If you’re looking to explore a bit more of Goa that includes the heritage and cultural side of things, central Goa can be an ideal area.
While you won’t find the most famous beaches of Goa in this region, you will find some activities that give you a different glimpse of Goa.
Places to stay in Panjim
If you’re looking to explore central Goa in one week, Panjim is a good base.
For places to stay in Panjim, these are some of the top picks by Lonely Planet for accommodation in Panjim.
- Budget: Old Quarter Hostel
- Mid-range boutique hotel: La Maison
- Luxury heritage hotel: Panjim Inn
These places are located in the heritage district of Fontainhas to give you that Goan cultural feeling!
Have a look at more top hotel recommendations for Goa.
Also take a look at this map of Panjim hotels.
Side note!
See about the best shoes for hiking in Hawaii and what to wear snorkeling in Hawaii! And for Hawaii vacation ideas, see the best things to do in Waikiki that will give you Hawaii vibes!
So, let’s say you will give yourself one week in Goa
Maybe the mornings can be dedicated to an activity in central Goa, and then you can head to a beach in North Goa for the afternoons and evenings.
Or maybe you want to spend a few full days exploring the area surrounding Panjim.
No matter how you choose to do it, here are some places to visit in central Goa to put on your list of things to do!
Map of central Goa
First, get acquainted with Goa!
Explore the map of central Goa!
Best places to visit in central Goa in one week
Fontainhas
Latin Quarter of India
Famous white church in Panjim
Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church
Bascilica of Bom Jesus – UNESCO world heritage site in Goa
Old Goa
Se Cathedral
Old Goa
St. Augustine Ruins
Old Goa
Ferry across a Goa waterway
Free!
Reis Magos Fort
Bird sanctuary nature trail
Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Chorao Island
Quiet village roads
Dona Paula Jetty viewpoint
Bambolim Beach
HAPPY CENTRAL GOA TRIP PLANNING!
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🐠 Here are things you must consider packing!
- Swimsuit or swimming shirt aka rash guard
- rash guard: swim set for women and swim shirt for men
- Water shoes
- Waterproof phone case (so you can capture pictures of fishies underwater!)
- cheapo phone case OR waterproof camera
- I also have this "camera" wrist float to attach to my cheapo waterproof phone case so my phone won't sink to the bottom of the ocean in case I somehow let go of it. (Mine does stay afloat - test this for yourself before completely trusting it!)
- Swimming goggles or snorkeling mask set
- Reef-safe(r) sunscreen
- lightweight travel towel:
- walking sandals:
I also don't go snorkeling without a personal swim float buoy. Not only does it help to keep me visible, but it makes for a perfect way to rest out in deeper water! Oh, and it also serves as a dry bag so I can take stuff into the water with me.
Another way I have taken valuables into the water with me is to wear a travel money belt that I don't mind getting wet with salt water (it's not waterproof but I have several so I just use one of them) and then I put things in a ziplock freezer bag, and put that freezer bag in the money belt.
There are also designated waterproof waist pouches that you can store your valuables and take into the water with you.
see more:
- What to wear hiking
- What to wear snorkeling