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

Gain a deeper understanding of Goa’s colonial history of Portuguese heritage on this private half-day tour. Learn how the Portuguese impacted the region’s religion, architecture, and food from your expert guide as you explore some of the most iconic places in Goa. 

Meet your guide at your Goa hotel and travel in private, air-conditioned comfort to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of 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.

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. 

Afterwards, travel to the city of Panaji. 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.

Finally, choose to stop at a local restaurant for a traditional Portuguese and Goan meal (own expense), before heading back to your hotel in the comfort of your private vehicle.