Things to do & places to visit in Goa, India

The sandy coast of Goa is perfect for reclining by the sea. Nestle into a cushioned chair at a beach shack and savor a curry while you sip a Kingfisher beer, watching the sun slip lazily below the horizon. In Old Goa, the beautiful Basilica of Bom Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fine example of baroque architecture. Visit during Christmastime to experience a fantastic religious and cultural mash-up of East and West.

Goa #10 destination in India 2023. The average rating score is 4.26 based on 57.2k traveler reviews, of 90 attractions. Timezone: Asia/Kolkata, current date and time: Thursday, May 02, 2024, 21:27.

Top things to do (19)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Sheek Emporium - Armanii Boutique Since 1950 (680 reviews)
- Sartaj Sheek Emporium bespoke clothing Goa
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops • Art Galleries • Antique Shops • Shopping Malls

I'd researched this place prior to going to Goa and visited on our 1st day. Immediately took a liking to Sartaj, as he was very professional, extremely helpful, and took plenty of time to show us fabrics and explain his processes. We had numerous shirts, shorts, dresses and a leather jacket made by him, all excellent quality, perfect fit and reasonably priced. Although we never purchased he does jewellery too. Once he has your size he can ship worldwide. If you are in Goa and in the market for bespoke clothes or jewellery I would highly recommend a visit. See more..
4.5 Palolem Beach (2.551 reviews)
- Quite crowded, but practical beach
Spent More than 3 hours Beaches

One of the area's most picturesque beaches. See more..
4.5 Basilica of Bom Jesus (2.347 reviews)
- Must see!
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM Spent < 1 hour Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites

Today, the Basilica of Jesus, built of laterite, is included in the list of the main attractions of India, is protected by UNESCO and is considered the most popular church in Goa. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the richest decorated churches in Goa. The interior of the church is beautiful and refined. The floor is made of white marble inlaid with semi-precious stones. The altar of the basilica is decorated with elaborate carvings and gilding, the walls are decorated with paintings depicting scenes from the life of Francis Xavier. See more..
4.5 Agonda Beach (2.346 reviews)
- Less crowded, clear beach
Thursday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Beaches

We’ve been to this beach couple of times as we stayed nearby at The Bay Agonda. The beach is a clean well maintained less crowded beach. You can do some boat trips here - dolphin sighting, fishing, sunset, etc. This beach offers some really nice spots for enjoying sunset. See more..
4.5 Benaulim Beach (1.892 reviews)
- Amazing
Beaches

One of the best South Goan beaches .. it was super clean and serene even in the peack december season ! Now we know where to go in Goa, during the peak season ! another highlight is that the fishermen bringing in their boats in the morning and evening with fresh catch ! If you are staying at an airbnb then you could buy some fishes and fry it with minimum spices.. you hardly need anything if the fishes are so fresh ! See more..
4.5 Cavelossim Beach (1.784 reviews)
- Great loooooooong beach
Beaches

We had 4 days on this wonderful bech, absolutely stunning. It goes on for miles and miles, beautiful sand, it is clean and safe with lovely waves. quite a few beach shacks where you can eat and drink at very low price. See more..
4.5 Varca Beach (1.729 reviews)
- Lovely clean unspoilt beach. Beautiful sunset views
Beaches

My friend and I stayed at a yoga retreat in Orlim and every afternoon we would head down to the beach for a few hours before our yoga class at 5.30pm every evening. It is a quiet unspoilt beach and Capricorn cafe and the staff are welcoming and the service was friendly and reasonably priced. Lovely soft sand. It is worth a visit See more..
4.5 Arambol Beach (1.404 reviews)
- Amazing beach
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Beaches

This popular beach features a fresh water lake that merges with the sea. See more..
4.5 Dudhsagar Falls (1.378 reviews)
- Dudhsagar falls , Goa
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Waterfalls

