Goa may be one of the smallest states in India but the most popular destination for tourists, both for domestic and foreign travellers. Whether you are looking to simply chill at the beach, enjoy the nightlife or gorge on mouth-watering food, Goa has something for everyone.Goa may look tiny on the map but driving from North to South will eat up all your time. Pick what you want to see/ do during your trip and plan your itinerary accordingly.
If you want to party / have a gastronomic experience, then head over to North Goa. Most of the famous shacks, restaurants and cafes are located between Candolim to Morjim, which are part of North Goa. If your primary purpose of the trip is to relax by the beach, then South Goa is where you need to be.
The scene in North Goa has changed tremendously over the last few years. Even if you have been to Goa countless times before, there is always something new to see and do. Similarly with South Goa, people are now exploring newer places and putting them on the radar of tourists.
Having visited six times in the last 3 years, Goa has become our favorite destination in India đ
Read on for the top instagrammable spots that you must visit in Goa.
Beaches
You cannot come to Goa and not go to the beach, right? Every beach in Goa has a different vibe and attracts a different kind of traveller.
Beaches of South Goa are more beautiful compared to the North. In South Goa, Palolem beach has gained tremendous popularity over the years. You will find a ton of activities, local markets and lovely cafes and restaurants here.
Other South Goa beaches which are beautiful and comparatively less crowded â Utorda, Cavelossim, Mobor, Cola Beach, Fatrade Beach, Kakolem Beach, Agonda Beach, Varca Beach, Butterfly Beach.
With endless palm trees, golden sand and the beach right at your doorstep, South Goa is where postcard perfect beaches come to life.
Vagator, Anjuna, Baga, Calangute, Morjim, Arambol are some of the popular beaches in North Goa. Even though they arenât your typical postcard worthy beaches, they tend to get crowded. Best part is that these beaches are lined up with some of the most amazing shacks. So, grab a beer in hand and enjoy the view.
If you are looking for a good beach in North, then head up to Morjim â the beaches here are much cleaner and relatively less crowded.
Fontainhas
One of Goaâs most instagrammable spot is Latin Quarter or Fontainhas, a colorful neighborhood located in Panaji. Take one stroll here and you will notice Portuguese influence in every corner. For those who don’t know, Portuguese ruled Goa for close to 450 years.
Fontainhas is a UNESCO world heritage site and a must visit when you are in Goa. As you are walking in this neighbourhood, you will notice that some of the street names are in Portuguese â e.g. Corte de Oitero, Rue 31 de Janeiro etc. Most of the facades here are painted in vibrant colors. Today, many of the residential houses and buildings are converted to heritage hotels, villas, art galleries and cafes. Though some buildings are dilapidated, they still hold their colonial charm.
Did you know these houses are re-painted every year after monsoon season? It was a rule laid out by the Portuguese, which is followed even today after all these years. You will spot houses in all kinds of colours â green, pale yellow, and blue, along with red-coloured tiled roofs, artistic doors and balconies. The row of colorful facades instantly reminded me of Old San Juan in Puerto Rico.
Doesn’t this look like somewhere in Europe? Fontainhas is truly unlike any other place in Goa!
If you are keen to learn more about this place and its history, sign up for a heritage walk (you will find plenty options via Airbnb) – some of these tours barely cost INR 500 per person. On my recent trip in June 2023, I signed up for a walking tour through Soul Travelling. It was very informative and a lot of fun! They also offer a bunch of other curated experiences – you may want to check them out.
If you don’t have time for a guided tour, you can easily explore this neighbourhood on your own. The streets here are like a maze you wouldnât mind getting lost in. Start your walk from Rue 31 de Janeiro, one of the most vibrant streets. If you are tired with all the walking, head over to one of the many cafes this area boasts of. One of Goaâs oldest and well known bakery, Confeitaria 31de Janeiro is a tiny store located in one of the by-lanes. Pick up a pack of fresh bebinca, dodol or baath (a Goan coconut cake), puff pastries, croquettes, maybe even a plum cake or date and walnut cake.
