5-Day Goa Itinerary - December 2023

1. Day 1: Old Goa
   20 minutes (10 miles) from Panaji

   Start your trip with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Old Goa. Explore the magnificent churches like Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral. In the morning, admire the beautiful Baroque architecture and learn about the rich history of the Portuguese colonial era. Afternoon, head to the Museum of Christian Art to see stunning religious artifacts. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Mandovi River.

   • Basilica of Bom Jesus: Free, 1-2 hours
   • Se Cathedral: Free, 1-2 hours
   • Museum of Christian Art: INR 10, 1-2 hours
2. Day 2: Calangute Beach
   30 minutes (15 miles) from Old Goa

   Enjoy a relaxing day at Calangute Beach, one of Goa's most popular beaches. In the morning, soak up the sun and swim in the Arabian Sea. Indulge in water sports activities like jet skiing and parasailing. Afternoon, explore the nearby local markets for souvenirs and traditional handicrafts. In the evening, savor delicious seafood at one of the beachside shacks.

   • Beach Activities: Varies, 4-6 hours
   • Shopping at Calangute Market: Varies, 2-3 hours
   • Seafood Dinner: INR 500, 1-2 hours
3. Day 3: Dudhsagar Falls
   2 hours (46 miles) from Calangute Beach

   Embark on an adventurous day trip to Dudhsagar Falls. In the morning, drive to the falls through the scenic Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary. Marvel at the impressive cascades and enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool. Afternoon, relish a picnic lunch amidst the picturesque surroundings. In the evening, return to your accommodation in Goa.

   • Dudhsagar Falls Entry: INR 400, 4-6 hours
   • Picnic Lunch: INR 300, 1-2 hours
4. Day 4: Spice Plantation Tour
   1 hour (25 miles) from Dudhsagar Falls

   Experience the fragrant world of spices with a tour of a spice plantation. In the morning, learn about various spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Enjoy a guided tour of the plantation and witness traditional methods of spice cultivation. Afternoon, savor a delicious traditional Goan lunch. In the evening, unwind and relax at your leisure.

   • Spice Plantation Tour: INR 400, 3-4 hours
   • Traditional Goan Lunch: INR 300, 1-2 hours
5. Day 5: Fontainhas and Panaji Market
   30 minutes (7 miles) from Spice Plantation

   Explore the charming Latin Quarter of Fontainhas in Panaji, Goa's capital city. In the morning, wander through the narrow streets lined with colorful Portuguese-style houses. Admire the vibrant murals and visit the Chapel of St. Sebastian. Afternoon, head to the bustling Panaji Market for shopping and tasting local street food. In the evening, enjoy a scenic sunset cruise on the Mandovi River.

   • Exploring Fontainhas: Free, 2-3 hours
   • Panaji Market Shopping: Varies, 1-2 hours
   • Sunset River Cruise: INR 500, 2-3 hours

Recommendations

Are there any other local attractions, events, or experiences I should also consider? How about day trips? Any good ideas on how to get the most for my money and have a lot of fun?

While in Goa, you might also consider visiting the following attractions:

• Fort Aguada
• Anjuna Flea Market
• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
• Goa Carnival (if it falls during your visit)

For day trips, you can explore the beautiful beaches of South Goa like Palolem and Colva. Additionally, the vibrant Dudhsagar Falls and the historic Aguada Fort are worth visiting.

To get the most out of your trip and save money, consider renting a scooter or a bicycle to explore Goa's scenic roads at your own pace. Don't forget to bargain while shopping in the local markets for better deals!

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check here to find the best prices.