An adventurous bumpy Jeep ride leads you to these spectacular falls plunging into a pool where you can swim with giant carp. See more..
4.5 Old Goa (1.265 reviews)
- History & Heritage
Spent More than 3 hours Neighborhoods

North Goa houses most popular and crowded beaches like Baga, Calungute etc. and numerous pubs & restaurants and thereby becomes first choice for the tourists. On the other hand, South (Old) Goa contains several famous and heritage churches including Basilica of Bom Jesus which contains the relics of Saint Francis Xavier, Se Cathedral, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, etc. These churches are generally noiseless. We stayed at North Goa and hired a vehicle for a day trip to South Goa that included visit of Old Goa churches, Panjim city and its beaches etc. Old Goa is a lovely city with rich history and heritage. It was worth taking a break from crowded beachside to witness rich history and heritage of Old Goa. See more..
4.5 Morjim Beach (953 reviews)
- Best Beach to Swim in North Goa
Beaches

This beach is a flat beach with beautiful white sand. Usually you can walk deep into the sea without any risk but for some reason the day we went for a swim there, there were red flags all around and the lifeguards were warning us about rip currents. So we tried to stay as safe as possible. We had entered the beach from the entry near the Sinq Resort and this part had hardly any tourist around so we kind of had the entire beach for us. We ordered some snacks at a shack, kept our luggage there and took a quick dip. The best part of this beach I felt was the lack of crowd.....you can wear anything (even bikinis) and get zero stares from strangers. I would highly recommend this place for people staying in North Goa for swimming in this beach instead of Baga or Calangute as the sea appeared much safer here and the crowd is also much peaceful here. See more..
4.5 Mandrem Beach (898 reviews)
- Beautiful quite beach
Beaches

Very peaceful beach most popular with foreign tourist or couple. There is no water activities available here, one need to go to Arambol beach 1.5 km from here. So old,young and child can enjoy swimming here with the tension of hitting the boats (activities). See more..
4.5 Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception (897 reviews)
- Went on the Christmas Day
Architectural Buildings

Interestingly, the sanctum sanctorum closed earlier than usual on the Christmas Day, so did not get to spend enough time inside. Also, I really do not understand the reason for not permitting pictures insider places for prayer. A memory of a place of prayer brings back serenity and peace. Why wouldn't the authorities not permit such a memory to be preserved? Very annoying... See more..
4.5 Sinquerim Beach (865 reviews)
- One of the best North Goa beaches
Beaches

One of the best beaches in North Goa. Scenic panoramic view from the Lower Aguada Fort - one of the best sunset points. The beach can get busy during evenings and weekends. The best time to visit is before 9am in the morning when the sun is not too harsh and you can have the beach for yourself (very few people visit at that time). Parking can become quite messy during evenings and weekends. There are various water sporting options but beware of the high tides. We saw families neglecting the coast guard warnings and venturing into the sea, which is not safe at all! The beach is immaculately clean, soft sand, clear water. Definitely recommend multiple visits during your stay (if you pick a hotel in North Goa) See more..
4.5 Utorda Beach (750 reviews)
- Clean and peaceful beach
Beaches

The UTORDA Beach is set in the south of Goa and is one of the cleanest beaches I have ever seen. Being located in South Goa the beach is not at all crowded. These beaches are mostly accessed by the residents of hotels across the beach. The beach is clean and sand does not stick like the one in North Goa. Commercial activities like hawkers selling stuff are almost NIL. one can sit or even sleep peacefully here. We found a lot of sea shells and small crabs in the water. Sunsets are amazing and not to be missed. See more..
4.5 Ashwem Beach (628 reviews)
- Beautiful clean beach
Beaches

We had a good time. It is a very clean picture perfect beach. Must visit if you are in North Goa (instead of Anjuna, Baga or Vagator as they are over crowded during the day). Russian tourists seem to prefer this place. One can take pictures of the natural beauty. Best for sunrise & sunsets. See more..
4.5 Tomb of St. Francis Xavier (619 reviews)
- St. Xavier Church and Tomb, Goa
Points of Interest & Landmarks

