Welcome to North Goa! Start your trip by checking into one of the many family-friendly hotels available in the area. Use this link to check hotel prices and availability. Spend the rest of the day settling in and getting familiar with your surroundings.
Wednesday September 27: Panjim Exploration
Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful and historic Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church in Panjim. Take a leisurely morning stroll through the colorful Fontainhas neighborhood, known for its Portuguese influence and charming architecture. In the afternoon, visit the Goa State Museum to learn about the region's rich cultural heritage. End the day with a relaxing sunset cruise along the Mandovi River.
Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church: Free, 1 hour
Fontainhas Neighborhood: Free, 2 hours
Goa State Museum: INR 20 per person, 2 hours
Sunset Cruise: INR 500 per person, 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular choice for breakfast is Café Bhonsle, a cozy café known for its delicious Goan breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Vinayak Family Restaurant, where you can enjoy a variety of Indian and Goan specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Viva Panjim, a charming restaurant serving authentic Goan cuisine in a relaxing atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday September 28: Beach Day in Calangute
Head to Calangute Beach, one of the most popular beaches in North Goa, for a day of sun, sand, and water activities. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles with your family. Grab lunch at one of the many beach shacks offering delicious Goan cuisine. In the afternoon, try your hand at water sports like parasailing or banana boat rides. End the day by watching a mesmerizing sunset over the Arabian Sea.
Calangute Beach: Free, full day
Water Sports: INR 500 - INR 1500 per activity, 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Mambo, located near Calangute Beach. They offer a variety of breakfast options, from classic Indian dishes to continental favorites. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Fisherman's Wharf, a seafood restaurant known for its fresh catches and Goan flavors. Enjoy a variety of seafood dishes, including their famous Goan Fish Curry. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Gunpowder, a cozy restaurant tucked away in Assagao village. They serve traditional South Indian cuisine with a modern twist. Don't miss their signature dishes like the Kerala-style beef fry. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 INR per person.
Friday September 29: Fort Aguada and Anjuna Flea Market
In the morning, visit Fort Aguada, a well-preserved 17th-century Portuguese fort overlooking the Arabian Sea. Explore its towering lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. Afterward, make your way to the famous Anjuna Flea Market, where you can browse through a wide variety of local handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, and more. Don't forget to bargain for the best prices!
Embark on an exciting day trip to the majestic Dudhsagar Waterfalls, located in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary. Marvel at the cascading white waters surrounded by lush greenery. You can choose to hike to the falls or take a jeep safari to get closer to nature. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery before heading back to North Goa.
Dudhsagar Waterfalls: INR 400 per person (jeep safari), 6 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Alchemia, located in North Goa. This cozy cafe offers a range of breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Vinayak Family Restaurant in North Goa. This local eatery serves authentic Goan cuisine, including fish curry, Goan sausages, and prawn balchao. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
End your day with a delectable dinner at Gunpowder, situated in North Goa. This charming restaurant offers a fusion of Indian and international flavors, with dishes like Kerala-style prawns and chicken pepper fry. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, visit the Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda. Walk through lush gardens and witness the vibrant butterfly species that call this place home. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Arvalem Caves, where you can explore ancient rock-cut structures and soak in the tranquility. These hidden gems are perfect for family exploration and offer a break from the bustling tourist spots.