Vasco da Gama, 29-kms by road southwest of Panaji, rests on the narrow western tip of the Marmagoa peninsula, overlooking the mouth of the Zuari River . Acquired by the Portuguese in 1543, this strategically important site was formerly among the busiest ports on India 's west coast. It remains a key shipping centre, with container vessels and iron ore barges. Some of the prime tourists attractions of Vasco da Gama are, Bogmolo Beach and Naval Abiation Museum .

Panaji, which became the official capital of Goa in 1843, has preserved its Portugese culture and heritage. The city was built on the southern banks of the river Mandovi. At the foot of a hill lies the church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception and a few minutes walk away is the Mahalaxmi Temple . Miramar beach is 3 km away while Dona Paula is 5 km from Panaji. En route, Altinho offers a view of the picturesque scenery of Panaji and surrounding areas. A very famous Carnival centred around a procession of colourful floats takes place in Panaji.

Ponda is called as the temple city of Goa , which is located 25 km from Panaji. Various famous temples are located in and around Ponda. Farmagudi at the hillock of the Ponda city, has the statue of Sambhaji, the brave son of the Maratha leader Shivaji. The temple of Gopal Ganpati at Farmagudi, Shri Mahalaxmi temple and Shri Nagesh temple at Ban, Shri Manguesh temple at Mangueshi, Shri Mahalsa temple at Mardol, Shri Navdurga temple at Borim, Shri Shantadurga at Kavlem are famous temples of Antruz Mahal as it is locally known by the Goans.

Mapusa, a small town 13 kms from Panaji towards the north of Goa , is most popular for its weekly Friday market. 'The crown of Bardez', as it is also known, is basically a market place which forms the hub of north Goa . Weekly fair on Friday, is held at the modem-streamlined market, attended by large crowds. At the entrance of Mapusa town there is a statue of Mahatma Gandhi. The famous church of miracles is revered by all and a yearly feast is held. The temple located in the field towards Kanka is famous for the yearly zatra knows as Bodgeshwar zatra.

Margao, the capital of the Salcete province, is located 33 kms from Panaji, capital of Goa . It houses many commercial set-ups. Margao is also the centre of commerce for the hotel industry. The railway junction at Margao makes it a central hub of railway linkage to South India . Margao is known for its bazaars and restaurants, bus stands and railway stations. The picturesque Colva beach is 5 km away from Margao. It has imposing old mansions and modern buildings.