One of Panjimâs most well-known cafes, Cafe Bodega has a lovely open-air cafĂ© adjoining the art gallery. They serve excellent breakfast, sandwiches, burgers, coffee and pastries (do try their red velvet cupcake). Padaria Pazares and Larder + Folk are couple other cafes in this area which serve delicious freshly baked goods. If you want to grab a drink, head over to Antonio’s or Joseph Bar. Looking for neat cocktails and tapas? Head over to Miguels.
Parra Road
One look at Parra road, and you will see why most movies/ TV series shot in Goa include a scene from here. Lined with palm trees and overlooking fields on both sides is one of the prettiest, most picturesque roads in Goa. And these fields truly come alive in monsoon season! So lush green !!
To get here, type in âParra Coconut Roadâ on google maps â it is located about 15 minutes from Anjuna in North Goa. Even though you will rarely find it deserted, if you are patient enough, you will get your insta-worthy shotđ
While most of the crowd was trying to get their instagrammable shot at Parra road, we noticed this lovely house brimming with bougainvillea, right opposite Parra Road. Isn’t it a beauty? But note that you will find bougainvillea only in non-monsoon months.
While Parra Road is always crowded, you will find plenty of palm tree lined roads in South Goa which are typically deserted.
Beach Bars
Most people visit Goa for its nightlife. You will find amazing beach bars in North Goa â between Vagator and Calangute. The best time to visit would be during sunset but note that some of them have started charging a cover fee lately.
Over the last few trips, we have visited quite a few and listing down my preference.
On my first trip, I went to Titlie, Olive and Purple Martini, all located between Anjuna and Vagator. Personally, I felt that Titlie had the best view and Olive had the best ambience. Purple Martini had an amazing view as well, but it was too crowed to truly enjoy the place.
Pisco by the Beach opened in March 2022 and has an amazing ambience. I haven’t visited Raeeth and Romeo Lane but have heard rave reviews from friends.
Ivory and Dubki are the latest entrants on the map (opened in December 2022). We spent an evening here and loved them both đ
Mamalouka is another new restaurant located in Anjuna and is designed to look like a Greek town. Quite a unique spot to find in Goa, right?
Kiki, Mayan Beach Club and Summer House are newest hotspots in North Goa (opened in 2023). The views at Kiki are hard to beat! The location of Mayan Beach Club is spectacular but it was raining too heavily when we visited so couldn’t really enjoy the place.
If you are looking to spend a laidback evening, then head over to Slow Tide, located steps away from Purple Martini. The day we visited, they played amazing music, offered a chilled out vibe and an uninterrupted view of the sea – what more do you need?
If you donât mind going all the way to Morjim/ Ashwem (about half hour drive from Anjuna), then there are couple more beach bars you can check out:
- Saz on the Beach
- Azule
- Blue Turtle
- Kaia
Loved the ambience, the view and the food at all the above. And the beaches in this part of Goa are much cleaner and nicer !
During our previous visits to Goa, we have visited Thalassa and Antares. Both are beautiful restaurants with amazing water views. Again, a place to be visited during sunset/ late night.
Whichever place you plan to visit, do make reservations in advance. Also, keep in mind that some of the beach bars and cafes and restaurants may be closed during the monsoon season. Do check their Instagram page before you plan a visit.
Cafes/ Restaurants
Over the last few years, Goa has become a food paradise. Whether you are looking for a laid back café or an artsy place or a beach shack or a sea facing restaurant, or want to experience fine dining, or a co-working space, Goa has it all!
The neighbourhood of Assagao in North Goa has some amazing Portuguese villas converted into restaurants. They have retained the essence of old villas and have added tables for dining in. We have been to Jamun, Maai and Qlay located in this neighbourhood and absolutely love the food and ambience. Fig and Maple and Assa House are newer restaurants in Assagao and you may want to check them out.
If you want a feel of Ubud, Bali, then head to Mojigao. We had smoothies and falafel sandwiches here â both so filling and delicious. Also, the whole set up instantly transported me to Bali.
Head over to G Shot Coffee Roasters and Grind Bar to get your coffee fix. Their coffees are strong and will keep you coming back for more.
