In the morning, start your trip by visiting the vibrant Margao Market, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and sample delicious Goan cuisine. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic Loutolim Village, known for its picturesque houses and the beautiful Ancestral Goa museum. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Colva Beach, enjoying the golden sand and breathtaking sunset views.
Margao Market: Free, 2-3 hours
Loutolim Village and Ancestral Goa museum: ₹200 ($3) per person, 3-4 hours
Colva Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Margao Market is Café Tato. They serve delicious Goan-style pao bhaji and the average cost for a breakfast meal is about INR 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Martin's Corner, a famous restaurant in Betalbatim. They offer a variety of Goan and international dishes, and the average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
In the evening, dine at Fisherman's Wharf in Cavelossim, which is known for its waterfront setting and delectable seafood. The average cost for a dinner here is about INR 800 per person.
Tuesday, September 19: Discovering Dudhsagar Falls
Embark on an exciting adventure to Dudhsagar Falls, one of the most magnificent waterfalls in India. Start early in the morning and take a jeep safari through the lush Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary, spotting wildlife along the way. Spend the afternoon marvelling at the awe-inspiring cascade of Dudhsagar Falls and take a refreshing dip in its natural pool. Return to your hotel in the evening.
Dudhsagar Falls Jeep Safari: ₹1,500 ($20) per person, 8-10 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Alchemia: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Cafe Alchemia, known for its relaxed atmosphere and tasty menu options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Martin's Corner: For lunch, head over to Martin's Corner, a popular restaurant serving a variety of Goan and seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Zeebop by the Sea: Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Zeebop by the Sea, a beachside restaurant offering a range of fresh seafood and Goan specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, September 20: Relaxing at Palolem Beach
Spend a leisurely day at Palolem Beach, known for its pristine beauty and laid-back vibe. Start your morning with a yoga session on the beach, followed by a delicious breakfast at one of the beachfront cafes. In the afternoon, take a boat trip to Butterfly Beach, where you can explore the vibrant marine life while snorkeling. As the sun sets, enjoy a stunning sunset view and indulge in a beachside dinner.
Yoga session: ₹500 ($7) per person, 1 hour
Boat trip to Butterfly Beach: ₹800 ($11) per person, 3-4 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with breakfast at Café Inn, located right on Palolem Beach. This cozy beachfront café offers a variety of breakfast options, from freshly baked pastries to hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Satisfy your appetite for lunch at Dropadi, a popular beachside restaurant known for its delicious seafood dishes. With a wide selection of prawns, fish, and lobster on the menu, you can enjoy a mouthwatering seafood feast. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, head to Magic View Restaurant. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, this restaurant offers breathtaking sunset views paired with a delectable menu of Indian and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Thursday, September 21: Cultural Exploration in Old Goa
Experience the rich history of Old Goa by visiting its iconic landmarks. Start your day by exploring the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, visit the Se Cathedral, the largest church in Asia, known for its stunning architecture. Conclude your trip by wandering through the vibrant streets of Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter of Panjim, admiring its colorful Portuguese-style houses.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: Free, 1-2 hours
Se Cathedral: Free, 1-2 hours
Fontainhas: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Café Alchemia which offers a wide range of breakfast options including pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Enjoy a scrumptious lunch at Martins Corner, known for its authentic Goan cuisine. Don't miss their famous fish curry and rice, and the mouthwatering Goan sausage pulao. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Indulge in an unforgettable dinner at Fisherman's Wharf, a waterfront restaurant offering a stunning view of the river. Savor their delectable seafood dishes like Goan crab curry and butter garlic prawns. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a memorable family-friendly experience, make sure to visit the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary offers a variety of activities, including a mini zoo, botanical gardens, and nature trails, where you can spot various species of animals and birds. Another offbeat attraction is the Sahakari Spice Farm, where you can take a guided tour and learn about the region's spices and plantation. Both places provide an educational and enjoyable experience for the whole family.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices on Kayak.