A Family-Friendly 6-Day Itinerary in Goa

Friday, December 15: Arrival in Goa

Welcome to Goa! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and settling in. In the morning, head to Anjuna Beach, known for its beautiful shoreline and vibrant flea market. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Chapora Fort, offering panoramic views of the coastline. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise along the Mandovi River while feasting on delicious Goan cuisine.

• Anjuna Beach: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
• Chapora Fort: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
• Sunset Cruise on Mandovi River: Cost: INR 1,500 per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Cafe Alchemia in Anjuna. This charming cafe offers a variety of freshly brewed coffees, delicious pastries, and healthy breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, try Gunpowder in Assagao. This popular restaurant serves delectable South Indian and Goan dishes in a rustic setting. Don't miss their signature spicy fish curry and fluffy appams. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• For dinner, dine at Viva Panjim in Panaji. This authentic Goan restaurant offers a wide range of traditional Goan delicacies, including prawn balchao, Goan fish curry, and bebinca. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Saturday, December 16: Exploring Old Goa

Start your day by visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses the relics of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, explore the Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. End the day with a visit to the vibrant Fontainhas neighborhood, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses and charming cafes.

• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
• Se Cathedral: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
• Fontainhas: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For a delicious breakfast in Old Goa, head to Café Bhonsle. This cozy cafe offers a range of breakfast options like fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
• If you're looking for a tasty lunch spot, try Mum's Kitchen in Panjim. This restaurant specializes in traditional Goan cuisine and serves dishes like prawn curry, Goan fish curry, and pork vindaloo. The average cost for a meal is about INR 600 per person.
• End your day with dinner at Ritz Classic in Panjim. This popular restaurant is known for its mouthwatering Goan seafood dishes like butter garlic prawns, fish recheado, and crab xec xec. The average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.

Sunday, December 17: Wildlife Adventure

Embark on an exciting wildlife adventure at the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary. Start your day with a safari to spot various animal species, including deer, monkeys, and exotic birds. After the safari, visit the Dudhsagar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India, and take a refreshing dip in its natural pools. End the day with a visit to the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of fauna and a mini zoo.

• Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary: Cost: INR 20 per person, Time Spent: 4-5 hours
• Dudhsagar Falls: Cost: INR 400 per person (inclusive of jeep ride), Time Spent: 3-4 hours
• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Cost: INR 5 per person, Time Spent: 2-3 hours

Monday, December 18: Beach Day

Spend a relaxing day at Calangute Beach, known for its golden sand and water sports activities. Start your morning with a leisurely walk along the shoreline and dip your toes in the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, try out thrilling water activities such as parasailing or jet skiing. Enjoy the evening by indulging in a beachside dinner while watching the sunset.

• Calangute Beach: Cost: Free, Time Spent: Full day
• Water Sports Activities: Cost: Varies, Time Spent: 2-3 hours

Tuesday, December 19: Cultural Exploration

Immerse yourself in Goan culture by visiting the vibrant markets of Mapusa. In the morning, wander through the bustling stalls, selling everything from spices to handicrafts. Afterward, head to the Museum of Christian Art to admire its collection of Christian artifacts and sculptures. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming Latin Quarter of Panjim, with its Portuguese-style houses and art galleries.

• Mapusa Market: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
• Museum of Christian Art: Cost: INR 10 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
• Panjim Latin Quarter: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours

Wednesday, December 20: Adventure at Dudhsagar Plantation

Set off on an adventurous day at the Dudhsagar Plantation. Start the morning with a guided tour of the spice plantation, learning about various spices and their uses. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch amidst the lush greenery. Afterward, engage in activities like elephant rides, bird watching, and a refreshing swim in the natural stream. End the day with a serene nature walk.

• Dudhsagar Plantation: Cost: INR 1,000 per person, Time Spent: 4-5 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda, where you can witness a variety of colorful butterflies up close. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its pristine forests, wildlife, and enchanting waterfalls. Families can also enjoy a day at the Splashdown Waterpark, offering thrilling water slides and pools for all ages to enjoy.

For more information about hotel and flight prices in Goa, you can check here.