Gunpowder Goa is yet another hotspot in Assagao.
If you are looking for a breakfast place, then head to Artjuna or Babka in North Goa or Padaria Pazares in Panjim. They have a range of delicious pastries, donuts, bagels, sandwiches and coffee. I could hop on the next flight for Padaria Pazaresâ pasteis de nata and Baileys berliner â so darn good ! Their baked treats are truly the best we have had in Goa so far.
Eva Café is one of the prettiest cafes in North Goa but it is quite a small space. Go right before it opens or be prepared to wait a while for the table.
Burger Factory is an institution of sorts in Goa. They have locations at Anjuna, Morjim and serve the yummiest burgers. Keep in mind there is always a bit of a wait at their Anjuna location.
Garden of Dreams is yet another beautiful bohemian spot in Morjim. With lush greenery, comfortable seating and live music, it is the perfect spot for breakfast or lunch. But note that they close early – at around 6 pm.
Second House is newly opened in Saligao and has become quite the hotspot.
Lollo Rosso, Baba Au Rhum, Elephant and Co and Prana Café provide the quintessential Bali feels with the endless rice paddy field views. Elephant Beach Cafe is another seaside cafe we visited during our recent trip in January 2023 and fell in love with it. It offers a laid back vibe with bohemian interiors, swings where you can literally perch up your feet and sit all day long! Best part is that it is literally steps away from Anjuna Beach and offers delicious food and drinks.
If you are a seafood lover, then head to Poussada by the beach located at Calangute beach.
If you are in South Goa, check out Martinâs Corner, Riverside (located at St Regis), The Royal Afghan (ITC Grand), Fishermanâs Wharf, The Mill, Zest Cafe and Dine at the Cape.
Looking for ice-cream to beat the heat? Head over to Cream Choc. They have a couple of locations – Anjuna, Panjim and Porvorim.
If you are looking for more food recommendations, check out these options. They may all not necessarily be instagrammable, but they offer amazing food.
- Suzies
- Sublime
- Ida
- Felix
- Mahe
- Elephant and Co
- Lollo Rosso
- Wildshack
- Neighbors
- Bean Me Up
- Wigwam Cafe
- Rice Mill
- Tamil Table
- Vinayak
As you can tell, I will need multiple trips to cross these all off my list đ
Churches of Goa
One of the most iconic church in Goa is Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church, located just steps away from Panajiâs main city center. Originally a chapel built in 1541, what makes this one of the prettiest churches in Goa is the symmetrical staircase. Isn’t it beautiful?
If you have extra time on hand, also check out Chapel of our Lady of the Mount located around 20 minutes from the town of Panaji.
As you are driving around the city, you will spot many beautiful churches specially in South Goa.
Cabo de Rama
Since Goa is a been there done that destination for most Indians, people now tend to look at newer places to explore here. One such place that has lately gained popularity is Cabo de Rama. The USP of this place is the cliff view of ocean. It is totally secluded, and the views are perfect to free your mind of any stress. Time your visit here during sunset time.
The only downside is that this place is a very far from North Goa. Driving from Vagator beach to Cabo de Rama could take 2 hours one way. If you are staying in South, then expect to get here in 1-1.5 hours (depending on where your hotel is located).
If you are hungry, grab a bite at The Cape. It has live music, some highly instagrammable spots and offers a wide variety of food and drinks.
Arambol Lake
A short walk from the Arambol Beach lies the Sweet Water River or the Blue Lagoon of Goa. The Sweet Water Lake is a fresh water paradise that originates in natural hot springs from within the Goan jungle. The lagoon is surrounded by lot of greenery and coconut groves.
The lake is officially named Vagkolam, but Goans and travellers insist on calling it by its nickname, Sweet Water Lake. Dip your feet in the warm, fresh water. Feel the heat of the sand, which comes from the hot springs. The clay blocks nearby are said to contain magical healing properties, so join in the practice of rubbing the clay on your body in the water.
Flea Markets
All you shoppers, make your way to Anjuna Flea Market. You will find lot of clothing items, souvenirs, dreamcatchers, food and beverage. As with any roadside markets, put on your bargaining hat on and haggle with the vendors.
