Colva Beach

Located on the Salcette side of Goa, Colva is a gorgeous beach that stretches for almost 2.4km with fine white, powdery sand alternating with coarse seashells. The beach is lined by Bogmalo towards the north and the famous ‘Dil Chahta hain’ Fort i.e. Cabo De Rama on the southern end. The Colva beach is famous for its gorgeous beach front and bridges as well as various cafes and hotels that line the way.
The beach of Colva is monitored by Lifeguards and has a relatively even floor making it one of the safest beaches to swim in. The Colva beach has been a favorite retreat for foreigners and locals alike since the rule of the Portuguese! No wonder then, that it has featured on this list of must visit places in Goa.

Bom Jesus Basilica

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest churches in the country, the church of Bom Jesus Basilica was formally consecrated in 1605 and is amongst the top places to see in Goa. This church is considered to be one of the finest representations of Baroque architecture. An important pilgrimage for the Christians, it is here where the body St. Francis Xavier is kept. Aging over several centuries, the mortal remains of his body are still preserved at this church – an astonishing fact indeed.
Located near Gandhi Circle, Old Goa Road, Velha Goa, the best time of the day to visit is 9:00AM to 6:30PM on all days; except Sundays when the church opens at 10 am. Every day mass is held from 7:00AM to 8:00AM. The Sunday mass is held from 8:00AM to 9:15AM. Whether an architecture enthusiasts or a history worm, amongst all the best places to visit in Goa, this ancient landmark with all its glories, will surely keep you stunned!

Fort Aguada

This fort is amongst the many preserved places to see in Goa and essays an era of yore filled with events. A Portuguese fort overlooking the Sinquerim Beach and the Arabian Sea, Fort Aguada was constructed in 1613 and since then it has become a prominent landmark or a reference point for ships visiting the Goan shores from Europe.
Apart from being of navigational assistance, this fort was also of strategic importance for the Portuguese as centuries ago, it added to the defense line of the Portuguese from the Dutch and Marathas. Located in the Candolim Beach, Goa, and at the shore of the Mandolim River, it remains open on all days of the week from nine in the morning to six thirty in the evening. In addition, even one can have many more best happening things to do in Goa during the visit with family and friends.

Chapora Fort

Soaring above the Chapora River in Bardez, the Chapora Fort though in ruins, is an intriguing place of visit. The stronghold has witnessed the passage of many hands from Portuguese to Marathas. In the recent years, it shot to prominence after the Bollywood movie Dil Chahta Hai was shot here. The structure as it stands today belongs to the 18th Century. Mostly in shambles, you will find red laterite stone walls, a gate, bastions with cylinder-shaped turrets, some barracks and bushes. Perched on a prominent position, one can get sweeping views of all directions from here. Climbing up here during the day times can require a bit of an effort. Evenings are relatively pleasant and breezy.