7-Day Budget Itinerary for Goa

Thursday, August 31, 2023: Exploring Panaji

Start your trip by arriving in Panaji, the capital city of Goa. In the morning, visit the beautiful Immaculate Conception Church, a famous landmark. Then, head to Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter, to admire the colorful Portuguese-style houses. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant markets of Panaji like the Municipal Market and the Mapusa Market. In the evening, relax at Miramar Beach and witness a stunning sunset.

• Immaculate Conception Church: Free, 1 hour
• Fontainhas: Free, 2 hours
• Municipal Market: Free, 1 hour
• Mapusa Market: Free, 2 hours
• Miramar Beach: Free, 2 hours

Restaurants

• Cafe Alchemia: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this cozy cafe known for its delicious sandwiches and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
• Hotel Venite: Indulge in a sumptuous Goan lunch at this popular restaurant, offering a variety of authentic seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• Black Sheep Bistro: For dinner, head to this stylish bistro known for its innovative menu that combines international flavors with local ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Friday, September 1, 2023: Beaches and Water Sports

Start your day with a visit to Calangute Beach, known for its golden sands and lively atmosphere. Enjoy water sports activities like parasailing, jet skiing, or banana boat rides. In the afternoon, head to Baga Beach, where you can relax, swim, and indulge in delicious seafood at the beach shacks. In the evening, explore the nightlife at Tito's Lane in Baga.

• Calangute Beach: Free, 4 hours
• Baga Beach: Free, 3 hours
• Tito's Lane: Free, time varies

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Cafe Lazydays, a cozy cafe near Calangute Beach. They serve a variety of breakfast options, including freshly baked muffins and omelettes. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹200 per person.
• If you're looking for a delightful lunch spot, try Souza Lobo, a renowned Goan restaurant located on Calangute Beach. They specialize in authentic Goan cuisine, including seafood dishes like prawn curry and fish recheado. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹600 per person.
• In the evening, dine at Britto's, a popular beachfront restaurant in Baga. They offer a diverse menu with options ranging from Indian to continental cuisine. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹800 per person.

Saturday, September 2, 2023: Dudhsagar Waterfalls and Spice Plantations

Embark on an adventure to Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of the highest waterfalls in India. Enjoy the scenic train ride through the lush green forests of Goa. Spend the morning at the waterfalls, taking a refreshing dip in the natural pool. In the afternoon, visit a spice plantation to learn about the local spices and enjoy a traditional Goan lunch.

• Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Entrance fee - INR 400, 6 hours
• Spice Plantation: Entrance fee - INR 300, 3 hours

Sunday, September 3, 2023: Old Goa and Churches

Explore the rich history of Goa by visiting Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Start your day by visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier. Then, explore other majestic churches like Se Cathedral and Church of St. Francis of Assisi. In the afternoon, take a relaxing river cruise on the Mandovi River.

• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Free, 1 hour
• Se Cathedral: Free, 1 hour
• Church of St. Francis of Assisi: Free, 1 hour
• River cruise on Mandovi River: INR 300, 2 hours

Monday, September 4, 2023: Wildlife and Nature

Visit the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary in the morning, where you can spot various species of animals and birds. Take a nature walk amidst the lush greenery and enjoy the tranquility. In the afternoon, head to the picturesque Butterfly Beach, known for its pristine beauty and abundance of butterflies. Spend some time relaxing and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee - INR 50, 4 hours
• Butterfly Beach: Free, 3 hours

Tuesday, September 5, 2023: Waterfalls and Temples

Visit the Tambdi Surla Waterfall in the morning, a hidden gem surrounded by lush forests. Enjoy the natural beauty and take a refreshing dip in the waterfall. In the afternoon, explore the ancient Tambdi Surla Temple, a 13th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Experience the spiritual ambiance and admire the intricate architecture.

• Tambdi Surla Waterfall: Free, 3 hours
• Tambdi Surla Temple: Free, 1 hour

Wednesday, September 6, 2023: Anjuna Flea Market and Sunset Cruise

Visit the famous Anjuna Flea Market in the morning, where you can shop for unique handicrafts, clothes, and jewelry. Bargain hard and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. In the afternoon, relax at Vagator Beach and witness a mesmerizing sunset. End your trip with a sunset cruise along the coastline, enjoying music, dance, and delicious Goan snacks.

• Anjuna Flea Market: Free, 3 hours
• Vagator Beach: Free, 2 hours
• Sunset Cruise: INR 700, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those willing to explore off the beaten path, visit the peaceful Divar Island, located on the Mandovi River. Explore its scenic beauty, quaint villages, and enjoy a traditional Goan meal. Another local favorite is the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot unique flora and fauna, including the elusive black panther.

Check here for hotel and flight prices in Goa.