Private Portuguese Heritage Tour of Goa

On this private tour explore some of the famous sights and churches of Goa and discover the Portuguese influence on the life and culture of its people. Having been under Portuguese occupation for over 450 years,  Portuguese influence is visible everywhere especially in the architectural styles of the buildings and the churches. Spend a few hours seeing the legacy of the Portuguese rule in this beautiful coastal town known more for its miles of sandy beaches.

Highlights
• Basilica of Bom Jesus, dedicated to St. Francis Xavier
• Se Cathedral, the largest church in Asia
• Narrow streets of Panaji's Latin Quarter, Fontainhas
• Magnificent views of the Arabian Sea from the Dona Paula Jetty

You will be picked up from your hotel for a half-day tour of Goa featuring its colonial history.

Start your tour from the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Basilica was completed in 1605 and is one of the best pieces of baroque architecture in India. The Basilica contains the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, who brought Christianity to Goa. Walk across the marble floors that are inlaid with precious stones. Learn about the life of St. Francis Xavier from your guide, as well as from the detailed paintings that decorate the interiors. Head upstairs to a gallery of surrealist paintings from Dom Martin, a famous Goan painter.

Next walk over to Se Cathedral, known by locals as Se Cathedral of Santa Catarina. This magnificent 16th century Cathedral is the largest church in Asia. The building is Portuguese-Gothic in style with a Tuscan exterior and a Corinthian interior. The church houses one of the largest bells in Goa and is dedicated to a saint who was martyred in the 4th century for her devotion to Christianity. 

Afterwards, take a short drive to Panaji city. See 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 to Dona Paula Jetty, and take views of the picturesque Mormugao Harbor and the Arabian Sea that make for the perfect photo stop.

At the end of it all, you may choose to have lunch (own expense) at a local restaurant.

After lunch you will be dropped back at your hotel.