Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary in Goa

Saturday, August 26: Exploring Old Goa

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, known for housing the 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 showcases a remarkable collection of religious artifacts. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along the Mandovi River and enjoy the sunset.

• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Se Cathedral: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Museum of Christian Art: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Mandovi River: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Sunday, August 27: Beach Day

Spend a relaxing day at the beautiful beaches of Goa. Start your morning at Calangute Beach, known for its golden sands and water sports activities. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or try your hand at parasailing or banana boat rides. In the afternoon, head to Baga Beach, famous for its vibrant nightlife and beach shacks serving delicious seafood. Take a dip in the Arabian Sea and indulge in beachside snacks. As the evening approaches, visit Anjuna Flea Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and enjoy live music performances.

• Calangute Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Baga Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Anjuna Flea Market: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Cafe Mambo: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Cafe Mambo, located near Calangute Beach. They serve a variety of breakfast options including omelettes, pancakes, and fresh fruit juices. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• Papa Jolly's: For lunch, head to Papa Jolly's, a popular beach shack at Baga Beach. They offer a wide range of seafood dishes such as grilled fish, prawns curry, and calamari. Average cost for a meal is about ₹700 per person.
• Gunpowder: Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Gunpowder, located near Anjuna Flea Market. This restaurant specializes in South Indian cuisine, serving flavorful dishes like Kerala-style chicken curry and Malabar paratha. Average cost for a meal is about ₹900 per person.

Monday, August 28: Wildlife and Nature

Embark on a nature-filled adventure on your last day in Goa. In the morning, visit the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. Explore the dense forests, spot various species of birds and animals, and take a refreshing dip in the Dudhsagar Waterfalls. Afterward, head to the Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda, where you can witness the beauty of colorful butterflies in their natural habitat. In the evening, take a relaxing boat ride through the mangrove forests of the Cumbarjua Canal.

• Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 4-6 hours
• Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Estimated cost - INR 400 per person (jeep safari), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Butterfly Conservatory: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Cumbarjua Canal Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 500 per boat, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family-friendly experience, consider visiting the Museum of Goa, located in Pilerne. It offers fascinating exhibits on Goan history, art, and culture, including interactive displays that engage both kids and adults. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Rock Formations at Arambol Beach, where you can witness stunning natural rock sculptures and explore the surrounding caves. Don't forget to try Goan delicacies like seafood curries, fish thali, and bebinca, a traditional Goan dessert, at local restaurants to truly immerse yourself in the local flavors.

Find the best hotel and flight deals for your Goa trip here.