7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Goa

Wednesday, December 27: Arrive in Goa

Welcome to Goa! After arriving at the airport, check into your hotel and take some time to relax. In the afternoon, head to the beautiful Calangute Beach to soak up the sun and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. In the evening, explore the vibrant markets of Anjuna and try local Goan delicacies.

• Calangute Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Anjuna Market: Estimated cost - Varies depending on purchases, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• The Hangout Cafe: A cozy breakfast spot near Calangute Beach offering a variety of options including Indian and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• Gunpowder: A popular lunch destination in Anjuna known for its delicious South Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
• Bomra's: Located in Candolim, this dinner restaurant offers a fusion of Burmese and Asian cuisines in a charming setting. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.

Thursday, December 28: Explore Old Goa

Start your day by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Goa. Morning visit to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, where the remains of St. Francis Xavier are kept. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful churches of Se Cathedral and Church of St. Cajetan. In the evening, take a leisurely cruise along the Mandovi River.

• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Se Cathedral: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Church of St. Cajetan: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Mandovi River Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, December 29: Dudhsagar Waterfalls

Embark on an exciting adventure to Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of the most spectacular natural attractions in Goa. Start your day with a jeep safari through the lush Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary, followed by a hike to the waterfalls. Spend the afternoon swimming in the refreshing waters and enjoying a picnic amidst the scenic surroundings.

• Jeep Safari to Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 2,000 per person, Time spent - Full day

Saturday, December 30: Visit the Spice Plantations

Experience the flavors of Goa by visiting the spice plantations in Ponda. Take a guided tour to learn about various spices and their culinary uses. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch amidst the serene surroundings of the plantation. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Mangueshi Temple and Shantadurga Temple.

• Spice Plantation Tour: Estimated cost - INR 1,000 per person, Time spent - Half day
• Mangueshi Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Shantadurga Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, December 31: New Year's Eve Celebration

Enjoy a day of relaxation on the pristine beaches of South Goa. Spend the morning at Palolem Beach, known for its scenic beauty. In the afternoon, head to Agonda Beach for a peaceful and serene atmosphere. As the evening approaches, join the vibrant New Year's Eve celebrations at one of the beach shacks or clubs.

• Palolem Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Agonda Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• New Year's Eve Celebration: Estimated cost - Varies depending on the venue, Time spent - Evening

Monday, January 1: Explore Panaji and Fontainhas

Start the year by exploring the capital city of Goa, Panaji. Visit the historic sites such as the Immaculate Conception Church and the Reis Magos Fort. In the afternoon, wander through the charming and colorful streets of Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter of Panaji, known for its Portuguese architecture. Enjoy a traditional Goan dinner at a local restaurant.

• Immaculate Conception Church: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Reis Magos Fort: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Fontainhas: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, January 2: Leisure Day and Departure

On your last day in Goa, take some time to relax and enjoy the beach at your leisure. Indulge in water sports activities or simply unwind on the sandy shores. In the evening, pack your bags and bid farewell to the enchanting land of Goa.

• Leisure Day at the Beach: Estimated cost - Varies depending on activities, Time spent - Full day

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, visit the peaceful Butterfly Beach, accessible by boat from Palolem or Agonda Beach. Take a dolphin-watching tour in the early morning for a memorable experience. Families can also enjoy a day at the Splashdown Water Park or visit the Naval Aviation Museum to learn about India's naval history.

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