Top Things to do in Goa
Plan your Goa holidays around the top things to do in Goa.
Goa, which lies on the western coast of India, is a big draw for visitors with its white sandy beaches and glittering blue seas. Baga, Calangute beach, Vagator beach, Palolem beach and Anjuna are just some of the best beaches in India, waiting for you to explore and enjoy!
But there are a plethora of things to do in Goa that go beyond relaxing on its beaches. Whether you choose to base yourself in North Goa or in the south, you will not be short of things to do in the smallest state of India. Immerse yourself in its colonial heritage, thanks to its past a Portuguese colony and trading point, a heritage that can be seen in its architecture, music and food among other areas especially in Old Goa. Explore its vibrant markets, and enjoy the laid back charm courtesy its friendly residents – there’s much to see and explore in Goa, which makes it one of the most popular destinations in India.
If you are wondering when is the best time to visit Goa, then this is the guide for you. Here is a list of the top things to do in Goa, curated by our Enchanting Travels specialists, which contain the essential travel tips and should definitely be part of your Goa travel guide.
1 Explore the best markets of Goa
Take your pick from some of the busiest and most popular markets in Goa and perhaps in India! The Anjuna Night Market with its ornate handicrafts and colorful summer beachwear, scarves, spices, teas, lanterns is all about capturing the ’70s vibe.
Sway to the tunes of Goa’s best live musicians at the Night Market in Arpora as you relish a fusion of Indian and international cuisines at the lively stalls, washing it down with chilled Goan beer. If you want a taste of local lifestyle, head to Mapusa on Fridays, where farmers and artisans gather to sell their wares every week.

2 Enjoy a luxury sunset cruise in Goa
Experience the world-famous romantic sunset of Goa on a boat trip along the endless palm-fringed golden beaches, one of the most luxurious things to do in Goa. Set out on a private boat with your own crew and take to the azure waters of the Arabian Sea that lap the west coast of India.
Sip champagne and enjoy delicious canapes against the backdrop of a pink-tinged sunset while dolphins frolic around you. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of a Goan sunset. Bliss!

3 Discover Goa’s Portuguese heritage
Embark on your historical tour of Goa with a visit to its capital city – Panjim, in North Goa. From the charming Latin Quarters of Fontainhas to the Vegetables and Fruit Market and Dona Paula, Panjim offers a real slice of Goan life and is a must-visit on your Goa tours. Exploring these sights of Goa is to truly understand the Portuguese influence in India.
In Old Goa, imposing Portuguese-style churches and the famous Hindu Mahalasa Temple offer a peek into Goa’s vibrant history. Visit the Panjim Church, Palacio Patriarcal (Bishop’s Palace), Palacio Idalcao (present Secretariat) and Basilica of Bom Jesus. The remains of St. Francis Xavier are entombed in a silver casket in Bom Jesus and it is one of the most visited places in the state. Travel to South Goa and see the palatial Menezes Braganza Pereira House in Chandor and receive further insights about local history and heritage.

4 Savor a spice plantation tour in Goa
Indulge your senses with a half-day Spice Plantation visit and savor an authentic Goan-Hindu vegetarian meal. Let a local guide you through the farm as you see the variety of crops that are being grown.
See rural settings, traditional Goan organic farming methods, and lunch in typical Goan mud-pots and banana-leaf ‘plates’, while heady spice aromas tickle your taste-buds!

5 Dig into the Portuguese-influenced fusion food of Goa
Goan cuisine offers an unusual blend of Indian and European elements, making the region a favorite with ardent foodies on the hunt for exciting flavors. From pork vindaloo to chicken xacuti, and fresh seafood, the options are aplenty in the best restaurants in Goa. Most of Goa’s beaches like Baga and Calangute are dotted with shacks serving delectable seafood!
If you are wondering where to eat in Goa, we have a list of places that we can recommend for a food tour in Goa, from the authentic and economical Little World to Pousada by the Beach and Go With The Flow among others!

6 Enjoy a luxury resort stay in Goa
Relax and unwind in some of the best resorts in Goa. From beach resorts to boutique hotels, you will be spoilt for choices. The hotels and resorts combine elements of Portuguese heritage with modern touches to offer you world-class luxury experiences.
The Taj with Fort Aguada, Park Hyatt and Leela group have their properties and there are several standalone hotels as well and we will be happy to recommend the best place to stay in Goa for you.

7 Relax on the beaches of Goa
Goa’s coastline in western India stretches along the blue waters of the Arabian Sea, with a multitude of beaches for you to choose from. The best beaches of Goa include Agonda, Calangute, Candolim, Morjim, Palolem, Baga beach, Varca and Majorda. Enjoy a swim in the waters of the Arabian Sea, or indulge in a spot of adventure by trying your hand at the many water sports (where available).
The water sports that you can indulge in include diving, snorkeling, swimming and spotting dolphins on a cruise. Other popular water sports in Goa include kayaking, flyboarding, parasailing and jet skiing at Dona Paula beach. Or you could just people watch as you sip a beer and savor fresh seafood at the many shacks that dot the beaches.
Away from the beaches, a journey to see the four-tiered Dudhsagar Waterfalls on the Mandovi River is also a must-do in Goa!
Discover all the best things to do in Goa by booking your vacation with our experts at Enchanting Travels. Contact us for your tailor-made and obligation-free tour itinerary.

Best Time To Visit
The best travel time for North India tours is from October to March. The temperatures vary widely between the plains of the north and the deserts of Rajasthan. As a tailor-made travel company, we would be pleased to advise you on your private trip to North India.
Safety
India is by and large a very safe country that will leave you mesmerized and mystified. However stimulated, inspired, awe-struck or overwhelmed you might feel while here, it is always important to remain alert. Here are some basic guidelines.
Travel Tips
What are the things to consider while planning North India tours? What clothes should you pack for your tour? What type of food can you expect? What are Indian trains like? Our destination experts answer all these questions and more.

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