Here Are 4 Colourful Markets in Goa That You Need to Visit
Goa may be the land of beaches and tropical vibes, however, it is also packed with wonders and surprises. Each day spent in this state offers a new adventure and a new sunset sky to make you feel like it came straight out of a painting. Goa is one of the most loved spots for backpackers from all around the world, as well as Indian tourists and package-holiday westerners. If you ever tire of sunbathing, you can go club-hopping, visit festivals around Goa, taste local food or visit the flea markets. As Goa is originally known for its scenic beaches, if you’re looking for things to do in North Goa, the flea markets are mostly set along the beachside to attract tourists. Here are four flea markets close to Marquis Beach Resort you must visit on your next trip to Goa.
Anjuna Flea Market
The biggest and the best of ‘em all, Anjuna’s flea market, is held every Wednesday during the day in North Goa. The market is about 20 minutes by cab from Marquis Beach Resort. One of the major reasons for its huge crowd visit is that the Anjuna Flea Market is located near the famous Anjuna beach of Goa. The various restaurants in Anjuna is also another reason for its huge success. Visited by both Indians as well as foreigners, this flea market offers a mixture and variety of local handicrafts, spices, clothes, footwear, beachwear, artificial jewellery, and accessories. Test your bargaining skills at the various stalls here and you might just strike a good deal! The market also provides small jewels, trinkets, and clothes that represent the Goan vibe and will remind you of the wonderful time spent here, all these available at affordable prices. Anjuna Flea Market. Image Source.
Arpora Night Market
As the name suggests, located in Arpora, this flea market opens at around six o’clock in the evening, and remains open till late every Saturday night. The Arpora market is also about 20 mins from Marquis Beach Resort. Taste various cuisines from all over the world, along with local Goan food, that will surely fulfill your foodie desires. The Arpora market has something for everyone, from local to international wares. If shopping or eating doesn’t describe an ideal night out for you, the Arpora flea market also features plenty of live music performances that are sure to keep you entertained for hours.
Mapusa Market
Now this one is not exactly a flea market, but the best factor about the Mapusa Friday day market is that it doesn’t restrict itself to a season like the rest of the markets in Goa. This market opens every Friday morning at 8 am and presents its visitors an array of stalls with fresh fruits and vegetables for the locals as well as souvenirs, handicrafts, spices and herbs for visiting tourists. The market has a well-organized layout with separate sections for everything it has to offer – food, traditional decor, clothes, and jewellery. If you wish to take back Goan specialties, like liquor, cashews or traditional spices for friends and family, then this one-stop-shop has it all. Try out some traditional sweet treats like dodol, bibinca, dosh (gram flour), as this is something Mapusa market is known for. Mapusa Market. Image Source.
Calangute Flea Market
Yes, you read that right! This famous location, mainly known for its beach also has its own flea market. Lined with innumerable shacks and stalls, this place is a shopper’s paradise! Sarongs, bikinis, and trinkets made of seashells are a perfect treat to take back a piece of Goa with you. When you’re tired from all the shopping, treat yourself to delicious masala fried seafood and beer at one of these stalls. Something unique to look out for is metal, leather and clay items, accessories, textiles and carpets at the Calangute Market Square. The best part about the Calangute flea market is that it’s a tourist hub and a mere 10 minutes from Marquis Beach Resort. There are many other attractions located not too far from it, and the centre of a variety of things to do in North Goa.
Did you visit any of these markets? Which of them was your favourite?
For more tips on things to do around North Goa, check out our blog.
