Central Panaji is small and walkable: from the Mandovi waterfront to the Church of the Immaculate Conception is a five-minute walk, and Fontainhas is another five minutes east. You will only need transport to reach Miramar, Dona Paula, or to head out to Old Goa and the beaches.
Autorickshaws are everywhere; agree the fare before starting (the meters are theoretical). A short hop within the city centre is usually around ₹50–80; Miramar around ₹150.
Local bus. The Kadamba bus stand on the western edge of the centre is the hub for buses to Old Goa, the airport, Calangute, Anjuna, and other Goan destinations. Buses are cheap, frequent, and crowded.
Scooter or motorcycle. Easily rented in Panaji and across Goa. The standard backpacker option for getting around the state. Wear a helmet (legally required and sensible); the traffic is heavy on the main roads.
Taxi. Pre-paid taxi stands at the airport, railway stations, and Kadamba bus stand. Ola and Uber work in Panaji but with patchy availability.