Explore Goa's 5 Best Shopping Streets For Amazing Deals
Negotiation is more than welcomed, so bring your negotiators! This is a list of the seven best shopping streets and sari markets in Goa city that are bound to leave you with a bag full of bags and a heart full of smiles.
1. Anjuna Flea Market
It is nestled along the famed Anjuna Beach, an eye-catching flea market that will make any shopping addict go crazy. What had once been a hippie mecca in the 1960s has evolved into one of Goa's most popular weekly markets.
From brightly coloured sarongs, hippie jewellery and homemade bags to dreamcatchers, collectibles and musical instruments. The atmosphere is buzzing and the live music just rounds off the atmosphere. There is a market held every Wednesday morning until sundown, so make sure you arrive on time.
Highlights and Tips
Open every Wednesday between October and April.
Perfect for boho-chic clothes, gifts, and crafts.
Get bargaining: the people in these places charge a lot for tourists.
Most shops don't take credit cards.
2. Mapusa Market
Mapusa Market is the place to be if you love authentic Goan products. The market is open all day, but the market is at its best on Fridays, when farmers, artisan traders and merchants of the area are here selling fresh fruits, spices and local Goan food.
Not just food; bring home some pottery, old items or even local Goan jewellery. The rough and rustic feel of Mapusa Market takes you straight into the depths of Goa's culture.
Highlights and Tips
Visited only on Fridays to appreciate it.
Acclaimed for Goan spices, folk foods, and pottery.
We recommend early morning trips, avoiding the heat and crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
3. Calangute Market Square
This market is close to the bustling Calangute Beach, and a tourist's paradise. Whether you're looking for stylish beach wear or flip-flops, or wood crafts or heavy jewellery, there is plenty to be found.
For those who love food, the street vendors serve goan snacks, fresh seafood and coconut water. You can browse, eat, and enjoy the vibes on the beach.
Highlights and Tips
An exciting assortment of garments, handicrafts and local products.
They are open daily and the most busy during the evenings.
Don't forget the stalls selling authentic Goan street food.
Watch for your personal items because the room is full.
4. Arpora Saturday Night Market
Arpora's Saturday Night Market is another shopping experience you should not miss out on. This market is an enthralling spectacle of lights, music and movement. Shopping in the open air for designer clothes, foreign souvenirs, eccentric housewares and organic products.
What makes it special is the entertainment, live music, fire performances, and a vibrant nightlife. Whether you're not a customer, or not, the experience is priceless.
Highlights and Tips
Open every Saturday evening during the high season.
The place is excellent for designer and boutique shopping.
Concerts add to the energy.
Parking is limited so park early.
5. Panjim Market
Located in Goa's capital city, Panjim Market has both traditional and contemporary shopping. From spices, cashew nuts, feni (tequila) to clothes, books and jewelry, you can get it all in a pinch.
The indoor market complex is ideal for procuring fresh produce and Goan ingredients. If you want a more contemporary shopping experience, check out the nearby boutiques.
Highlights and Tips
Beloved for spices, cashew nuts, and Goan desserts.
Shopping both inside and outside.
Perfect for locals and tourists.
The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Final Thoughts
Shopping in Goa isn't all about buying things, it's also about interacting with people, talking to vendors, and exploring the hidden gems. Every market in North Goa, every bustling market in the South, has a history to tell.
So pack your bags, honk your negotiating muscles and get yourself ready to explore the goe-shoppes of Goa City. You may take home a souvenir made by hand or a spice that brings the flavours of Goa back home, but these markets will make you remember it forever.
Facts & Figures Summary:
Goa's markets are a mixture of local and foreign elements.
Anjuna Flea Market has been in existence since the 1960s.
Mapusa Market is more than 150 years old.
Arpora Saturday Night Market offers more than 100 stalls and performances.
Two of Goa's most popular exports are cashew nuts and feni.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
17 hours ago
- Time of India
Goa records 54 lakh visitors in first six months of 2025
Panaji: Over 54 lakh tourists visited Goa in the first six months of 2025, a 9% jump over the same period last year, according to the tourism department. The department has cited the data to suggest that Goa retains its status as one of India's most preferred travel destinations in the country. The department said it registered a record-breaking surge in both domestic and international arrivals at the airport and hotel bookings. June itself brought 8.34 lakh visitors, with 8.08 lakh from India and around 25,000 international tourists, the department said. The state attracted 49.9 lakh tourists in the first six months of 2024. 'This boom is the result of a multi-pronged approach adopted by the state. We have intensified promotional campaigns in key source markets, both domestic and global, participated in leading travel trade exhibitions, and launched innovative marketing initiatives,' said tourism director Kedar Naik. According to the department, an unprecedented number of visitors flocked to Goa with notable increases across all categories. Of the 54.55 lakh tourists that visited Goa since Jan 1, 51.8 lakh were domestic travellers, while 2.7 lakh were international tourists. Jan proved to be the strongest month, registering 10.6 lakh tourists, including 9.9 lakh domestic and nearly 70,000 foreign arrivals. Feb followed with 9 lakh tourists, comprising 8.4 lakh domestic and over 61,000 international travellers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo March saw a footfall of 8.9 lakh tourists, with 8.3 lakh from within India and around 56,000 from abroad. During the summer, in April, Goa received 8.42 lakh visitors, including 28,000 foreigners, followed by 9.3 lakh tourists in May. Goa's tourism sector witnessed a significant upswing in domestic and international arrivals in June, traditionally considered part of the off-peak season. June saw 8.34 lakh total arrivals, with 8.1 lakh domestic tourists and around 25,000 international visitors checking into the state. The result was a surge in bookings for homestays, hotels, and experiences in June. Tourism-related businesses across the state, from hoteliers and cruise operators to cultural guides and local artisans, reported increased inquiries and footfall. 'This June has been unlike any other in recent years. The renewed focus on promoting traditional Goan festivals has brought in a wave of culturally curious travellers. It's heartening to see guests not just staying at our properties, but actively participating in local events, asking about their origins, and truly engaging with the spirit of Goa,' said Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) president Jack Sukhija. Naik attributed the rising number of foreign tourists, particularly from the Middle East, Europe, and South East Asia, to better flight connectivity. The department expects the upward trend to continue through the second half of the year.
India.com
6 days ago
- India.com
This Is The Secret Side Of Goa Locals Love — Take a Walking Tour To See It Yourself
In Goa, known for its beaches, nightlife, and Portuguese culture, there are numerous unspoiled areas still left to be explored. Most tourists tend to stick to their preferred destinations, but the best parts of Goa can be found in the hidden, unexplored areas, which are best suited for walking. These walking tours provide a deeper insight into the state's intricate past, culture, and natural wonders. Uncover the undiscovered beauty of this coastal paradise with these walking tours in Goa City. 1. Fontainhas Heritage Walk: A Slice of Portugal in India The Latin Quarter of Panaji is called Fontainhas, and it is a pretty area that brings you back in history. This part of Goa has well-maintained narrow, meandering roads, colored Portuguese style homes, and loads of colonial history. This area has many walking tours that many tourists can join, where they can see a number of famous sites, such as the Chapel of St. Sebastian, Maruti Temple, and many art galleries. Apart from indulging in the Goan culture by visiting the old bakeries, which fill the streets with the enticing smell of Goan bread or Poi. Don't forget to try the local Goanese snacks. 2. Nostalgic Goan Churches Circuit: A Spiritual Experience Most people may not know, but Old Goa is a designated UNESCO site because it is home to astounding Asian churches. As you take a stroll around the vicinity, it opens up a world of spirituality that starts with the Bom Jesus church, dazzling in Basilica architecture and home to St. Francis Xavier's remains. Proceed towards the Se Cathedral which is famous for its astounding structure along with one of the Wolds Golden Belles and additionally, the Church of Saint Cajetan which is based on Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome, together with the St. Monica Church and convent. All of these put together will take your breath away. Walking through these sacred structures will certainly leave a profound impact on your heart, especially if you are a person who loves culture and diversity. 