Things to do in Goa

Our most recommended things to do in Goa

Panaji: Heritage Walk through Goa's Latin Quarter

Panaji: Heritage Walk through Goa's Latin Quarter

Meet your guide at the Panjim Head Post Office near the Mala district of Panjim. Walk through the lesser-known but culturally-rich Fontainhas area of Goa, the oldest and largest Latin quarter in Asia. See heritage homes, appreciate Portuguese architecture, meet friendly locals, and experience the cultural side of Goa. Developed in the late eighteenth century, Fontainhas derived its name - "little fountain" in Portuguese - from the springs found at the base of the Altinho hills. A strong Portuguese influence still prevails in this neighborhood, evident from the architectural style and the road names. Begin your walk at Tobacco Square and trace the arrival of the Portuguese in Goa. Along the way, your knowledgable guide will be happy to share information based on your personal interests. Pass by the small Church of San Thome. Stop into the quaint 31st January Bakery for a quick bite. Take photos against the neighborhood’s colorful backdrop as you make your way to the Chapel of San Sebastian. Explore interesting buildings around Panjim Inn, Fundacao Orient, and Galerie Gitanjali. Lastly, visit a famous Goan musician and learn about the Portuguese influence on Goan music. Before heading back to the meeting point, you can stop by a studio which makes handcrafted ceramic souvenirs.

Old Goa: Walking Tour of Heritage Churches

Old Goa: Walking Tour of Heritage Churches

Experience Goa's Portuguese heritage on a guided walking tour filled with historical stories and personal anecdotes. Learn the history as you admire historical monuments, including the Church of St. Francis of Assisi and Se Cathedral. Meet your guide at the Viceroys Arch in Old Goa and begin your walking tour. Marvel at the impressive buildings in the area and listen to insightful stories and facts from your guide, including Goa’s history as a former capital. Continue to the Church of St. Catherine and trace the arrival of the Portuguese in India, who called the area “the Rome of the East.” Walk past the ruins of Old Goa to Se Cathedral, the largest church in Asia. Admire the decorative frescoes in the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, which depict the life of the patron saint. Afterward, enter the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier.

Goa: Old Goa and Divar Island E-Bike Tour with Snacks

Goa: Old Goa and Divar Island E-Bike Tour with Snacks

Step into the past and uncover the hidden treasures of Goa on this expertly curated e-bike adventure, seamlessly blending the grandeur of Old Goa with the untouched charm of Divar Island. This immersive trail is designed for travelers seeking a deeper connection with Goa’s rich cultural heritage and pristine landscapes, offering an offbeat experience beyond the usual tourist spots. Discover Old Goa’s Architectural Marvels Begin your journey in Old Goa, once the flourishing capital of Portuguese India. Ride through its cobblestone streets, transporting yourself back to the 16th century, when this city was a vibrant center of trade, religion, and colonial history. Marvel at the UNESCO-listed St. Cajetan’s Church, inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and pass through the iconic Viceroy’s Arch, a historic gateway that once welcomed Portuguese governors. Glide past Asia’s largest church, the magnificent Sé Cathedral, a testament to Goa’s grand past. Ferry Across the Mandovi to Hidden Divar Island Leaving behind the grand churches, take a scenic ferry ride across the Mandovi River, where panoramic views of the lush Goan countryside unfold before you. As you step onto Divar Island, you’ll feel transported to a world where time slows down and nature thrives undisturbed. Explore the Untouched Beauty of Divar Island Pedal through tranquil villages, past centuries-old Goan homes, swaying coconut palms, and lush paddy fields. Discover hidden gems like ancient churches, forgotten temples, and ruins dating back to the Kadamba dynasty. Your local guide will share fascinating stories about the island’s unique history, its cultural significance, and the traditions that continue to thrive here. Engage with the Local Community A highlight of this tour is the chance to interact with the warm-hearted locals, gaining insight into their simple yet fulfilling way of life. This personal connection provides an authentic perspective on Goa that most travelers miss. Savor an Authentic Goan Treat Conclude your journey with a delicious Goan snack at a local eatery, made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients—an experience that perfectly encapsulates the flavors of this vibrant region.

