Start your honeymoon by exploring the Old Goa neighborhood and visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit for its baroque architecture and religious significance. The basilica houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier and has beautiful paintings and statues.
Enjoy a laid-back day of sunbathing and swimming at Anjuna Beach. This beautiful beach is known for its stunning rock formations and happening nightlife. You can also shop for souvenirs or try some water sports.
Visit the 17th-century Portuguese fort that protected Goa against invading powers. Fort Aguada offers glorious views of the coastline and the Arabian Sea. You can also see the lighthouse and the old jail, which has now been converted into a luxury hotel.
Take a romantic sunset cruise on the Mandovi River. Enjoy the beautiful views of the Panaji cityscape and the mangrove forests on the banks. The cruise also includes Goan folk dances, live music, and a delicious dinner buffet.
Take a day trip to the famous Dudhsagar Falls on the Goa-Karnataka border. The falls are a sight to behold, with their milky white cascade and verdant surroundings. You can trek to the base of the falls or take a dip in the refreshing pool.
Getting around Goa is easiest by hiring a taxi or an Uber. You can also rent a bike or a car, but these options are only recommended if you are confident about driving in India. In case you plan on getting a private car/driver for the day trip to Dudhsagar Falls, book in advance. Considering traffic and distance, it's preferable to keep at least 2-3 hours of buffer time between activities.
If you have more time, you can explore the beaches of Calangute, Baga, and Miramar. You can also take a spiritual detour and visit the Shri Manguesh Temple or the Shantadurga Temple. In case you have less time, you can omit the Fort Aguada visit or the Dudhsagar Falls trip. Additionally, it's recommended to avoid visiting Goa during the monsoon season (June-September) as the water sports and beach shacks remain closed.
The nearest airport to Goa is Dabolim Airport (GOI), located in Vasco da Gama city, about 29 km south of Panaji. The airport connects Goa to major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Chennai, as well as international destinations like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha. Some popular airlines that operate flights to and from Goa are IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet.