Goa Heritage & Culture Tour

Days 3 - Nights 2

 

Day 1: Arrival in Goa – Explore Old Goa Churches

On arrival in Goa, check in to your hotel in Panaji or a nearby heritage homestay. After some rest, begin your cultural journey with a visit to Old Goa, once the capital of Portuguese India. Start with the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the tomb of St. Francis Xavier. Then explore the grand Se Cathedral, Church of St. Francis of Assisi, and the beautifully restored Church of St. Cajetan. In the evening, return to Panaji and enjoy a peaceful riverside walk along the Mandovi River promenade. You can end your day with a traditional Goan meal at a local restaurant. Overnight stay in Panaji.

Day 2: Fontainhas Walk and South Goa Temples

After breakfast, take a heritage walk through the Latin Quarter of Fontainhas. The area is filled with pastel-colored Portuguese houses, vintage cafés, art galleries, and narrow lanes that reflect Goa’s colonial past. Don’t miss the charming Chapel of St. Sebastian and the local bakeries offering traditional Goan sweets. Later in the day, travel to South Goa to visit some of its most historic temples. Begin at the Shree Mangeshi Temple, known for its elegant architecture and deep spiritual significance. Then visit Shanta Durga Temple, a beautiful blend of Indo-Portuguese design nestled in lush surroundings. If time permits, you may also explore the Palácio do Deão, an 18th-century colonial mansion in Quepem. Return to your hotel by evening and relax or enjoy a quiet sunset at Miramar Beach. Overnight stay in Panaji or nearby.

Day 3: Local Museums, Markets and Departure

Begin your final day with a visit to the Goa State Museum to get a deeper understanding of the region’s art, culture, and colonial history. You may also explore the Archbishop’s Palace if it's open to visitors. Afterward, take some time to shop at Panjim Market, where you’ll find cashew nuts, spices, azulejos tiles, and Goan souvenirs. If your departure time allows, consider a visit to Reis Magos Fort or Fort Aguada for panoramic views and one last look at Goa’s rich past. Depart for the airport or railway station with beautiful memories of Goa’s unique cultural blend.