Family-Friendly Itinerary - 4 Days in Goa

Friday, September 29: Arriving in Goa

Welcome to Goa! Take a morning flight and land at Dabolim Airport. From there, head straight to your hotel in North Goa, which offers a range of family-friendly options. Spend the afternoon relaxing and exploring the nearby beaches. In the evening, visit Anjuna Flea Market, a vibrant bazaar where you can shop for souvenirs and enjoy local street food.

• Flight to Goa: Check Prices
• Hotel in North Goa: Check Prices
• Anjuna Flea Market: Free, 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Café Alchemia, a cozy café known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, try Fisherman's Wharf, a popular seafood restaurant by the beach. Indulge in their mouthwatering Goan fish curry and prawn biryani. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• For dinner, visit Thalassa, a Greek restaurant with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Feast on their sizzling souvlaki and authentic moussaka. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.

Saturday, September 30: North Goa Exploration

Start your day with a visit to Calangute Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Goa. Enjoy the morning sun and take a dip in the clear waters. In the afternoon, head to Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. End your day with a visit to the vibrant Baga Beach, known for its water sports and beachfront shacks serving delicious seafood.

• Calangute Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
• Fort Aguada: Entrance fee - INR 25 ($0.34), 2-3 hours
• Baga Beach: Free, 2-3 hours

Sunday, October 1: South Goa Delights

Explore the beauty of South Goa today. Begin your morning with a visit to Palolem Beach, a pristine stretch of golden sand. Take a boat trip to see the dolphins and enjoy the picturesque coastline. In the afternoon, visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Conclude your day with a visit to the colorful and vibrant Margao Market, where you can shop for local spices, handicrafts, and clothing.

• Palolem Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Free, 1-2 hours
• Margao Market: Free, 2-3 hours

Monday, October 2: Adventure and Nature

Spend your last day in Goa indulging in adventure and nature. Start your morning with a visit to the Dudhsagar Waterfalls, a magnificent four-tiered waterfall nestled amidst lush greenery. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pool formed at the base. In the afternoon, head to the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, a small but picturesque sanctuary home to various species of birds and animals. Take a nature walk or explore the mini-zoo. Return to your hotel in the evening and relax.

• Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Entrance fee - INR 400 ($5.46), 4-5 hours
• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee - INR 20 ($0.27), 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Goa, make sure to visit the lesser-known but beautiful Butterfly Beach, located in the southern part of Goa. This secluded beach is named after the colorful butterflies that frequent the area. It's a perfect spot for a picnic and exploring marine life during low tide. Another hidden gem is the Divar Island, accessible by ferry from Old Goa. The island offers a peaceful escape from the bustling tourist areas, with quaint villages, scenic landscapes, and old churches to explore. Don't forget to try Goan delicacies like Bebinca (traditional Goan dessert) and Goan fish curry at local restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.