stunning places to visit in south goa

30 Stunning Places to Visit in Goa for a Fun-Filled Vacation

April 03, 2024 • 1450 views

While Goa is the go-to party destination for locals and tourists, it is also renowned for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere. From day delight in temples, churches, and historical places to nightlife clubs and beaches, Goa has it all. Let’s have a look at 30 stunning and must-visit places in Goa for a fun-filled vacation. Read on!

30 Best Places to Visit in South Goa

Here’s the list of 30 must-visit places in South Goa to make your trip worthy and memorable:

Top 5 Beaches in Goa

1. Colva Beach

Colva Beach is a white-sand, palm-lined beach attracting several tourists from around the world to its sunny shorelines. It is famous for offering a glimpse into Goa’s cultural heritage and housing Indo-Portuguese architecture.

Grab a refreshing drink along the coastline or enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Colva Beach. While you’re at it, get ready to be enchanted by the divine beauty of adjacent temples and ancient churches.

  • Things to Do: Unwind across this pristine white sand beach; explore water sports activities; be a part of the nightlife community.
  • Best Time to Visit: October – March

2. Palolem Beach

Palolem Beach in Goa is another well-known beach along the quiet bay of South Goa. Palolem Beach hosts kayaking and boating daily. Try out new experiences under the guidance of trained professionals through water sports options like paddle boarding or kayaking.

It is also one of the best South Goa beaches to stay at. The reason is its calm atmosphere that acts as a getaway from the noise of this otherwise fast-paced city. Set eyes on the idyllic settling with the Sun setting in the backdrop or take a stroll down the beach while doing so.

  • Things to Do: Visit the wooden shacks; Take long walks across the white sand beach.
  • Best Time to Visit: November to February     

3. Butterfly Beach

Butterfly Beach is famous for hosting an abundance of butterflies, often spotted fluttering around its visitors and across the ever-green vegetation found on hilltops. It is one of the top attractions in South Goa among tourists and especially among couples. This gives you a movie-like experience offered by the always-present butterflies.

  • Things to Do: Look out for the colourful butterflies; Take part in water sports like Snorkelling and Kayaking.
  • Best Time to Visit: November to March      

4. Baga Beach

Known for its commercial nightlife, Baga Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Goa. Water sports, restaurants, bars, fine dining, and clubs make this beach a lively and happening place for youngsters. Water sports like parasailing, wakeboarding, kitesurfing, and jet skiing are major attractions here.

  • Things to Do: You can enjoy water sports like parasailing, wakeboarding, kitesurfing, jet skiing, etc. Experience youthful nightlife in clubs like Titos, Baga Tales, etc. Go for shopping at Baga Bazaar, etc.
  • Best Time to Visit: October to March

5. Anjuna Beach

Anjuna Beach is another party place for youngsters in Goa. This beach is famous for full-moon parties, exotic fire shows, and energising nightclubs.

  • Things to Do: Night parties in famous clubs like Paradiso Discotheque, Shore Bar, Sea Breeze Bar, Club Cubana, etc.
  • Best Time to Visit: December and January

Top 5 Museums in Goa

Here is the list of top 5 museums in Goa to visit:

1. Houses of Goa Museum

Situated in the village of Torda, the Houses of Goa Museum is a museum with a ship-like structure. Right in the middle of the road, Houses of Goa stands on a traffic island. This museum reflects the Goan architecture, making it a must-visit place.

  • Things to Do: Witness the marvellous Goan architecture.
  • Best time to Visit: November to February

2. Goa Science Centre

Goa Science Centre, located on New Marine Highway, is a science museum. The primary purpose behind this museum is to bring excitement and interest about science and technology among common people.

  • Things to Do: Get the chance to learn about science and technology in an informal and interesting way.
  • Best time to Visit: November to February

3. Big Foot Museum

Big Foot Museum is an open-air museum in Goa that and is situated in a small village named Loutolim. This museum enables you to have a glimpse of the rural life of Goa.

  • Things to do: Witness the art gallery by the local artists and enjoy food at Big Foot restaurant.
  • Best time to visit: October to March

4. Museum of Christian Art

The Museum of Christian Art contains objects primarily related to Christian art. This museum assembles unique Indo-Portuguese artworks. The aim is to preserve and showcase the unique Christian art of Goa.

  • Things to Do: Watch metalworks, paintings, Portuguese architecture, etc.
  • Best Time to Visit: December, during Christmas.

5. Indian Naval Aviation Museum

Indian Naval Aviation Museum is one of India's two most famous military museums. This renowned museum exhibits numerous aircraft operated by the Indian Airforce throughout its history. 

