Walk Through the Ruins of Old Goa (2 Hours Guided Walking Tour)

Exploring the captivating ruins of Old Goa offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich Portuguese heritage. This guided walking tour promises an immersive 2-hour experience, guiding visitors through the UNESCO-listed sites that dot the historic landscape. From the iconic Basilica of Bom Jesus to the grand Se Cathedral, the knowledgeable guide will provide personalized insights, bringing the enchanting history to life. With a small-group setting, travelers can expect an intimate and engaging journey, uncovering the stories that lie within these breathtaking architectural wonders. What secrets might these ancient walls reveal to those willing to uncover them?

Key Points

• Explore the UNESCO-listed historic churches of Old Goa on a 2-hour guided walking tour.
• Visit iconic sites like the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Church of St. Francis of Assisi, and Se Cathedral.
• Enjoy insights from knowledgeable English and Hindi-speaking guides on the Portuguese influence in the region.
• Moderate fitness level recommended for the tour, which includes transportation if required.
• Small group experience limited to 15 guests, with all entrance fees included for seamless access.

Tour Overview

The walking tour of Old Goa offers a fascinating exploration of the area’s beautiful churches.

Over the course of 2 hours, guests will embark on a guided journey through this UNESCO-listed locale, discovering the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Church of St Francis of Assisi, and Se Cathedral – Asia’s largest church.

Led by highly knowledgeable guides fluent in English and Hindi, you will explore the rich history of Goa, learning about the profound impact of Portuguese settlers who constructed these remarkable 15th-century structures.

The small-group experience, limited to 15 guests, ensures an intimate and personalized tour, with all entrance fees included.

Tour Details

A small-group experience with a maximum of 15 guests awaits those joining this walking tour.

A highly trained guide, fluent in English and Hindi, will lead the way, providing in-depth insights into the rich history and Portuguese influences that shaped these 15th-century structures.

Included in the tour are all entrance tickets to the churches, ensuring a seamless experience. For added convenience, transport is provided if required.

The tour offers:

1. An immersive exploration of UNESCO-listed churches, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Church of St Francis of Assisi, and Se Cathedral.
2. Fascinating historical narratives that bring the past to life.
3. A moderate physical fitness level recommended for the walking tour.

Meeting and End Points

Visitors begin the walking tour at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, located on Old Goa Road in Goa 403402, India. This UNESCO-listed church, dating back to the 16th century, serves as the starting point for the 2-hour guided walk.

The tour then leads participants through the historic streets of Old Goa, culminating at the St. Cajetan Church, situated in the GW48+62M area of Old Goa, Goa 403402. This grand 17th-century edifice, with its distinct Portuguese architecture, marks the end of the enlightening journey through Goa’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour’s meeting and end points are conveniently located, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the stunning sights and captivating history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Additional Information

Confirming one’s booking is the first step, as the tour provider will send a confirmation upon successful reservation.

This tour is wheelchair accessible, making it an inclusive and accessible experience for all visitors. A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended, as the tour involves walking around Old Goa’s historic sites.

Here are three things to keep in mind:

1. Bring water, sunscreen, and a cap to stay hydrated and protected from the sun, especially during summer months.
2. The tour is private, ensuring your group’s exclusive attention from the knowledgeable guide.
3. Payment can be made later, offering flexibility in booking and planning your Goan adventure.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The tour price starts from $13.27, varying by group size.

Travelers can take advantage of the Lowest Price Guarantee, ensuring they get the best deal.

The tour also offers a free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility.

For those who need more time to plan, a Reserve now and pay later option is available.

Reviews Summary

Positive feedback and practical insights characterize the reviews for this walking tour of Old Goa. Reviewers praised the guide’s deep knowledge and the informative nature of the tour.

However, some mentioned scheduling issues with the timing, emphasizing the importance of confirming the tour details in advance.

Recommended considerations for visitors include:

1. Bringing water, sunscreen, and a cap to combat the heat and humidity, especially during summer.
2. Ensuring a moderate fitness level, as the tour involves walking through the historic sites.
3. Planning ahead to avoid any potential scheduling conflicts.

Highlights of the Tour

Highlighting the tour’s captivating experiences, visitors embark on a 2-hour journey through Old Goa’s enchanting churches.

The tour features a visit to the UNESCO-listed Basilica of Bom Jesus, known for its ornate interiors and the preserved remains of Saint Francis Xavier.

Next, guests explore the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, a remarkable example of Goan-Portuguese architecture.

The tour culminates at the majestic Se Cathedral, the largest church in Asia, where guests marvel at its impressive scale and intricate design.

Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into the region’s rich history, shaped by the influence of Portuguese settlers in the 15th century.

Preparing for the Tour

Preparing for the Old Goa walking tour requires a few considerations. The heat and humidity, especially during the summer months, can be challenging.

To ensure a comfortable experience, it’s recommended to:

1. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.
2. Apply sunscreen and wear a cap or hat to protect against the sun.
3. Wear comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy walking shoes.

The tour covers a moderate level of physical activity, so a reasonable fitness level is advised.

Plus, the tour is private, allowing you to explore the historical churches at your own pace with a knowledgeable guide.

With these simple preparations, you’ll be ready to learn about the rich heritage and captivating architecture of Old Goa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator’s policy is to keep the experience safe and enjoyable for all participants. Service animals may be permitted with prior arrangements.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Churches?

Photography is allowed inside the churches, though visitors should be respectful and avoid using flash. The tour guide can provide more guidance on appropriate photography etiquette during the visit to these historic religious sites.

How Much Time Do We Have at Each Church?

The tour allows visitors approximately 30-45 minutes at each church, providing ample time to explore the beautiful interiors and learn about their history from the knowledgeable guide. Photography is generally permitted, though some restrictions may apply inside the churches.

What Happens if the Tour Is Canceled Due to Weather?

If the tour is canceled due to inclement weather, guests will receive a full refund. They can also reschedule for another day or request a credit towards a future tour experience.

Can We Customize the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to visit additional sites. The tour operator is flexible and can accommodate requests to include more churches or historical landmarks in Old Goa based on the group’s interests and time availability.

Recap

Enjoy the captivating history and stunning architecture of Old Goa on this guided walking tour. Explore the UNESCO-listed sites, including the iconic Basilica of Bom Jesus and the grand Se Cathedral, while learning about the region’s rich Portuguese heritage from your knowledgeable guide. This small-group experience offers personalized insights, making it the perfect way to discover the enchanting beauty of this cultural gem.