10 Places To Visit In Old Goa With Friends And Family
Goa, often hailed as the party capital of India, is a magnet for the young and energetic. With its lively beach parties, cozy shacks, luxury resorts with spas, buzzing beach bars, vibrant flea markets, and a mix of global travelers jamming with guitars over seafood and drinks, the place pulses with life. But there’s another side to this coastal paradise that’s equally captivating. Old Goa, in particular, is a treasure trove of heritage and charm, offering a delightful blend of colonial-era architecture, ancient monuments, water sports, cobblestone streets, and breathtaking coastal views. In this post, we’ll take you through some of the most incredible places to explore in Old Goa for a vacation filled with excitement and discovery.
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Here Are The List Of Places To Visit In Old Goa
Goa is not a place you can fully experience in just one visit. Each trip reveals a new side of its charm, so it’s best to focus on one region at a time and explore it at your own pace. Dive into the details of the top sightseeing spots in Goa and get ready to plan an unforgettable adventure in this vibrant and lively destination—it’s truly a journey of a lifetime!
1. Divar Island – Goa’s Best Kept Secret
Divar Island, nestled on the serene Mandovi River, is one of Old Goa’s hidden gems and a must-visit destination. Far from the usual crowds and chaos, this charming little island offers a peaceful escape, making it one of the most tranquil spots in the region. Often considered the best beach area in Old Goa, Divar is perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. Accessible by a scenic ferry ride from Viceroy’s Arch, the island remains one of Goa’s best-kept secrets. If you happen to visit in August, you’ll get the chance to witness the vibrant Bonderam Festival, a colorful celebration of the harvest season. Without a doubt, Divar Island ranks among the top sightseeing attractions in Old Goa.
2. Basilica Of Bom Jesus – World Heritage Monument
Built in the 16th century, the Basilica of Bom Jesus stands as one of Goa’s most iconic and revered tourist attractions. This World Heritage Monument, with its distinctive brick-red façade, draws visitors throughout the year. The church’s architecture is a stunning blend of elements—featuring robust basalt pillars, striking black granite walls, and a gracefully sloping tiled roof. Inside, the gilded columns, intricately designed altar, and elaborately inscribed walls in Latin and Portuguese reflect the grandeur of its era. It’s truly one of the most remarkable landmarks to explore in Old Goa.
3. Se Cathedral – Old Goa’s Famous Landmark
Dating back to the 16th century, Se Cathedral is not only a historic marvel but also the largest functioning church in Asia. A must-visit if you’re in Goa for 3 days, this architectural wonder showcases stunning Iberian design, with lofty ceilings adorned with intricate wooden carvings and detailed mosaic artwork. The walls are graced with beautiful paintings, and the church itself is built in the classic cruciform layout. Visitors can explore the cathedral from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays, and between 7:15 AM and 10:00 AM on Sundays—so be sure to plan your visit accordingly. Additionally, there are several fascinating attractions located nearby that are worth exploring after your visit to Se Cathedral.
4. Tomb Of St. Francis Xavier – Popular Church In Goa
The Tomb of St. Francis Xavier is among the top attractions in Old Goa, housed within one of the chapels of the Basilica of Bom Jesus. This sacred site holds the remains of the revered Portuguese missionary, St. Francis Xavier, who earned deep respect and admiration in Goa. After his passing in China, his body was brought back to Goa, where it now rests in an intricately crafted tomb made of marble and jasper. A remarkable aspect of this site is that the saint’s relics are displayed to the public once every ten years, drawing pilgrims and tourists from around the world.
5. Reis Magos Fort – One Of Goa’s Oldest Citadels
Reis Magos Fort is one of the top tourist spots in Old Goa and offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Built in 1707 at the mouth of the Mandovi River, it stands as one of the oldest and most historic forts in the region. Exploring this fort is a great offbeat experience for those looking to see a different side of Goa. Its striking red laterite walls and towering minarets can be spotted from various points across Bardez Taluka. Just a short walk away, you’ll also find the charming Reis Magos Church, another must-visit attraction in Old Goa.
6. Fontainhas – A Small Latin Establishment
Fontainhas, a charming Latin quarter nestled in Panjim, stands out as one of the most iconic heritage spots to visit near Old Goa. Renowned for its vibrant, colorful houses and quaint colonial lanes, it offers the perfect setting for a leisurely heritage walk. A highlight of this area is its old-world bakeries, where you can indulge in delicious, freshly baked treats. Among its hidden gems are a wishing well, the serene Chapel of St. Sebastian, and the picturesque Altinho Hill. With its old-world charm and romantic ambiance, Fontainhas is truly one of the most enchanting places in Goa for couples to explore.
7. St. Augustine Ruins – Iberian Architecture
The St. Augustine Ruins are among the most renowned and historically significant landmarks in Old Goa. Once a grand structure built in the 17th century, the tower originally stood at an impressive height of 46 meters. Showcasing classic Iberian architecture, it is considered one of the top three Iberian-style buildings globally. Although time and neglect have reduced it to ruins, the site still holds immense cultural and architectural value, making it a must-visit for history lovers exploring Old Goa.
8. Chapel Of Our Lady Of The Mount – Stunning Panoramas
The Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount is a noteworthy historical site in Old Goa and a great spot for a fun day out with family or friends. Perched on a hilltop, reaching the chapel involves a short and enjoyable climb, rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Divar Island, Chorao, and the Mandovi River. Its peaceful surroundings and scenic backdrop make it an ideal place to relax and soak in Goa’s natural beauty. Just a short distance away, you can also visit the Church of St. Cajetan, making it easy to explore both attractions in one trip while discovering the charm of Old Goa.
9. Archaeological Museum – Wonderful Backdrop Of Goan Skies
Set amidst the beautiful Goan skies and surrounded by lush greenery, the Archaeological Museum of Goa is home to an impressive collection of artifacts from the prehistoric, early historic, and late medieval periods. In addition to its rich exhibits, the museum boasts an elegant facade that adds to its charm and makes it a fantastic spot for photography. Visitors can also explore a variety of statues and sculptures that reflect Goa’s diverse historical legacy.
10. Wax World Museum – Beautiful Wax Statues
The Wax World Museum in Old Goa is one of the few wax museums in India and features an impressive collection of 30 life-sized paraffin statues. Among the most notable figures are Mahatma Gandhi and Mother Teresa, but the centerpiece that truly draws visitors is the detailed sculpture of Jesus Christ’s Last Supper. The museum offers guided tours in both English and Hindi, providing interesting insights into each exhibit. While photography is not permitted inside, you can pick up souvenirs from the on-site gift shop as a memento of your visit. It’s definitely one of the top attractions to explore in Old Goa.
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We hope this list of top places to visit in Old Goa inspires you to plan an unforgettable getaway to India’s most enchanting coastal gem. Add these unique spots to your itinerary for a blend of heritage, serenity, and offbeat adventures. Here’s to more travels and unforgettable memories—happy exploring!