church to offer prayers to St. Catherine and admiring the intricate architecture of the largest church.

The Specialty of Se Cathedral:

• The architecture of the church is very beautiful and can see the style of Portuguese, Flemish, Italian and gothic style
• The largest church to be featured in world heritage sites by UNESCO
• The holy story of St. Catherine and her divine knowledge Christianity can be witnessed here

How to Reach Se Cathedral:

Se Cathedral church is well connected to all the places in the city and can get buses, taxis, and autos frequently from everywhere and if you want to go on your own the best option is to hire taxis or rent a bike for cheaper prices from the local vendors.

Se Cathedral Entry Fee: No entry fee

Se Cathedral Timings: 6:30 am-7:00 pm

Se Cathedral Spending Time: 1-2 hours

Things to do at Se Cathedral:

• Admire the beautiful architecture of the church and offer prayers to the holy saint Catherine and Jesus.

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8. Agonda Beach

For nature lovers who just want to relax in the serene atmosphere and listen to the noise of the waves, Agonda beach is a treat! Agonda beach is one of the top places to visit in Goa and it gives you the feel of Islands with blue water and white sands. This beach is very calm and less crowded this is the perfect place for people who want to spend some quality time avoiding the hustle and you also get to spend some time watching the sunrise and sunsets. Sit behind the sands and admire the beauty of waves in the gloomy day. You can go for an evening walk watching the sunset along the seashore and relax at the beautiful coastline.

Though Agonda beach is quite calm and the best place to acquire tranquillity it highly risks to go for surfing or swimming due to the high tides and hence, this is the ideal place for peace and nature lovers to just sit and relax and exploring the coastline.

The Specialty of Agonda Beach:

• A peaceful place with an ivory white sand beach with clear blue water streams.
• The beach is famous for having less crowd with beautiful coconut trees 
• In the evening, after sunset, the turtles come to the shore for resting

How to Reach Agonda Beach:

Located in Agonda village in Southern Goa, Agonda beach can be reached by travelling on buses, the nearest bus station to the beach is Chaudi and Agonda is only 9km away from the Palolem beach which is connected to all the places in the city. One can also hire private taxis or rent cabs, jeeps, and scooters at cheaper prices to reach the place through map guides.

Agonda Beach Entry Fee: Free

Agonda Beach Timings: Open all time

Agonda Beach Spending Time: 2-3 hours

Things to do at Agonda Beach:

• Sit back and relax and do sunbathe as the beach witnesses less crowd and also take a leisure walk along the beach shore. Visiting this beach will offer you tranquillity.

Read More: 10 Best Tourist Places in Coonoor

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9. Fort Aguada

Aguada Fort is one of the historical places in Goa built by the colonial rulers of Portuguese on the shores of the river Mandovi in 1672. The beautiful large fort with stone walls signifies the Portuguese style of architecture. The fort serves water to the ships that used to stop by near the river shores and so it was named Aguada which means ‘water’ and a lighthouse in the premises of the fort was also built during their rule. 

Fort Aguada consists of the largest lighthouse in Asia and the fort was used as a jail and a field of protection equipped with many defence barracks and equipment and the fort stood as the first defence site during the Portugal ruling over Goa. This is one of the historical monuments in goa gathering thousands of tourists every year.

The Specialty of Fort Aguada:

• The architecture and the water supply of the fort is very well designed by the Portuguese rulers.
• The lighthouse of the fort is one of the largest ones in Asia.
• Fort Aguada is used to protect and a defence site during those days.

How to Reach Fort Aguada:

Fort Aguada can be reached easily by buses and taxis from Panjim and Mapusa and one can also easily rent bikes, cars, and scooters for better prices and can reach the place by map route.

