Church & Convent of St Francis of Assisi
Founded by Franciscan friars in 1517, the Church & Convent of St. Francis of Assisi is a unique masterpiece attached to Se Cathedral. The Se Cathedral and the Church are connected by the Archiepiscopal Palace, a residential palace of the Archbishops until 1695, after which they moved to Panjim. Much of it, except the black stone gateway, was demolished in 1661 and rebuilt. The church does not presently hold any religious gatherings.
Location
10km away from Panaji, Old Goa, India
Dona Paula
This picturesque destination is named after Dona Paula de Menezes, daughter of the former Viceroy of Goa who plunged into the sea when she was refused permission to marry her lover – a local fisherman. It is one of Goa’s finest tourist destinations, surrounded by many luxury hotels and institutes in the suburbs of Panaji. This location, also known as lovers’ paradise, is popular for its superlative beaches, unique locales, and mysterious legends, and has served as an iconic spot in many Bollywood movies. Attractions at Dona Paula include its beach, Vasco da Gama Bay, the ‘Image of India’ statue, Cabo Raj Niwas, and the National Institute of Oceanography.
Location
7km from Panaji, Goa, India
Sé Cathedral Church
Sé Cathedral Church (Sé Cathedral of Santa Catarina) is one of the largest churches in Asia and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Dedicated to Catherine of Alexandria, the church was built to commemorate the victory of the Portuguese over a Muslim army. It is among the oldest buildings in the state depicting true Portuguese royalty in its architecture.
Location
10km away from Panaji, Old Goa, India
Visiting Hours
7:30 am to 6:30 pm, except during mass hours
The Basilica Of Bom Jesus Church
The Basilica of Bom Jesus Church is one of the biggest attractions in Goa. The site preserves the remains of Goa’s patron saint, St. Francis Xavier. Tagged by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, this church is located in Old Goa, previously the capital of Portuguese Goa. The church holds sacred significance as it is the first church in India to be assigned the status of Minor Basilica.
Location
9km away from Panaji, Old Goa, India
Menezes Braganza Pereira House
The Menezes Braganza Pereira house, built over 350 years ago, is the personification of the aristocratic life of the Braganza house in its heyday. It is the biggest and most exquisite heritage house, located near the church square in Chandor; its Portuguese-style façade lending it an alluring beauty. Visit this house to see a museum of chandeliers, paintings, porcelain, crystal, period furniture, and other antique items.
Location
Culsabhatt, Chandor
Goa – 403714
Visiting Hours
Open every day between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm
Goa Chitra Museum
The Goa Chitra Museum contains an organic farm for the cultivation of all staples along the Western Ghats of India. It is the first and only ethnographic museum in Goa featuring artifacts like local pottery, farming tools, musical instruments, ancient carts, and palanquins from various civilizations.
Location
The St. John Baptist Church Road
Mondo-Waddo, Benaulim
Salcete Goa – 403716
Margao Market
Dive into Goan culture at this bustling market. You’ll find spices, handicrafts, fresh produce, and so, so much more, making it a sensory delight.
Location
Proximity to Beleza by the Beach: 7 km.
Best Time to Visit is early in the morning for fresh stock and first pick in stalls.
Betalbatim Beach
Revealing the hidden gems of Betalbatim Beach – go beyond the usual tourist spots to discover magical experiences like spotting glowing plankton, kayaking on the Sal River, and immersing yourself in local village life.
Location:
Direct beach access
Visit Betalbatim from November to February for a chance to see the glowing bioluminescent plankton at night.
Benaulim Beach
This serene beach is perfect for a relaxing day by the water and dolphin-spotting tours. It’s quieter compared to Colva beach but equally as amazing and encahting.
Location
Proximity to Beleza by the Beach: 5 km.
Make sure to try the seafood at the beachside shacks when you visit this week.
Colva Beach
One of South Goa’s most popular beaches, Colva Beach offers powdery white sands, beach shacks, and water sports. The vibrant nightlife makes it a favorite spot for party lovers.
Location
Proximity to Beleza by the Beach: 3 km.
Best Time to Visit this beach is either Sunrise or evening.