5-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for North Goa

  1. Day 1: Fort Aguada
    30 minutes (10.5 km) from Dabolim Airport

    Explore the historic 17th century Fort Aguada, which was built to protect the old Portuguese stronghold and the Chapora Fort. Take your time wandering through the fort, do some bird watching and enjoy the stunning views of the sea from the top.

  2. Day 2: Mahalaxmi Temple and Dona Paula Beach
    1 hour 15 minutes (26.4 km) from Fort Aguada

    Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Mahalaxmi Temple. Marvel at the intricate carvings and architecture, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. After that, head out to Dona Paula Beach, which is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from.

  3. Day 3: Anjuna Beach and Splashdown Waterpark
    30 minutes (10.5 km) from Calangute Beach

    Enjoy a relaxing day at Anjuna Beach – a popular, family-friendly destination. Take part in water activities such as jet skiing, parasailing and more. Afterwards, head over to Splashdown Waterpark for some thrilling water slides and rides perfect for the entire family.

  4. Day 4: Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and Basilica of Bom Jesus
    1 hour 30 minutes (28.6 km) from Anjuna Beach

    Visit Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary in the early morning to see a wide array of bird species. Go on a nature walk through the mangrove forests and enjoy the peacefulness this lowland forest has to offer. In the afternoon, head to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest churches in India. Admire the Baroque architecture and marvel at the gilded altars.

  5. Day 5: Saturday Night Market and Chapora Fort
    30 minutes (10 km) from Calangute Beach

    End your trip with a visit to the Saturday Night Market in Arpora. Shop for locally made crafts, garments, jewellery and more. Once you’re done, finish off your evening with a visit to the 16th-century Chapora Fort. Watch the sunset over the sea while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding beaches.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Fort Aguada (2 hours, free)
  • Mahalaxmi Temple (1 hour, free), Dona Paula Beach (3 hours, free)
  • Anjuna Beach (4 hours, free), Splashdown Waterpark (4 hours, INR 600 per adult, INR 400 per child under 4ft)
  • Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (2 hours, INR 10 per person), Basilica of Bom Jesus (1 hour, free)
  • Saturday Night Market (3 hours, free), Chapora Fort (1 hour, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 610 per adult, INR 410 per child

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding an excursion to the Dudhsagar Waterfalls or a visit to the Goa State Museum. If you have less time, skip the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary or Splashdown Waterpark. Remember to check for opening and closing times before planning your visit to any of these attractions.

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