4-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Goa

Friday, September 29: Exploring Old Goa

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the rich history of Old Goa. In the morning, visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Afterward, head to the Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. In the afternoon, explore the fascinating Museum of Christian Art, which showcases the region's religious art and artifacts. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along the Fontainhas Heritage Walk, a charming Latin Quarter filled with colorful houses, art galleries, and quaint cafes.

• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Se Cathedral: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Museum of Christian Art: Estimated Cost - INR 150 ($2) per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Fontainhas Heritage Walk: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Old Goa is Cafe Alchemia, known for its delicious pastries and strong coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• Situated in the heart of Fontainhas, Vinayak Family Restaurant is a great choice for a quick and tasty lunch. They offer a variety of Goan dishes at affordable prices, with an average cost for a meal of around 300 INR per person.
• For a delightful dinner experience, head to Mum's Kitchen, a charming restaurant specializing in authentic Goan cuisine. Their menu features a range of flavorsome seafood dishes and traditional Goan delicacies. The average cost for a meal at Mum's Kitchen is about 600 INR per person.

Saturday, September 30: Beach Day in Calangute

Spend a refreshing day at the famous Calangute Beach. In the morning, relax on the golden sands, bask in the warm sun, and take a dip in the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, indulge in thrilling water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. You can also explore the bustling Calangute Market for souvenir shopping. As the evening approaches, enjoy a mesmerizing sunset while savoring delicious seafood at one of the beach shacks.

• Calangute Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Full day
• Water Sports: Estimated Cost - INR 500-1000 ($7-$14) per activity, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Calangute Market: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Lazydays, known for its delicious breakfast dishes and cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to Souza Lobo, a popular beachside restaurant offering a diverse menu of Goan and seafood specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
• Indulge in a memorable dinner at Fisherman's Wharf, where you can feast on a variety of local seafood dishes in a charming riverside setting. Average cost for a meal is about 1200 INR per person.

Sunday, October 1: Nature and Wildlife in Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Embark on an adventurous day in the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. In the morning, explore the lush greenery and spot various species of wildlife, including deer, monkeys, and Indian bison. Engage in a thrilling elephant safari and soak in the natural beauty of the sanctuary. In the afternoon, visit the Deer Safari Park and enjoy feeding the deer. Take a leisurely nature walk and discover the diverse flora and fauna. As the evening sets in, relax in the serene surroundings and have a picnic with your family.

• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated Cost - INR 20 ($0.3) per person, Time Spent - Half day
• Elephant Safari: Estimated Cost - INR 100 ($1.4) per person, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Deer Safari Park: Estimated Cost - INR 10 ($0.14) per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, October 2: Cultural Exploration in Anjuna

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Anjuna. In the morning, visit the famous Anjuna Flea Market and browse through a wide array of handicrafts, clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. Indulge in delicious Goan street food and soak in the lively atmosphere. In the afternoon, explore the Chapora Fort, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding landscape. Spend some time relaxing on the picturesque Anjuna Beach and enjoy the waves. As the evening approaches, witness a mesmerizing sunset while enjoying a beachside bonfire.

• Anjuna Flea Market: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Chapora Fort: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Anjuna Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Goa, don't miss the chance to visit the beautiful Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda. This serene place is home to a myriad of colorful butterflies and offers a captivating experience for the whole family. Another hidden gem is the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary in Chorao, where you can spot various species of birds in their natural habitat. For a unique cultural experience, visit the Shantadurga Temple in Ponda and admire the exquisite architecture and spiritual ambiance. These off the beaten path attractions are perfect for a family-friendly adventure in Goa.