3 Days in Panaji for an Active Getaway

Kick off your Panaji adventure with the city's most iconic spots, from historic churches to vibrant markets, and savor the flavors of Goan cuisine.

Activities

Explore Fontainhas

Start your day in Panaji's charming Latin Quarter, Fontainhas, where colorful Portuguese-style houses line narrow streets. This UNESCO-listed heritage zone feels like a slice of Portugal in India. Wander through the alleys, admire the pastel-hued homes, and stop by the Chapel of St. Sebastian for its striking crucifix.

Fontainhas, PanajiMorning, around 9-11 AM, to avoid the midday heatFree to explore

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobbled streets
• Look for the hidden street art and murals

Visit Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church

Panaji's most famous landmark, this stunning white church sits atop a hill overlooking the city. The baroque architecture and the grand staircase leading up to it make for perfect photos. Inside, the peaceful ambiance and ornate altar are worth seeing. If you're lucky, you might catch a wedding or a choir practice.

Church Square, Altinho, PanajiLate morning, around 11:30 AM, before lunch crowdsFree

Tips:

• Dress modestly as it's a place of worship
• Climb the bell tower for panoramic views if it's open

Stroll and Shop at Panaji Market

Wrap up your day at the bustling Panaji Market, where locals shop for everything from spices to souvenirs. The fish market section is especially lively in the morning, but the afternoon is perfect for browsing handicrafts, cashew nuts, and Goan sausages. Don't miss the small stalls selling 'bebinca', Goa's famous layered dessert.

Panaji Municipal Market, near the Kadamba Bus StandLate afternoon, around 4-5 PM, when it's less crowdedVaries (budget around ₹200-500 for small purchases)

Tips:

• Bargain politely for non-food items
• Try the fresh kokum juice from street vendors

Must Try Foods

Dive deeper into Panaji's charm with a mix of history, riverside relaxation, and local flavors.

Activities

Walk along the Mandovi Riverfront

Start your morning with a peaceful stroll along the Mandovi River. The promenade comes alive with locals jogging, fishing boats bobbing, and the occasional dolphin sighting. Stop by the iconic 'Atmaram Statue' for great photo ops and watch the river ferries shuttle between Panaji and Betim.

Mandovi Riverfront Promenade, near Old Patto BridgeEarly morning (6:30-8 AM) to avoid the heatFree

Tips:

• Bring binoculars for dolphin spotting
• Try fresh coconut water from riverside vendors

Explore the Goa State Museum

Get acquainted with Goa's rich heritage at this underrated museum. The collection includes fascinating artifacts like 12th-century hero stones, Portuguese-era coins, and traditional Hindu sculptures. The Christian Art Gallery section is particularly unique, showcasing how local artists blended European and Indian styles.

EDC Complex, Patto, Panaji10 AM-12:30 PM (closed Mondays)₹10 per person

Tips:

• Ask about guided tours at the reception
• Don't miss the wooden 'Santo' statues on the top floor

Sunset Cruise on the Mandovi

Cap off the day with a breezy cruise on the Mandovi River. Opt for the traditional 'Santa Monica' ferry or a more luxurious option. Most cruises feature live Goan music (mandos and dulpods) and sometimes even folk dances. The golden hour views of Panaji's skyline are magical.

Santa Monica Jetty, near the Mandovi BridgeDepartures between 5:30-6 PM (varies by season)₹300-800 depending on cruise type

Tips:

• Book same-day tickets by 4 PM
• Upper deck seats offer better views

Must Try Foods

A relaxed day uncovering hidden gems and local flavors in Panaji, from historic walks to quirky cafes and sunset views.

Activities

Heritage Walk through Altinho

Altinho is Panaji's quiet, leafy hilltop neighborhood with colonial-era villas, government buildings, and stunning views. Start at the Archbishop's Palace, a grand 19th-century mansion, then meander past the old Latin Quarter homes. The area feels like a time capsule with its narrow lanes and old-world charm. Don't miss the hidden Miramar Beach viewpoint for a quick stop with panoramic Mandovi River vistas.

Altinho, starting near Archbishop's PalaceMorning around 9-11 AM to avoid afternoon heatFree (self-guided)

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes - some steep lanes
• Carry water - limited shops in the area

Lunch at Black Sheep Bistro

This intimate, art-filled bistro is where Goa's creative crowd gathers. Their menu reinvents Goan classics with global techniques - try the pork vindalho tacos or the catch-of-the-day in banana leaf. The cocktail menu featuring local ingredients like kokum and feni is worth exploring too. Book ahead for their charming courtyard seating.

Black Sheep Bistro, Swami Vivekanand Road12:30-2 PM (peak lunch hours)₹1200-2000 per person

Tips:

• Ask for the day's specials - they change often
• Try their famous chocolate pudding with sea salt

Sunset at Dona Paula Jetty

Skip the crowded viewpoints and head to the working fishermen's jetty near Dona Paula. Watch colorful boats return with the day's catch as the sun dips behind the Arabian Sea. Local vendors sell fresh coconut water and bhutta (grilled corn). It's more authentic than the touristy Dona Paula viewpoint nearby.

Fishermen's Jetty near Dona PaulaArrive by 5:30 PM for sunset around 6-6:30 PMFree (small snacks ₹20-50)

Tips:

• Wear slip-on shoes - the jetty can be slippery
• Bargain politely if buying seafood from returning boats

Must Try Foods