  • Things to Do: Witness famous Indian aircraft and learn amazing facts about them.
  • Best Time to Visit: November to February

5 Famous Historical Places in Goa

Following are some must-visit historical places in Goa:

1. Fort Aguada

Built by the Portuguese, Fort Aguada is one of the largest forts in Goa. This fort is situated on the top of a mountain beside the Mandovi River. This is a go-to place for history lovers.

  • Things to Do: Enjoy picturesque sights and beautiful Portuguese architecture.
  • Best Time to Visit: November to February

2. Chapora Fort

Chapora Fort is very popular among youngsters, as the famous Bollywood movie “Dil Chahta Hai” was filmed here. Besides its cinematic fame, this fort also holds a rich historical legacy, symbolising Portuguese power and pride.

  • Things to Do: Enjoy breathtaking scenic views and aquatic activities on Chapora River.
  • Best Time to Visit: November and December

3. Tambdi Surla

Surrounded by beautiful nature, Tambdi Surla is a temple of Lord Shiva. Each corner of the temple depicts a unique story. Every year, numerous visitors come here to seek blessings from Lord Shiva.

  • Things to Do: Explore the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Dudhsagar Waterfall near Tambdi Surla.
  • Best Time to Visit: During Monsoon

4. Reis Magos Fort

Reis Magos Fort is about two miles away from Fort Aguada. Reis Magos has impressive architecture and stunning scenic vistas of the surrounding areas, making it worth visiting for tourists.

  • Things to Do: Wander through this historic fort and visit Reis Magos Church.
  • Best Time to Visit: October to February

5. Corjeum Fort

This square-shaped fort is one of the smallest forts in Goa. During the 19th century, the Corjuem Fort used to function as a military school. The fort is famous for its panoramic views, making it a destination worth experiencing.

  • Things to Do: Learn about the history of the fort, enjoy scenic views, etc.
  • Best Time to Visit: November to March

Top 5 Ancient Temples in Goa

Let’s know about the top 5 temples in Goa:

1. Shri Mahalaxmi Temple

Shri Mahalaxmi Temple is situated in the beautiful and quaint village of Bandode in Goa. This temple represents the peaceful form of Goddess Shri Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. This sacred temple has numerous devotees across India with its spiritual aura.

  • Things to Do: Glimpse the Bandode village’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

2. Shri Ramnath Temple

Shri Ramnath Temple is one of the most famous temples in Goa. This sacred temple shelters deities Shri Laxmi Narayana, Shri Santeri, and Shri Shiddhanath. This temple has no pillars and is renowned for the annual Jatra.

  • Things to Do: Learn about the history of the fort, enjoy scenic views, etc.
  • Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

3. Shri Shantadurga Temple:

Located 33 kilometres away from Panajim, this beautiful temple holds a story a unique story. Once, a war was initiated between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Then, Goddess Durga came to stop the war. That’s the reason the temple was named Shri Shantadurga Temple.

  • Things to Do: Worship Goddess Durga, get a sight of the amazing architecture of the temple, and explore nearby gems.
  • Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

4. Mangeshi Temple:

Mangeshi Temple, also known as Manguesh Devasthan, is the most famous temple in Goa. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This temple is one of the most beautiful temples in India.

  • Things to Do: Learn about the beautiful story behind this temple.
  • Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.

5. Mallikarjun Temple:

Situated in the Sristhal village, Mallikarjun temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The temple houses the Lord Mallikarjun, the incarnation of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Hundreds of devotees come here regularly to seek blessings from God.

  • Things to Do: Visit the sacred one of the twelve Jyotirlingas.
  • Best Time to Visit: Throughout the Year

5 Famous Goan Markets

Let’s take you through the list of 5 famous Goan markets:

1. The Saturday Night Market

Located in Arpora village, The Saturday Night Market is organised every Saturday. This market allows you to experience a delightful mix of shopping, eating, shopping, and fun all in one. This market offers vintage stuff, handmade crafts, bohemian clothes, and accessories.

  • Things to Do: Taste the mouthwatering Indian and international cuisines, enjoy the talent show organized by local and international artists, and shop for unique clothes and accessories.
  • Best Time to Visit: Every Saturday (6 PM to 1 AM)

2. Anjuna Market

Anjuna Flea Market is organized on the sandy shores of Anjuna Beach. This market is famous for bohemian clothing, handcrafted jewelry, and vintage collections. 

  • Things to Do: Enjoy bohemian shopping, refreshing cocktails, and local street food.
  • Best Time to Visit: Every Wednesday (7 AM to 4 PM)

3. Panjim Market

This is one of the best and biggest markets in Panjim for shopping. Panjim Market is famous for fresh fruits, homemade spices, shoes, clothes, designer handbags, etc.