Fort Aguada Entry Fee: INR 20

Fort Aguada Timings:

• For fort: 9:30 am-6:00 pm
• For lighthouse: 12:00pm-5:00 pm

Fort Aguada Spending Time: 1hours

Things to do at Fort Aguada:

• Visit the fort and witness the architecture and defence equipment of the Portuguese
• Visit the Jail of Aguada and lighthouse

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10. Basilica of Bom Jesus

Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the oldest churches in Goa and it denotes the start of Christianity in India dating back to 400 years. The largest church was built by the Portuguese rulers and in the honour of St. Francis Xavier whose remains are preserves and prayed in the holy church. The remains still have good conditions and are taken once every decade to perform rituals on sacred days. This oldest church looks very beautiful with triangle roofing carved with Jesuit emblem and long pillar-like structures. The church interiors are designed and carved intricately with screens and precious stones to the ceilings of the church. The floor is made up of mosaic marble stone which has a majestic appearance.

The alters of the church has the image of St. Ignatius Loyola holding the infant Jesus and above it the sacred symbol Christianity, the trinity symbol is placed, all together makes the holy church so sacred. The church is listed among the world heritage sites by UNESCO.  The art gallery inside the Basilica of Bom Jesus exhibits Italian paintings and the gallery is one of its kind in the country.

The Specialty of Basilica of Bom Jesus:

• The architecture of the church is so detailed and marvelous and still remains the same after 400 years
• The remains of St. Francis Xavier are still in good condition which is taken out once in every decade to perform rituals
• The art gallery of the Basilica of Bom Jesus is the largest gallery in the country

How to Reach Basilica of Bom Jesus:

Located in Old Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus is 10kms away from Panjim and can be reached easily to the church by local buses and taxis. Anyways for your comfort and tourist desires, you can also hire cabs, bikes and scooters available at cheaper prices

Basilica of Bom Jesus Entry Fee: Free

Basilica of Bom Jesus Timings:

• 9:00 am-6:30 pm
• 10:30 am-6:30 pm on Sundays

Basilica of Bom Jesus Spending Time: 1 hour

Things to do at Basilica of Bom Jesus:

• Visit the church and offer prayers to the saint
• Visit the art gallery of Basilica of Bom Jesus
• Attend the annual feast of St. Francis Xavier held on 3rd December of every year with a huge crowd

Read More: 20 Best Tourist Places in Mysore

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11. Dudhsagar Falls

As the name denotes it resembles the flow of milk from the cliff of mountains and is one of the beautiful places in goa close to nature. For the nature lover in you, these waterfalls give the most tranquillity and soothing your mental peace. Located 60om away from the city, Dudhsagar waterfall is located in the Mollem National Park within the lush green forests. The waterfalls are divided into four ways from the cliff of the mountain western ghats from the river Mandovi and from there the falls hit the rocks of the mountains in a cascading heavy flow of milk due to the force of the water. The noise of the waterfalls gives the mesmerizing experience for the tourists visiting the place. The most beautiful view of these waterfalls can be captured from the train journey or by trekking in the mountain regions. These falls are known as Vajra Sakala Falls and Tambi Surla falls by the locals of the region. The waterfalls hold a cute fairytale where it was once the residence of a beautiful princess who used to drink sweetened milk and once a prince saw while drinking milk and then she immediately poured down the milk which now is flowing as Dudhsagar falls!

The Specialty of Dudhsagar Falls:

• The beautiful waterfall resembles the flow of milk from the cliff of the mountains
• The place is famous for trekking and hence the falls are known as Tambdi Surla Falls

 How to Reach Dudhsagar Falls:

One can easily reach the falls by road taking buses or taxis from the old Goa and also can reach by train and stop at the Collem railway station and from here you can take taxis to reach the falls. 

Dudhsagar Falls Entry Fee: INR 20, Camera: INR 300

Dudhsagar Falls Timings: 9:00 am-3:30 pm

Dudhsagar Falls Spending Time: 5-6 hours if you trek

Things to do at Dudhsagar Falls:

• Watching the beautiful view of the milky flow of water falling from the cliff of the mountains and capturing it beautifully
• Trekking in the mountain regions is the best thing to do
• Visiting the wildlife park down the mountains

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12. Dona Paula

Goa tour is not fulfilled if you missed visiting Dona Paula located in North Goa is the most beautiful place with amazing viewpoints. Well many fascinating stories are heard here and there in Goa, one among them which is almost true is that Dona Paula land is all about the romantic, secret love affair of the Governor of Goa who fell for the charm of Dona Paula. But it didn’t last long as the Governor’s wife found out about this she ordered to throw into the sea and from then the eternal love of Dona Paula became very famous the place is named in their dedication. 

