Begin your Goa trip by exploring the bustling capital of Goa, Panaji. Stroll around the Fontainhas Heritage District, a quaint latin quarter with colourful Portuguese-style houses. Visit the iconic Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, located on top of a hill. Learn about Goa's history at the Goa State Museum, which has a vast collection of artefacts from prehistoric to modern times.
Head to Margao City, known for its vibrant marketplaces and ancient churches. Explore the bustling Municipal Market, which is famous for its fresh produce, seafood, and colourful Goan handicrafts. Visit the Monte Hill, a popular pilgrimage site where you can see the famous Church of the Cross. See the old-world charm of the Colva Beach, which is one of the longest beaches in Goa.
Old Goa was once the capital of Portuguese India and has many famous churches and landmarks. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, a revered Christian missionary. See the ancient Se Cathedral, which is one of the largest churches in Asia. Visit the Museum of Christian Art, which houses a wide collection of Christian art and artefacts.
End your trip by exploring Mapusa City, which offers an authentic feel of Goa's vibrant culture. Visit the famous Bodgeshwar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and located in a dense forest. Get a glimpse of the Mapusa Friday Market, which offers a plethora of local spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Explore the majestic Mayem Lake, which is surrounded by lush greenery and is perfect for a calming boat ride.
Transportation in Goa includes taxis, buses, and rented scooters. Buses are the most economical way to travel within Goa, but renting scooters gives you more freedom and an exciting experience. Taxis are also easily available but can be more expensive. An average taxi ride within Goa costs around £5-10, and renting a scooter for a day costs around £10-15.
If you have more time, you can extend your trip by visiting the Dudhsagar Falls, Aguada Fort, or the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. If you have less time, you can skip visiting Mapusa City and instead add a day trip to the vibrant beach town of Anjuna.
Goa has one airport - Goa International Airport (GOI) - which is located in Dabolim, around 30 km from Panaji City. The airport connects to major cities in India and some international destinations. The airport has a prepaid taxi counter, and a ride to Panaji City costs around £10-15.