  • Things to Do: Buy fresh produce, fruits, and spices.
  • Best Time to Visit: Everyday (7 AM to 8 PM)

4. Tibetan Market

Tibetan Market is known for its unique offerings of Tibetan handicrafts, cuisines, and vintage items. This market is organized in Calangute, Baga Road, in Goa.

  • Things to Do: Shop unique Tibetan handicrafts. Besides, you can also enjoy watching Tibetan dance and live performances.
  • Best Time to Visit: Everyday (9 AM to 9:30 PM)

5. Mackie’s Night Market

Mackie’s Night Market is set up regularly on Saturdays and Sundays and it’s known for diverse range of vendors selling handmade crafts and local food. The area of this market is surrounded by numerous clubs and pubs, making it a fun and joyful place.

  • Things to Do: Explore unique handmade items from local vendors and enjoy the ambience of the market’s setting.
  • Best Time to Visit: Every Saturday (4 PM to 3 AM) and Every Sunday (4 PM to 12 AM)

Top 5 Churches to Visit in Goa

Here is the list of top iconic churches in Goa:

1. Se Cathedral

Located at Panjim, in Goa, Se Cathedral Church is one of the biggest churches in Asia. Its marvellous architecture makes it a must-visit place in Goa.

  • Things to Do: Explore the stunning Portuguese architecture and visit the Chapel of the Cross inside the church.
  • Best Time to Visit: November to January

2. Church of St Francis of Assisi

Situated in the centre of old Goa, St Francis of Assisi Church is a Roman Catholic church along with a convent. The convent has a museum that houses paintings, artefacts, etc.

  • Things to Do: Explore the museum and the beautiful architecture of the church.
  • Best Time to Visit: December and January

3. Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is situated in Panaji. This beautiful church has the second-largest church bells in Goa. The interior of the church is more colourful and elegant as compared to other churches in Goa.

  • Things to Do: Watch the beautiful city from the church’s balcony.
  • Best Time to Visit: December and January

4. Mae De Deus Church

Mae De Deus Church, also known as the Mother of God Church, looks like a fairy tale castle. It represents the Neo-Gothic architecture. It has the beautiful Mother of Goad statue, which is also called the miraculous statue of the Mother of God.

  • Things to Do: Wander through the fairy tale castle resembling church.
  • Best Time to Visit: December and January

5. Santa Cruz Church

This church looks like a replica of Se Cathedral Church in Goa. This Neo-Roman styled church showcases a mix of Indian and European cultures.

  • Things to Do: Visit the Santa Cruz Market.
  • Best Time to Visit: December

Financing Your Goa Trip with Personal Loan

Travelling to Goa can be a fun filled vacation but financing your trip can be daunting. You must make most of your trip from enjoying the night life to exploring the day adventures. Covering all such stunning places becomes easier with good financial assistance. Opting for a travel loan is a smart choice for covering travelling costs like flights, accommodation, food, and adventures without worrying about funds. NBFCs like Poonawalla Fincorp offer a Personal Loan for Travelling with competitive interest rates, flexible repayment tenure, and quick approvals. Plus, there are no extra/hidden charges or pre-payment charges.

Also Read - Is Buy Now Pay Later Loan a Smart Way to Finance Travel?

How to Apply for Personal Loan for Travelling?

Here are a few simple steps you can follow to apply for a personal loan for travel:

Step 1: Click Apply Now: Fill out the form online to start your loan application.  

Step 2: Upload Documents: Provide your KYC documents to complete the verification. 

Step 3: Get Funds: Get the loan amount disbursed to your bank account. 

Also Read - Facts You Should Know About Travel Loan in India

To Conclude

From day delight to nightlife, get an unforgettable travelling experience in Goa by exploring these top 30 places for an adventure-packed vacation. But before that, take into account the associated costs of you trip. If it exceeds your budget, apply for a Personal Loan for travelling from Poonawalla Fincorp and cover the trip expenses without any hassle. Avail of benefits, like attractive interest rates, flexible EMIs, and fast approvals. Happy Journey!

Disclaimer

We take utmost care to provide information based on internal data and reliable sources. However, this article and associated web pages provide generic information for reference purposes only. Readers must make an informed decision by reviewing the products offered and the terms and conditions. Personal Loan disbursal is at the sole discretion of Poonawalla Fincorp.
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poonawalla fincorp team

Poonawalla Fincorp Team

Our team of expert writers and editors are passionate about providing authentic and valuable information on finance. Our aim is to simplify financial and finance-related concepts. We strive to help our readers become more aware and empowered to make informed financial decisions.

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