Offbeat Attractions Near The Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa: A Cultural & Scenic Itinerary

Day 1: Historic & Cultural Exploration

Old Goa, India on April 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Bodega

Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee with pastries and light Goan breakfast fare at Café Bodega in Panaji, around 5 km from Old Goa. Open from 7:30am to 11:00am.
INR250, 1h

9:30am

Visit The Basilica of Bom Jesus

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier and its impressive baroque architecture. Open 9:00am to 6:30pm daily.
INR50, 1h 30m

11:15am

Se Cathedral

Just a 5-minute walk from the Basilica, visit the largest church in Asia with its majestic gilded altars and impressive architecture. Open from 9:00am to 6:00pm.
INR40, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Mum’s Kitchen, Panaji

Experience authentic Goan cuisine with a modern twist at Mum’s Kitchen. Located approximately 6 km from Old Goa, it is open from 12:00pm to 3:30pm and 7:00pm to 11:00pm.
INR700, 1h 15m

2:00pm

Museum of Christian Art

A hidden gem showcasing beautifully conserved Christian religious art and artifacts, located close to Bom Jesus Basilica. Open from 9:00am to 5:00pm, closed on Mondays.
INR60, 1h

3:30pm

Archaeological Museum

Dive into Goa’s rich history at this peaceful museum presenting artifacts from Goa’s past including Hindu and Christian relics. Open 9:30am to 5:00pm, closed on Mondays.
INR30, 1h

5:00pm

Stroll along Mandovi River Waterfront

Enjoy a serene evening walk along the Mandovi River promenade in Panaji, just 7 km from Old Goa, soaking in beautiful sunset views and local life.
Free, 1h 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Viva Panjim

End your day with traditional Goan dishes in a charming Portuguese-style eatery located in Panaji. Open from 7:00pm to 11:00pm.
INR800, 1h 30m
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Day 2: Offbeat Historical Insights

Old Goa / Panaji on April 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Bhonsle

Try a local Goan breakfast including poi bread and chai in this casual spot in Panaji. Open from 7:30am to 11:30am.
INR200, 45m

9:00am

Visit Church of St. Cajetan

Just 800 meters from the Basilica, this smaller but architecturally unique church inspired by Italian Renaissance offers calm and historical charm. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
Free, 45m

10:00am

Fontainhas Latin Quarter Walk

Explore this quaint neighborhood in Panaji with colorful Portuguese-style houses, charming cafes, and hidden art galleries. Open all day.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf, Panaji

A scenic riverside restaurant serving fresh seafood and Goan specialties, perfect for a relaxing lunch break. Open 12:00pm to 3:30pm.
INR800, 1h 30m

2:30pm

Visit Goa State Museum

Discover Goa’s cultural heritage, including ancient manuscripts and artifacts, just 8 km from Old Goa. Open 10:00am to 5:00pm, except Mondays.
INR50, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Miramar Beach

Spend your late afternoon on this serene beach near Panaji, great for a peaceful walk or watching the sunset. Open all day.
Free, 1h 30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gunpowder

Savor authentic South Indian flavors in a charming heritage house in Panaji, highly rated for its cozy ambiance and diverse menu. Open 6:30pm to 11:00pm.
INR750, 1h 30m
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