Now the place is the Institute for Oceanography and is one of the Goa attractions. Many tourists flock to the viewpoint of Dona Paula to watch sunset sailing in the boat. Tourists can also view the magnificent Mormugaor harbour. The tides hitting the rocks of the Dona Paula point and this point where Zauri and Mandovi rivers meet offering the spectacular view on the coastline. Apart from these beautiful views, you can also find the best shopping places, restaurants, water sports in the abode of the Dona Paula.

The specialty of Dona Paula:

• The undeniable love affair Dona Paula and governor remained unfulfilled in the history of Goa
• Viewpoint at Dona Paula to watch the beautiful sunset
• Institute of Oceanography

How to Reach Dona Paula:

Dona Paula is located at a distance of 7km from Panaji and there are a lot of buses moving from Panaji to Dona Paula for every 15 minutes and is an affordable way to reach the place. One can also hire taxis, bikes from the local vendors and travel agencies and reach the place.

Dona Paula Entry Fee: Free

Dona Paula Timings: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Dona Paula Spending Time: 1-2 hours

Things to do at Dona Paula:

• Go for sailing and catch the beautiful sunset in the mid of the river
• Learn more about Oceanography 
• Visit the Dona Paula and involve in activities like shopping and eating famous food

Read More: 20 Best Tourist Places in Bangalore

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13. Cruise in Goa

Goa is all about exotic beaches, bashing parties, night clubs, adventurous water sports in the mid of beaches, exploring nature in the cool breezes and what if you take these perks of having every experience in the dream cruise of Goa? Yes, the wonderful giant cruise of Goa boasts all these activities including enjoying the lip-smacking seafood of Goan cuisine. Booking your activity on the cruise is the best thing to do on the Goa trip. Cruising on the backwaters of the rivers and enjoying your candlelight dinner on the table with your loved ones mark the most memorable day in your life.

There are many fantastic cruises in Goa of which each offers unique and fabulous experiences varying with dinners, fun entertainment, musical shows, fun games and many more to do on the cruise. You can just book your tickets from Santa Monica in Goa or just book the package you choose online and you are all set to sail on the cruise! A few of the best cruises in Goa are Casino Cruise offering royal delight experiences, Sundown cruise, Full Moon cruise, Backwater cruise are some of the popular cruises offering best experiences on the rivers.

The Specialty of Cruise in Goa:

• Having fun viewing the sunset, trying out all the sports on cruise
• Each cruise has unique offers to their tourists
• Best international performances are hosted on Cruise

How to Reach Cruise Departure Spot:

You can buy tickets and reach Santa Monica which is the departure point for all the cruises, The point is located next to the Mandovi bridge can be reached to the places by taxis and bikes.

Cruise Entry Fee: Depends on the type of cruise

Cruise timings: Varies with the cruise

Cruise Spending Time: 5-7 hours

Things to do on Cruise:

• Enjoy the dinner with international performances, fun activities, live music and dance shows, fun games along with water sports are the fun things to do.

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14. Club Cubana

If you are a party freak and would visit Goa only for having a bashing party then you must visit this amazing club Cubana which is the famous club probably the only club to host parties around the week. Located on the top of the Arpora hill, Cubana club can be reached easily in Calangute and is one of the night out places in Goa which is popularly known as ‘Nightclub in the sky”. Cubana is meant for hosting the most power packing night parties hitched with international and national Dj’s playing the popular music of all time tuned to the party culture gives the best party ever feel in your life. 

With the best varieties of mocktails, cocktails and drinks you can dine in the bar by the poolside which is popped up with neon lightings that lifts up your mood to shake your feet to the most famous electronic music is the best party to enjoy the nightlife in Goa. Party freaks just rock the party especially during the new year celebrations the club is flocked with people having pool parties and night parties. This is also the best place for couples and friends to have some wonderful time in the lounge. With a hosting capacity of more than 3000 people, this open sky Cubana club is one of the famous places to explore in Goa for night parties. 

