Goa — a name that evokes images of golden beaches, vibrant shacks, Portuguese churches, and a relaxed, sun-soaked vibe. If you’re visiting for the first time and only have a day to soak it all in, fret not. With a rental car at your disposal, especially if you pick one right from the Self Drive Cars in Mopa Airport, you can make the most of your short but unforgettable time in this pocket-sized paradise.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a hand-crafted itinerary that mixes culture, beach time, local eats, and just the right amount of Goa’s signature charm — all made easier with the convenience of self drive cars in Goa.
Why Choose a Self Drive Car in Goa?
Before diving into the itinerary, let’s talk logistics. Goa isn’t your typical metro with predictable public transport. If you want flexibility, privacy, and the freedom to explore offbeat places, a rental car is your best bet. The roads are scenic, and most tourist spots are well-connected.
Starting your journey with a car from Self Drive Cars in Mopa Airport is particularly handy. Located in North Goa, the Mopa Airport offers a convenient pick-up point for exploring nearby attractions without the hassle of taxis or haggling with tour operators.
Now, let’s hit the road.
7:30 AM – Land at Mopa Airport and Pick Up Your Car
Your day begins as you land at Goa’s Mopa Airport — sleek, new, and tucked away in the quieter northern half of the state. If you’ve pre-booked a vehicle (and you should), picking it up from the Self Drive Cars in Mopa Airport terminal is a breeze. You’ll be out and on the road in 20 minutes flat, skipping the queues and touts.
Pro Tip: Choose a compact car for easier parking if you’re sticking to North Goa, or an SUV if you plan to drive through to South Goa later in the day.
8:00 AM – Breakfast at Infantaria, Calangute
Drive time from Mopa: 50 minutes
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Infantaria, a local favorite in Calangute. It’s got old-world Goan charm and serves everything from masala omelets to stuffed croissants. If you're feeling indulgent, try the beef cutlet pao or the fluffy pancakes with local honey.
Parking Tip: There’s street parking nearby, but it can get tight. Look for paid lots close to the beach if needed.
9:30 AM – Fort Aguada: Views, History, and Morning Breeze
Drive time: 25 minutes from Calangute
Fort Aguada is one of those postcard-perfect places that mixes a bit of colonial history with stunning ocean views. Perched above Sinquerim Beach, it’s the perfect morning stop — quiet, breezy, and not yet crowded at this hour.
Take a slow walk around the old Portuguese bastions, enjoy the view of the Arabian Sea, and breathe in the salty air.
Photography Tip: The lighthouse at Aguada is a great photo spot. Sunrise glow often lingers till around 10 AM — perfect for your first Goan selfie.
11:00 AM – Vagator Beach for a Mid-Morning Chill
Drive time: 30 minutes
Hop back into your car and cruise toward Vagator Beach. This stretch of coast is less commercialized and more rugged. There’s space to stretch out, enjoy a tender coconut, or just lay back and let Goa’s slow pace work its magic.
If you're up for a small trek, walk up to Chapora Fort (yes, the one from Dil Chahta Hai) for sweeping views of the sea and red cliffs.
1:00 PM – Lunch at Vinayak Family Restaurant, Assagao
Drive time: 15 minutes
Locals know this place simply as “Vinayak.” It’s unpretentious, busy, and a well-guarded secret among foodies. Grab a table and dive into their fish thali — a generous spread of fried fish, curry, rice, kokum, and local veg sides.
Vegetarian? No problem — their seasonal vegetable curries and bhakri are just as satisfying.
This is the kind of lunch that demands a lazy pace. And with your own ride, there’s no pressure to rush back to a tour bus.
2:30 PM – Explore Fontainhas, Goa’s Latin Quarter
Drive time: 45 minutes (optional detour to Panjim)
If you're interested in Goa’s cultural and architectural legacy, make time for Fontainhas in Panjim. This Latin Quarter is all cobbled streets, pastel-colored Portuguese homes, and hanging balconies with bougainvillea. Park nearby and take a walking tour or just explore solo.
Grab a quick espresso at Cafe Bodega or check out Velha Goa Galeria for some Goan art and pottery.
4:30 PM – Sunset and Shack Time at Anjuna Beach
Drive time: 40 minutes back north
As the afternoon fades, head to Anjuna Beach. By now, you’ve seen a bit of everything — the culture, the beaches, and the food. Now it’s time to unwind.
Find a shack like Curlies or Eva Cafe. Order a chilled beer or a mocktail, watch the waves, and maybe even catch a live acoustic set. Anjuna’s crowd is eclectic, and the vibe is pure Goan boho.
6:30 PM – Quick Market Stop: Arpora Night Market (If It’s a Saturday)
Drive time: 10 minutes
If you're visiting on a Saturday, don't miss the Arpora Night Market. It’s touristy, yes, but full of charm. From live music to quirky souvenirs and global food stalls, it’s the kind of place where you’ll wish you had more time.
Buy some cashew feni or handmade jewelry. Even if you don’t buy anything, the vibe is worth the visit.
8:00 PM – Dinner at Gunpowder, Assagao
Drive time: 20 minutes
For your final meal, head to Gunpowder, tucked into a green courtyard in Assagao. It’s the perfect mix of ambiance and taste. Their menu spans South Indian coastal cuisine — think pork curry, Andhra prawns, Kerala-style veg stew with appams, and coconut-heavy gravies.
Reservation tip: Call ahead. This place gets full even on weekdays.
9:30 PM – Head Back to Mopa Airport or Your Stay
If you're flying out the same night, you’ll need around 1–1.5 hours to get back to Mopa depending on traffic. If you’re staying the night, even better — maybe find a peaceful homestay around Assagao or Morjim to complete the day on a relaxed note.
Drop off your rental at the Self Drive Cars in Mopa Airport kiosk if you're wrapping up your trip, or keep it for a longer journey through South Goa.
Final Thoughts: Goa at Your Own Pace
There’s something liberating about driving through Goa — windows down, music on, with palm trees flashing past and no fixed schedule to obey. Especially for first-time visitors, self drive cars in Goa open up experiences that tour buses or auto rickshaws simply can’t match.
From breakfast by the beach to lunch in a local joint, to heritage walks and sunset cocktails, Goa is all about going with the flow. And the best way to do that? With your own set of wheels and an open mind.
Quick Tips for First-Time Drivers in Goa
Road Conditions: Generally decent, but watch for potholes during monsoon months.
Driving License: Indian or International licenses are accepted. Carry a copy at all times.
Navigation: Google Maps works well, but be alert — some shortcuts may lead to narrow village paths.
Parking: Free near beaches but tight in town centers. Use paid lots when possible.
Fuel Up: Petrol pumps are available, but not 24x7 everywhere. Fill up during the day.
