Start your trip by exploring the charming capital city of Goa, Panaji. In the morning, visit the historic Latin Quarter of Fontainhas, known for its colourful Portuguese-style houses. Take a leisurely walk through the narrow lanes, admiring the architecture and vibrant street art. In the afternoon, head to the Immaculate Conception Church, a famous landmark with its striking white facade. As the evening sets in, make your way to the Miramar Beach for a relaxing sunset stroll.
Immaculate Conception Church: INR 0 (entry is free), 1 hour
Miramar Beach: INR 0, 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Alchemia, known for its cozy atmosphere and a wide range of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Ritz Classic, a local institution famous for its authentic Goan cuisine. Try their mouthwatering fish curry and rice. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
End your day with dinner at Mum's Kitchen, a popular restaurant serving traditional Goan dishes with a modern twist. Don't miss their delectable pork vindaloo. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, September 5: Old Goa Heritage
Embark on a journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Goa. Start your morning by visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus, home to the remains of St. Francis Xavier. Explore the intricate architecture and beautiful altars inside the church. Afterward, head to the Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia, and marvel at its grandeur. In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Christian Art to learn more about the region's rich religious history. End your day with a leisurely walk along the Mandovi River waterfront.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: INR 0 (entry is free), 2 hours
Se Cathedral: INR 0 (entry is free), 1.5 hours
Museum of Christian Art: INR 100, 1 hour
Mandovi River waterfront: INR 0, 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Alchemia, located just a short distance from Old Goa. Indulge in their fluffy pancakes and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Vinay Tawa Restaurant. Enjoy their authentic Goan thali, which includes a variety of curries, rice, and seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mum's Kitchen, known for its traditional Goan cuisine. Try their famous Goan fish curry and prawn balchao. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Wednesday, September 6: Beaches of North Goa
Today, explore the famous beaches of North Goa. Start your morning at Calangute Beach, known for its golden sand and vibrant atmosphere. Relax on the beach or indulge in some water sports activities. In the afternoon, head to Baga Beach, a popular spot for beach parties and nightlife. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the beach shacks. As the evening approaches, make your way to Anjuna Beach to witness a mesmerizing sunset.
Calangute Beach: INR 0, 3 hours
Baga Beach: INR 500 (approx. for lunch), 2 hours
Anjuna Beach: INR 0, 1.5 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Mambo, a popular beachfront cafe offering a variety of options including delicious pancakes and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, dine at Britto's, a legendary beach shack known for its mouthwatering seafood dishes and fantastic beach views. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
For dinner, visit Gunpowder, a cozy restaurant serving delicious South Indian cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Thursday, September 7: Spice Plantations and Dudhsagar Waterfall
Embark on a day trip to explore the natural wonders around Goa. Start your morning by visiting a spice plantation, where you can learn about various spices and enjoy a traditional Goan lunch. In the afternoon, venture to the majestic Dudhsagar Waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery. Take a refreshing dip in the pool formed by the waterfall or simply enjoy the breathtaking views. Return to Goa by evening.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Alchemia, known for its cozy atmosphere and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Pai's Spice Farm Restaurant, located within the spice plantation you'll be visiting. Enjoy authentic Goan cuisine made with freshly picked spices. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
End your day with a scrumptious dinner at Martin's Corner, a popular restaurant in Goa known for its mouthwatering seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Friday, September 8: Art and Culture in Ponda
Today, explore the cultural side of Goa in the town of Ponda. Begin your morning by visiting the Shri Mangueshi Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Marvel at the intricate carvings and architecture of this ancient temple. In the afternoon, head to the Sahakari Spice Farm, where you can learn about different spices and enjoy a traditional Goan lunch. End your day by visiting the Tropical Spice Plantation, where you can take a guided tour and experience the vibrant flora and fauna.
Tropical Spice Plantation: INR 800 (includes guided tour and refreshments), 2 hours
Restaurants
The Garden Café is a charming breakfast spot that offers a variety of freshly baked goods and healthy options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Mango Tree Restaurant is a popular lunch spot known for its delicious Goan seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
The Fisherman's Wharf is a waterfront restaurant that serves a wide range of seafood delicacies and Goan cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹1,200 per person.
Saturday, September 9: Explore Mapusa Market and Fort Aguada
Start your morning by visiting the bustling Mapusa Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and local produce. Explore the stalls selling spices, textiles, fresh fruits, and much more. In the afternoon, head to Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort with panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Explore the fort complex and learn about its history. As the evening sets in, relax at Sinquerim Beach and witness a beautiful sunset.
Mapusa Market: INR 0, 2 hours
Fort Aguada: INR 0 (entry is free), 1.5 hours
Sinquerim Beach: INR 0, 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Alchemia in Mapusa, a cozy café known for its delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For lunch, try Vinayak Family Restaurant in Fort Aguada, a popular spot for authentic Goan cuisine. Indulge in their mouth-watering seafood dishes and enjoy the beachside view. The average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
For dinner, visit The Lazy Goose in Sinquerim, a charming riverside restaurant offering a mix of Goan and international cuisine. Enjoy their serene ambience and try their signature cocktails. The average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Sunday, September 10: Relaxing at Palolem Beach
On your final day, head to Palolem Beach in South Goa for a day of relaxation. In the morning, soak up the sun on the pristine beach and take a refreshing swim in the clear waters. Indulge in some beachside yoga or get a relaxing massage. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Butterfly Beach, a hidden gem known for its picturesque beauty. End your day with a beachside dinner and enjoy the serene ambiance.
Palolem Beach: INR 0, 4 hours
Butterfly Beach: INR 0, 2 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Del Mar: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Cafe Del Mar, located just a short walk from Palolem Beach. They offer a variety of breakfast options including pancakes, omelettes, and avocado toast. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Dreamcatcher Beach Shack: For lunch, head to Dreamcatcher Beach Shack, a cozy restaurant overlooking the beautiful Palolem Beach. They serve a range of seafood dishes as well as vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Drops Resort Restaurant: Indulge in a delightful dinner at Drops Resort Restaurant, known for its delicious Goan and international cuisine. Enjoy the ocean view as you dine on fresh seafood or try traditional Goan specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For those seeking off the beaten path experiences, head to Divar Island, located a short ferry ride from Panaji. Explore the quaint village life and enjoy scenic walks along the island's backwaters. Another hidden gem is the Chorao Island, known for its bird sanctuary and mangrove forests. Take a boat ride through the lush greenery and spot a variety of birds. Locals also love visiting the peaceful Chaudi Market in Canacona, where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts.
Check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Goa here.