The Specialty of Club Cubana:

• The open-sky club is the largest of the clubs in Goa and is the only one to celebrate night parties every day in the week
• Cubana is also known as ‘Nightclub in the sky’
• International famous Djs to play the best music of all time
• Famous parties hosted at the pool in different levels of the club

How to Reach Club Cubana:

One can easily reach the club Cubana by road taking buses or taxis from anywhere in Goa and Calangute can be reached by buses or taking private cabs and renting bikes.

Club Cubana Entry Fee:

Off-season:

• Couple: INR1700
• Female: INR700
• Stag: INR1400

On season:

• Couple: INR2000
• Female: INR700
• Stag: INR1500

Club Cubana Timings: 9:30 am-3:30 am

Club Cubana Spending Time: 3-4 hours

Things to do at Club Cubana:

• Night Partying by poolside is the best thing to do in the club
• Having dinner in the cozy cushioned table serving lip-smacking food

Read More: 10 Best Tourist Places in Hyderabad

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15. Patnem Beach

Patnem beach located in the southern part of Goa is one of the must visit places in Goa banked with clean blue water streams and white sandy shores is undoubtedly the serene place for the peace-loving people to relax in view of beach close to nature. Patnem Beach is very close to the happening place Palolem Beach unlike is calm and flocked with tourists all over the world. It is just the place to sit back and watch the calm tides hitting the shores and the beautiful view of sunrise and sunset is the most revitalizing moment.

The beach shore is lined up with many traditional Goan shacks, huts and cafes serving the authentic Goan cuisine with seafood and other cuisines like Italian and Chinese food. Do not forget to taste their local meals of Pork Vindaloo, Fish curry with beans and potatoes and dessert that treats your tummy. Also, meditate and take yoga training, spa and massage in the relaxing centres in Patnem beach to have the most relaxing day in your life.

The Specialty of Patnem Beach:

• The serene place with blue watered streams and with coconut trees on the coastline
• Patnem is famous for getting tasty Goan cuisine seafood
• Spa and massage centers here offer best relaxing treatments for the tourists

How to Reach Patnem Beach:

Patnem Beach can be easily and cheaply reached by taking buses from Magao bus station and get down at the beach stop. One can also hire taxis and rent bikes to enjoy the journey.

Patnem Beach Entry Fee: Free

Patnem Beach Timings: Opens all time

Patnem Beach Spending Time: 2 hours

Things to do at Patnem Beach:

• Sit back and relax yourselves watching the sunset in the evening, tasting the delicious food and get spa done to revive yourselves from the busy city life.

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16. Goa State Museum

Goa State Museum is the oldest museum of Goa holding the heritage of ancient arts, crafts, and belongings of Goa, this museum is one of the historical places in Goa to know more about the ancient times of Goa and their historical things that are preserved here from ages by the archaeological department of Goa and hence this museum is also known as State Archaeological Museum. 

The museum preserves the art culture of ancient Goa including 8000 art pieces articrafts, paintings, precious coins, manuscripts, wooden objects, intricate wood and metal carvings and many anthropological objects that are preserved in different departments of the museum which are open to the public. You can see the paintings indicating the evolution of  Goan culture through ages and Goa during Portuguese rule installed in the 14 galleries of the museum. With all the heritage of Goan culture conserved at a place, this museum one of the Goa tourist attractions.

The Specialty of Goa State Museum:

• Consists of 14 galleries depicting the Goan cultural heritage
• Famous place in Goa that preserving almost 8000 articrafts of ancient Goa

How to Reach Goa State Museum:

This is very near to Panaji and one can easily reach the museum travelling in local buses at cheaper rates and also hire taxis and bikes for your comfort.

Goa State Museum Entry Fee: Free

Goa State Museum Timings: 9:00 AM-6:00 PM

Goa State Museum Spending Time: 1 hour

Things to do at Goa State Museum:

• View all the art pieces of ancient times of Goa and get knowledge of the Goan culture their habituation.

