Goa Beyond Beaches: 7-Day Cultural & Culinary Itinerary

History plays a prominent role in Goa. Not many people know that this part of India was under Portuguese rule for over 450 years and was liberated as recently as 1961. Isn’t it fascinating that, even after centuries of rule, not many people are aware of this historic side of Goa? So, if you want to explore Goa beyond beaches, starting with its rich history might be the perfect way to do so. Here is how you can spend your day diving deep into the rich history of Goa. 

Start your day by exploring the historical landmarks of Old Goa. Some of the landmarks that are worth exploring include the Basilica of Bom Jesus, where you will find the relics of St. Francis Xavier. Another unmissable historic landmark is the Sé Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. This spectacular church is renowned for its intricate Baroque architecture, which consistently amazes tourists. 

You can book a heritage walk tour in the afternoon that takes you around the most prominent historical landmarks of Old Goa and tells you fascinating historical tales. From convents and churches to colonial-era ruins, every landmark will take you back in history. You will also learn a great deal about Goa’s famous spice trade and the stories of religious conversions and European settlers.

There is no better way than ending such an enlightening day with a hearty meal. You can choose any of the family-run restaurants in the region and indulge in a delicious Goan thali. This thali usually consists of fluffy rice, spicy fish curry, pork vindaloo, sol kadhi (kokum-based drink), and the famous dessert bebinca. 

You can spend the second day of your trip to Goa in Panjim’s Latin Quarters and explore the Goan street food. Panjim is the capital of Goa and is known for its exceptional blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. Here is how you can spend your day exploring this vibrant capital and the food trails during your second day in Goa. 

Start your day by strolling around the Latin Quarters or Fontainhas of Goa. This is one of the most Instagrammable places in Goa because of the pastel coloured houses and red-tile roofs that line up in charming cobblestone streets. There are art galleries, chapels, and boutiques here that you can explore, providing a heritage-rich experience.

Your afternoon of this day can be a memorable culinary walking tour. You can savour freshly baked Goan pao (bread), spicy Goan sausage (chorizo), cafreal (chicken with green masala), and end with bebinca or dodol. Also, don’t miss out on feni, the locally distilled cashew liquor.

You can take a walk around the Mandovi River Promenade during sunset to witness beautiful scenery and take stunning photographs. End your day with a delicious meal at one of the riverside restaurants in Goa that promise scenic views and tasty food. 

You can easily escape the coastal crowds by taking a tour around the spice plantation and the local villages of Goa. You will surely fall in love with the fertile hinterland and the local lifestyle of this Indian province. There are endless activities and experiences that you can have while exploring this side of the province.

In the morning, drive to Ponda, the spice-growing hub of Goa, and get ready for an enlightening tour of a spice plantation. The lush spice gardens here grow all kinds of spices, including black pepper, nutmeg, cardamom, and cinnamon. You will also get a chance to learn how these spices made Goa a trading hotspot. 

One of the major highlights of this day would be a cooking class with a local family. There is no better way to see the use of all the spices that you might have seen during your plantation tour than a cooking class, where you get a hands-on experience with these spices. You can learn any of the classic Goan dishes and then treat yourself to a heart lunch, which is usually served family-style.

You can spend your evening exploring the serene villages of Goa. There are many village experiences that you will enjoy, like ullock cart rides, pottery workshops, or even traditional folk performances like dhalo and fugdi.

Dedicate your fourth day in Goa to exploring the culture, art, and creativity of the locals. There is no better way to do it than by exploring the local museums, galleries, and immersing yourself in various local arts experiences. You will surely have an unforgettable day by following the schedule below. 

Start with the glorious Goa State Museum. This museum features numerous artefacts that represent the local culture and history. From coins and sculptures to manuscripts, you will get a chance to see it all here. Take your time around this museum and learn the history and significance of the artefacts displayed here.

You can spend your afternoon at the Museum of Christian Art, which is located in the convent of Santa Monica. This is one of the best places in the region to get a glimpse of the Indo-Portuguese craftsmanship. 

For an immersive cultural experience, spend your evening attending a live Fado music concert or folk dance show. Fado is a melancholic Portuguese music that is still played in heritage venues of Goa. And the folk dance shows are a perfect representation of local culture and traditions. For dinner, you can head over to a heritage restaurant for a relish seafood meal.

