Arrive in North Goa and check into your beachside hotel in Calangute or Baga to drop luggage and freshen up before heading out. Most hotels allow check-in from mid-afternoon; confirm early/late check-in with your property.
Enjoy seafood, Goan curries and beach-side views at the iconic Britto's shack right on Baga Beach — a relaxed start to your trip. Britto's is typically open daily ~9:00am–11:00pm; busy in peak season so expect short waits.
Walk the wide sandy stretches, try a short jet-ski or parasailing session, or simply relax on the sand — water-sport kiosks usually operate ~9:00am–6:00pm. Public beaches are open all day; lifeguards may be present in season.
Climb to Chapora Fort for panoramic sunset views over Vagator and the Arabian Sea — a classic Goan photo spot and breezy viewpoint. The fort area is accessible during daylight hours (approx sunrise–sunset).
Dine on Greek and Mediterranean dishes at cliff-top Thalassa with lively music and sea views — ideal for a festive first-night meal. Thalassa commonly opens ~4:00pm–11:00pm; reservations recommended for sunset seating.
If you want to experience Goa’s famous nightlife, head to Tito's lane in Baga or the hilltop Club Cabana for music and dancing; clubs usually stay open late. Clubs may have cover charges and operate until ~1:00–3:00am depending on the night.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with coffee, Goan poi, omelettes and fresh fruit at Café Bodega in Fontainhas or your hotel's buffet. Cafés open around 8:00am and hotel breakfasts often start earlier for early risers.
Wander the colorful lanes of Fontainhas to see Portuguese architecture, quaint cafes and art galleries — a charming, photogenic neighborhood best explored in the cool morning. The quarter is open to the public all day; morning is quieter for photos.
Visit the UNESCO-associated Basilica of Bom Jesus to admire Baroque architecture and the relics of St. Francis Xavier; it’s a key historical monument. The basilica is generally open ~9:00am–6:00pm; modest entry/donation may apply.
See Se Cathedral just a short walk away — one of India’s largest churches with notable interiors and the famed Golden Bell. Open roughly 8:30am–6:00pm; allow time for photos and a contemplative visit.
Enjoy authentic Goan home-style dishes like fish curry, xacuti and traditional sweets at Mum's Kitchen for a true taste of Goa. Mum's Kitchen is usually open ~11:00am–11:00pm; popular spot so consider reserving.
Drive to Dona Paula jetty for sweeping coastal views and the famous local legend; great for photos and a short sea-side walk. Open all day with small stalls nearby; short drive from Panaji (15–20 mins).
Board an evening Mandovi River cruise for sunset views, onboard music and traditional dance performances — cruises typically run in the evening around 5:30pm–7:00pm but timings vary by operator. Book in advance during high season.
Dine riverside on fresh Goan seafood and coastal dishes at Fisherman's Wharf for a relaxed evening atmosphere after the cruise. The restaurant usually serves from ~12:00pm–11:00pm; expect seasonal specials.
If you prefer late-night entertainment, try a floating casino on the Mandovi for gaming, shows and live music — casinos operate late and require valid ID and possible cover charges. Transfers and bookings are available from Panaji hotels.
Have an early breakfast (poi bread, eggs, fresh fruit and coffee) at your hotel or a beach shack to fuel a day of sightseeing. Beach shacks and hotel restaurants commonly serve breakfast from ~7:00am onwards.
Explore the 17th‑century Fort Aguada and its lighthouse for sweeping views of the coastline and a glimpse into Goa's Portuguese military history. The fort area and lighthouse are generally open ~9:00am–5:30pm; small museum/entry fees may apply in parts.
Spend a relaxed morning at quieter Sinquerim or Candolim Beach, ideal for swimming, sunbathing and light water sports — lifeguards and vendors are usually present in season. Public beaches are open all day; water sports run until late afternoon.
Enjoy a traditional Goan beachfront meal at Souza Lobo, known for its fish thali and beachside dining experience. Souza Lobo typically opens ~11:00am–11:00pm; sitting on the sand makes it memorable.
If your departure time allows, drive ~1–1.5 hours south to Colva or Benaulim for quieter beaches, relaxed shacks and a slower pace than the north. Beaches and shacks remain open all day; travel time depends on traffic.
Return to your hotel to collect luggage, complete check‑out and prepare for airport/rail/bus transfer; allow extra buffer for Goa traffic and security checks. Aim to leave at least 2 hours for airport transfer from most beach areas.
If time permits before your transfer, stop at Martin’s Corner in Betalbatim for a lively farewell meal featuring excellent seafood, crab and Goan classics. Martin's Corner generally opens ~12:00pm–11:00pm and can get busy—plan accordingly.