Read More: 20 Best Tourist Places in Delhi

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17. Palolem Beach

Palolem Beach situated in South Goa is one of the must visit places in Goa and the beach is nevertheless an amazing place to spend ample time to relax at the beach shore. The beach is always flocked many tourists mostly from the western countries as people from different countries visit here and rest in the Goa huts lined along the coastline to just eat, sleep and party to the heights in the famous shacks that hosts rocking night parties like never before. Unlike other beaches in North Goa, this place is quite serene and filled with white sands and covered with mountain rocks all over the coastline.

Palolem Beach, connected to many beaches on the coastline with an amazing view of mountains and coconut trees on the side of the beaches. There is a viewpoint in the mid of the beach where you can see the dolphins twirling in the sea attracting tourists. Palolem is quite popular for the ferry rides that allow tourists to see the dolphins on the beach and view butterfly beach and honeymoon beaches from the boat.

The Specialty of  Palolem Beach:

• A serene place that offers great relaxation to the tourists
• Famous for parties in Neptune point
• Ferry rides that allow tourists to see dolphins and  butterfly beach

How to Reach Palolem Beach:

Take a bus route from Margao bus station that costs you 40 rupees and after reaching Palolem you will get plenty of buses and autos for cheaper rates to reach Palolem beach. You can also hire taxis and bikes for a more exciting journey.

Palolem Beach Entry Fee: Free

Palolem Beach Timings: Opens all time

Palolem Beach Spending Time: 3-4 hours

Things to do at Palolem Beach:

• Enjoy the best view of beach relaxing in the white sand shores
• Take ferry rides to witness dolphins

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18.  St.Augustine Tower

St. Augustine Tower was once the greatest church constructed by the 12 Augustines when they marked their presence in Old Goa. The church has a record of one of the world heritage sites by UNESCO. St. Augustine Tower is one of the prime places to explore in Goa holding the history of its construction. The church has beautiful altars, a four-storeyed pillar around the church with large bells and also a beautiful interior artwork that holds the symbol of Christianity. 

Later, the church came into ruins as the Portuguese Government ordered to diminish the church to go again Augustines. Of all the pillars ruined the only pillar of 46m hight without the bell can be seen from a distance, the high tower looks so magnificent though it is ruined and gather tourists every year. Augustine tower can be seen side of the church and there is also the ruins of the convent that built during the construction of Augustine church. The tower was made of laterite stone and is large among the four towers. The church looks serene and beautiful with eight chapels, altars and also a convent on the east side of the church. Today, many tourists flock from all over the world to witness the ruins of the church and also the great Augustine tower maintained by the Archaeological department of Goa.

The Specialty of St. Augustine Tower:

• The magnificent Augustine church built in 1602 AD by the Augustines
• The four-storeyed long tower is the highlight of the church
• The church is endured with eight chapels and elegant altars
• The ruined bell tower still looks magnificent in the eyes of Old Goa

How to reach St. Augustine Tower:

Located in Old Goa St. Augustine Tower is each to reach by means of local bus transportation and also by hiring taxis and renting bikes and scooters from local vendors and travel agencies.

St. Augustine Tower Entry Fee: Free

St. Augustine Tower Timings: 8:00 am-6:00 pm

St. Augustine Tower Spending Time: 1 hour

Things to do at St. Augustine Tower:

• Just enjoy witnessing the historical monument of Old Goa.

Read More: 20 Best Tourist Places in Agra

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19.  Sri Mahalaxmi Temple

North Goa hides the unexplored yet very popular and mythological place in Goa which is the Sri Mahalaxmi Temple in the regions of Bandora village and is one of the famous tourist places in Goa. This pilgrimage is one of the oldest temples of Goa with a glimpse of modern architecture as it was moved from its original place Kolambe. The temple was first invaded by the Portuguese the locals of the village removed the idol of the goddess and moved it to the present place building a small temple in the village. 

Later there are many improvements in the temple constructions and now the temple is made magnificent with Sabhamandapa and main Gharba gudi in which the black granite idol of goddess Mahalaxmi Devi was situated and also there was another Panchloha idol of Mahalaxmi Devi in the temple. The main deity of the temple receives rituals and prayers every day by the priests. The arch of the temple is beautifully decorated with flowers and mango leaves with the two elephant sculptures at the entrance of the temple, also there are two deepastambhas in the temple. Every year, the temple celebrates Mahalaxmi Pratisthapana in Vaishakha month during the day the main idol was taken out for the chariot ride.

