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Margao or Madgaon is Goa’s second-largest city and a bustling commercial center. Surrounded by lush greenery, there are several things to do in Margao, dotted with several temples and spiritual centers. Margao is known for its quiet atmosphere and scenic beauty. The town offers affordable accommodations for tourists, attracting a large number of tourists. With some delectable dishes to taste and several thrilling activities to be a part of, Margao is a one-stop destination for a memorable and exciting vacation in Goa.
7 Best Things To Do In Margao
With unmatched tourist options to explore, there are several things to do in Margao in a tranquil setting amidst thrilling activities:
1. Explore San Thome Museum
Photo: Yamini vijay lawhate / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
San Thome Museum in Margao is the finest museum in Goa and one of the best things to see in Margao. This museum in Goa is the only museum that is dedicated to the Technical Revolution that started in 1800 AD. A finest jewel in Goa’s treasure trove, San Thome Museum is named after Thomas Edison who invented many features of today’s smartphone. The museum will take you back in time and one can explore all the inventions in technology from the 18th century till date.
Location: Varca, Margao. Goa
Timings: 9 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹200
Suggested Read: Mario Miranda Museum Goa
2. Visit Church Of Our Holy Spirit
Photo: Fredericknoronha / Wikimedia Commons
Church of Our Holy Spirit is a 17th-century building built during the Portuguese rule in Goa and is one of the oldest churches in Margao. The site once had a holy shrine dedicated to the Hindu deity, Lord Damodar. The original temple was destroyed by the Portuguese before the church was built. The Church has witnessed numerous transitions in Margao and is one of the best things to see in Mapusa for its opulent architecture and religious significance.
Location: Borda, Margao
Timings: 9 AM – 12 PM; 4 PM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. Pray At Our Lady Of Grace Church
Photo: Leena DAlmeida / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Our Lady of Grace Church is among the top churches in Goa. Also known as the Nossa Senhora da Grace, The Church boasts classic Italian-style architecture. Established in the year 1959, the church was earlier a military chapel. Being smaller as compared to the other churches in Goa, Our Lady of Grace Church is a peaceful place and represents the first breath of the Renaissance in Portuguese architecture. The church is surrounded by verdant landscapes and lush greenery, offering a tranquil experience to those to visit.
Location: Pajifond, Margao
Timings: 7 AM – 10 AM; 4 PM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Popular Places To Visit In Margao For A Historical & Cultural Getaway
4. Wander At Margao Market
Photo: Fredericknoronha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Margao Market in Margao, with over 100 stalls and outlets selling a wide and diverse array of exotic items, bustles with people. The crowded streets of the market sell items including textiles, handicrafts, paintings, junk and seashell jewelry, and various other interesting souvenirs and consumer goods. Visitors to the Margao Market can also indulge in relishing some of the most delectable and mouth-watering Goan food.
Location: Comba, Margao
Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Meditate At Carmelite Monastery
Photo: Calistemon / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Carmelite Monastery in Margao, Goa, is a serene spiritual retreat known for its rich history and peaceful ambience. Founded in 1939, the monastery is dedicated to the Order of Discalced Carmelites and offers a range of spiritual services, including daily masses, confession, and counselling. Visitors can explore the beautiful church, participate in retreats and recollections, and enjoy the tranquil gardens. The monastery also hosts community events and provides spiritual guidance to locals and tourists.
Location: Near Victor Hospital, Aquem, Margao, Goa
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Top Action-Packed Things To Do In Goa With Family
6. Stroll Through Monte Hill
Photo: CC0 Public/ Px Here/ Image For Representation Only
Perched above the town, Monte Hill offers one of the most peaceful places to visit in Madgaon. A short uphill walk rewards you with panoramic views of the city, surrounding greenery, and the distant coastline. At the top sits the charming Chapel of Our Lady of Mount, often a quiet and perfect spot for reflection. Locals visit during the Holy Week, but it’s equally worth exploring year-round for the breeze, tranquility, and sunset views.
Location: Near Old Market, Madgaon, Goa
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
7. Plan A Picnic At Jorge Barreto Park
Photo: Olha Kolesnyk / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Located in Margao, Jorge Barreto Park is a green urban oasis ideal for families and casual outings. Surrounded by heritage buildings and home to the elegant municipal library, the park features shaded benches, play areas, and quiet corners for reading or a picnic. Packing a light lunch or snacks and enjoying a laid-back picnic under the trees is one of the fun things to do in Margao, Goa. It’s also a great spot for people-watching or relaxing before exploring other city landmarks nearby.
