Start your trip by immersing yourself in the rich history of Old Goa. In the morning, visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at the preserved mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Afterward, head to the Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia, and admire its stunning architecture. In the afternoon, explore the Museum of Christian Art, which houses a remarkable collection of Christian artifacts. As the evening approaches, take a serene boat ride on the Mandovi River and enjoy the picturesque sunset.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: Entrance is free, approximately 1-2 hours
Se Cathedral: Entrance is free, approximately 1-2 hours
Museum of Christian Art: Entrance fee is around INR 10 per person, approximately 1 hour
Mandovi River Boat Ride: Prices start from around INR 300 per person, approximately 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Vinayak Family Restaurant which offers a wide range of delicious Goan and Indian breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, check out Suzie's at Taj Village, a charming beachside restaurant known for its fresh seafood and Goan delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 600 per person.
For dinner, indulge in the coastal vibes of Gunpowder, a popular restaurant serving South Indian and Goan fusion cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Monday, August 14: Fun at the Beaches
On your second day, indulge in the sun, sand, and surf of North Goa's beautiful beaches. Start your morning at Calangute Beach, known for its scenic beauty and water sports activities. Spend the afternoon at Baga Beach, famous for its vibrant nightlife and beach shacks offering delicious seafood. In the evening, visit Anjuna Beach, a haven for hippies and known for its lively flea market offering unique souvenirs and handicrafts.
Calangute Beach: Free access, time spent depends on personal preference
Baga Beach: Free access, time spent depends on personal preference
Anjuna Beach: Free access, time spent depends on personal preference
Tuesday, August 15: Wildlife Adventure
On your last day, experience the natural beauty and wildlife of North Goa. Start your morning by visiting the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can encounter various animals, including deer, leopards, and elephants. In the afternoon, head to the Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda, where you can witness numerous species of butterflies in their natural habitat. As the evening approaches, take a relaxing walk through the Spice Plantations in Ponda and learn about the region's spice cultivation.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee is around INR 10 per person, approximately 2-3 hours
Butterfly Conservatory: Entrance fee is around INR 100 per person, approximately 1-2 hours
Spice Plantations: Entrance fee is around INR 400 per person, approximately 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Alchemia, a cozy café located in Ponda. They offer a variety of delicious breakfast options such as pancakes, omelets, and freshly baked pastries. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, try the Fisherman's Wharf, a waterfront restaurant in Panjim. They serve a delectable range of seafood dishes, including prawns, lobsters, and grilled fish. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
For dinner, visit Vinayak Family Restaurant in Mapusa. This restaurant offers a great selection of Indian and Goan dishes, including butter chicken, prawn curry, and beef vindaloo. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
If you're looking for off-the-beaten-path attractions, head to the sleepy village of Assagao. Explore the charming streets and visit the St. Cajetan Church, a serene and picturesque spot away from the tourist crowds. Another local favorite is the Saturday Night Market in Arpora, where you can find a variety of stalls selling clothes, accessories, handicrafts, and delicious street food. It's a great place to experience the vibrant Goan nightlife and soak in the local culture.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check out the prices on Kayak.