The Specialty of Sri Mahalaxmi Temple:

• The arch of the temple is well decorated and there are chandeliers to the ceilings 
• There are more than 200 wooden paintings of Lord Vishnu and his consort Mahalaxmi Devi to the walls of the temple
• Maha Shivaratri, Sri Rama Navami, and Mahalaxmi Pratisthapana festivals are celebrated grandly every year.

How to Reach Sri Mahalaxmi Temple:

Take a bus route from Kadampa bus station which is 27km away from the place or it is easy to travel by train from Margao railway station and reach the place and take auto or taxis from Bandora village.

Sri Mahalaxmi Temple Entry Fees: No entry fee

Sri Mahalaxmi Temple Timings: 8:00 am-6:00 pm

Sri Mahalaxmi Temple Spending Time: 1 hour

Things to do at Sri Mahalaxmi Temple:

• Take Darshan of the Goddess Mahalaxmi and offer prayers to the deity and also take part in the grand festivals of the year.

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20. Arambol Beach

North Goa is accomplished with the best serene beaches in the city with a calm and pleasing climate Arambol beach is one of the famous Goa tourist spots. One should not miss exploring the beautiful beach with bohemian and Portuguese vibes filled many themed shacks lining the coastline of the beach. Tourists fill this place to enjoy the vibe of the beach and feel disappeared from the busy world. Surrounded by forests, the wheatish sand beach has a serene yet party vibe to enjoy the day. Be it yoga on the beach shores or just a leisure walk your soul heals at this place. Shop your favourite goan traditional stuff in the flea market happening every day in the evening after the sunset. Arambol beach is adjoined by Querim and Morjim beaches on either side making more beautiful to watch.

You must try the adventurous activities happening on the beachside like cliff jumping is the most spine chilling activity that will be unforgettable throughout your life. Paragliding and also strolling on the beach are the famous sports to play on the beach. One must appreciate the beach that is one of the must visit places in Goa.

The Specialty of  Arambol Beach:

• The view of the beach surrounded by lush green forests is majestic.
• Cliff jumping is the highlight of the beach
• Shopping at the flea market and also spa centers lined up is the best one to relax

How to Reach Arambol Beach:

The beach is about 50kms away from Panaji and can be reached by taking bus transportation from Panaji bus station and reach the place. One can also rent the taxis and bikes at Panaji station from local vendors.

 Arambol Beach Entry Fee: Free

 Arambol Beach Timings: opens all time

 Arambol Beach Spending Time: 3 hours

Things to do at Arambol Beach:

• Just take a leisure walk exploring the place
• Try out all the adventure sports in Arambol beach
• Shop at flea markets and get a relaxing massage in spa centers
• Take boat rides

Read More: 20 Best Tourist Places in Chennai

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How to Reach Goa:

By Road: Unlike before, transport to Goa by road is very feasible and safe to travel by road taking buses and your own vehicles. Road trip to Goa is the best option to choose if you travel with friends and halting in the midway enjoying the journey is amazing and one gets direct buses from every city in India varying from semi-sleeper to sleeper and private travels. To make your Goa trip wonderful without wasting time and money, book Goa sightseeing packages available at very affordable prices online. After reaching Goa local bus station one can book cabs or else private vehicles from the central Bus station to the main city.

By Train: Travelling by train to goa is very cheap and feasible and comfortable and Goa has many nearby railway stations where you can stop by according to your choice. Connected to many places, you need to book your train tickets prior to the date of your Goa trip and the nearest railway stations in Goa are Karmali, Thivim and Vasco-da-Gama stations. You can get cabs and local buses from there to reach your destinations.

By Flight: Travel to Goa by flight is not cheap and not too pricey it is equal to a fare of a sleeper class bus and saves your time. Spend your valuable time in Goa sightseeing, the best option is to travel by flight from various places where airways are available to reach Goa. Many private taxis are available at the airport to pick you and drop at your destinations for good prices.

