FREE THINGS TO DO IN Goa

It’s no secret that there are almost-endless amounts of stretches of beaches in Goa, but one of the very best and most beautiful is Arambol Beach.

Located in the north of Goa, Arambol Beach is a popular beach with almost every type of traveller imaginable.

Whether you’re visiting Goa with the kids, or you’re on a girls’ holiday for the week, Arambol Beach has something to offer everyone.

The beautiful white sand is a delight to build sandcastles or sunbathe on, and the sea makes for a refreshing place to cool off after being in the intense Indian sunshine all day.

The beach is also adorned with numerous seashells that are yours for the taking as a souvenir from your time in Goa.

Address: Arambol, Goa, India

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the most famous and beloved churches in Goa that’s dedicated to St. Francis Xavier.

History and architecture fans will be intrigued by the exterior as well as the contents of the Basilica of Bom Jesus as it actually houses the mortal remains of the 474-year-old St. Francis Xavier!

Inside the church you’ll also find the beautiful chapel which is said to be the crown jewel of the Basilica of Bom Jesus, as well as numerous altars, many paintings and intricate statues and carvings too.

If you want to experience some truly amazing and somewhat unbelievable religious architecture while you’re in Goa, then a visit to the Basilica of Bom Jesus is definitely something you should add to your travel itinerary.

Address: Old Goa Rd, Bainguinim, Goa 403402, India

If you’re a cultural, history and architecture enthusiast all rolled into one, then you’re sure to love a visit to Fontainhas.

Fontainhas is actually the only Latin Quarters in the whole of India so it’s a pretty special and important place in Goa.

Around Fontainhas, you’ll see the Qurem Creek, as well as Altinho Hill which offers great views of the city.

There’s also so much impressive architecture to admire in Fontainhas, including the Maruti Temple, the Gitanjali Art Gallery, the Phoenix Fountain and the Chapel of St. Sebastian, to name just a few!

It’s a place in Goa that you could easily spend hours exploring so make sure you carve out plenty of time in your schedule to ensure you can see everything.

Address: Fontainhas (quarter), Altinho, Panaji, Goa 403001, India

Goa is home to numerous waterfalls but arguably the best is Dudhsagar waterfall, situated on the border of Goa and Karnataka.

Towering above the water at an impressive height of 310-metres, the Dudhsagar waterfall is a must-visit place in Goa.

If you’re looking for something slightly more alternative than simply just spending the day at the beach while in Goa, then the Dudhsagar waterfall provides a convenient and beautiful natural escape from the busy crowds on the beaches and in the city.

You can spend some time exploring the picturesque surroundings of the waterfall and if you’re lucky enough to own one, make sure you bring your GoPro so you can take some awesome underwater footage!

It’s known that Goa is home to many beautiful stretches of wild and rugged coastline, with numerous ancient forts punctuating the spectacular scenery.

Chapora Fort is one of the most popular and beloved forts along Goa’s coastline and offers unparalleled views of the surrounding vistas, completely free of charge.

Situated along the Chapora River, the fort is free to visit so you can easily spend a few hours exploring the fort and the surrounding areas without having to worry about spending a penny.

Chapora Fort and the river are also quite often featured in numerous Bollywood movies so if you’re a fan of Indian cinema, you may recognise the stunning scenes from films such as Dil Chahta Hai.

If you plan on spending some time in the south of Goa while you’re there, make sure you’ve got a visit to Galgibaga Beach added to your list of things to do.

Galgibaga Beach is known for being a nesting ground for Olive Ridley turtles and while you’re there, you can help out with local volunteer programmes.

This free attraction in Goa is perfect for those looking to give back while they’re travelling or on holiday and this really is one of the greatest ways you can do so.

You can visit and learn more about the turtles and you can also volunteer with local NGO programmes which will aid in the conservation and awareness of Olive Ridley turtles.

Address: Agonda 403702, India

Located in Baga in Goa, Mackie’s Night Bazaar is a night market that sells everything from fresh and delicious food, to local souvenirs and trinkets.

Mackie’s is a great place to visit in Goa and is one of the best sources of entertainment as not only will you find street food vendors, you’ll also be treated to a wealth of performers.

Goa is known for being a place with awesome nightlife and the Mackie’s Night Bazaar offers you a brief insight into some of the city’s most eclectic night antics.

You might not want to bring children along to Mackie’s Night Bazaar as it can tend to get a little hectic, but if you’re looking for a place with great atmosphere that’s completely free, make sure you pay a visit!

Address: Near 281, Baga River Bridge, Tamudki Vado, Marinha Dourada Road, Arpora, Goa 403516, India

Similarly to Chapora Fort, Fort Aguada is another slice of Goa history and architecture that you should add to your travel itinerary.

The fort dates all the way back to 1612 so it’s coated in a wealth of interesting history, including the fact that it was built as a defence against Dutch and Maratha invasions.

Fort Aguada is also home to a 13-metre high lighthouse that provides an opportune photogenic backdrop.

There’s not an awful lot to see or do around Fort Aguada, but simply just admiring the dated structure is a great experience in itself and one that history fanatics are sure to enjoy.

Bring your camera and take in the impressive views of Goa’s coastline and the surrounding fort buildings.

Address: Fort Aguada Rd, Aguada Fort Area, Candolim, Goa 403515, India

As we mentioned above, Goa certainly isn’t short of beautiful and bountiful beaches and another top favourite amongst tourists and locals is Palolem Beach.

Ideally suited to people from all walks of life, including families with children, lads’ holidays and stag dos, as well as solo travellers, Palolem Beach is a great place to hang out in Goa.

You’ll find lush stretches of sand that’s perfect for luxuriating on and topping up your tan or for building sandcastles on.

The water here also provides a refreshing respite from the intense sun during the day or is a great place to paddle your feet in as you walk along the beach and enjoy the marvellous views out into the sea.

Address: Chaudi, Canacona, India

Se Cathedral is actually one of the largest churches in Asia, so you already know that it’s going to be pretty impressive!

The church is dedicated to Saint Catherine but even if you’re not too interested in learning about the history of the meaning of the church, you can still appreciate its grand demeanour.

The Se Cathedral might not be the best free attraction in Goa for young children as there isn’t really too much to hold their attention, but it’s still worth a quick visit if you’re nearby.

Spend some time inside admiring all the magnificent ceilings and paintings, or simply just enjoy a quick wander around the exterior of Se Cathedral and see what all the fuss is about!

Address: Velha, Goa 403402, India