When you are visiting Goa, this is a must visit place. The Architecture of the Church is marvelous and the surroundings are beautiful. The Church is the home of the St. Xavier's Mummy and has lots of collections related to him and Christianity. See more..
4.5 Cola Beach (613 reviews)
- Outstanding beach definitely worth a visit
Spent More than 3 hours Beaches

We had a tuk tuk drives us to the steps which in itself was an experience as the road is very dusty and uneven. The steps down to beach are steep but solid, wear trainers rather than flip flops. Beach was incredible so clean and breathtaking. We were lucky as tide was out so we could swim. There was a small lagoon where people were kayaking. At the bottom of the steps is a small cafe food was good and not expensive and they have toilet which they charge 10 rupees to use. There are 2 resorts offering sea view cottages or tents to rent which looked very inviting. We were there for 3 hours which was plenty to enjoy this stunning beach. See more..
4.5 Se Cathedral (547 reviews)
- Grand and impressive
Architectural Buildings

Visited on 11/7/2022 The visit to this church is included in the Old Goa tour package and also churches of Goa tour package. The Church is grand and is constructed according to Portugese archietecture and presents a sight of grandeur and impresses all the tourist. The color of white in backdrop of green curated landsacpe of lawns and trees with teh blue sky will definitely mersmerise you. The visit will give you insight into the religion of this place and also the portugese culture which influences Goa's landscape. Must visit place. Enjoy See more..
4.5 Reis Magos Fort (506 reviews)
- Well organised although not a big place
Thursday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites

Newly restored Portuguese Fort See more..
4.5 Majorda Beach (494 reviews)
- Majorda Beach
Beaches

I have been going to Majorda and Utorda for over 25years. I was in Majorda from Febrauary to End of June 2020. The beach is very clean and you can walk from here to Colva. Many shacks on the way. Good walk in the morning and you can see fishermen and boats landing on the beach. Dolphins are a regular site .Beautiful sun rise and sunset . During lockdown ,the beach was dirty , which is understandable. I would recommend this beach . I would also recommend a small resturant at the crossroads of Rainbow corner . The buses run from this corner. This is a local resturants for the locals and don't see any tourists. The name of the resturant is Prakash Resturant. It has limited menue, but the food is delicious and very cheap. Well worth a visit or have a takeaway. Resturant is family run. Mother and sons. See more..
4.5 Shantadurga Temple (451 reviews)
- Culture and Dininity
Religious Sites

Visited on 11th July 2022 The place is a hidden gem and can be included in itinerary while in Goa. The drive from Calangute will be about 45min (20kms) along scenic roads going up and down small hillocks. The plcae has a dedicated parking and the walk to the temple is about 100 meters. This walkway is dotted with small shops selling souveniers, fruits, candies, clothes, flowers/offerings, coconuts amongst others. The temple is at 10-12 steps climb where you have the shoe racks for stacking your shoes and then proceed for darshan. At about 12noon there is aarti and with luck I attended the same which was a 15 min ritual. Had divine darshan. the place has Goan architecture and the temple is very unique. Also there is a towerwhich gives this place a unique feel of mixed culture and architecture. teh place being at a raised area has good surrounding view. teh temple also has a pond beside the boundary wall. Can definitely be included in your itinerary to Goa. See more..
4.5 Fontainhas (444 reviews)
- For those who love art, history and life itself
Neighborhoods

