Tourist Attractions in Goa

Goa is a tropical paradise, owing to its unique charms. Tourist attractions in Goa are abundant and suitable for all ages, interests, and moods. If you seek to relax or party, or indulge in adventure, Goa is a touristy bliss.

For sun-seekers, the golden shores are much more than a taste of bliss. For the history enthusiast, churches, forts, and old mansions are a treasure trove. Almost 300 years of colonial heritage and culture lie hidden within them. Nature lovers are sure to have a great time as the list of tourist attractions in Goa state has wildlife sanctuaries, untouched forests, waterfalls, and the lesser-known backwaters. 

Adventure aficionados in Goa are up for the challenge, and the challenge is what to go for, as there are many options. Both the waters and the lands are up for thrilling sports. Party Lovers are surely in heaven when they are in Goa. The small paradise has clubs, pubs, bars, beach parties, casinos, etc. Name it, and you have it in Goa.

Here are the top 10 Tourist Attractions in Goa –

• Fort Aguada

If you are looking for places to visit in Goa other than beaches, head to Fort Aguada. It is a 17the century Portuguese Fort where the Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea meet. Thus, it is an ideal place for travelers who love history. The fort is a ruin that stands on Sinquerim Beach but offers a beautiful sunset view. The main attraction here is the four-storey lighthouse, which is one of its kind in Asia.

Timings: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

• Baga Beach

The Home of the Nightlife is what people say about Baga Beach. It is located near Calangute Beach, so you can kill two birds with one stone. The signature places to enjoy the time of your life here are Britto’s, Tito’s, and Mambos. Being one of the most-visited tourist attractions in North Goa, Baga Beach also provides a range of water sports like parasailing, paddleboarding, and speed boat rides.

Timings: Anytime 

• Anjuna Beach

Anjuna Beach is known for its adventure, shopping, and nightlife. With so many things to do and giving people the time of their life, Anjuna Beach ranks not just among the best places to visit in Goa with friends but also among the top 10 places to visit in Goa with family. Stroll, swim, or dance to the techno beats at Cafe Lilliput, it’s up to you. Once a hotspot for hippies in the 60s, it still exudes that vibe.

Timings: Anytime 

• Calangute Beach

The “Queen of Beaches”, Calangute Beach is North Goa’s longest beach, stretching from Candolim to Baga. It is a hub for tourists and backpackers from around the world. And why not? There are beach shacks, loungers, sunbeds, water sports, changing rooms, and great parking. Here, the days are full of fun and activities, while the nights give you a dose of upbeat party life, making your Goa holiday an unforgettable experience. 

Timings: After the monsoon, anytime 

• Basilica of Bom Jesus

This is one of a kind church in India and is among the major tourist attractions in Old Goa. Featured in many Bollywood movies, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is a “touristy” spot. But there’s more to it. It is famous for its exemplary baroque architecture. Erected in 1594 and consecrated in 1605, the church was the beginning of Christianity in India. It contains the remains of St. Francis Xavier. Not to mention, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich cultural and religious significance.

Timings: Monday – Saturday: 09:00 AM – 06:30 PM, Sunday – 10:30 AM – 06:30 PM

• Dudhsagar Falls

Witness one of the tallest waterfalls in India in Goa. Dudhsagar Falls is truly heaven for nature lovers, which makes it one of the best tourist attractions in Goa. Located inside Mollem National Park, this waterfall is 60 km from Panaji, but transport is available to reach here easily. It is 310 m high and is divided into four tiers on the Mandovi River. Dudhsagar means Sea of Milk; thus, it resembles a heavy rush of milk flowing down the hill.

Timings: Anytime during the day (6 – 7 Hours to Trek)

• Chapora Fort

You can also call it “Dil Chahta Hai Fort”. After the movie came out in 2001, Chapora Fort gained popularity, which is still the same to this date. The Portuguese built this fort in 1717, which is why it has a long, fascinating history. Actually, the fortifications around the current fort existed long before the Portuguese even landed in Goa. It was Muslim ruler Adil Shah who originally built it and called it Shahpura.

Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM every day

• Thalassa

Thalassa is not a monument or beach, but it is still one of the famous tourist attractions in Goa. Perched atop rocky cliffs, Thalassa – The Greek Taverna is a restaurant in Goa attracting massive crowds. It is known for its signature cocktails and sunsets (sounds like a perfect Goa evening). It reverberates with Greece’s culture and serves authentic Mediterranean cuisine with lively music. If you like trying new cuisines, Thalassa is the place for you.

Timings: 8:30 AM – 1:00 AM

• Butterfly Beach

Perfect for the romantics, Butterfly Beach is one of the Goa tourist places, also called Honeymoon Beach. It is a lesser-known beach in Goa, surrounded by dense trees, accessible only by boat/ferry. Reaching here requires you to trek through the jungle, adding more fun to your trip. As the name suggests, a variety of butterflies can be seen occasionally, and also because the beach is shaped like a butterfly. Sunsets and pristine beauty are the highlights of Butterfly Beach.

Timings: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM

• Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

Popular for its Portuguese Baroque style of architecture, the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is among Goa’s oldest chapels. Also, it has the second largest church bells in Goa, which have been removed from the Augustinian ruins of the Church of Our Lady of Grace that existed in Old Goa. It was built in 1541 and then replaced by a larger one in the 1600s. No doubt, it is among the unique places to visit in Goa. After sunset, the church is lit up, which is a great sight to behold.

Timings: Monday to Sunday: 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM – 7:30 PM

So, these are the top Goa tourist attractions you can visit on your trip. If you want to plan a Goa tour with friends, family, or your partner, we can help you design the vacation of your dreams. Contact us by call or drop an inquiry, and we will get back to you soon.