Top 10 Tourist Places to Visit in Goa

Life remains incomplete without a typical, beachy Goan vacation. When it comes to the beaches of India, Goa stands tall at the top for being one of the most popular places. Located on the western coast of India, home to some exquisite Goan seafood, tropical weather, gothic churches, quirky cafes, tiny hills of green, and of course the flea markets, Goa, although the tiniest state of India truly has its all and if you are excited to live on this wonderland then check out some of our beautifully crafted Goa tour packages that are inclusive of every basic amenities for the trip.

If Goa is on the list for your next holiday with your family or loved ones then there are a couple of things that you should know beforehand. The entire state is divided between North Goa and South Goa. While on the one hand, North Goa has some of the most happening clubs, crowded beaches, and a party environment on the other hand south Goa is much quieter, peaceful, and away from the crowd. You can enjoy the best of both worlds when in Goa.

Here are some places you can visit in Goa:

Places to visit in North Goa

1. Arambol Beach

Arambol Beach

Aramabol is the beach of your dream. Lined with trees of pine, small hillocks, and a peaceful environment, this beach is every peace-loving water baby’s dream come true. It is the perfect mixture of golden smooth sand and red rocky hills. Even if you mainly aim at checking out the south goa regions, this place should definitely be visited. Hiking trails here is one of the most preferred activities to do since you have the company of the mountain and beaches together. You can sit here for an entire day and it will still seem less.

2. Fort Aguada

Fort Aguada

You may already know that Goa was ruled over by the Portuguese for several years. Built in 1612 this 17th-century fort which is very well preserved and is located towards the southern end of Candolim is one of the top places to visit in Goa. You can go there if you are a history buff or just curious about the historical aspect of the smallest state in India. The view from the fort overlooking Sinquerim Beach is something you must experience here. It would feel like it’s just you, the blue ocean, and nothing in between.

3. Temple of Bodgeshwar

Bodgeshwar Temple

Located in the outskirts of the town of Mapusa this temple can be the perfect way to get some spiritual vibes during your vacation. Locally known as Bongini the presiding deity of the temple is considered as an Anganwadi or the god who fulfills all the desires and wishes of his devotees. Local Goans consider him to be the ‘guardian’ of Mapusa. The holy shrine is made out of marble and finely created woodwork paneling. It is believed even today if a devotee offers their prayer here wholeheartedly then their wishes come true. Definitely worth a try!

4. Anjuna Marketplace

Anjuna Marketplace

You may have seen pictures of the colorful and vibrant flea marketplaces in Goa. You can easily buy souvenirs here for your family and loved ones back home. You can get every colorful item here that is locally prepared. Enjoy buying the hippie stuff here like trinkets, tote bags, shirts jewelry, and many more! you can just carry a few of your essential clothing items and buy some local clothes around here since you can buy literally anything in these flea markets and that too at the cheapest prices. 

5. Coco Beach

Coco Beach

Coco is one of those rare beaches in India where you will get the peace of mind you deserve. It is a typical Goan coastal village which is incredibly clean and filled with numerous lush green trees. The beach here receives shallow and gentle waves making spending a day here in peace totally worth it. Located at a distance of 10 km from the Panjim bus stop and 17 km from the town of Mapusa this beach beautifies the mouth of river Nerul. It is definitely one of the most unique and scenic beaches that Goa has to offer.

Places to Visit in South Goa

6. Butterfly Beach

Butterfly Beach

Unlike the rest of Goa beaches, this is one interesting beach because to reach here you are required to cover a small boat journey followed by a hike down to the main headland. The beach gets its name from the shape of the headland which looks like a pair of butterfly wings. It is one of the most secluded and less frequented beaches in the state. Considered to be a hidden gem this place is filled with colorful butterflies fluttering around the colorful flowers blossoming on the hillocks and a completely serene environment. Don’t forget to take a book there and say goodbye to all your worries.

7. Pequeno Island

Pequeno Island

Locally famous as the ‘Bat island’ and located at a distance of just 1 km away from the Baina beach in Vasco da Gama this island is one of the most underrated gems of Goa and maybe even India. A treat for outdoor photographers this place is filled with just sandy beaches and rocks. The sites here are un-spoilt the water is crystal clear and you can even have some amazing adrenaline-pumping water sports adventures as well! it’s the perfect combination of adventure and peace at the same time. You can also choose to camp here for the night while falling asleep to the sound of the ocean. 

8. Dona Paula

Dona Paula

Initially, a classic Goan fishermen's village, Dona Paula has now turned into one of the most ethnically rich tourist attractions in Goa. The beach is named after the daughter of the viceroy during colonial times who had thrown herself off this cliff when her father had not given her permission to marry a local fisherman. Located on the sea stretch from Panjim and Miramar, over the years this place has gathered a lot of tourist attention for its culturally and ethnically rich atmosphere. Ever since then, numerous films have also been shot here that showcase the pristine beauty of this place that has not depleted over the years.

9. Varca Beach

Varca Beach

South Goa is all about the beaches and Varca is one beach that truly lives up to your expectation of an exotic tropical beach. If it’s white sandy beaches, crystal clear blue water, and green surroundings that you are looking for then start up your scooters and head on to this place right away. Relaxing here has a vibe of its own and the clean, hawker-free ambiance just adds to its list of positives. Sunset is the one thing that you should look forward to. There is not a lot to do here than just relaxing your time away from the sound of the crashing waves.

10. Rivona Buddhist Caves

Rivona Buddhist Caves

If you want to explore more of this wonderfully awe-inspiring side of Goa then this place is a must-visit. Also known as the Pandava caves, this cave is a place that looks blended in mystery. One can check out the rock-cut sculptures here which played a major role in the influence and spread of Buddhism in Goa.