Neighborhood guide
Where to Stay in Goa
The 3 areas worth basing yourself in Goa, India — ranked by our editors, with walking distances from the center. First-timers: start with North Goa (Anjuna/Vagator).
City centerNeighborhoodsClick the map to enable scroll zoom
Top pick
North Goa (Anjuna/Vagator)
Backpacker and party belt — clubs, flea markets, beach shacks.
#2
South Goa (Palolem/Patnem)
Quieter, family-friendly beaches — calmer water, boutique villas.
8.9 km from center
#3
Old Goa
Portuguese colonial churches inland — UNESCO World Heritage cathedrals.
Getting around
Rent a scooter (most common) or hire a driver; Goa Miles is the Uber alternative.
Wear a helmet on scooters; police enforce strictly on the main coastal road.