7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Goa

Friday, September 1: Arrival in Goa

Welcome to Goa! Start your trip by checking in at your hotel and freshening up. Spend the morning relaxing by the beach and enjoying the sun. In the afternoon, visit Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. In the evening, head to Baga Beach and indulge in some delicious Goan seafood at one of the beachside shacks.

• Fort Aguada: Entrance fee: INR 25 | Estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Baga Beach: Free entry | Cost of food: INR 500 per person | Estimated time spent: 3 hours

Saturday, September 2: Dudhsagar Waterfalls and Spice Plantation Tour

Embark on an exciting day trip to Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Marvel at the cascading white water surrounded by lush greenery. Afterward, visit a spice plantation and learn about the aromatic spices that make Goan cuisine so flavorful.

• Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Entrance fee: INR 400 (approx.) | Estimated time spent: 4 hours
• Spice Plantation Tour: Entrance fee: INR 500 (approx.) | Estimated time spent: 2 hours

Sunday, September 3: Old Goa and Mangueshi Temple

Explore the rich history of Goa by visiting Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier, and St. Augustine's Tower, a historic church ruins. Later, visit the Mangueshi Temple, one of the largest and most famous temples in Goa.

• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Free entry | Estimated time spent: 1 hour
• St. Augustine's Tower: Entrance fee: INR 25 | Estimated time spent: 1 hour
• Mangueshi Temple: Free entry | Estimated time spent: 1 hour

Monday, September 4: Wildlife Safari at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Experience the natural beauty of Goa at the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. Embark on a safari and spot various animals like deer, leopards, and peacocks. Enjoy a picnic amidst the lush greenery and explore the nature trails.

• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee: INR 20 | Estimated time spent: 4 hours

Tuesday, September 5: Water Sports at Calangute Beach

Get your adrenaline pumping with a day of water sports at Calangute Beach. Try parasailing, jet skiing, or banana boat rides. Afterward, relax on the beach and soak in the sun.

• Water Sports at Calangute Beach: Costs vary depending on activity | Estimated time spent: 4 hours

Wednesday, September 6: Visit the Naval Aviation Museum and Dona Paula

Learn about the history of Indian naval aviation at the Naval Aviation Museum, which displays various aircraft and artifacts. Afterward, visit Dona Paula, a picturesque viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Enjoy a sunset picnic and take a romantic stroll along the beach.

• Naval Aviation Museum: Entrance fee: INR 20 | Estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Dona Paula: Free entry | Estimated time spent: 2 hours

Thursday, September 7: Spice Village Tour and Anjuna Flea Market

Embark on a guided tour of a spice village and learn about the local spices used in Goan cuisine. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch. In the afternoon, visit the famous Anjuna Flea Market, known for its colorful stalls selling clothes, jewelry, handicrafts, and more.

• Spice Village Tour: Cost: INR 1,000 (approx.) | Estimated time spent: 3 hours
• Anjuna Flea Market: Free entry | Estimated time spent: 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda, where you can witness the beauty of various butterfly species up close. Another hidden gem is the Arvalem Caves, ancient rock-cut caves with intricate carvings. Locals also love spending time at the peaceful Chapora River, where you can go kayaking or enjoy a boat ride.

Check hotel and flight prices here.