Start your trip by arriving in Panaji, the capital city of Goa. In the morning, visit the beautiful Miramar Beach, where you can take a leisurely stroll along the golden sands and enjoy the picturesque views of the Arabian Sea. Afterward, head to the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, a haven for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant Latin Quarter of Fontainhas, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses and charming streets. In the evening, take a sunset cruise on the Mandovi River, enjoying the scenic beauty and live Goan music.
Miramar Beach: Entry is free, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary: Entry fee: INR 20 per person, estimated time spent: 3 hours
Fontainhas: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Sunset Cruise on Mandovi River: INR 500 per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Panaji is Café Alchemia, known for its delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Ritz Classic, a local favorite that serves authentic Goan cuisine. Don't miss the mouthwatering seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to dinner at Mum's Kitchen, a renowned restaurant offering traditional Goan dishes made with love. The cozy ambiance and delectable flavors make for an unforgettable dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday, August 13: Beach Bliss in North Goa
On your second day, head to the famous beaches of North Goa. Start your morning by visiting Calangute Beach, known for its golden sand and lively atmosphere. Enjoy water sports activities like parasailing or banana boat rides. Afterward, make your way to the nearby Baga Beach, famous for its shacks, cafes, and vibrant nightlife. In the afternoon, visit the charming Anjuna Flea Market, where you can shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and clothing. End your day with a visit to the iconic Aguada Fort, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
Calangute Beach: Free entry, estimated time spent: 3 hours
Baga Beach: Free entry, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Anjuna Flea Market: Free entry, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Aguada Fort: Entry fee: INR 25 per person, estimated time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Sussegado Souza in Calangute. This cozy café offers a variety of breakfast options such as fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Britto's located on Baga Beach. This beachfront restaurant is known for its mouthwatering Goan seafood dishes like prawn curry and grilled fish. Enjoy your meal with a stunning view of the Arabian Sea. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Vinayak Family Restaurant in Anjuna. This local favorite serves authentic Goan cuisine including chicken xacuti and fish curry rice. The restaurant has a relaxed ambiance and friendly staff. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Monday, August 14: Cultural Heritage in Old Goa
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Old Goa on your third day. Begin by visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Next, marvel at the grandeur of the Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Goan history at the Goa State Museum, featuring exhibits on art, archaeology, and ethnography. Complete your day with a peaceful walk through the lovely Mangeshi Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: Free entry, estimated time spent: 1 hour
Se Cathedral: Free entry, estimated time spent: 1 hour
Goa State Museum: Entry fee: INR 10 per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Mangeshi Temple: Free entry, estimated time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Alchemia, a cozy cafe offering a variety of delicious breakfast options. Enjoy their fluffy pancakes or hearty omelettes with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, try Fisherman's Wharf, a popular restaurant serving a variety of Goan seafood dishes. Dive into their famous fish curry rice or savor the flavors of their butter garlic prawns. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For dinner, visit Mum's Kitchen, a charming restaurant known for its authentic Goan cuisine. Try their mouthwatering Goan sausages or traditional prawn curry with steamed rice. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Tuesday, August 15: Nature's Paradise in South Goa
On your last day, discover the natural beauty of South Goa. Begin by visiting the peaceful Palolem Beach, known for its pristine waters and scenic surroundings. Engage in activities like swimming or simply relax on the beach. In the afternoon, explore the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot various species of flora and fauna. End your day with a visit to the picturesque Dudhsagar Falls, one of India's tallest waterfalls, nestled in the Western Ghats.
Palolem Beach: Free entry, estimated time spent: 3 hours
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary: Entry fee: INR 100 per person, estimated time spent: 3 hours
Dudhsagar Falls: Entry fee: INR 400 per person, estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
The Yellow Chilli: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at The Yellow Chilli, known for its fusion of Indian and global flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Zeebop by the Sea: Indulge in a mouthwatering seafood lunch at Zeebop by the Sea, located right on the beach with a stunning sea view. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Gunpowder: Treat yourself to a flavorsome dinner at Gunpowder, a quaint restaurant serving regional cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off-the-beaten-path experiences, head to the peaceful Divar Island, located in the Mandovi River. Explore its scenic villages, ancient temples, and enjoy a ferry ride to reach the island. Another local favorite is the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can see various animal species and even participate in a mini zookeeper program. Both these attractions offer a great family-friendly experience away from the usual tourist crowds.
For hotel and flight prices, you can check out this link on Kayak.