7-Day Itinerary: Exploring the North and South Parts of Goa
Tuesday, September 26: Arrival in Goa
Welcome to Goa, India's tropical paradise! Upon arrival, check hotel and flight prices here. Spend the morning exploring the beautiful beaches and vibrant markets. In the afternoon, visit the historic Basilica of Bom Jesus and marvel at its exquisite architecture. In the evening, savor delicious Goan cuisine at a local restaurant.
Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Cafe Alchemia, located near the beach. They offer a variety of freshly baked pastries and a hearty English breakfast. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a delightful lunch, head to Souza Lobo, a popular beachfront restaurant known for its traditional Goan cuisine. From fish curry to pork vindaloo, their menu has a wide range of authentic dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Mum's Kitchen, a restaurant that serves traditional Goan and Portuguese cuisine. With their cozy ambiance and flavorful dishes like Goan fish curry and chicken cafreal, a meal here costs around 800 INR per person on average.
Wednesday, September 27: North Goa Beaches
Start your day by visiting the iconic Calangute Beach, known for its golden sands and water sports. In the afternoon, head to the picturesque Anjuna Beach and relax under the swaying palm trees. As the sun sets, visit the vibrant night market at Arpora and shop for unique souvenirs.
Calangute Beach: Free, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
Anjuna Beach: Free, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
Arpora Night Market: Free, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Situated just a short walk from Calangute Beach, Cafe Lazydays is a cozy breakfast spot offering a variety of delicious dishes such as fluffy pancakes and hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
For lunch, head to Curlies Beach Shack at Anjuna Beach, where you can savor mouthwatering seafood dishes while enjoying the stunning ocean views. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
In the evening, dine at Gunpowder, a quaint restaurant in Assagao known for its authentic South Indian cuisine. Don't miss their flavorful curries and crispy dosas. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Thursday, September 28: Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Embark on an exciting adventure to Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of Goa's most spectacular natural wonders. Enjoy a jeep ride through lush forests and hike to the waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing dip. On the way back, visit the spice plantations and learn about Goa's rich agricultural heritage.
Cafe Alchemia: A charming cafe serving delicious breakfast options such as fluffy pancakes and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Ritz Classic: A popular restaurant known for its Goan delicacies and seafood dishes. Enjoy a hearty lunch of Goan fish curry and rice. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
The Black Sheep Bistro: A trendy bistro offering a fusion of Goan and international flavors. Indulge in a delectable dinner of grilled prawns and lamb chops. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Friday, September 29: Old Goa and Panjim
Explore the historical charm of Old Goa, home to magnificent churches and colonial architecture. Visit the Se Cathedral, the largest church in Asia, and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. In the afternoon, wander through the colorful streets of Panjim, the capital city of Goa, and indulge in some shopping at the vibrant markets.
Se Cathedral: Free, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
Church of St. Francis of Assisi: Free, Estimated time: 1 hour
Panjim Markets: Free, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Alchemia, a cozy cafe in Panjim serving delicious breakfast options like fluffy pancakes and omelettes. Expect to spend around INR 200 per person.
For lunch, try Ritz Classic, a popular restaurant in Panjim known for its Goan and Portuguese cuisine. Don't miss their mouthwatering fish curry and rice. A meal here costs around INR 400 per person.
For dinner, visit Viva Panjim, a charming Goan restaurant in Fontainhas, known for its authentic Goan flavors. Indulge in their famous Goan fish curry and traditional Goan dishes. The average cost for a meal at Viva Panjim is around INR 500 per person.
Saturday, September 30: South Goa Temples
Visit the famous Mangueshi Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and admire its stunning architecture. Explore the peaceful surroundings of the Shri Shantadurga Temple, known for its serene ambiance. In the afternoon, relax and unwind at the pristine beaches of Palolem or Colva.
Café Mangii: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Café Mangii which offers a diverse menu including omelettes, pancakes and fresh fruit bowls. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
The Fisherman's Wharf: Indulge in a delicious Goan seafood lunch at The Fisherman's Wharf, known for its warm atmosphere and waterfront dining. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Caravela - The Seaside Restaurant: Experience a fine dining dinner at Caravela - The Seaside Restaurant, offering a range of international and Indian dishes with stunning ocean views. Average cost for a meal is about 1500 INR per person.
Sunday, October 1: Spice Village and Sunset Cruise
Experience the flavors of Goa with a visit to a spice village, where you can learn about the region's aromatic spices and indulge in a traditional Goan meal. In the evening, embark on a serene sunset cruise along the Mandovi River and enjoy breathtaking views of the Goan coastline.
Sunset Cruise: ₹500 per person, Estimated time: 2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Cafe Alchemia, a charming café known for its freshly brewed coffee and scrumptious sandwiches. A meal here costs around $8 per person.
Satisfy your taste buds with a flavorful lunch at Gunpowder, a hidden gem that serves authentic South Indian cuisine. Don't miss their mouthwatering dosas and thalis. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Souza Lobo, a legendary beachfront restaurant famous for its delectable Goan seafood delicacies. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and expect to spend around $20 per person for a satisfying meal.
Monday, October 2: Goa's Cultural Heritage
Immerse yourself in Goa's rich cultural heritage with a visit to the Museum of Christian Art, showcasing exquisite Christian artifacts. Explore the vibrant Latin Quarter of Fontainhas, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses. In the afternoon, relax at the peaceful Dona Paula Beach and enjoy the stunning coastal views.
Museum of Christian Art: Entrance fee: ₹100, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
Fontainhas: Free, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
Dona Paula Beach: Free, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in the area is Cafe Alchemia, known for its freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $7 per person.
For lunch, head to Vinayak Family Restaurant which offers a wide variety of Goan cuisine including delicious fish curry and traditional Goan thali. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
In the evening, indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Mum's Kitchen, known for its authentic Goan dishes prepared using traditional recipes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the Divar Island, located in the Mandovi River. Explore its picturesque villages, ancient temples, and enjoy panoramic views from the Devkund viewpoint. Another local favorite is the Chapora Fort, offering stunning vistas of the Arabian Sea and the nearby Vagator Beach.