North Goa vs South Goa: Know which is better
Whenever you hear the name Goa, your mind instantly starts to picture beaches and everything in between. Many of you even dream about spending a luxurious vacation there. Just in case you happen to be a party animal, and in love with clear sea waters, then Goa could be everything you’ve hoped for.
However, a tiny little problem (rather a question) can do some stirring in your mind. North Goa or South Goa? Where can you make the most of your precious holidays?
Well, some people talk so highly about North Goa, while some don’t want to hear anything but South. Surely you have come across them, and now you’re torn between two worlds.
Although you don’t need to listen to others when you can make your own decisions. That’s why this article here is to leave you with choices. Learn more about the charms of both parts of Goa, and then decide for yourself where to go.
North Goa
Is North Goa better than South Goa? The truth is, it’s almost impossible to answer this question in one line. You need to dig deeper if you truly want to get a clear picture of South and North Goa.
Beaches
Be it North Goa or South Goa, there are plenty of beaches. However, when it comes to North Goa, you are never alone there. These beaches are always crowded, even at night time. And you know what, some of the beaches in North Goa are highly recommended for water activities. In case you don’t want to spend your time just sitting at the shore, you can get on an adventure.
Activities like paragliding, parasailing, scuba diving, banana boat rides, and Kayaking are so famous around North Goa. Beaches like Anjuna, Baga, Vagator, Calangute, and Candolim are perfect to feed your adventurous soul.
Nightclubs and Casinos
Goa means wild nightlife along with letting yourself get lost in the moment. North Goa happens to be just that kind of a paradise for you if you can’t go on without a thrill. Plenty of clubs and casinos are in North Goa to provide you with just what you need in Goa. Casino Carnival, Casino Paradise, Casino Royale, Club Cabana, Mambo’s Night Club,
Markets
It goes without saying that you won’t return from Goa without doing some shopping. So you must know about the shops and markets in North Goa before going there.
As a matter of fact, there are plenty of flea markets in North Goa. In case you are running on a budget, you can check them out.
Arpora Market is one of the oldest hippie flea markets in Goa. Besides, Anjuna Flea Market, Mapusa Market, Mackis’s Night Bazaar, and Panjim, the capital of Goa do have some local markets, and malls as well.
Food and beverage
When it comes to North Goa, it does offer to satisfy your hunger at an affordable price. It is known as the perfect place for a foodie as well. You can taste local dishes like seafood and calzones. Moreover, the street food in North Goa is something to look forward to. You can dine just along the coastline while watching a sunset. Restaurants like Tuscany Gardens, Mum’s Kitchen, Thalassa, Alex’s Shack, TGI Friday and Venite should be on top of your list.
As for the famous local drinks in Goa, make sure to taste Feni, an immensely popular cashew nuts drink.
Places to visit
North Goa is not particularly known for having famous tourist attractions. However, it does contain some of the hidden gems of ancient times in store. A significant characteristic of North Goa is the heritage buildings. In case you’re a history fanatic or just enjoy witnessing historical structures, you should enjoy North Goa more than the South.
Plenty of instances of Portuguese colonization are still here after all that’s happened. Some of the main historical attractions are Fort Aguada, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Chapora Fort, Reis Magos Fort, St Anthony’s Church, Church of St Lawrence and a UNESCO World Heritage Site the Chapel of St Catherine as well.
Budget-friendly
The difference between North Goa and South Goa is significant when it comes to staying options. North Goa is all about pocket-friendly tourist accommodations. There are quite a few luxurious resorts as well along with the most affordable homestays. Some of the best homestays in North Goa include Bella Villa, The Shining Gateway, Casa de Xavu, Cottage Green Homestay, Love Temple Beach Cottages etc. As for the luxurious options, you can choose among Taj Resort, Pajaros Blu, Seashell Suites and Villas, Larisa Resort Ashwem, Andores Resort and Spa, Grand Hyatt Goaetc.
South Goa
The Northern parts of Goa are done and dusted, and now it’s time to talk about South Goa. Just in case you were impressed by the description of the North, wait until you hear about the South.
Be it South or North Goa, they all include beaches. However, South Goa does have beaches that offer you a different experience than the north. Here you can feel solace no matter where you go. These beaches don’t offer you adventures, but they do provide you with something more valuable.
Beaches
In South Goa, there are beaches like Butterfly, Palolem, Colva, Majorda, Benaulim etc. However, these beaches are different from what you read about the South. You will find a calm and serene atmosphere here unlike those beaches in the south. Take a walk along the coastline or just lay on the sands under the sun — you’ll find solitude.
Shops and markets
The shops and markets in South Goa are nothing like the North. Yes, you don’t have to deal with the crowds as you have to in those flea markets in the north. The prices in these markets are slightly higher, but they don’t compromise with the quality. In Colem Market, Palolem Market, and Caculo Market you’ll find the most exclusive collection of Goa. These markets are open every day, and you need to be ready to spend some bucks to get the finest goods in Goa.
Places to visit
In South Goa, you will find so many popular tourist attractions as well. However, there are some churches in the South, and some of them are centuries old. Nature is so pure and unharmed in South Goa which you must explore while visiting.
The only waterfall in Goa is here in the south named Dudhsagar Waterfall. Apart from that, you should check out Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Mollem National Park, Our Lady of Remedios Church, St Alex Church, Three Kings Church, Cabo de Rama Fort, Big Foot Museum etc. These places are quite popular among tourists who choose to visit Goa.
Food and beverage
In South Goa, food and drinks are classy just like other things. They might be expensive, but they never cease to amaze tourists. You will find lots of international cuisines along with local ones. Check out Anantashram, Leda Lounge and Restaurants, Palacio do Deao, The Fisherman’s Wharf, Martin’s Corner, and Zeebop by the Sea to get the best taste.
Some of the famous drinks around here include Amrut, Port Wine, Sula Wine, Kingfisher Beer etc.
Nightlife
Nightlife in South Goa is not as vibrant as in the North. Here you can enjoy parties with a less amount of people. After all, if not anything, South Goa is all about class. Places like Club Margarita, Outback Bar and Restaurant, Sundowner, Silent Noise Club, Leopard Valley Gatsby’s Pub, and Smuggler’s Inn are perfect to go wild on the dancefloor with drinks in hand.
Hotels and Resorts
South and North Goa, both include comfortable staying options. However, South Goa includes some of the best luxury hotels and resorts in the entire Goa. You can easily relax and spend some quiet days in one of these villas, away from crowds. Beleza By The Beach, The Cape Goa, Caravela Beach Resort, Kenilworth Resort and Spa, Cabo Serai, Planet Hollywood Beach Resort, and Radisson Blu are some of the best-staying options.
North Goa or South Goa – which is better?
Now the question remains – North Goa or South Goa which is best? Here’s the answer! If you’re looking for a secluded vacation, choose South Goa without a second thought. In case you’re interested in adventures and enjoy yourself with crowds, then North Goa should be perfect.
As you were promised, there are choices to make now that the discussion ends here. Only you know yourself better than anyone, so you are the one to decide which part to go to. Make your choice, and prepare yourself for a tour to Goa.
Wondering how to find a pocket-friendly way to explore places in Goa? Check out Thomas Cook’s Goa tour packages on their website. Book a tour according to your preferences, and you won’t have to face problems exploring Goa afterwards.
