In the morning, start your trip by visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Marvel at the intricate baroque architecture and explore the art-filled interior. In the afternoon, head to the Museum of Christian Art, located within the Convent of Santa Monica, to learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of Goa. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Mandovi Riverfront and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: Entrance fee: INR 10 ($0.14), Time spent: 1-2 hours
Museum of Christian Art: Entrance fee: INR 5 ($0.07), Time spent: 1-2 hours
Mandovi Riverfront: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Verandah at Panjim Inn, a quaint restaurant known for its beautiful courtyard setting and delicious Goan cuisine. Enjoy a hearty breakfast with options like poha, kanda poha and masala omelette. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, dine at Viva Panjim, a charming restaurant that offers a mix of Goan and Portuguese dishes. Indulge in their famous Goan fish curry, prawn balchão or chicken cafreal. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
For dinner, head to Mum's Kitchen, a popular family-friendly restaurant known for its traditional Goan fare. Try their seafood specialties like Goan prawn curry, fish recheado or crab xec xec. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, December 22: Beach Day in North Goa
Start your day by heading to Baga Beach, one of the most popular and family-friendly beaches in Goa. Spend the morning relaxing on the golden sands, swimming in the calm waters, or trying out water sports activities such as jet skiing and parasailing. In the afternoon, visit the vibrant Calangute Market for some souvenir shopping and indulge in delicious Goan street food. As the evening approaches, enjoy a mesmerizing sunset at Anjuna Beach and unwind at one of the beachside shacks.
Baga Beach: Free, Time spent: Half-day
Calangute Market: Shopping costs vary, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Anjuna Beach: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Mambo located near Baga Beach. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options including freshly baked pastries and egg dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Souza Lobo located in Calangute. Known for its authentic Goan cuisine, this restaurant serves delicious seafood dishes and traditional Goan thalis. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Britto's located on Baga Beach. This iconic beachside restaurant is famous for its seafood specialties, live music, and lively atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Saturday, December 23: Nature and Wildlife Exploration
Embark on an exciting day of nature and wildlife exploration in Goa. Start your morning by visiting the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, a lush green forest reserve known for its diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy a nature walk, spot various animals and birds, and visit the mini zoo within the sanctuary. In the afternoon, head to the Dudhsagar Falls, one of India's tallest waterfalls, located in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. Marvel at the cascading white waters surrounded by dense forests. As the evening sets in, return to your hotel and relax.
Dudhsagar Falls: Entrance fee: INR 400 ($5.44), Time spent: Half-day
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is Cafe Alchemia, known for its delicious breakfast options like fluffy pancakes and hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a satisfying lunch near the Dudhsagar Falls, head to Spice Goa, a restaurant that offers a variety of Goan dishes such as fish curry and rice and prawn balchao. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Martin's Corner, a renowned restaurant known for its authentic Goan cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. Try their famous Goan fish curry or chicken xacuti. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique off the beaten path experience, visit the Divar Island. Take a ferry ride from Old Goa and explore this quaint island known for its scenic beauty and peaceful surroundings. You can rent bicycles and explore the island's picturesque villages, ancient churches, and scenic viewpoints. Another local favorite is the Arpora Saturday Night Market. This vibrant market offers a mix of shopping, live music, food stalls, and entertainment. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and indulge in some shopping and delicious street food.