Friday, September 1: Explore the Historical Charm of Old Goa
Start your trip by immersing yourself in the rich history of Old Goa. In the morning, visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Marvel at the exquisite Baroque architecture and religious artifacts. In the afternoon, explore the Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. End the day at Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter of Panaji, where you can wander through narrow lanes adorned with colorful Portuguese-style houses.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Se Cathedral: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Fontainhas: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Head to Café Alchemia for a delightful breakfast experience. This cozy café offers a range of delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Vinayak Family Restaurant. This local favorite serves authentic Goan dishes, including fish curry and rice. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at Viva Panjim. This charming restaurant serves traditional Goan cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday, September 2: Enjoy Beach Bliss in Calangute
Start your day with some relaxation at Calangute Beach, known as the "Queen of Beaches" in Goa. In the morning, soak up the sun and swim in the clear blue waters. Indulge in water sports activities like jet skiing or parasailing. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant market nearby, offering a variety of handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs. As the evening approaches, treat yourself to delicious seafood at one of the beachside shacks.
Calangute Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Full day
Local Market: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Beachside Shack: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - Evening
Restaurants
Breakfast: Cafe Mambo - Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Cafe Mambo, located near Calangute Beach. This cozy cafe offers a wide range of breakfast options including omelettes, pancakes, and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
Lunch: Fisherman's Wharf - Indulge in a sumptuous seafood lunch at Fisherman's Wharf, a popular restaurant in Calangute. The menu includes a variety of fresh catch cooked in Goan spices, along with local delicacies like pork vindaloo. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Dinner: Britto's - Savor a delicious dinner at Britto's, a legendary beachside eatery in Calangute. Known for its lively ambiance and mouthwatering Goan dishes, this restaurant offers a range of seafood options as well as vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Sunday, September 3: Discover the Majestic Dudhsagar Falls
Embark on an adventurous trip to Dudhsagar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. In the morning, take a scenic train journey through lush green forests to reach the falls. Spend the afternoon mesmerized by the cascading white waters and enjoy a refreshing swim. Afterward, head to the nearby spice plantations to learn about Goa's aromatic spices and indulge in a traditional Goan lunch.
Dudhsagar Falls: Estimated Cost - Train Ticket, Time Spent - Full day
Traditional Goan Lunch: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - Afternoon
Restaurants
The Breakfast Club: Start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast at The Breakfast Club. This cozy cafe offers a variety of options including freshly baked bread, fluffy pancakes, and healthy smoothie bowls. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Zest: For lunch, head to Zest, a popular restaurant located near the spice plantations. Indulge in a delectable Goan thali, which includes a variety of flavorful curries, rice, and traditional desserts. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Taverna: End your day with a delightful dinner at Taverna. This seaside restaurant offers a stunning view of the sunset along with a wide range of seafood dishes. Savor the fresh catch of the day or try their famous fish curry. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Monday, September 4: Explore the Vibrant Markets of Mapusa
Spend your day exploring the bustling markets of Mapusa. In the morning, visit the Friday Market, known for its fresh produce, spices, and local handicrafts. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and aromas of the market. In the afternoon, head to the Anjuna Flea Market, a haven for bargain hunters and a great place to pick up unique souvenirs. In the evening, relax and enjoy a traditional Goan dinner with live music at a local restaurant.
Friday Market: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - Morning
Local Restaurant: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - Evening
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Alchemia, a cozy cafe serving delicious breakfast dishes such as fluffy pancakes and scrambled eggs. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Gunpowder, a popular restaurant known for its authentic South Indian cuisine. Indulge in their flavorful dosas and biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Martin's Corner, a legendary restaurant offering a wide range of Goan delicacies. Try their mouthwatering seafood preparations and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, September 5: Cruise along the Mandovi River
End your trip with a relaxing cruise along the scenic Mandovi River. In the morning, explore the vibrant neighborhood of Panaji, the capital city of Goa, known for its Portuguese influence. Visit the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and enjoy panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, board a river cruise and sail along the Mandovi, taking in the picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes. Enjoy live music, dance performances, and a delicious dinner buffet on the cruise.
Panaji City: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Morning
Mandovi River Cruise: Estimated Cost - Ticket Price, Time Spent - Afternoon
Dinner Buffet: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - Evening
Restaurants
The Bistro Cafe: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Bistro Cafe, located in the heart of Panaji. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options, from fluffy pancakes to hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Viva Panjim: For lunch, head to Viva Panjim, a charming Goan restaurant that serves authentic Goan cuisine. Indulge in their mouthwatering fish curry and rice or try their Goan prawn curry. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Mum's Kitchen: Enjoy a flavorful dinner at Mum's Kitchen, a popular restaurant known for its traditional Goan dishes. Try their Goan fish curry, chicken xacuti, or pork vindaloo. Average cost for a meal is about ₹700 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, visit the Divar Island, a serene and untouched island offering picturesque landscapes and old Goan charm. Explore the quiet villages, ancient temples, and enjoy a peaceful boat ride. Another local favorite is the Chandor Village, known for its grand old mansions and unique Goan-Portuguese architecture. Visit the Braganza House and experience a glimpse of Goa's colonial past.