Goa Shore excursions : All inclusive Small Group tour

Goa Shore excursions : All inclusive Small Group tour

Depart the pier and head towards Old Goa which stands testimony not only to the reality of the Portuguese rule in the country, but also to the grandeur and wealth of the city during their reign. Your first visit of the day will be to the St. Cajetan Church which was modelled on St. Peter’s in Rome and built of laterite blocks and lime plastered. The façade, having two towers on either side to serve as a belfry, has Corinthian columns and pilasters supporting a pediment, and four niches, which keep the statues of the apostles. Hidden beneath the church is a crypt where the embalmed bodies of Portuguese governors were kept in lead coffins before they were shipped back to Lisbon. Forgotten for a time, the last batch was removed only in 1992. Continuing, the next stop will be at the Basilica of Bom Jesus which was built by the Jesuits in the 16th century and is one of the most important churches in Goa. The embalmed body of St. Frances Xavier is enshrined here in a marble mausoleum, which is exposed to the public once every ten years. The last date this happened was in December 2014. Later Proceed to Shanta Durga Temple built between 1713-1738. Dedicated to Shanta Durga, the Goddess of Peace, this temple sports an unusual, almost pagoda-like, structure with a roof made from long slabs of stone. Goan temples are unique and stand apart from other Indian temples in their distinct architecture, location, spaciousness and environment. The temple’s main entrance hall has decorated wood doors coated with silver as does the main entrance hall path. Enjoy a guided tour here before spending some time to explore independently. Continue on to Tropical Spice Plantation - spices brought the Europeans to Asia and a trip to a plantation is very refreshing and rejuvenating to all the senses. Here you will learn how local spices and herbs are grown organically. On reaching the spice plantation, you will be given a warm Goan Traditional welcome and offered a refreshing herbal drink. Once inside you can immediately inhale the fragrances of fresh spices such as nutmeg, cardamom, cinnamon, black and white pepper, coriander, chilies, and betel nut. Interspersed in this plantation are also fruit trees and vegetables such as cashew, custard apple, banana, citrus fruits and pineapples. You also get to see the art of how Betel Nut pluckers climb these trees, over a hundred feet above the ground and then swaying from tree to tree, later enjoy your meal. Your final visit will be to the Panjim ‘Fontainhas’ area where the walking tour will begin. The Fontainhas is the Latin Quarter built by the Portuguese and we will be able to view from the outside the church and the old villas. Later, drive through Panjim, the capital city passing through streets lined with old villas that are characteristic of Portuguese Goa. Later return back to pier.

Goa Street Food Crawl: Authentic Food Tasting Experience

Goa Street Food Crawl: Authentic Food Tasting Experience

Explore the best of Panjim neighbourhood, one of the most popular districts in Goa. Begin at Panjim Church and walk through the stepped streets, passing through the Portuguese-influenced lanes, centuries-old buildings, and cute little cafes and markets where you will sample some local dishes.  Taste a variety of local street food of Goa including local dishes like Xacuti curry, sweet Peda, cucumber mint juice, and various types of chats, cutlets and more. Witness the preparation of these local favorites and get an in-depth understanding of local food culture. Eat in traditional, rustic restaurants and stalls that are frequented daily by the locals for an authentic experience. All locations are of a high-quality and work with the local partner to give you the best possible culinary experience.

