6-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Goa, October 19-24, 2023
Thursday, October 19: Arrival in Goa
Welcome to Goa! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and settling in. Spend the morning relaxing at the beautiful Calangute Beach, where you can take a leisurely stroll along the shore. In the afternoon, visit the Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. As the evening sets in, head to Anjuna Flea Market, a vibrant market known for its handicrafts, clothes, and delicious street food.
Calangute Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Fort Aguada: Entrance fee: INR 30 (approx. $0.40), 1-2 hours
Anjuna Flea Market: Free entry, cost varies based on purchases, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
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Friday, October 20: Explore Old Goa
Start your day by visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, explore the Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. Head to Miramar Beach for a relaxing evening by the sea, enjoying the sunset and indulging in local snacks from the beachside stalls.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Se Cathedral: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Miramar Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Infantaria, a charming cafe known for its delicious breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a lunch spot, try Vinayak Family Restaurant, a popular local eatery serving traditional Goan dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, make your way to Gunpowder, a well-known restaurant offering a mix of Indian and fusion cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, October 21: Wildlife and Nature
Embark on an early morning adventure by visiting the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. Take a thrilling jeep safari to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Dudhsagar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Spend the evening at the peaceful Butterfly Conservatory, where you can witness numerous species of butterflies in their natural habitat.
Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park: Entrance fee: INR 20 (approx. $0.27), Jeep safari cost: INR 400-500 per person (approx. $5.40-$6.75), 4-5 hours
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Alchemia, located near the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary. Indulge in their variety of freshly baked goods and refreshing beverages. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Vinayak Family Restaurant, known for its authentic Goan cuisine. Enjoy their seafood specialties and traditional Goan dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Fisherman's Wharf, a popular waterfront restaurant offering a wide range of seafood delicacies. Experience the warm ambiance and enjoy the sunset views while savoring their delectable dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Sunday, October 22: Watersports and Beaches
Get ready for some thrilling watersports today! Start your day at Calangute Beach, which offers a wide range of activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. In the afternoon, head to Baga Beach for more water adventures. Enjoy the sunset at Vagator Beach and savor delicious Goan cuisine at one of the beachside shacks.
Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at Cafe Alchemia which offers a variety of options like fluffy pancakes and flavorful omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Souza Lobo, a popular beachside restaurant known for its fresh seafood and Goan specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
Indulge in a delectable dinner at Gunpowder, a hidden gem serving authentic South Indian and Goan cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, October 23: Panaji City Exploration
Start your day by exploring the charming streets of Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter of Panaji. Admire the colorful Portuguese-style houses and visit the famous Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. In the afternoon, take a relaxing river cruise along the Mandovi River. In the evening, visit the vibrant Dona Paula Jetty, known for its stunning views and local street food.
Fontainhas: Free, 1-2 hours
Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception: Free, 1-2 hours
Mandovi River Cruise: INR 300-500 (approx. $4.05-$6.75), 1-2 hours
Dona Paula Jetty: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Alchemia, known for its cozy ambiance and variety of freshly brewed coffees and mouthwatering pastries. Average cost for a breakfast meal is about 150 INR per person.
Satisfy your taste buds with a flavorful lunch at Vinayak Family Restaurant, offering a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes like biryani, curries, and tandoori specialties. Average cost for a lunch meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in an unforgettable dinner experience at Fisherman's Wharf, a waterfront restaurant known for its delectable seafood dishes and stunning sunset views. Average cost for a dinner meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Spice Plantations and Goa Cuisine
On your last day, take a guided tour of one of Goa's spice plantations, where you can learn about various spices and their cultivation. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch with authentic flavors. In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Goa to explore contemporary art and the rich cultural heritage of the region. End your trip with a relaxing evening at the peaceful Palolem Beach, known for its laid-back atmosphere.
Spice Plantation: Tour cost: INR 600-800 (approx. $8.10-$10.80), 2-3 hours
Museum of Goa: Entrance fee: INR 100 (approx. $1.35), 1-2 hours
Palolem Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Goa Breakfast Spot: Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Café Alchemia. This cozy café offers a variety of breakfast options including eggs, fresh fruit, and delicious pastries. The average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
Local Lunch Spot: For an authentic Goan lunch experience, head to Vinayak Family Restaurant. This popular eatery serves mouthwatering Goan cuisine such as fish curry and prawn balchão. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Dinner Delight: Indulge in a memorable dining experience at Mum's Kitchen. Known for its warm ambiance and traditional Goan dishes, this restaurant offers a range of seafood specialties like Goan fish curry and chicken xacuti. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Goa, don't miss the chance to visit the vibrant and lesser-known Divar Island. This quaint island offers scenic landscapes, old churches, and a glimpse into traditional Goan village life. Explore the peaceful Divar Island during a day trip and immerse yourself in its serene ambiance. Another must-visit location is the Spice Village in Ponda, where you can experience the aromatic spices and their production process firsthand. These hidden gems will provide unique and memorable experiences for the whole family.
For hotel and flight bookings in Goa, visit kayak.com to check prices and availability.