Goa is often celebrated for its sun-kissed beaches and laid-back vibe, but it’s also a land steeped in layered history—where every corner tells a tale of Portuguese rule, maritime trade, and centuries-old spirituality. For travelers with a curiosity for the past, this coastal state is a treasure trove of timeless architecture, spiritual landmarks, and military outposts.

Set in the charming Latin Quarter of Panjim, La Estoria, Goa – IHCL SeleQtions offers more than just elegant hospitality—it’s a portal to Goa’s colonial soul. This heritage-inspired hotel is ideally situated near some of the most iconic historic places in Goa, making it the perfect base for culture-seekers looking to dive deeper into the state’s storied past.

Once the capital of Portuguese India, Old Goa is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a testimony to the state’s enduring legacy of faith, art, and architecture. Located just a short drive from La Estoria, this historic enclave is home to some of the most majestic Old Goa churches, each narrating a chapter of Goa’s colonial era.

Start your journey at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, where the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier are preserved in a grand baroque tomb. This church is not only one of the most visited churches in Goa, but also an important pilgrimage site for Catholics worldwide.

Just a stone’s throw away is the Se Cathedral, one of Asia’s largest churches and an exquisite blend of Portuguese-Gothic architecture. With its towering façade and tranquil interiors, it's an awe-inspiring stop on any church trail in Goa.

Complete your Old Goa trifecta at the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, known for its intricate frescoes and altarpieces that depict biblical scenes with baroque flair.

From La Estoria, guests can join a guided cultural walk or a short self-drive excursion to these Old Goa churches, making it an effortless way to explore Goa’s ecclesiastical history.

No exploration of historic places in Goa is complete without venturing into its timeworn forts—silent sentinels that once guarded its coastline and trade routes.

Begin with Reis Magos Fort, just across the Mandovi River. Carefully restored and converted into a cultural center, it offers panoramic views, art exhibitions, and an immersive experience into Goa’s colonial and military past.

Next, head to Fort Aguada, one of the most iconic forts in Goa. Perched along the Arabian Sea, this 17th-century marvel is home to a four-story lighthouse and sweeping ocean vistas—perfect for sunset seekers and history enthusiasts alike.

For a more cinematic backdrop, visit Chapora Fort, made famous by Bollywood and beloved for its breezy cliffside location. The hike is short but rewarding, with views that stretch across Vagator beach and the northern coastline.

Thanks to La Estoria’s central location in Panjim, guests can comfortably explore all three forts in Goa in a single day, making it ideal for those seeking a blend of history and scenery.

One of the greatest perks of staying at La Estoria, Goa – IHCL SeleQtions is the hotel’s proximity to Fontainhas, the heart of Panjim’s Latin Quarter. Here, cobbled streets meander past Portuguese villas with terracotta roofs, colorful façades, and ornate balconies.

Within walking distance, you’ll find the Immaculate Conception Church, a 16th-century landmark whose striking white façade dominates Panjim’s skyline. Another nearby gem is the Adil Shah Palace, one of the oldest surviving buildings in Goa, once serving as the seat of power for rulers before Portuguese rule.

Staying at La Estoria means you’re immersed in a living museum. Whether you choose a leisurely morning stroll through the alleyways or an evening photography walk, this part of Panjim offers a rich, everyday encounter with Goa’s colonial legacy.

To help guests make the most of their heritage-inspired stay, La Estoria offers expertly curated cultural trails:

- Church Trail: Explore a spiritual arc from Panjim’s Immaculate Conception Church to the magnificent Old Goa churches like Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral. - Fort Day Trip: Embark on a scenic road trip from Reis Magos Fort to Fort Aguada, finishing with the golden hour at Chapora Fort. - Cultural Immersion Tour: Discover Panjim’s vibrant Fontainhas neighborhood, browse local art galleries, shop at century-old markets, and learn about Indo-Portuguese life.

The hotel’s concierge team is more than happy to craft personalized itineraries, whether you're a solo traveler chasing stories, a couple seeking meaningful escapes, or a family teaching kids about India’s diverse heritage.

Goa is not just about its beaches—it’s a destination where every fortification, chapel, and street corner whispers stories of conquests, conversions, and cultural fusion. And when it comes to exploring these historic places in Goa, La Estoria, Goa – IHCL SeleQtions provides a stay that is both soulful and strategic.

From awe-inspiring churches in Goa to sea-facing forts in Goa, every landmark is within easy reach. Add to that the hotel’s colonial-inspired setting in Panjim’s most charming quarter, and you have a base that doesn’t just host you—it enriches your entire journey.