Here’s How You Can Spend 12 Hours in Goa!

Dont worry if  you’re on a hop skip & jump 12 hour trip to Goa. Or happen to be passing through this state on a road trip either. There is a lot this beautiful scenic tourist hot spot has to offer. As we all know, Goa is one of the best holiday destinations in India and it has something for everyone. Even with just 12 hours in this evergreen state, there’s a lot to see and do. We’ve compiled a couple of different ways for you to spend your day in Goa. After all this little state offers a lot of memories that you can pack in.

Morning Hour on the 12 Hours trip to Goa

Lets assume that you land in the sun kissed state of Goa early in the morning.  Breakfast is a must to fuel you up for a whirlwind day trip around this beachy coconut tree laden state. An absolute favorite with tourists and locals alike is the quaint cafe and restaurant Baba Au Rhum in Anjuna . They offer mouth-watering chocolate croissants to milkshakes of all kinds, grilled sandwiches and a good old fashioned coffee.  This place is perfect to feast on yummy treats from their extensive menu. Their friendly quick service is definitely an added bonus. Ruta’s Cafe in Assagao or Lila Cafe in Anjuna are both great alternatives for a hearty good breakfast in North Goa.

12 Hours in Goa - Breakfast- Image Courtesy Source

Once done filling your stomach with a tasty breakfast you can satisfy and feast your eyes with the different types of art that Goa has to offer. One can head over to the various museums that Goa is home to such as Museum of Goa (commonly known as MOG) in Pilerne. The others are  Gitanjali Gallery in Fontainhas and the Cube Gallery in Moira to name a few.

If you are the type of person who loves to know the history of a place then you can book yourself for a heritage walk around the charming quaint lanes of Fontainhas. This beautiful part of the capital Panjim is dotted with colorful little houses and a rich history. It is said to be the oldest Latin Quarter in Asia.

For those who love architecture & religious sites then you’re in for a treat. The tiny little state of Goa is home to various different architectural styles thanks to the different dynasties that ruled here. There are numerable Churches that dot the state of Goa such as Se Cathedral and Bom Jesus Basilica in Old Goa. There is also the famous Panjim Church, St. Thomas Church in Aldona, Mae de Deus Church in Saligao to name a few. Let’s not forget the beautiful and skillfully carved Temples in Goa. These include the Mahadev Temple in Tambdi Surla, the Mangueshi Temple and Mahalaxmi Temple in Ponda or the Shantadurga Temple in Kavalem. Each of these temples have a unique story to offer so if you’re a lover of history you should definitely try visiting one.

Half Day in Goa - Image Courtesy Source

 

If you happen to be in Goa on a Wednesday during season time, that is October to April, then a walk through the Wednesday flea market at Anjuna is must. From handmade Tibetian Silver jewellery to colorful beach sarongs, Rajasthani hand work quilts, wooden artifacts, clothes, bags and more. There is something for everyone at great bargain rates. So if you’re a shopaholic, here’s the place to be.

Afternoon Hours – Quick Trip to Goa

What is a day without a good fulfilling lunch? Don’t worry we’ve got you covered. If you’re a foodie and a fish lover then the classic authentic Goan fish thali lunch is a perfect way to recharge your batteries after bustling around. Vinayak in Assagao, Ritz Classic with its 4 branches around the city makes a great thali too. Not to mention Copper Leaf in Porvorim, Anand in Anjuna, Fat Fish in Baga and Kokni Kanteen in Panjim. They also dish out great veg & non-veg thali. However if salads, bakes, grilled sandwiches or a continental style lunch is what you prefer, then head to Artjuna. This place offers a relaxed and peaceful vibe. Don’t worry about places to eat at because Goa has a number of amazing restaurants to suit a variety of preferences, including Vegan options.

Lunch Options for a half day trip to Goa - Image Courtesy Source

 

We have the perfect thing for you to do if you’re a nature lover and just want to sit back and relax. Take in the fresh air and wildlife that Goa has to offer after lunch. A boat ride or a drive through the hinterlands of Goa should be on your agenda. You can go for a walking tour to the beautiful island of Divar or visit the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary that’s on the island of Chorao.

Evening Hours for the 12 Hours stay in Goa

If not the islands of Goa you can also hit the beach. No trip to Goa can be complete without a visit to its beautiful beaches. Its after all the land of the sun, sand and sea. What better way to say goodbye to a perfect day than watching the sunset from Goa’s famous beaches. You can pick from a wide list of beaches like Morjim, Ashvem, Anjuna or the rugged hilltop of Vagator. You can also head to the ever so crowded Baga or Calangute stretch to see the sunset.  The beach is the perfect way to say goodbye to a well spent adventurous day in Goa.

12 Hours in Goa - Image Courtesy Source

And lastly, if you happen to have some extra time on your hands you can opt for a night cruise down the Mandovi. For this head to Panjim for one of the Paradise boat cruises & let your hair down to some famous Bollywood tracks. There is also the floating Casinos for those of you who love to try their luck. Who knows, lady luck may just smile down on you, making this the most memorable trip ever.

Most of the time a mere 12 hours in Goa isn’t enough to see the state of Goa. If you’re lucky and great at planning, you can have a bit of everything! If you’re in Goa for a day or night and need a place to stay then we’ve got just the place for you! Goa Casitas has a wide range of private apartments and luxury villas for you. These are ideal to unwind and relax while in Goa. Click here and find the perfect holiday home for you!