If you are in Goa and thinking, what to do in Panaji also Panajim (not just drive by for casinos ), wait! This tiny Goan capital which is awarded for the Cleanest City 2024-25 is full of unexpected vibes—leisurely and peaceful walk, delicious local food, vibrant alleys, and that laid-back susegad atmosphere. So let’s make a relaxed, pleasant day visiting Panaji—just like an authentic Goan would 
Morning: Wake Up, Let’s Go Fontainhas
• Click selfies at Rua de Natal, check out Gitanjali Art Gallery
•Make a pit stop at Confeitaria 31 de Janeiro – have their fresh Bebinca or Custard Tart
Just walk around, no worries. Perhaps have a little cold coffee at some lovely cafe there—Cafe Bodega is serene, within Sunaparanta Art Centre.
Brunch Break: Goan Pav Bhaji at Cafe Bhonsle
Now comes the hungry part. No fancy breakfast—go local! Head to Cafe Bhonsle, right in Panaji market. You’ll thank me later.
Try these:
•Goan Pav Bhaji (Goan masala hit) with Mirchi Bhajji
•Banana Bun (soft & sweet – local style)
•And don’t miss their samosa, toast-butter-chai combo
It’s that typical desi Goan vibe—crowded, chatty, and delicious.
Midday: Chill at Miramar & Dona Paula
Time to chew on that food with some sea air. Just drive 10 minutes to Miramar Beach – serene, expansive, golden sands. Remove your chappals, walk along the edge and experience that Mandovi river embracing the sea.
From there, head to Dona Paula viewpoint – location of love legend (think that old Bollywood number?). From the point above, you can see where rivers meet the Arabian Sea—photo must!
A Little Culture & Heritage
Add some vintage Goa to your morning before lunch.
Go see: Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church
#Basilica of Bom Jesus – where St. Francis Xavier lies. Extremely peaceful atmosphere.
#Se Cathedral – one of the largest churches in Asia, Portuguese architecture.
Optional: If you can spare some time, go to Fort Aguada—vintage 17th-century feel, sea-facing with a nice lighthouse.
Take it easy, just soak in the tranquility of vintage Goa.
Time for Full-On Goan Lunch
Now the tummy is crying out again, isn’t it? Don’t resort to the tried & tested pizza or burger. Have Goan lunch at these tried & beloved spots:
Peep Kitchen
• Located in Taleigao
• Order: Fish Thali which will include Sol Kadhi, Crab Masala,Clam Sukha,prawns curry,dry srimps kismur-prepared by owner itself
Kokni Kanteen-traditional Goan restaurant
• Panaji city side
• Famous for: Prawns Rava Fry, Chicken Xacuti and Fish Thali
Aangan
• Cosy & peaceful
• North Indian + Goan options. Don’t miss their prawns butter garlic!
All of these places are local favourites—cheap, proper Goan flavor and full public show it’s worth it!
Ritz Classic
• ROMANTIC but best!
•A must-try: Kingfish Curry Rice, Chonak Fry
They have 3 locations in Panaji Gymkhana,Market side and Patto
***try Ritz Classic Panaji their first and local vibe
Evening Vibes: Riverfront Sunset Walk & Iconic Atal Setu
Night time? Go back towards Mandovi riverfront. There’s a promenade close to the casinos but if you can ignore the garish lights, the sunset view is beautiful. Boats, orange sky, windy wind, and live music occasionally playing nearby and Atal Setu.
You can:
•Take a River Cruise (Mandovi River)
•Sit on a bench with ice cream
• Or have a local chilled Feni cocktail at Joseph’s Bar or Mateus Goa – peaceful spots with desi Goan flavour
Bonus: Small Shopping
• For cakes ,Mushroom Samosa, cheese rissois Visit Café Central
•For Bebinka and dodol visit any Montana Pastry Palace
• Feni bottles
• Azulejos tiles (Goan art) or souvenirs
Final Thoughts: Why Panaji Feels Special
Panaji isn’t for loud party-lovers. It’s for those who cherish quiet walks, good food, and secret beauty. You don’t require a big plan—just vibes.
• Begin with Fontainhas art
• Eat like a local at Bhonsle or Ritz
• End the day with river breeze and Goan music
That’s it. A day very well spent, cheerful and peaceful—just the way Goa should be ????️
Some Fast Travel Tips:
• Hire a scooter or cab (traffic is thin)
Also Read:Ultimate Guide to Bike and Car Rental in Goa
• Ideal time: Doesn’t Matter -365 days
• Keep cash handy—some small joints do not accept UPI
• Hat, sunscreen and water are essentials
And that’s it, dosto. One relaxed, full day in Panaji – no tension, no hurry, just leisurely walks, delicious food and serene river breeze. Whether it’s shooting photos in Fontainhas or having pav bhaji at Café Bhonsle, every nook of this city has a feel.
If you ever need a break from the crowded shores, visit here. Panaji does not scream for attention – it simply greets you, softly, like a long-time friend.
Stay happy, stay susegad. Catch you on the next Goa trail 