The Only Guide To Fontainhas, Goa You Need!

Beautiful and rich in history, Goa's Fontainhas quarter is a cultural treasure unlike any other. Also called the Old Latin Quarter of Goa, this cultural and historical gem is a real find. Even now, Fontainhas tells a story about the colonial history of Goa. Every tourist is enchanted by the irresistible charisma of this vibrant area. Because of its Portuguese heritage, the Fontainhas neighbourhood is distinctive. There is a clear Portuguese influence in the architecture of this site, which goes back to the late 18th century. The bright homes with their iron balconies and terracotta tiles are a clear reflection of this. As you meander through the picturesque streets of Fontainhas, you can almost touch the past and present at the same time.

Experience a vibrant portmanteau of cultures at the Latin Quarters of Goa

The Fontainhas quarter is also unique because of the incredible cultural mix that takes place there. The area is beautiful and has a distinct blend of Portuguese history, Indian culture, and Konkani hues. Everything from the architecture to the local food, music, and festivals reflects this lovely fusion. The architecture of Fontainhas is an essential part of any discussion concerning it. Colourful accents adorn houses here. The juxtaposition of the blue sky with these charming dwellings is like watching an artist's palette materialise. Fontainhas is like walking into a live painting as you make your way through its streets. There is an undeniable visual allure to this area! 

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Things to do in Fontainhas 

Arrange a stroll around Fontainhas

Take in the unique features adorning each building as you meander through the winding streets of Fontainhas in Goa. One of the greatest ways to get a feel for the area is to go on a walking tour. The Fontainhas Heritage Walk, offered by Make It Happen, provides visitors with a taste of local life by allowing them to partake in activities such as sampling regional cuisine, listening to live music, and admiring the charming architecture of the area, all of which help to put the ancient Latin Quarter into context. 

Appreciate homegrown art at local galleries

Discover contemporary Indian art at this stunning historic building in Fontainhas, Goa. Here you may enjoy the works of artists like Mohan Naik, Raghu Rai, Jayshree Patankar, and Mario Miranda. Also on show are works by Scandinavian artists from the 1950s and 1960s. Lithographs, linocuts, etchings, and serigraphs are all part of the extensive collection. Plus, the Velha Goa Galeria is worth a visit. This shop is great for souvenir shopping if you're looking for azulejos, which are ceramics and tilework with blue and white patterns. You should also visit the art gallery of Fundação Oriente, which has a permanent display of works by the renowned Goan painters Antonio Xavier Trindade and Angela Trindade. The level of detail and richness in Trindade's art never ceases to amaze, no matter how many times you see it. To find more Goan souvenirs, you may visit Mario Miranda boutiques, Marcou Artefacts, The Good Life, or Global to Local.

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For breathtaking panoramas, climb up Altinho Hill

Altinho Hill's breathtaking panorama aptly concludes your visit to Fontainhas. You can't help but notice the multicoloured buildings with red tile roofs. Here you may also see the world-renowned Maruti Temple. This is also home to the Sunaparanta Centre for Arts, which houses one of the best cafés in Goa! Enjoy smoothies, sweets, and tranquillity at Cafe Bodega, housed in a charming old Portuguese home.

Send a message from a PO that has stood the test of time 

The ancient Casa do Estanco structure, which now houses Panjim's Head Post Office, was once the headquarters of the Goa Special Police. Fontainhas, Goa's century-old post office, doubles as a philatelic bureau selling unique postage stamps and postcards. Get in touch with a loved one or maybe yourself from a bygone era by penning that postcard. When you submit the postcard to the General Post Office in Panjim, be sure to request the permanent pictorial cancellation (PPC). You won't find this PPC anywhere else, and it's collectible all by itself!

Places to eat in Fontainhas

Confeitaria 31 de janeiro 

Having served the community since 1930, this historic institution is well worth a visit! Coated with breadcrumbs and filled with chicken mince, their Chicken Panroll is a reassuring dish. Because of its delicious combination of spice, pork, and dough, their pork roll is highly recommended. Sandwiches like the paneer, pesto, and egg grilled sandwiches are tasty and filling, too! Indulge in the prawn rissoles, a fried patty stuffed with creamy prawns and topped with crispy breadcrumbs. It will melt in your mouth. Start your meal with a Pastel de Nata, which are flaky, fluffy, light, and subtly spiced custard tarts.

Relax Inn

Now this is a Fontainhas legend that should not be missed! Rissois, croquettes, and samosas are just a few of the local staples served by this charming Goan couple. And let's not even mention their Kokum juice—it's like drinking Goa itself, excellent for cooling off in the heat! A word of warning, though: there are only four tables, and they go quickly. Get out of bed early, stop by for breakfast, and indulge in the finest Goan flavours. You have to check this place out!

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Miski Bar

Miski Bar, nestled in a nook of Fontainhas, is the perfect place to relax and soak in the Latin Quarters' communal atmosphere. You can't miss it with its striking blue walls, decorated with artwork by the local Goan bread vendor. Are you craving the flavours of Goa? You've found paradise! Indulge in mouthwatering Goan food and cool cocktails at Miski Bar, the perfect spot for a night in. Here, it's all about that casual, familial vibe. On some evenings, you could even stumble upon a Housie game or karaoke, which would make your trip that much more enjoyable. Drop by for some delicious cuisine and a wonderful time!

Casanoni Trattoria

This location offers a unique blend of Italian and European flavours! At Casanoni Trattoria, you may have Neapolitan pizzas, rich tiramisu, and an assortment of vermouths that will take you on an Italian vacation. You may relax in the laid-back pub atmosphere and have a memorable meal in the open kitchen on the patio above. On Sundays, the restaurant offers special cuisine and live music to suit your mood. Put on your dance shoes because you're about to experience genuine Italian cuisine in a warm and lively setting.