The Best Things to Do for Free in Goa
Yes, you read it absolutely right! We are talking about the very famous four-letter word “FREE”. Though there ain’t no such thing as a free lunch, when it comes to Goa, this adage doesn’t hold true. There are a plethora of things to do in India’s smallest state that do not cost a single rupee, as revealed by our rundown.
Soak up the Sun and Sand at Goa Beaches
Swimming, sunbathing, watching the sunset, feet dipped in sand while enjoying a cocktail and reading a book, and pleasant walks under the moonlight – does it all sound like your idea of a perfect relaxing holiday? If yes, hitting the beaches should be the first among things to do for free in Goa. Goa is home to numerous beaches that offer all these things and more without straining the wallet. If you’re after the glitz and glamour, Baga, Vagator, Calangute, Anjuna, Arambol, Colva, Agonda, Candolim, Miramar, Morjim and Palolem are the beaches for you. And, if you are seeking quiet and peace, Querim, Mandrem, Ashwem, Betul, Butterfly, Cola and Kakolem are ideal.
Experience Goa’s Culture and Heritage at Fontainhas
Admire the Ancient Churches
Also among the best things to do for free in Goa is visiting the ancient churches and admiring their amazing architecture. Goa is home to a myriad of churches, out of which, one of the ancient churches – the Basilica of Bom Jesus is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Other churches to explore are the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, the Se Cathedral, Church of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Augustine Tower, and Church of St. Thomas. The serenity and calmness of these churches is just blissful. What else would you possibly need?
Hike to Scenic Waterfalls
Goa is at its best during monsoon season (June-September). And, one of the best things to do if visiting in those months, is hiking up the scenic waterfalls. Cascading down from 1,017-feet through four steps on rolling hills, Dudhsagar is one of the most beautiful and must-visit waterfalls in Goa. Water gushing down from a height is just like milk, completely white, thus creating a fine visual spectacle.
Other waterfalls to visit in Goa are Sada Falls, Arvalem Falls, Hivre Falls and Kesarval Falls. The access routes to these waterfalls are equally beautiful, scenic and adventurous. And do you know what the price of such a wonderful experience is? Zero.
Enjoy Unparalleled Views of Goa’s Coastline
Goa is home to several rugged forts peppered along its coastline. The most popular are Fort Aguada and Chapora Fort. Built in the 17th century by the Portuguese, the Fort Aguada will make visitors go wow with its brilliant panoramic views of Goa’s coastline. There is a 19th century lighthouse on the top of the fort that offers picture-perfect sight. Situated on the banks of Chapora River, the Chapora Fort offers views that are nothing short of spectacular. Needless to say, the cost of these breathtaking vistas is NIL.
Be part of the popular Goa Carnival
Vivacious, lively and jam-packed is the scene of Goa Carnival, which is held in February every year. It is a three-day event that involves parades and floats, live bands, dancing troupes, music, sports competitions, DJ nights, fashion shows, and revellers in wacky costumes and masks. It is a visual spectacle on the streets of Goa. And yes, it is free to attend!
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.