Goa: Dudhsagar Waterfall & Spice Farm Tour with Jeep Safari

Goa: Dudhsagar Waterfall & Spice Farm Tour with Jeep Safari

Experience the best of Goa with our reliable taxi and air-conditioned coach services. Our tours are led by professional, English-speaking guides who ensure your journey is as informative as it is enjoyable. With a commitment to quality and personalized service, we aim to make your trip unforgettable. Book your adventure with us today and explore Goa with comfort and confidence! dudhsagar waterfall trip package trip will start at 6.00 am where our driver will pick you up from your hotel or residence. our driver will drop you at the parking area near mollem national park. from the national park you will be transferred to a jeep safari, which will cover 12 kilometers through bhagwan mahavir wildlife sanctuary while crossing numerous small streams. you’ll be able to seek the thrill of adventure and admire the wondrous flora and fauna as you drive across the wilderness in a jeep safari. we also provide one guide who is well versed in hindi & english providing you with every detail of the trip making it an informative plus adventurous experience. you can swim and enjoy the magnificent dudhsagar waterfall for about 2 hours at the foot of the waterfall. you can also watch natural fish in the pond formed at the base of the waterfall. our trip package also includes life jacket fees, forest entry fees, etc. at the base, the waterfall looks like milk flowing down with sheer force. after spending some time at dudhsagar falls, you’ll be taken to the spice plantation trip. spice plantation tour after heading from dudhsagar fall, we will leave for a spice plantation trip which is located nearby. we will provide you with a truly authentic goan meal at the spice plantation where traditional spices and herbs can be found, you have the option to enjoy an elephant ride and shower for an additional fee. among the spices you can find a few plants such as nutmeg, cloves, betel nut trees, cinnamon and other related spices. after having a lunch and enjoying few activities we will head towards old goa church visit to old goa church heritage after having lunch and enjoying a meal at the spice plantation we will take a tour of old goa church which is now a unesco heritage site. we will visit old goa church after lunch at a spice plantation. this church has been declared a unesco world heritage site. goa's patron saint francis xavier's mortal remains are kept in the basilica of bom jesus. visit the museums preserved in the church, and enjoy taking pictures of the old heritage. few additional charges will apply for a walkthrough of the museum, which will be paid on site.

Panaji: Heritage Walking Tour in Fontainhas Latin Quarter

Panaji: Heritage Walking Tour in Fontainhas Latin Quarter

Be greeted by your guide MOs cafe, behind the General Post Office in the Fontainhas district in Panaji. See a bust of Miguel Caitan Dais, in a square known as ' Tobacco Square.' Recieve some goodies while being introduced to the tour and hearing some stories. Head to vibrant streets of Fontainhas, Panaji's lively Latin Quarter. Learn about what life is like in this area and listen to facinating stories as you pass by the Sao Tome Chapel, alters, and famous bars and eateries. Find out why the buildings are so colorful. Try some local Goan delicacies with a stop at a bakery that has been serving up delicious treats for almost a hundred years. Have the unique opportunity to enter a Indo-Portuguese mansion and meet the owner, who has seen this area develop. End your tour at the meeting point with a deeper understanding of the history, culture, and cuisine in the Fontainhas district in Panaji.

Goa: Private Full-Day Sightseeing Highlights Tour

Goa: Private Full-Day Sightseeing Highlights Tour

Visit all the landmarks of Goa on this cultural and heritage sightseeing tour. Travel comfortably from one landmark to the next with a friendly local guide in a private air-conditioned car. Trace the history of Goa from its capital city and beautiful places of worship. Start your day with an early pick-up and head towards Panjim. Appreciate the significance of the Portuguese rule in Goa through the neighborhood known as Fontainhas, Asia's oldest Latin Quarter. Walk amongst the narrow winding lanes and remember to take photos against the bright yellow, green, blue and red walls. Next, head to the former capital Old Goa, now home to World Heritage churches. Marvel at the architecture of the Se Cathedral and the Church of St. Cajetan, and pay a visit to the Basilica of Bom Jesus. Next, visit the Mangueshi Temple, which is of great significance to the Hindu community. After a full day of culture, head to a Spice Plantation located in Southern Goa. Here, you will have a chance to taste a delicious buffet lunch of Goan food preparations. Walk through the Spice Plantation and gain more information on the different herbs and spices used in India. Relax in the green surroundings and peaceful outdoors away from the crowds and noises. At the end of the tour, you will be dropped back to your hotel.

