6-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Goa

Friday, September 22:

Start your trip in Goa by exploring the beautiful beaches of Calangute. In the morning, relax on the sandy shores and soak up the sun. In the afternoon, visit the Calangute Market for some shopping and delicious Goan street food. As the evening approaches, head to the vibrant Baga Beach for a memorable sunset and enjoy dinner at one of the beachside shacks.

• Calangute Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Calangute Market: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Baga Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Evening

Saturday, September 23:

Experience the cultural side of Goa by visiting the famous Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa. Start your morning with a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site and admire the stunning architecture. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Fontainhas neighborhood, known for its colourful Portuguese-style houses. In the evening, enjoy a river cruise on the Mandovi River, complete with live music and entertainment.

• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Fontainhas: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Mandovi River Cruise: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Evening

Restaurants

• Enjoy a delicious Goan breakfast at Café Bhonsle, located just a short distance from the Basilica of Bom Jesus. Indulge in their famous Prawn Curry Rice and Poi Bread. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
• For lunch, head to Vinayak Family Restaurant in Fontainhas and savor their traditional Goan thali, which includes a variety of local dishes like fish curry, vegetable curry, and rice. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
• In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Mum's Kitchen. Known for its authentic Goan cuisine, this restaurant offers dishes like Goan prawn curry, pork vindaloo, and bebinca for dessert. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.

Sunday, September 24:

Indulge in adventure and nature at Dudhsagar Falls. Embark on an early morning excursion to witness the majestic waterfall in its full glory. After enjoying the waterfall, visit the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary nearby for a chance to spot unique flora and fauna. Take a jeep safari or go on a trek through the sanctuary. In the evening, relax by the pool at your hotel.

• Dudhsagar Falls: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Full day
• Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 3-4 hours

Monday, September 25:

Explore the history and architecture of Goa at the Fort Aguada and Chapora Fort. Start your day by visiting the well-preserved Fort Aguada, which offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, head to Chapora Fort, famous for its appearance in the Bollywood movie "Dil Chahta Hai". Enjoy the scenic surroundings and capture beautiful photographs. In the evening, relax at a beachside restaurant in Vagator and enjoy some fresh seafood.

• Fort Aguada: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Chapora Fort: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Vagator Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Evening

Tuesday, September 26:

Embark on a thrilling water sports adventure at Calangute Beach. Start your day with parasailing or jet skiing, and feel the adrenaline rush. In the afternoon, try your hand at banana boat rides or go snorkeling to explore the underwater world. For a more relaxed experience, indulge in a beachside massage. In the evening, visit the vibrant Saturday Night Market at Arpora, where you can shop for handicrafts, clothes, and enjoy live music.

• Water Sports at Calangute Beach: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Saturday Night Market at Arpora: Estimated cost - Free entry, Time spent - Evening

Wednesday, September 27:

End your trip by discovering the natural beauty of Goa at the Spice Plantations in Ponda. Take a guided tour of the plantation, learn about various spices, and indulge in a traditional Goan lunch. In the afternoon, visit the peaceful Mangeshi Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Finally, relax at the serene Palolem Beach and enjoy the picturesque sunset. Wrap up your trip with a delicious Goan seafood dinner.

• Spice Plantations: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Mangeshi Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Palolem Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family-friendly experience, visit the Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda. Explore the lush gardens filled with colorful butterflies and learn about their life cycle. Another offbeat attraction is the Museum of Goa, which showcases contemporary art and local history. Don't forget to try Goan sweets like Bebinca and Dodol, which are local favorites. These hidden gems will add a touch of uniqueness to your trip and create lasting memories.

Check here to find the best hotel and flight prices for your trip to Goa!