Location: Opposite Margao Municipal Building, Madgaon, Goa
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Theme Parks In Goa
Things To Do Around Margao
Apart from all the fun activities in Margao, here are some of the experiences that you can around the city:
1. Relax At Zalor Beach
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Wondering what to do in Madgao? A beach that is not very crowded near Margao, Zalor Beach has got your back. This is a small beach lying just south of Varca Beach. The pristine white sands, clear skies, and turquoise blue waters offer a serene experience to the tourists in Margao. Zalor is one of the off-beat beaches in South Goa, for an escape from the crowds. Located at a distance of 14 km from Margao city, the Zalor Beach is dotted with some colorful shacks, swaying palm trees, and beach huts that offer an exciting encounter for the hippies in Goa.
Location: Salcette, Margao
Timings: 6 AM – 10 PM
Entry Fee: Free
2. Seek Blessings At Sri Damodar Temple
Photo: Balaji Srinivasan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
At a distance of 19 km from Margao, Sri Damodar Temple is situated in South Goa. The famous temple in Margao is dedicated to Lord Damodar, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple is a highly revered temple by the Hindus as well as the Catholics, and is visited by people from all walks of life. The most vibrant festival celebrated in Shri Damodar Temple is the Shigmo, a Hindu spring festival of colors. It lasts for a week and is celebrated with full zeal and enthusiasm with a vibrant affair of fests, fairs, cultural activities, and traditional food.
Location: Zambaulim Village, Margao
Timings: 5:30 AM – 9:45 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Top Temples In Goa For A Blissful And Spiritual Experience
3. Visit Rachol Seminary
Photo: Arnautpinho / Wikimedia Commons
Built in 1609, Rachol Seminary is one of the best things to see in Margao. Located in South Goa, this is the oldest and largest seminary in Goa. With a history of over 400 years, visitors can explore the stunning church, wall murals, and paintings that are made by popular artists like Angelo da Fonseca here. Exploring this seminary is one of the most fun things to do in South Goa. Tourists visit the Rachol Seminary for its vintage construction, lush green park, beautiful church, and an overall tranquil experience in Goa.
Location: Angelo Road, Rachol, Margao
Timings: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Explore Pandava Caves
Photo: Ankit Saha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Arvalem Caves, also popularly known as the Pandava Caves are said to have been the shelter of the five Pandavas, of the Mahabharata epic, during their exile. The Pandava Caves are very much patterned in the Buddhist cave style. Additionally, Rudreshwar temple and a relaxing waterfall near the caves makes this place one of the fascinating things to do in Goa. The Shiva linga found in the caves are said to be similar to those of the Elephanta, Ajanta and Ellora caves in Maharashtra.
Location: Near Sanquelim Village, Margao
Timings: 9 AM – 1 PM and 2 PM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Take A Journey Through Time By Visiting These Caves In Goa
5. Explore The Goa Chitra Museum
Photo: Joseph Assis Fernandes / Wikimedia Commons
Goa Chitra Museum, located in Benaulim, South Goa, is a fascinating ethnographic museum dedicated to preserving Goa’s rich agrarian heritage. Founded by Victor Hugo Gomes, the museum houses over 4,000 artefacts, including traditional farming tools, vintage vehicles, folk instruments, and religious artefacts. Visitors can explore the museum’s open-air exhibits, enjoy an organic farm, and participate in workshops and cultural events.
Location: St. John Baptist Church Road, Mondo-Waddo, Benaulim, Salcete, Goa
Entry Fee: ₹100
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
6. Visit The Menezes Braganza House
Photo: Balou46 / Wikimedia Commons
Menezes Braganza House, located in Chandor, South Goa, is a magnificent heritage mansion built in the 17th century. This Portuguese-style house is known for its grand architecture, featuring chandeliers, period furniture, paintings, porcelain, and crystal artefacts. Visitors can explore the extensive library with over 5,000 books, the ornate ballroom, and the beautifully landscaped gardens. The house is divided into two wings, each showcasing the aristocratic lifestyle of the Braganza family.
Location: Culsabhatt, Chandor, Goa
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit Near Margao
7. Relax At The Majorda Beach
Photo: Deepak Patil / Wikimedia Commons
Majorda Beach, located in South Goa, is a serene and picturesque destination known for its golden sands and swaying palms. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll, relax with a book, or indulge in water sports like parasailing, banana boat rides, and jet skiing. The beach is one of the hidden beaches in South Goa and one of the best to enjoy water sports in South Goa. It is dotted with shacks offering delicious Goan cuisine, including seafood and spicy Russian delicacies.
Location: Majorda, Salcete, Goa
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
The ancient, bustling yet serene city of Margao is open to all and is dotted with heavenly and picturesque tourist destinations. Various things to do in Margao will surely make your vacation a fun-filled and enthralling one. Embark on a family vacation or a friend’s trip that is packed with thrill, adventure, and bliss away from the crowded streets and allure of the city.
Cover Photo: Fredericknoronha / Wikimedia Commons