Panaji: Sunset Boat Party with Bollywood DJ and Dance Shows

Panaji: Sunset Boat Party with Bollywood DJ and Dance Shows

Step aboard a sunset cruise along the majestic Mandovi River and prepare to be surrounded by the golden hues of the setting sun, casting a mesmerizing glow over the tranquil waters. Allow the crew to guide you through this enchanting voyage, ensuring every moment is filled with wonder and delight. Feel the gentle sway of the boat set the perfect rhythm for an evening of relaxation and adventure. As you glide along the river, be treated to breathtaking views of Panaji's stunning coastline. Let the onboard Bollywood DJ take you on a musical journey, spinning the latest hits and classic favorites that will have you dancing the night away. Prepare to be dazzled by live Goan dance performances that showcase the vibrant traditions of this coastal paradise. From the graceful movements of the Fugdi to the lively rhythms of the Dekhnni, take in a story steeped in history and tradition through each dance. Soak in the beauty of the sunset surrounded by the ones you love and the new friends you've made along the way. Finally, navigate back to the starting point.

Panjim: Guided Walk Tour of Portuguese-Influenced Goa

Panjim: Guided Walk Tour of Portuguese-Influenced Goa

Experience the glimpse of Portuguese Era, beautiful Indo-Portuguese buildings and monuments that riddled with history and heritage of the vintage city. Highlights: 1. Highlights of Portuguese influenced Goa is an unmatched heritage experience with awesome stories to understand a city's existence, culture and lifestyle. Capture the beauty of colorful lanes, houses, historical monuments and friendly local people in your lens, capture memories not just only pictures and store them in your memories to cherish life-long from this tour. 2. Pass through the Fontainhas Neighborhood and see the inside of the city with some charming places with a beautiful view which we have discovered and travelers don't want to miss in this amazing walking tour of the old town. 3. We follow a unique style of ‘infotainment’ to ensure that you enjoy the tour and don't get bored, irrespective of whether you love history or not, this walking tour will be a unique, fun and memorable experience for you. Itinerary: 1. This walking experience of Portuguese era start from the Panjim Church moving up toward the Altinho Hill stepped street and Archbishop's Palace. 2. Walk through Portuguese influenced lanes, old Indian High Court, modest art gallery with Scandinavian art & original work by locals, colorful centuries old buildings, cafes in Fontainhas Neighborhood 3. After exploring one of the oldest High Courts of India and Goa Chief Minister's Official Residence, this walk end at Maruti Temple in Hindu Neighborhood situated on top of of the Altinho hillock.

Top sights in Goa

All activities

98 activities found
Sort by:
Recommended

Immersive experiences

Frequently asked questions about Goa

What top attractions are a must-see in Goa?

The must-see attractions in Goa are:

See all must-see sights in Goa

What are the most popular museums and exhibitions in Goa?

These are the most popular museums and exhibitions in Goa:

See all museums and exhibitions in Goa on GetYourGuide

Other Sightseeing Options in Goa

Want to discover all there is to do in Goa? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Goa

Overall rating

4.4
(149 reviews)

Veron Franco told the history of Fort Aguada in a very interesting and detailed manner. It is clear that he enjoys his work. And for us it was a plus to learn all the historical subtleties. The only thing I didn’t think about was the timing of the excursion. At 12:00 it was very hot.

Riyaz was a great guide, knew a lot about the island's history and nature, the breakfast at the homestay was incredible with Antonio and Alinda, the Divar island is beautiful and the slow pace of the Goan people we met really showed a new side of Goa to us.

I really enjoyed our tour. The tour guide was excellent, punctual, very knowledgeable, and engaging. We not only explored the old city but also got to taste some delicious local pastries. It was a wonderful experience!

Our guide Veron Franco was awesome! he was kind patient and gave us a great tour! we strongly recommend asking for him as. guide for your next tour of the place

It’s just wonderful. Vimala (tour Gide) described the history of Old Goa in a very interesting way and answered the questions that arose. I recommend to visit