Exploring the City of Goa in 4 Days

  • Day 1: Visit to Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, and Fontainhas
    13 mins (4.7 km) from Dabolim Airport

    Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the most significant churches in Goa known for its Baroque architecture and holding the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Se Cathedral is another famous church in the city, built-in Portuguese-manueline architecture. In the afternoon, wander through the winding streets of Fontainhas, the old Latin quarters, admiring the colorful Indo-Portuguese architecture.

  • Day 2: Fort Aguada, Candolim Beach, and Calangute Beach
    37 mins (15.1 km) from Fontainhas

    Visit the 17th century Portuguese Fort Aguada and take in the stunning views of the Candolim Beach. After that, head over to Candolim beach to relax, indulge in watersports or visit the nearby cafes and restaurants. In the evening, head to Calangute Beach which is known as the “Queen of Beaches,” to enjoy a beautiful sunset, nightlife and seafood

  • Day 3: Old Goa, Anjuna Flea Market, and Vagator Beach
    30 mins (13.2 km) from Calangute Beach

    Explore Old Goa, including the Church of St. Cajetan & St. Augustine's Tower. After exploring Old Goa, head to the popular Wednesday Anjuna Flea Market for shopping and local food. In the evening, relax at the picturesque Vagator beach famous for its beautiful cliffs, scenic sunsets and beach shacks.

  • Day 4: Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Mangeshi Temple, and Divar Island
    1 hour 7 mins (38.1kms) from Vagator Beach

    Start the day with a visit to the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, which houses a mini-zoo, botanical gardens, and nature trails. Then, head to the famous Mangeshi Temple, one of the largest and most famous temples in Goa, It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the evening, visit the serene and less crowded Divar Island, a beautiful cycling or walking destination along the river.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Basilica of Bom Jesus (1 hr, Free)
  • Se Cathedral (1 hr, Free)
  • Fontainhas (2 hrs, Free)
  • Fort Aguada (2 hrs, INR 150)
  • Candolim Beach (2 hrs, Free)
  • Calangute Beach (3 hrs, INR 100)
  • Old Goa (2 hrs, Free)
  • Anjuna Flea Market (3 hrs, Free)
  • Vagator Beach (3 hrs, Free)
  • Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary (4 hrs, INR 100)
  • Mangeshi Temple (1 hr, Free)
  • Divar Island (3 hrs, Free)
  • Total Estimated Costs (excluding transportation): INR 350

Transportation

Goa is well-connected through local buses or by hiring a scooter, which is a popular mode of transport to explore the city. A car can also be rented for around INR 1,200-2,000 per day. Taxis may charge a slightly higher rate than the normal prices during the peak season, so negotiating the prices is recommended. To save on transportation cost, opt for local buses or share taxis which run frequently and cost around INR 20-50.

Useful Tips

In case you have more days, consider visiting the Dudhsagar Waterfalls or the Spice Plantations. However, if you have less time, you can skip visiting Divar Island or Fontainhas.

Airports

Goa has one airport, Dabolim Airport (GOI), located at a distance of almost 25km from the city centre.

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