North Goa in 5 Days
“Slow mornings. Loud nights.”
“Fort walks, feni at sunset, beach shacks that don't make it onto Instagram. The real Goa.”
Arrive at Vagator
Goa International Airport
Book a prepaid taxi to Vagator — ₹1200 flat, 45 mins. Avoid Ola/Uber surge.
Chapora Fort
Dil Chahta Hai fort. Skip the crowds by going at 7am — you'll have it to yourself.
Thalassa
Greek restaurant on Vagator clifftop. Sunset table, order the mezze platter and house wine.
Jolly Johny's Guesthouse
Family-run, ₹1200/night, 3 mins walk to Vagator beach. Book direct by phone for 10% off.
Anjuna Flea & Beaches
Anjuna Flea Market
Wednesday only. Silver jewellery, Rajasthani textiles, vintage. Bargain hard — open price is 3x.
Curlies Beach Shack
Cold Kingfisher, prawn cafreal, and sand between your toes. Classic Anjuna.
Ozran (Little Vagator) Beach
Quieter than Vagator proper. The rocks on the south end are perfect for sunset sitting.
Old Goa & History
Basilica of Bom Jesus
UNESCO site, free entry. The gold baroque interior is jaw-dropping. Open 9am-6pm.
Se Cathedral
Largest church in Asia, right next door. The bell tower at magic hour glows.
Viva Panjim
Hidden in a Panjim lane. Pork sorpotel, bebinca dessert, and a cold feni. Book ahead.
Arambol & North End
Arambol Beach
2hr scooter ride north but worth it. Drum circles at sunset, cheapest fresh fish in Goa.
Arambol Hammock Shack
Hammocks over the water, cold coconut water, no WiFi. Stay as long as you want.
Departure Day
Mapusa Friday Market
If leaving on Friday — this is the local's market. Best place to buy cashews and spices to take home.
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