Many glorious forts in North Goa are truly worth exploring. Also, the buzzing markets tell you a lot about the rich cultural history and bustling lifestyle of the locals. You will learn many stories of trade, community, and defence. It shows you a different side of the country that you might not have seen before

You can start your day by exploring the 17th-century fortress, the Aguada Fort, that overlooks the Arabian Sea. There is also an old lighthouse and a prison here that make exploration a lot more exciting and memorable. 

In the afternoon, you can head over to the Chapora Fort. The fort is renowned for its panoramic views, which make it one of the most picturesque sites in the region. Also, it is famed for being the location of the Bollywood classic movie Dil Chahta Hai. Therefore, Bollywood lovers also love to visit this glorious fort. 

In the evening, you can explore the vibrant markets of Goa. Mapusa Market is a great option, renowned for its diverse range of offerings. You will see locals here selling different items, including spices, cashew nuts, jewellery, and Goan handicrafts. You will love to shop for souvenirs or take some gifts back home from here for your loved ones. Additionally, the market features numerous street food stalls that serve delicious local delicacies. You can try ros omelette (omelette with spicy curry), cutlet pav, and sweet dodol. 

South Goa is much quieter and more spiritual. There are many beautiful temples in this region, and the food is delicious too. So, if you don’t want to miss out on this different side of Goa, here is the perfect day plan to spend your sixth day in the region. 

Visit the beautiful Shantadurga Temple. This temple is dedicated to the goddess who mediated between Vishnu and Shiva. It boasts stunning architecture that embodies the Indo-Portuguese style, leaving architecture lovers in awe. The temple is truly a masterpiece that you will not want to miss.

For the afternoon, you can head over to the Mangueshi Temple. This breathtaking temple is known for its stunning lamp tower. Additionally, it hosts numerous traditional rituals that attract religious people from the surrounding region.

You can check if there is a zatra (local temple fair) happening on the evening of your trip to South Goa and attend it. These fairs have extensive feasts that feature music, traditional sweets, street plays, and communal dining. It is a truly cultural highlight of South Goa and an unmissable experience. At the end of the day, you can savour a delicious dinner at a seaside shack. Make sure to try crab curry or prawn balchão, which are popular local dishes known for their exceptional flavours.

There is no better way to conclude your journey in Goa than paying a culinary farewell and diving deep into Goa’s signature flavours and spirit. This day will surely tantalise your taste buds and give you an unforgettable culinary tour that will make you come back to Goa again.

Start your last day in Goa by visiting a feni distillery. This is the perfect place to learn about the age-old distillation process of cashew liquor. You will also learn about its significance in Goan culture and the taste that the locals enjoy with every meal.

Goa is a coastal region, and every coast in the world serves fresh seafood. So, during your last day in Goa, treat yourself to a farewell seafood meal. Make sure that this feast consists of rava-fried fish, crab xec-xec, and sannas (rice cakes) paired with sol kadhi for a pure taste of Goa. 

Goa is known for many lively night markets. Therefore, for your last evening in this glorious Indian province, explore a lively Goan night market like Arpora or Anjuna. These markets are known for handmade jewelry, food stalls, and live music. This is the perfect way to soak in the festive spirit of Goa and get the last chance to buy some gifts and souvenirs that reflect the local culture, heritage, and craftsmanship. 

Do you want some travel tips to visit Goa that will add to the whole experience of exploring Goa beyond beaches? Here are some beneficial tips for an unforgettable Goa holiday. 

→ Choose the best time to visit Goa that is perfect for you. Goa boasts numerous cultural festivals and pleasant weather from November to March.

→ Public transportation in Goa is usually slow. So, it is best that you rent a scooter or a car. You can also hire a driver for day trips. 

→ For the most immersive experiences, stay at eco-lodges near spice plantations, choose heritage homestays in Fontainhas, or boutique stays in South Goa. 

→ Make sure to keep cultural etiquette in mind. Try to be modest around spiritual sites, such as temples. 

Goa is a beautiful destination, known for a diverse range of experiences. Thousands of tourists visit this Indian province for its glorious beaches and an electric nightlife. But many people are also becoming curious about the rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine of the Indian province. If you are also looking for cheap holidays to Goa from the UK and want to explore its culture and cuisine, hopefully, this itinerary will help you. You can also explore other experiences or food spots if you have more time in the region.