What makes Goa so special? Besides being India’s smallest state, it’s also the country’s hippest and hottest holiday destination! With its perfect mix of beaches, historical sites, exotic cuisine, and nightlife, Goa can make you feel like you just stepped off an international flight (instead of an hour-long drive from the airport). Here are ten unique places to visit in Goa that will leave you wanting more!. In addition, you have an opportunity to take cruises in goa tours during goa visit.
Benaulim Beach
If you’re looking for fun, Benaulim Beach is not a place to visit in Goa. The long stretch of sand is quiet and clean and welcoming—but it’s also boring. While there are few beachgoers here during weekdays, on weekends it can get packed with partygoers and tourists both local and foreign. There are no shops or restaurants along its shoreline, just benches under shady trees and trash cans that line its walkways. It’s nice enough, but if you want more than a serene beach day at one of India’s most popular tourist destinations, head elsewhere. There’s nothing wrong with Benaulim Beach; it just isn’t as exciting as some other places to visit in Goa.
Saint Inez Church
One of Goa’s most popular churches, Saint Inez Church is an icon of Portuguese architectural brilliance and a testament to Christian faith. Located at Panjim, St. Inez has a distinct red-and-white exterior, with various columns and arches that embody its neoclassical design. The church was built between 1613 and 1623 by Franciscan friars, who used stone tiles sourced from quarries near Cavelossim village in Bardez Taluka.
Pilar Beach
When it comes to serene, sunset-worshiping experiences, there’s no better spot than Pilar Beach. Located on Goa’s Baga Beach strip, Pilar enjoys a beautiful, white-sand setting and is embraced by an old fort and a wide patch of palm trees. It’s known for its lagoon waters, so bring your snorkel gear and explore!
The Basilica of Bom Jesus
Located in Old Goa, The Basilica of Bom Jesus houses some of India’s most important historical relics. The church is famous for its relics of St. Francis Xavier, who is popularly known as ‘The Navigator of The East’. Bom Jesus Cemetery is yet another place that must be visited while you are in Goa.
Chicalim Fort
Even if you’re a self-proclaimed beach bum, there are times when you just want to get off of it and explore someplace different. Chicalim Fort is one of those places—and it’s within striking distance from most popular coastal towns on India’s Western coast. The fort lies at 2,000 feet above sea level on Chapora Hill, about 35 kilometers from Panjim and 11 kilometers away from Candolim.
Palolem Beach
If you’re looking for something far less touristy, then Palolem Beach is just what you need. This beach village has a very relaxed vibe, and is nestled on a great stretch of sand that’s perfect for all kinds of water sports. The food here is also delicious, and there are tons of private bungalows available if you want to stay for longer than just a day trip. One thing about Palolem?
Calangute Beach
Located just a few minutes from Baga beach, Calangute is Goa’s main tourist attraction. It has a lively atmosphere and is famous for its water sports facilities, including jet skis and banana boats. The beach itself offers several exciting attractions: parasailing, fishing, surfing, scuba diving and volleyball are among them.
Anjuna Market
If you want a trip down memory lane, Anjuna Market is your best bet. The market, now formally known as Anjuna Flea Market and officially recognised by tourism authorities as one of Goa’s most visited spots, was one of the first open-air markets to spring up in North Goa after liberation from Portuguese rule.
Dona Paula Village and Water Sports Center, Mapusa
Dona Paula is an excellent place for water-sports and entertainment. Water sports are widely available in Dona Paula, which includes surfing, wakeboarding, and jet skiing. The village of Dona Paula has also got a lot of eateries and shops from where you can buy things as souvenirs. In fact, it is a good choice if you are looking for cheap places to visit in Goa or somewhere near Panjim that makes a great picnic spot.
Panaji
There’s more to Goan capital than meets the eye – for one, it’s home to a wonderful beach that is especially famous among Portuguese tourists. This city is worth exploring on foot and will surely keep you engaged with its historical sites and white-sand beaches. If you’re planning your vacation, then it would be great if you add Panaji into your itinerary.
