7-Day Itinerary for Goa

1. Monday December 25: Explore Old Goa
   35 minutes (14.6 miles) from Goa International Airport

   In the morning, visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, explore Se Cathedral and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. In the evening, take a walk along the Mandovi River promenade.

   • Basilica of Bom Jesus: Free, Approx. 2 hours
   • Se Cathedral: Free, Approx. 1 hour
   • Church of St. Francis of Assisi: Free, Approx. 1 hour
2. Tuesday December 26: Relax on Calangute Beach
   30 minutes (9.8 miles) from Old Goa

   Spend the morning soaking up the sun and enjoying water sports at Calangute Beach. In the afternoon, you can explore the nearby markets for souvenirs. In the evening, dine at a beachfront restaurant and experience the vibrant nightlife.

   • Calangute Beach: Free, Approx. 4 hours
   • Shopping at Calangute Market Square: Varies, Approx. 2 hours
   • Dinner at a beachfront restaurant: Varies, Approx. 1 hour
3. Wednesday December 27: Visit Dudhsagar Falls
   2 hours (42.8 miles) from Calangute Beach

   Embark on an adventurous day trip to Dudhsagar Falls. Enjoy the scenic train ride, hike to the waterfall, and take a refreshing dip in the pool. In the evening, return to Goa and relax at your hotel.

   • Day trip to Dudhsagar Falls: Approx. INR 1,500 per person, Approx. 8 hours
   • Train ride to Dudhsagar Falls: Approx. INR 350 per person, Approx. 2 hours
4. Thursday December 28: Explore Fontainhas and Visit the Goa State Museum
   1 hour (8.6 miles) from Dudhsagar Falls

   In the morning, wander through the charming Latin Quarter of Fontainhas, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses. Afterward, head to the Goa State Museum to learn about the region's rich history and culture. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Goan dinner at a local restaurant.

   • Exploring Fontainhas: Free, Approx. 2 hours
   • Goa State Museum: INR 10 per person, Approx. 2 hours
   • Dinner at a local restaurant: Varies, Approx. 1 hour
5. Friday December 29: Visit Spice Plantations and Enjoy a Houseboat Cruise
   1 hour 15 minutes (29.7 miles) from Fontainhas

   Take a guided tour of a spice plantation in Ponda and learn about the various spices grown in the region. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch at the plantation. In the afternoon, board a houseboat for a scenic cruise along the backwaters of Goa. Witness beautiful sunsets and indulge in a delicious dinner on board.

   • Spice plantation tour: Approx. INR 400 per person, Approx. 3 hours
   • Traditional Goan lunch: Approx. INR 500 per person, Approx. 1 hour
   • Houseboat cruise: Approx. INR 2,500 per couple, Approx. 5 hours
   • Dinner on the houseboat: Approx. INR 800 per person, Approx. 1 hour
6. Saturday December 30: Explore the Dudhsagar Wildlife Sanctuary
   2 hours 30 minutes (58.5 miles) from the houseboat cruise

   In the morning, go on a thrilling jeep safari through the Dudhsagar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spot various wildlife species and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats. In the afternoon, have a picnic in the sanctuary. In the evening, return to Goa and relax at your hotel.

   • Jeep safari in Dudhsagar Wildlife Sanctuary: Approx. INR 1,500 per person, Approx. 4 hours
   • Picnic in the sanctuary: Varies, Approx. 2 hours
7. Sunday December 31: Celebrate New Year's Eve in Goa
   1 hour (24.1 miles) from Dudhsagar Wildlife Sanctuary

   Spend the day relaxing on a beach of your choice. In the evening, join one of the numerous New Year's Eve parties happening in Goa. Dance, enjoy live music, and countdown to the new year with fireworks and festivities.

   • Beach relaxation: Free, Approx. 6 hours
   • New Year's Eve party: Varies, Approx. 6 hours

Recommendations

If you have more time, consider visiting the charming village of Anjuna for its flea market, or take a day trip to the beautiful Dudhsagar Waterfalls. For adventure enthusiasts, try snorkeling or scuba diving in the Arabian Sea. To get the most for your money, book accommodations and flights in advance. Explore local cuisine and try Goan seafood delicacies for an authentic experience.