Goa can ideally be summed up as a haven of peace and tranquility, which is bestowed upon with such wonderful gifts by the creator that make it an ideal vacationing spot. From the laid back lifestyle of the beaches to the bustling night life of the cities, Goa promises something for everyone.
Though it is visited by thousands of tourists every year, the cities of Goa have quite amazingly managed to retain their old world charm. A visit to the cities of Goa will introduce the tourists to an amazing amalgamation of the past and the present, which over the years has become an inseparable part of its character.
Some of the must visit cities in Goa include:
Arambol:
Situated 32 km from Mapusa, Arambol is a small fishing settlement dotted with swaying palms and a quaint beach that offers the best of peace and tranquility for its visitors.
Canacona:
The city that boasts of some of the most amazing scenery in the region was surrendered to the Portuguese rulers in 1791. The place stands majestically against the backdrop of the Sahyadri Hills and is dotted with a couple of charming beaches.
Mapusa:
A tiny market town, Mapusa is located in the Bardez taluka of Goa. It is an ideal place to start you journey of Goa if arriving by road from Mumbai.
Margao:
The second largest city in Goa, Madgao is a busy commercial centre. The place is dotted with old Portuguese churches and other colonial mansions, which make it a favourite haunt for tourists as well as historians.
Panaji:
Panaji or Panjim, as it was referred to by the Portuguese, is the capital of Goa. However, unlike some of the other capital cities in the country, Panaji has a laid back character, which makes it an ideal vacationing spot.
Vasco-da-Gama:
Situated 29 km from Panaji, Vasco is located overlooking the Zuari river. The city was captured by the Portuguese in 1543 owing to its strategic importance on the western coast.