Private Portuguese Heritage Tour: Se Cathedral, Basilica of Bom Jesus and Dona Paula Beach in Goa

Goa , India

Private Portuguese Heritage Tour: Se Cathedral, Basilica of Bom Jesus and Dona Paula Beach in Goa

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(20 reviews)

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About this experience

Discover Goa’s historical Portuguese influences on this private half-day tour. Learn about Goa’s colonial history as you visit some of the region’s most Portuguese-influenced sites including the Se Cathedral and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica of Bom Jesus. Then, visit Fontainhas, the heavily Portuguese-influenced Latin Quarter in the city of Panaji, before marveling at fantastic views of the Arabian Sea from one of Goa’s hidden gems, the Dona Paula Jetty. After your tour, you can choose to enjoy a traditional Goan and Portuguese lunch at the popular O’Coquerio restaurant.

Available options

Whole Year

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Transport by air-conditioned vehicle

Private English-speaking guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Meet your guide at your Goa hotel and travel in private, air-conditioned comfort to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Basilica of Born Jesus. Walk across the marble floor that’s inlaid with precious stones and visit the remains of Catholic missionary St Francis Xavier. Learn about this man’s life from your guide, as well as from the detailed paintings that decorate the interior. Head upstairs to a gallery of surrealist paintings from Dom Martin, a Goan painter.

Stop 2

Travel by foot to Se Cathedral, known by locals as Se Cathedral of Santa Catarina. This gothic-style Portuguese architecture houses one of the largest bells in Goa and is dedicated to a saint who was martyred in the 4th century for her Christian devotion

Stop 3

Wander the Latin Quarter, known as Fontainhas and experience the sights, sounds and flavors of Portuguese influence first hand as you explore the streets.

Make a stop at St Sebastian Chapel, where statues of historic figures like Abade Faria, a Roman Catholic monk, are displayed.

Next, travel in comfort to Dona Paula Jetty, a peaceful bay where epic views of Mormugao Harbor and the Arabian Sea make for the perfect photo op. Take in the natural wonder of the scene that’s unique to this out of the way treasure before heading to a tiny market on the waterway.

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.4

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A small amount of walking is involved; comfortable walking shoes are recommended

No strict dress code is enforced to enter places of worship. However, please be advised to dress accordingly; short shorts or sleeveless tops are not recommended

Lunch costs including drinks usually range between USD $2 and USD $15

Important notes

• After booking, please reconfirm at sunil@getsholidays.net with the following information:
• Name (all passengers)
• Date of birth (all passengers)
• Email address (primary contact)

This operator requires you to contact them directly prior to this tour/activity.

About Goa

Goa is a vibrant coastal state in India known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and unique blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures. It offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a popular destination for travelers from around the world.

Top Attractions

Palolem Beach

Palolem Beach is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Goa, known for its golden sands, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Dudhsagar Falls

Dudhsagar Falls is one of India's tallest waterfalls, located on the Mandovi River. It's a stunning sight, especially during the monsoon season.

Nature Full day Free (parking fee may apply)

Basílica de Bom Jesus

The Basílica de Bom Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous churches in Goa, known for its Baroque architecture and the sacred relics of St. Francis Xavier.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Anjuna Flea Market

The Anjuna Flea Market is a popular weekly market where you can find a variety of items, including clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, and local crafts.

Market 2-3 hours Varies by item

Fort Aguada

Fort Aguada is a well-preserved Portuguese fort that offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding coastline.

Historical 1-2 hours INR 5 for Indians, INR 100 for foreigners

Must-Try Local Dishes

Goan Fish Curry

A spicy and tangy curry made with fresh fish, coconut milk, and a blend of spices.

Main Course Contains fish and coconut

Vindaloo

A spicy pork curry with origins in Portuguese cuisine, made with pork, vinegar, garlic, and red chilies.

Main Course Contains pork and spices

Bebinca

A traditional Goan dessert made with layers of flour, coconut milk, and jaggery, baked to perfection.

Dessert Contains flour, coconut, and jaggery

Coconut Feni

A local alcoholic beverage made from fermented coconut or cashew apples, known for its strong flavor and high alcohol content.

Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Water sports (jet skiing, parasailing, scuba diving) Trekking to Dudhsagar Falls ATV rides on the beach Beach lounging and sunbathing Yoga and meditation Spa treatments Visiting historical sites and museums Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the best time to visit Goa, with pleasant weather, clear skies, and ideal conditions for beach activities and sightseeing.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Konkani, English
Widely spoken: Portuguese, Marathi, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

IST (UTC+5:30)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Goa is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night and in crowded areas.
• Use reputable taxi and tour services, and agree on a fare or price before starting your journey.
• Keep your valuables secure and out of sight, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

Dabolim Airport • 29 km from Panaji

By train

Thivim Railway Station, Madgaon Railway Station

By bus

Kadamba Transport Corporation (KTCL) Bus Stand in Panaji

Getting around

Public transport

KTCL buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Goa. They connect major towns and tourist spots.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Panaji Calangute Vagator Colva Ponda

Day trips

Dudhsagar Falls

60 km from Panaji • Full day

Dudhsagar Falls is one of India's tallest waterfalls, located on the Mandovi River. It's a stunning sight, especially during the monsoon season.

Old Goa

10 km from Panaji • Half day to full day

Old Goa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of Goa, known for its well-preserved Portuguese-era churches and cathedrals.

Spice Plantations

20-30 km from Panaji • Half day to full day

Goa is known for its lush spice plantations, where visitors can learn about the cultivation and processing of spices like pepper, cinnamon, and cardamom.

Festivals

Sunburn Festival • December Goa Carnival • February/March Sao Joao Festival • June 24th

Pro tips

Visit during the shoulder or off-peak season (March to May, October, or June to September) to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices.
Rent a scooter or bike to explore the region at your own pace and discover hidden beaches and coves.
Try local street food and snacks, such as pork vindaloo, fish curry, and bebinca, for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
Attend a local festival or event, such as the Sunburn Festival or the Goa Carnival, for a unique and unforgettable cultural experience.
Explore the region's rich history and culture by visiting ancient temples, churches, and museums, and learning about its Portuguese and Indian heritage.