3. Ribandar to Divar Island: A Riverside Walk A picturesque walking tour can be experienced in the village of Ribandar which is situated at the banks of a river. From here, walk to the river ferry station and hop on a ride to Divar Island. This serene getaway feels an eternity away from the chaotic innovations of Goa City. The island will expose you to rice fields, scenic villages, ancient temples, and charming river vistas. This walk will also feature the Our Lady of Compassion Church, one of the best in baroque pieces of art. Enjoy the mesmerizing flora and fauna along the way. This walk is great for those looking for nature therapy. 4. Panaji Market Walk: Chasing Culinary Delights Unlocking the 'Foodies' Bowl Goa is well-known for Panaji and its distinctive cuisine, and you are bound to miss something if they are not tested on a trip there. Among the things to do in Goa, Panaji Market is a must walk tour that completely opens one's mouth. Start off by visiting the Municipal Market, where fresh and unique chopped seasonal fruits, spices, and local dishes like bebinca (layered Goan dessert), and sorpotel (Pork curry) are served. Also, nearby small restaurants make goan authenticity come alive with dishes including fish curry rice or vindaloo. This tour has the perfect combination of Sound, Smell and Sight along with deeper insight into the culture. 5. Altinho Hill Walk: Architectural Splendor and Scenic Beauty Altinho being a residential area and situated in Panaji gives you a glimpse of how your view changes while seated in a wonder of nature with the mountains and sea surrounding you. A walking tour through this wonderful area will enable you to walk along classy colonial mansions, flowering bushes, and peaceful streets, and the sweeping views of the town with the Mandovi River from the hill are jaw-dropping To enjoy a peak of the Arabian Sea, head to the Miramar Beach viewpoint for an exceptional treat watching the sun set. Architecture and nature enthusiasts will enjoy this tour the most. 6. Chorao Island Chorao Island is a stop that can be reached by taking a boat from Ribandar, and there you will find the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, a delight for birdwatchers and nature lovers. While on the walking tour, you will have the chance to explore mangrove forests and wetlands, amphibious ecosystem areas, and calm paths where one can find numerous types of birds such as kingfishers, egrets, and herons. This sanctuary has other wildlife as well, including mudskippers and crocodiles. This walk is an escape into nature and will reconnect you with the environment. 7. Along Mandovi River Along the Mandovi River, the locals have given life to a strip of land known as the Campal Promenade. It is a hot-spot for both tourists and locals as it provides astonishing views of the river, constant activity of the ferry terminal, and the beautiful Adil Shah Palace at night. Besides the amazing view, the area is green, making it a welcome place from the hustle of the city. On the stroll, it is possible to visit the Kala Academy, a cultural hub providing art exhibitions, theater plays, and music concerts. This stroll is ideal for anyone who wants to rest and enjoy the beauty of the town from the river's side. Wrap up As a conclusion, I should mention that Goa is a destination that rewards explorers in the leisure tourism segment. These seven walking tours really do add an unusual dimension to the state's captivating history, lively culture, and stunning nature. From absorbing the sights and sounds of the busy picturesque roads of Fontainhas to gazing at the majestic churches of Old Goa, or relaxing in the serenity of the state.
Time of India
12-07-2025
- Time of India
Goa celebrates 500 years of Camoes
Panaji: When Luis Camoes, the national poet of Portugal who spent roughly 14 years in Asia — including a long stay in Goa — invited people for dinner, he would serve handwritten verses of his poetry on the dinner plates, instead of food. 'Little is known that while his poetry celebrated the Portuguese empire's glory, it was his stay in Goa that changed his perspective, making him a fierce critic of the same empire,' said professor Delfim Correia da Silva, visiting lecturer, Portuguese, Goa University. Camoes, best known for 'Os Lusíadas', lamented that he lost years without truly understanding the cultures he encountered. 'He was therefore a different version of himself because of his time in Asia, especially Goa,' he added. Anecdotes like these have become fodder for Goan thinkers and creative artists as they celebrate 500 years of Camoes' birth anniversary in the state. Individual artists that have their own interpretation of Camoes have therefore replicated aspects of his life in 'Os Rostos de Camoes', an exhibit of which is currently on display at Instituto Camoes, Panaji. One of his most celebrated verses are the ones he wrote for the Goan woman named Barbara who had fallen in love with. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Đây có thể là thời điểm tốt nhất để giao dịch vàng trong 5 năm qua IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo 'This was no longer a man who loved the European women of Renaissance, empire but one inspired by nature, love and the East. As his idea of love changed, thanks to Goa, he started to write poems criticising war. Goan artists have taken small details from his life and replicated it to celebrate 500 years of Camoes,' Correia said.
