A stunning 17th-century fort overlooking the Arabian Sea, Fort Aguada is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. It was built by the Portuguese to prevent attacks from the sea and is now a popular tourist site that offers panoramic views of the coastline. The fort has a lighthouse, a prison, and a museum inside, making it a great attraction for families.
This 16th-century church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important shrines for Catholics in India. It contains the tomb of St. Francis Xavier, a Jesuit missionary who preached in Goa in the 16th century. The church's Baroque architecture and ornate interiors are awe-inspiring, and visitors can also see relics of St. Francis Xavier and other saints here.
Fontainhas is the Latin Quarter of Panaji, Goa's capital city. It is a charming and colorful neighborhood with Portuguese-style houses, narrow streets, and art galleries. Visitors can take a walking tour to see the well-preserved heritage buildings and learn about the history of the area. The neighborhood also has several restaurants and cafes serving Goan and Portuguese cuisine.
A popular beach destination in Goa, Dona Paula is named after a Portuguese noblewoman who died here. The beach offers views of the Arabian Sea and the Mandovi and Zuari rivers. Visitors can go swimming, sunbathing, and water sports here. There is also a viewpoint with a statue of Dona Paula and a park with a musical fountain.
If you have more time, you can add a day trip to Old Goa to see more historical buildings and churches, such as the Se Cathedral and the Church of St. Cajetan. If you have less time, you can skip Fort Aguada and Fontainhas and focus on the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Dona Paula. Remember to check the opening and closing times of the attractions as they may vary depending on the season.