Sé Cathedral
Goa's oldest and largest church, a stunning example of Portuguese-Manueline architecture with a rich history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy peace
Sé Cathedral
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Goa's oldest and largest church, a stunning example of Portuguese-Manueline architecture with a rich history.
"A must-visit in Old Goa! The architecture is grand and peaceful inside. Very clean and well-maintained."
🧥 Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders & knees to enter.
⏳ Allow an Hour
Explore the cathedral & museum.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Golden Bell
Bell Tower
Asia's largest bell, housed in a single tower, a testament to Portuguese colonial architecture.
Grand Interiors
Main Sanctuary
Spacious and serene, featuring a breathtaking golden altar and rich historical ambiance.
Manueline Architecture
Exterior and Cloisters
Admire the impressive Portuguese-Manueline style, a blend of Gothic and Renaissance influences.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code & Respect
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders & knees to enter.
⏳ Allow an Hour
Explore the cathedral & museum.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Drinking water available.
🤫 Maintain Silence
Respect the sacred space.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders & knees to enter.
⏳ Allow an Hour
Explore the cathedral & museum.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Drinking water available.
🤫 Maintain Silence
Respect the sacred space.
📸 Calm Photos
Great for peaceful photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Sé Cathedral for its grand architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and historical significance. Many highlight the impressive interiors and the Golden Bell as key attractions. Some note the need for modest dress and the ticket for the museum.
"When I visited Se Cathedral, the weather was cloudy and it had started to rain, which made the whole place feel even more peaceful and serene. The massive structure looked even more majestic against the grey sky, and the rain gave everything a soft, quiet vibe.
Even though we didn’t spend a lot of time inside, just walking around and taking in the beauty of the architecture felt calming. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the light rain, made the experience feel almost cinematic. It was one of those moments where you don’t need to say much—just stand there and take it all in. A simple but beautiful memory from our Goa trip."
Skanda Shanbhog
"This is the must visit place in Goa. This is the archeological site of India and the place is very peaceful and they have church inside like the name said Se Cathedral. The place is very big it will take approx 1 hour to see the place and church from inside and you need ticket for entry in museum also."
Manjit Singh
"A must-visit in Old Goa! The architecture is grand and peaceful inside. Very clean and well-maintained. A beautiful place to explore history and take calm photos. Highly recommended!"
Seelan Katheesh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sé Cathedral is located in Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's easily accessible by taxi or rented car from major Goan cities like Panjim. Ample parking is available nearby.
Yes, Sé Cathedral is situated near other significant landmarks like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and St. Cajetan Church, making it ideal for a day of historical exploration.
Many visitors opt for taxis or auto-rickshaws to hop between the historical churches in Old Goa. Some also rent scooters for more flexibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Sé Cathedral itself is free. However, there is a ticket required to enter the museum located within the premises. +1
The cathedral is typically open from 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM daily, but it's always a good idea to check for any special event closures.
No advance booking is required for the cathedral itself as entry is free. Tickets for the museum can be purchased on-site.
Services are held regularly, and while you can visit during these times, it's best to be mindful and quiet to respect worshippers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors must wear modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees. Shorts or revealing attire are not permitted.
Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the cathedral and the museum.
While the main areas are generally accessible, some older structures might have limitations. It's advisable to inquire on-site for specific accessibility details.
Yes, drinking water and washrooms are available for visitors.
It's one of India's largest and oldest churches, built by Portuguese colonialists, and holds significant historical and religious importance.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the cathedral, but it's important to be respectful and avoid flash photography, especially during services.
The grand facade, the golden altar, and the spacious nave offer excellent photo opportunities. The surrounding gardens also provide scenic backdrops.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around religious sites and historical monuments. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
This magnificent church has witnessed centuries of history, including surviving earthquakes and playing a role in significant religious events. Notably, it houses the Exposition of the Sacred Relic of St. Francis Xavier, an event that occurs every ten years and draws pilgrims from around the globe.
Beyond its architectural marvels, the Sé Cathedral offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors often describe the interiors as calming, with a spacious nave and a striking golden altar that creates a breathtaking backdrop.
Architectural Grandeur
Inside, the cathedral is equally impressive. The spacious nave is designed to accommodate large congregations, and the golden altar is a focal point, radiating opulence and spiritual significance.
Visitors often find the cathedral's design to be both awe-inspiring and calming. The sheer scale of the building, combined with its historical context, creates a unique atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit