7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in South Goa and North Goa

Saturday October 21: Arrival in Goa

Welcome to Goa! After arriving at the airport, check-in to your hotel and spend the day relaxing and adjusting to the new surroundings. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the beach and enjoy a delicious Goan dinner.

• Hotel check-in: Prices and availability can be checked here.

Sunday October 22: Old Goa and Mangeshi Temple

Start your day by exploring the historic town of Old Goa. Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Se Cathedral. In the afternoon, head to Mangeshi Temple, one of the most famous temples in Goa, known for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. End the day with a relaxing sunset cruise on the Mandovi River.

• Old Goa: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Mangeshi Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Sunset Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Monday October 23: Dudhsagar Falls and Spice Plantation

Embark on an exciting adventure to Dudhsagar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Enjoy the scenic train journey and witness the majestic beauty of the falls. Afterward, visit a nearby spice plantation to learn about the spices grown in Goa and enjoy a traditional Goan lunch. Return to your hotel and relax in the evening.

• Dudhsagar Falls: Estimated cost - INR 400 per person (includes train ticket), Time spent - 6-7 hours
• Spice Plantation: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday October 24: South Goa Beaches

Explore the beautiful beaches of South Goa. Start with Colva Beach, known for its golden sand and picturesque surroundings. Then, visit Palolem Beach, famous for its crescent-shaped bay and calm waters. Enjoy water sports activities or simply relax and soak up the sun. In the evening, experience the lively nightlife at one of the beach shacks.

• Colva Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - flexible
• Palolem Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - flexible
• Water Sports: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - flexible

Wednesday October 25: Fontainhas and Fort Aguada

Take a cultural tour of Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter of Goa. Explore the colorful Portuguese-style houses, narrow winding streets, and charming art galleries. Afterward, head to Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort with stunning ocean views. Enjoy a sunset picnic at the fort and witness the panoramic vistas.

• Fontainhas: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Fort Aguada: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday October 26: North Goa Beaches

Discover the famous beaches of North Goa. Start with Vagator Beach, known for its red cliffs and laid-back atmosphere. Then, visit Calangute Beach, one of the most popular and bustling beaches in Goa. Enjoy water sports activities or simply relax and enjoy the beach vibes. In the evening, explore the vibrant markets of Anjuna.

• Vagator Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - flexible
• Calangute Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - flexible
• Anjuna Market: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Friday October 27: Wildlife Sanctuary and Cruise

Spend the day exploring the wildlife of Goa. Visit the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, home to various species of animals and birds. Enjoy a nature walk and spot wildlife in their natural habitat. In the evening, embark on a backwater cruise along the Chapora River and marvel at the scenic beauty.

• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Backwater Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 800 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique and family-friendly experience, visit the Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda. Explore the lush gardens filled with colorful butterflies and learn about their life cycle. Another offbeat attraction is the Naval Aviation Museum in Dabolim, showcasing the history of Indian Naval Aviation. Kids will love seeing the vintage aircraft and interactive exhibits.