History of Goa:

Goa has the elements of epic Mahabharata, where Pandavas stayed in this place for quite some time. Though the place was first ruled by Marathas then came into the colonial rule of Portuguese. However, the place Goa was discovered by the Portuguese ruler Vaso Da Gama to start their spice trading and then invaded the Bijapur king and occupied Goa and made many constructions that represent the spread of Christianity. Through Goa seems small in the country, it holds many tourist attractions in Goa including beaches, monuments churches.

Later Goa witnessed multi-culture hence, you can see the merge of Indoportugues culture in Goa. The traces of ancient Goa is till found in some of the ruined monuments, churches and is still preserved by the archaeological department of Goa. In 1961 after India got independence from the British, Portuguese was still ruling Goa and then the Indian military attacked Portuguese in the name of operation Vijay. After a continuous war of 36 hours, the war was won by the military and on December 19 the liberation day is celebrated as the sign of Independence.

Best Time to Visit Goa:

Goa is a paradise for beach lovers and the best time to visit Goa is between November and March as the rainy season ends and tourists can find joy in watching the sunrise and sunsets laying in the white sands of the beaches. Goa is all set up with bright lights and parties during New year with a bash of sunburn festivals which is very popular in the entire country. People come from different places to step up their feet at the Sunburn festival. For peeps who love to enjoy rains in beaches, it is best to plan for Goa tour in the month of June to September where many hotels offer the best discounts to the tourists during the off-season.

Attire Suitable for Goa Sightseeing Tour:

Best clothes that the vibes of Goa can are light sheer clothes with tropical prints that match the beaches and trees of Goa. It is suggestible to take swimwear or comfortable clothes avoiding draped clothes if you are trying beach sports and games.

Famous Food in Goa:

Goa is splendidly known for white-sand beaches and delicious Goan cuisine which has influences of Portuguese culture. The tropical climate of Goa with beaches, Goan cuisine comprises of seafood and pork cooked with aromatic spices of Goa. Their regular meal and must-try food by every tourist is their spicy fish curry cooked coconut and raw mango blended with spices. They generally serve it with steamed rice. Some of the Portuguese dishes that can be found in Goan restaurants are Goan pork vindaloo pork meat cooked with potatoes and red beans. Seafood like prawns, fish, crabs in Anjuna shack is very famous as one can see tourists flock here in large to fill their tummies viewing the beach. Bebinca is a famous dessert in Goa made with coconut milk.

Travel Tips for Goa Trip:

• The first and most important tip is to take your license and id proofs as you need to show your id proofs at night clubs and while renting bikes
• Most of the places in beaches, so you need to have a good pair of beachwear that matches with the tropical vibes of Goa
• It is advised to take safety precautions and wear safety jackets while surfing and trying other water sports.
• Do not try any water sports in the evening as the beach may witness high tides
• Maintain silence and peace at the churches as you are not allowed to make noise
• Carry eatables in your journey and follow safety measures at every tourist spot.
• Also, keep your belongings safe when you visit crowded tourist spots.

Mandatory Items to be carried to Goa tour:

• Due to climate changes, you may fall sick so carry the first-aid box and basic medicine
• Carry winter wear if you visit Goa in the mid of December as it will be very cold in the evenings as you need to attend the night parties
• Do not forget to carry the best digital camera to lock your memories spent in Delhi forever.

Busy timings and days to visit Goa:

Best and busy time to visit Goa is during New Year celebrations as this is the high season in Goa many people visit Goa during this time to attend Sunburn festival which is famous in Goa during the New year. Also, tourists visit frequently in January and in mid of March as the summer's hit so to enjoy beaches and it is the perfect time to visit Goa tourist attractions. It is advised to book your tour packages prior to the date of travel to enjoy the seamless efforts of travel to Goa sightseeing tour as the prices are high in December month. It is not suggestible to visit Goa in the rainy season because the beach experience high tides and climate is not friendly to enjoy the beach vibes.

Days to Spend in the city for Goa Sightseeing Tour: 3 - 4 days

Conclusion: (Tour Packages, One Day Tour, Hotel Booking, Transportation)

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Hope we have covered every nook and corner of the Goa city tour and its itinerary in this blog, shoot down in the comments your experiences visiting famous places in Goa