This beautiful LatinQuarter was built in the 18th century in the capital city of #Panjim and lies on the banks of the OuremCreek This #WorldHeritageSite is known for its narrow, winding streets and lanes, quaint #Portuguese style houses with red-tiled roofs. It’s interesting that many of the PortugueseHouses have either a rooster or a solider on the roof. Charming cafes, beautiful homes, an art gallery, boutique heritage hotels, artefacts are what you’ll find here. You can get a guide who will be able to tell you the history of all the famous buildings or ramble around on your own and grab a coffee at one of the little cafés. This quarter is a history and/or ArtLovers dream. It is a delight for a photographer too See more..
4.5 St. Alex Church (381 reviews)
- Church
Churches & Cathedrals

The architecture of the was amazing. We went there for mid night Christmas mass celebration and it we really enjoyed it although it was in a foreign language. There were almost 500 hundred people that attended mass. Very well organised. See more..
4.5 Cansaulim Beach (338 reviews)
- Great clean beach.
Beaches

We spent a day here when visiting Goa from a cruise ship. It is situated about a 45 minute to a hour drive from the port. The beach itself was great, clean white sand, it stretches for miles and the water is clean and very pleasant, it has a gentle slope as you go in so good for swimming. The beach has a lifeguard and there us a limited number of sunbeds parasol etc for hire. There are a few beach bars at the back of the beach offering food and drinks. The one we picked was good and happily served you on your lounger. There are a number of beach sellers but we did not find them a problem and a simple no thanks ment they moved on. A very enjoyable day at the beach was had here. See more..
4.5 Betalbatim Beach (329 reviews)
- Loved this serene beach
Beaches

We chanced across Betalbatim beach on of our scooty rides along the country roads of South Goa...and I instantly fell in love with this picturesque beach. The beautiful beach - not frequented by touristy crowds - is secluded, serene and a great place to catch the sunset. You can chill here for hours, wade into the gently crashing waves or just lie back for a relaxing time. See more..
4.5 Big Daddy Casino (319 reviews)
- Amazing experience
Thursday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Casinos • Ships

Feel Alive onboard Asia's largest floating gaming and entertainment destination, Big Daddy. With the likes of A-list celebrities such as Dan Bilzerian and Sanjay Dutt having visited Big Daddy, its all about living it up in the Big League here in Goa. An extensive collection of live and electronic games coupled with 75 unique entertainment acts every night and custom-made packages including unlimited food and drinks makes Big Daddy the king of 24*7 unrivaled winning experiences. See more..
4.5 Keri Beach (Querim Beach) (229 reviews)
- Very Best Beach
Beaches

I live in Key Biscayne which is considered one of the best. Keri Beach is far nicer than Key Biscayne and most of the ones I visited. Clean, ideal water temperature and sea not to salty. Serene, not crowded, and even has recycle bins... something Key Biscayne does not have. Nearby there is a hidden gem called “House of Love”, yoga classes, food raw food, concerts, entertainment. A must! See more..
4.5 Arossim Beach (216 reviews)
- Serene & lovely.
Beaches

Beautiful! This is how it explains. Very clean & vast stretch to walk. Being monsoons totally unsafe to swim, red flag flying as the sea is very very rough & dangerous. But wonderful to walk & wet one's feet with the tide coming in. See more..
4.5 Naval Aviation Museum (206 reviews)
- Great little know display of history...!
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Military Museums

The Naval Aviation Museum at Goa is a one of its kind museum in Asia, showcasing the rich history and legacy of Indian Naval Aviation. It has a prized collection of 14 vintage display aircraft along with their engines, armaments and much more to delight an aviation enthusiast or just a curious tourist. The exhibit halls and display Rooms housing various artifacts, memorabilia and other naval assets of importance to present the heritage of Indian Naval "Air Arm" to the visitors. Towards fulfilling the taste of visitors, there is a cafe inside the premises of museum providing light refreshments and snacks, while they indulge in admiring the aircraft and armaments at display. A dedicated "Engine Bay", displaying rarest of the Aviation-engines from the World War era is a must for any aviation enthusiast. The musuem is open to both Indian and foreign nationals and is one of the major attractions in Goa, listed in top 10 places to visit on Goa Government website. See more..