Hotels in Goa

Staying in Goa

The coast runs north to south with the Mandovi river, and the capital Panaji, roughly in the middle. North of the river are the beaches of Calangute, Baga, Anjuna and Vagator, where the bars, the markets and most of the nightlife are. South of Vasco and the Zuari river lie Colva, Benaulim, Cavelossim and Palolem, which are longer, quieter and more given over to resorts. Old Goa and its churches sit inland from Panaji. Goa has an airport at Dabolim, on the coast between the northern and southern beaches, and a newer airport at Mopa in the far north of the state. Check which your ticket names before you choose a beach, since the drive from Mopa to the southern resorts is a long way down the coast, while Dabolim is placed between them. Flights from Delhi and Mumbai, and the hotel at the other end, are searched together on AI Concierge. For nightlife and a lively beach, stay in the north between Calangute and Vagator. For a resort holiday with children or a quiet week, go south. For heritage, Panaji's Latin quarter of Fontainhas is a different Goa altogether, with small hotels in painted houses. Most beaches have hotels in every price band, so the decision is really about the mood you want.