Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

A Week in Goa: An Enchanting Coastal Getaway

Friday, September 1: Arrival in Goa

Welcome to the sun-soaked paradise of Goa! Upon arrival, check into your preferred hotel and immerse yourself in the laid-back Goan vibes. Spend the morning exploring the vibrant markets of Anjuna, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and indulge in delicious street food. In the afternoon, head to Calangute Beach, known for its golden sand and clear waters, and soak up the sun while relaxing on the shore. As the evening sets in, witness a breathtaking sunset at Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.

Restaurants
  • Start your day with a traditional Goan breakfast at Café Alchemia, located near Anjuna Market. Indulge in fluffy omelettes, crispy pao bread, and aromatic chai. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
  • For lunch, head to Fisherman's Wharf, a charming waterfront eatery in Calangute. Enjoy a mouthwatering spread of Goan delicacies like fish curry, prawn balchao, and Goan sausages. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
  • For a memorable dinner, visit Gunpowder, a popular restaurant in Assagao. Delight in the tantalizing flavors of South Indian cuisine with dishes like Kerala beef fry, appam, and Malabar fish curry. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, September 2: Cultural Exploration

Start your day by visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture. Marvel at the preserved body of St. Francis Xavier, a revered Catholic saint. In the afternoon, explore the historic Latin Quarter of Fontainhas in Panaji, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses and charming streets. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Goa State Museum, which showcases artifacts depicting Goa's rich history. Wrap up the day with a relaxing cruise on the Mandovi River, enjoying traditional Goan music and dance performances.

  • Basilica of Bom Jesus: Free, 1 hour
  • Fontainhas: Free, 2 hours
  • Goa State Museum: ₹200 (approx. $3), 2 hours
  • Mandovi River Cruise: ₹500 (approx. $7), 2 hours
Restaurants
  • Eat Street Cafe: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Eat Street Cafe, offering a variety of delicious options including pancakes, omelettes, and fresh fruit juices. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
  • Ritz Classic: Enjoy a delectable Goan lunch at Ritz Classic, known for its authentic Goan cuisine. Try their mouthwatering fish curry rice or prawn xacuti. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
  • Gunpowder: Indulge in a flavorful dinner at Gunpowder, a charming restaurant nestled in a tropical garden. Their menu features a fusion of South Indian and Goan dishes, such as appam with stew and pork vindaloo. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Sunday, September 3: Beach Hopping Adventure

Embark on a beach-hopping adventure today, starting with the serene and picturesque Palolem Beach in South Goa. Enjoy a leisurely morning by the turquoise waters, indulge in some beachside yoga, or take a boat ride to see the famous Dolphin Point. In the afternoon, head to Baga Beach, a vibrant and bustling destination known for its water sports and lively beach shacks. Watch the sunset at the iconic Chapora Fort, featured in the Bollywood movie "Dil Chahta Hai," and revel in the breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.

  • Palolem Beach: Free, 3 hours
  • Baga Beach: Free, 3 hours
  • Chapora Fort: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
  • A cozy beachfront cafe called Café Del Mar is a great option for breakfast, offering a variety of fresh fruit smoothie bowls and delicious avocado toast. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹400 per person.
  • If you're craving some authentic Goan seafood for lunch, head to Souza Lobo, a popular beach shack known for its delectable fish curries and prawn balchão. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹800 per person.
  • For a romantic dinner with a stunning ocean view, try Gunpowder, a charming restaurant serving traditional South Indian cuisine with a modern twist. Don't miss their delectable spicy pork ribs or their flavorful Kerala-style chicken biryani. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹1000 per person.
Monday, September 4: Nature and Wildlife Exploration

Start your day by visiting the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in the lush green hills of Goa. Explore the sanctuary's trails, spot various species of animals and birds, and visit the mini zoo. 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 verdant forests. End the day with a visit to the Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple, the oldest temple in Goa, renowned for its intricate architecture and tranquil surroundings.

  • Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: ₹20 (approx. $0.30), 3 hours
  • Dudhsagar Falls: ₹400 (approx. $5), 3 hours
  • Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple: Free, 1 hour
Tuesday, September 5: Panoramic Views and Water Sports

Begin your day with an early morning visit to the stunning viewpoint of Dona Paula, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the merging of two rivers. Afterward, head to the vibrant beach town of Calangute and indulge in thrilling water sports such as parasailing, jet skiing, or banana boat rides. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the beach shacks. In the evening, explore the bustling markets and nightlife of Calangute, known for its lively atmosphere and vibrant energy.

  • Dona Paula: Free, 1 hour
  • Calangute Water Sports: ₹1,500 (approx. $20), 3 hours
  • Calangute Market: Free, 2 hours
Wednesday, September 6: Departure and Hidden Gems

On your last day in Goa, take a leisurely stroll along the peaceful and less-crowded Vagator Beach, known for its stunning cliffs and unique rock formations. Enjoy a relaxing morning and bid farewell to the tranquil Goan coastline. As you head back, don't miss the chance to visit the vibrant and bustling Mapusa Market, offering a plethora of fresh produce, spices, and local handicrafts. Indulge in some last-minute shopping and savor the flavors of Goa before departing for your onward journey.

  • Vagator Beach: Free, 2 hours
  • Mapusa Market: Free, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Goa, be sure to venture off the beaten path and discover some hidden gems. Visit the peaceful Divar Island, accessible by a short ferry ride, to experience the rustic charm and explore the quaint villages. For nature lovers, a visit to the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary is a must, where you can hike through dense forests, spot unique flora and fauna, and take a refreshing dip in the enchanting Netravali Waterfalls. Don't forget to try some local Goan delicacies like Bebinca, a layered pudding, and Feni, a traditional Goan spirit made from cashew or coconut.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version