There is also a night market held at Arpora every Saturday. There is live music, bars, and restaurants serving organic salads and local delicacies. You can shop clothes, bags, spices, funky jewelry, handicrafts, leather accessories, shoes, lamps, and more.
Note that these markets are closed in the monsoon season.
Old Heritage Portuguese Houses
Goa is home to some lovely heritage Portuguese houses. Some of these have existed for over last four centuries. These houses started getting built soon after the conquest of Goa by the Portuguese in the early 16th Century and many more kept getting built till the time they left in 1961. One such house is the Braganza Pereira House located in the Chandor area of South Goa. There are no set tour times, but once you enter, a family member or representative would be happy to give you a guided tour and regale you with stories of Goaâs years of Portuguese rule. The entry fee (INR 150) at each side is a suggested donation and goes towards the considerable upkeep of the homes, which receive no official funding.
Forts
Chapora fort, located near Vagator is an amazing place to catch sunset. You will get 360-degree view from up here. Aguada Fort is yet another fort you could visit in north Goa.
Doodhsagar Falls
As much as tourists avoid visiting Goa in monsoons, Goa truly comes alive in this season. If you are visiting in monsoon season, take a day trip to Doodhsagar falls. But keep in mind that you will need a local cars to go to the top. Permit is given to only a limited number of cars everyday and hence, it is best if you start your day early.
Divar Island
If you have more time on hand, do a half day trip to Divar island, which used to be the capital of Goa in olden days. The only way to reach Divar is via a ferry ride. The ferry ride is free but you need to pay an additional fee if you intend to take your car.
I recently did a guided tour through Soul Travelling and had a wonderful experience.
General FAQs
Best time to visit
Goa, being a tropical destination, experiences warm weather throughout the year. November to March are ideal months to visit Goa. You will get to witness postcard worthy sunsets, great weather to stroll around the city and of course, swim at the beaches.
The monsoon season lasts three months â June to September. All beach shacks are closed in this season. Some of the cafes and restaurants (e.g. Eva CafĂ©, Garden of Dreams) may also be shut during this time of the year. If there are certain places you want to visit, please check Zomato or their Instagram page to see whether they are operational during the time of your visit. Also, swimming at the beach may be prohibited if the weather gets worse. But given the greenery in Goa, I have loved my monsoon trips here. The hotels are almost at 40%-50% discounted rates and the drives are simply breathtaking.
No matter what season you end up visiting, the heat and humidity can almost kill you! Remember to frequently apply sunscreen and hydrate as much as you can.
Best area to stay
If you stay in North or South Goa, keep in mind that the drive from North to South can easily take 1.5 hours (or even longer depending on where your hotel is located) one way. So while a day trip is doable, it isnât ideal.
In the past, we have stayed at W, Westin and Hilton in North Goa and ITC Grand Goa, St Regis, Taj Exotica and Planet Hollywood in South Goa. If you are looking for unique accommodations, check out the below options:
- Postcard Hotels
- Amrapali House of Grace, Velha
- The Cape, Cabo de Rama
- Cabo Serai, Cabo de Rama
How to get around the city
One of the biggest downside of Goa is lack of Ubers/ availability of regulated taxis. Due to this, local taxi drivers exploit tourists. Pick up from and drop to the airport can easily cost INR 1,200-2,000 one way.
The cheapest way to get around Goa is a scooter. Alternatively, you can rent a car + driver to take you around. An eight-hour rental would cost you around INR 2,500 – INR 3,500. But keep in mind that you would need to pay extra if you keep him till late in the night.
If you are willing to drive the car yourself, the cost is considerably cheaper. Expect to pay around INR 1,100 â INR 1400 per day. Note that the above rates are applicable if you rent from North Goa. Since South Goa has mostly luxury hotels, the drivers charge higher rates. Expect to pay at least INR 1,000-INR 1,500 extra if you are renting from South Goa.
If you donât need a car for your entire stay, then check out Goa Miles App. I have heard that the rates on this app are much cheaper rate compared to what these drivers quote.
* All prices are as of June 2023