A Perfect Weekend in Panjim-Goa

Welcome to the land of shimmering sandy beaches! Where every day is a weekend all set for exciting parties and events! With the perfect holiday season coming up, it’s sad if you don’t at least plan your Goa trip that you’ve been dreaming about! And what kind of Goa trip will it be, if you don’t research all about the famous spots in the city for the best parties and instagrammable cafes? 

Goa is known for its beaches and parties but safe to say, there is more to Goa than just booze! From beaches to nightclubs to waterfalls to forest sanctuaries and lots more. Goa is a jewel for the gastronomic traveller, shaped by a history of Portuguese rule and a mix of religions. Being a favourite hangout Destination all year long and that is precisely why everyone should spend A weekend in Goa at least once.

The state’s capital is a fascinating destination to explore typical Goan culture, from its Architecture and eateries to landmarks and people. A trip to Goa is incomplete without visiting Panaji, the capital of the state. Located across the Mandovi river, this side of the town is known for its luxurious casino ships and cruises and much more! 

Despite being a small state, covering the whole of Goa is possible, if you want to truly enjoy the essence of Goa! So Things2do here recommends the perfect way to make the most of your Goa trip starting with Panjim!  

Here is a perfect weekend Itinerary in Panjim Goa—

Here are some Recommendations to Stay in Panjim

HOSTELS 

The best way to budget travel for college students and backpackers! Hostels provide you with the perfect vibrant experience of travelling alone and meeting strangers! Once in a lifetime, you should definitely experience a Goa trip backpacking! Here is one of the best hostels in Goa with the best accommodations near the beach and affordable to the pocket too. 

Best Hostels in Panjim are The Old Quarter Hostel; Easy Hostel; The White Balcao

HERITAGE STAYS 

Goa is one of the most culturally rich states, and the beautiful Portuguese and Goan architecture styles make the best homestays or hotels in Goa you must visit if you love architecture and history! Are heritage stays and cultural visits on your mind when you think of Goa? Then these Heritage Stays in Panjim, Goa; are the perfect choice for you! 

Best Heritage Stays in Panjim are WelcomHeritage Panjim Inn; La Maison; Mitaroy Hotel; Hospedaria Abrigo de Botelho

LUXURY STAYS 

Are you the kind of traveller who loves Luxury? Then you’re definitely going to love the luxurious hotels and stays in Goa made especially for a holiday like never before! Luxury Hotels in Goa for the weekend are the perfect way to spend a weekend getaway. 

The best Luxury Stays in Goa are Taj Resort and Convention Centre; Goa Marriott Resort & Spa; Cidade De Goa; DoubleTree by Hilton; Vivanta Goa, Mirama; Grand Hyatt

BREAKFAST 

The key to an amazing vacation is that you have more time for the things you want to explore, so make sure you have a filling breakfast that keeps the energy going for the day! Kickstart your morning by indulging in a delicious Goan breakfast, whether it is the legendary dishes the locals love or cafes you must visit for their ambience and delicious food. 

You Must Try Goan Dishes in Panjim Bhaji Pao, Buns, Goan Samosa, Mirchi Bhaji/ Pakoda, Kalva/ Oyster Curry With Pao

Legendary Places For Goan Breakfast In Panjim Tato Cafe, Cafe Bhosle, Cafe Real, & Cafe Aram.

LEISURE WALKS AND EXPLORING 

A walk in Goa’s Latin quarter is a must if you want to feel like you are taking a stroll in the streets of Europe. The Portuguese influence reflects in every bit of its architecture and food. This is perhaps one of the major reasons why you will find this place absolutely stunning.

Places To Visit In Fontaihnas Chapel of St. Sebastian; Fonte Phoenix; Maruti Temple; Cafés and Bakeries; Gitanjali Gallery & Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church.

After exploring Fontaihnas visit India’s second Mangrove Boardwalk which is opened in the heart of Panjim city. A walk is an insight into the many types of mangrove species, the wildlife of the area and a call for close interaction with nature

LUNCH

The cuisine of Goa is mostly dominated by seafood, spices and flavours. Most of the dishes incorporate coconuts, rice, fish, pork, meat and local spices like kokum. Some of the must-try Goan dishes include

Non-Vegetarian Food Options in Goa

Fish Curry Rice; Prawns Balchao; Racheado Fish Fry; Rava Fried Fish; Pork Sorpotel; Uddamethi. 

Vegetarian Food Options in Goa  

Khatkhate; Sasav; Chanyacho Ros; Pansachi; Moogachi Gathi 

Here are some Goans’ favourite lunch Spots in Panjim Konkani Kanteen, Viva Panjim, Peeps kitchen, Fishermans Wharf, Bombil & Copperleaf. You could also try various other cuisines and experiences such as Fly Dining, Lunch on the Cruise or even a Floating Restaurant in Panjim.

End your meal on a sweet note with must-try Desserts in Panjim, Goa. From the best of desserts, you can enjoy traditional delicacies like Seradure, Mangane, Caramel Custard, Bibinka, & Patolea. 

ENJOY THE BEST SUNSETS ON THE CRUISE 

After a delicious lunch, you can relax on an evening cruise, which leaves from Santa Monica Jetty and has skilled dancers performing Goa’s famous folk dances. The live music and DJ make sure you have a jolly good time.

If you want to skip the cruise you can go to the famous Dona Paula jetty and Relish the wonderful view from above the hillock and relax on benches along with taking pleasure in the evening sea breeze and sunset.

There are many other places for amazing sunsets like indoor Miramar and Miramar beach. You can spend an evening at this beautiful beach and have a lovely time.

START YOUR EVENING WITH BEST PUBS

Panjim is home to some of the best pubs and bars in Goa. try some Goan Feni cocktails at the local bars and dance all night at the clubs.

ROLL THE DICE TILL YOUR LUCK RUNS OUT AT THE CASINOS OF PANJIM

Goa is where fun never stops. If you wish to try your luck in Goa, you will be spoilt for choice. Most of the casino action in the region takes place offshore, on boats moored in the Mandovi River. 

The Best Casinos in Panjim are Big Daddy, Deltin Royale & Casino Pride.

As Naina in Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani rightly said, “jitna bhi try karo, life mein kuch na kuch toh chootega hi…toh jahan hain, wahin ka mazaa lete hai na…” instead of completing the list, maybe enjoy the little moments and live them fully! Things2do has the most unique itinerary of North Goa, you need to follow for undiscovered local spots of Panjim! Follow Things2doinGoa for regular updates. 

by Prapti Tar

Writer at Things2do