Welcome to North Goa! Start your family-friendly adventure by checking into your chosen hotel. You can find great deals on flights and accommodations on KAYAK. Spend the morning relaxing at the beach, enjoying the warm sun and refreshing sea breeze. In the afternoon, visit the vibrant Mapusa Market, where you can explore local produce, spices, handicrafts, and clothing. In the evening, head to Calangute Beach to witness a beautiful sunset and indulge in some beachside dining.
Mapusa Market: Free, 2-3 hours
Calangute Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in North Goa is Cafe Lazydays, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious breakfast dishes. Enjoy a hearty breakfast here for around Rs. 300 per person.
For lunch, head to Spice Goa, a local restaurant that offers a wide range of Goan delicacies. Try their fish curry rice or prawn balchão for an authentic Goan experience, with prices averaging around Rs. 500 per person.
When it comes to dinner, Fisherman's Wharf is a must-visit restaurant in North Goa. Situated by the river, this restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes and Goan specialties. Enjoy a delectable dinner here, with prices ranging from Rs. 800 to Rs. 1500 per person.
Sunday, August 20, 2023: Explore Historic Sites
Embark on a cultural journey today by visiting some of North Goa's historic sites. Start your morning at the famous Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Afterward, head to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing the sacred remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Panaji, the capital city of Goa. Take a stroll along the Mandovi River and enjoy the charming streets filled with colonial-era buildings.
Fort Aguada: Entrance fee - INR 25 per person, 2-3 hours
Basilica of Bom Jesus: Free, 1-2 hours
Panaji city exploration: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
The Red Ginger Café is a cozy breakfast spot located near Fort Aguada. They offer a variety of delicious breakfast dishes such as fluffy pancakes and hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
Casa Bhonsle is a charming lunch spot situated near the Basilica of Bom Jesus. They specialize in Goan cuisine, serving flavorful seafood dishes like prawn curry and fish thali. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Gunpowder is a must-visit dinner destination in Panaji, known for its delectable South Indian fare. Enjoy traditional dishes like dosas and biryanis in a cozy, rustic setting. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Monday, August 21, 2023: Wildlife and Adventure
Engage in thrilling activities and explore the natural beauty of North Goa. Begin your day with a visit to the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of animals, birds, and reptiles. Enjoy a safari ride through the sanctuary and immerse yourself in nature. Afterward, head to Dudhsagar Falls, a magnificent four-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Spend the evening at a spice plantation, where you can learn about various spices and enjoy a traditional Goan meal.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee - INR 20 per adult, INR 10 per child, 3-4 hours
Spice plantation visit: INR 500 per person (including meal), 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Alchemia, a charming cafe known for its freshly brewed coffee and delectable pastries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, head to Vinayak Family Restaurant, a local favorite famous for its authentic Goan cuisine. Don't miss out on their mouthwatering fish curry and rice. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
In the evening, experience a delightful dinner at Martin's Corner, a renowned restaurant offering a wide range of Goan delicacies. Their must-try dishes include Goan fish curry and pork vindaloo. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Tuesday, August 22, 2023: Beach Hopping
No trip to Goa is complete without exploring its renowned beaches. Begin your day by visiting Vagator Beach, known for its picturesque cliffs and laid-back ambiance. Spend some quality time sunbathing and swimming. In the afternoon, head to Anjuna Beach, famous for its Wednesday Flea Market. Explore the market's unique offerings and indulge in some delicious Goan street food. Finish the day at Baga Beach, where you can enjoy water sports and vibrant nightlife.
For a delicious breakfast by the beach, head to Café Alchemia in Vagator. Enjoy their hearty breakfast options like pancakes and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Shore Bar & Restaurant in Anjuna. This beachfront eatery serves a variety of cuisines, including Goan and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
For a memorable dinner, dine at The Fisherman's Wharf in Baga. This popular seafood restaurant offers a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of fresh seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Wednesday, August 23, 2023: Water Parks and Cruises
Have a fun-filled day with your family at Goa's water parks. Start your morning at the Splashdown Waterpark, featuring thrilling slides, pools, and water attractions suitable for all ages. Enjoy a day of splashing and laughter. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic boat cruise along the Mandovi River. Admire the picturesque surroundings, dance to live music, and savor Goan delicacies. End your day with a peaceful walk along Miramar Beach, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
Splashdown Waterpark: INR 800 per person, 4-5 hours
Boat Cruise: Prices vary, approximately INR 1000 per person, 3-4 hours
Miramar Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Yellow Chilli: Indulge in a delightful breakfast at The Yellow Chilli, known for its extensive menu of Indian and international dishes. With an average cost of ₹400 per person, you can enjoy a variety of breakfast options, including dosas, parathas, omelets, and pancakes.
Bomra's: For a delicious lunch experience, visit Bomra's, a popular restaurant offering a fusion of Burmese and Asian cuisine. With an average cost of ₹800 per person, you can enjoy flavorful dishes like tea leaf salad, khao suey, and fish curry, in a relaxed and cozy atmosphere.
Viva Panjim: Indulge in a delectable dinner at Viva Panjim, a Goan restaurant known for its authentic flavors. With an average cost of ₹600 per person, you can savor traditional Goan dishes like prawn curry, Goan fish curry, and sorpotel, while enjoying the charming ambiance and warm hospitality.
Thursday, August 24, 2023: Cultural Exploration and Farewell
Immerse yourself in the rich Goan culture on your last day. Visit the charming Latin Quarter of Fontainhas in Panaji, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses. Take a guided walking tour to learn about the area's history and enjoy the vibrant street art. In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Goa to explore contemporary art exhibitions. End your trip on a high note by witnessing a mesmerizing sunset at Dona Paula Viewpoint.
Fontainhas walking tour: Approximately INR 500 per person, 2-3 hours
Museum of Goa: Entrance fee - INR 100 per person, 1-2 hours
Dona Paula Viewpoint: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Alchemia, a charming cafe known for its delicious pancakes and fresh fruit bowls. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Fisherman's Wharf, a popular seafood restaurant overlooking the Mandovi River. Enjoy the catch of the day and traditional Goan flavors. Average cost for a meal is about ₹700 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Gunpowder, a rustic restaurant nestled in the serene village of Assagao. Savour their delectable regional dishes and cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, consider visiting the Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda, where you can admire a variety of butterfly species and learn about their life cycles. Another hidden gem is the Arvalem Caves, ancient rock-cut caves with intricate carvings, located near the village of Sanquelim. They provide a glimpse into Goa's rich history. Both attractions are family-friendly and offer a distinctive perspective on the region.