7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Goa

Tuesday, January 2: Arrive in Goa

Welcome to Goa! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and settling in. In the morning, head to the beautiful Baga Beach for a relaxing day by the sea. In the afternoon, visit the Goa Science Centre and Planetarium for some educational fun. In the evening, explore the vibrant markets of Anjuna and try some local street food.

• Baga Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Half-day
• Goa Science Centre and Planetarium: Estimated cost - INR 40 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Anjuna Market: Estimated cost - Free (shopping and food expenses extra), Time spent - Evening

Wednesday, January 3: Old Goa Exploration

Start your day by visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for housing the remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, explore the Se Cathedral, the largest church in Goa. End your day with a visit to the Museum of Christian Art, showcasing the rich history of Christianity in Goa.

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

Thursday, January 4: Spice Plantation and Dudhsagar Falls

Embark on a scenic journey to a spice plantation where you can indulge in a guided tour and learn about various spices grown in Goa. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch amidst the lush greenery. In the afternoon, take a thrilling jeep safari to Dudhsagar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India.

• Spice Plantation: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person (including lunch), Time spent - Half-day
• Dudhsagar Falls: Estimated cost - INR 400 per person (jeep safari), Time spent - Half-day

Friday, January 5: Fort Aguada and Dolphin Spotting

Start your day by visiting the iconic Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Afterward, head to Sinquerim Beach for a thrilling dolphin spotting boat trip. Spend the afternoon enjoying the beach and water sports activities.

• Fort Aguada: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Dolphin Spotting: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Sinquerim Beach: Estimated cost - Free (water sports activities extra), Time spent - Afternoon

Saturday, January 6: Fontainhas Heritage Walk and Local Cuisine

Embark on a heritage walk through the narrow lanes of Fontainhas, Goa's Latin Quarter. Admire the colorful Portuguese-style houses and visit the Chapel of St. Sebastian. In the afternoon, indulge in a traditional Goan meal at a local restaurant. Spend the evening exploring the vibrant nightlife of Panjim.

• Fontainhas Heritage Walk: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Chapel of St. Sebastian: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 30 minutes
• Goan Cuisine: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - Lunch

Sunday, January 7: Dudhsagar Plantation and Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Visit the Dudhsagar Plantation to learn about Goa's agricultural practices and enjoy a guided tour of the organic farm. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch amidst the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, head to Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary for a wildlife safari and nature trails.

• Dudhsagar Plantation: Estimated cost - INR 600 per person (including lunch), Time spent - Half-day
• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - Half-day

Monday, January 8: Water Sports and Sunset Cruise

Spend your last day in Goa enjoying thrilling water sports at Calangute Beach. Try parasailing, jet skiing, or banana boat rides. In the evening, embark on a sunset cruise along the Mandovi River, enjoying live music, dance performances, and beautiful views.

• Water Sports at Calangute Beach: Estimated cost - Varies based on activities chosen, Time spent - Morning
• Sunset Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 1,000 per person, Time spent - Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Museum of Goa in Pilerne, showcasing contemporary art and installations. Explore the peaceful Divar Island, known for its scenic beauty and heritage houses. Don't miss the chance to savor authentic Goan sweets like Bebinca and Dodol from local bakeries.