Welcome to Goa! After arriving at the airport, make your way to your hotel and settle in. Spend the morning relaxing and enjoying the hotel facilities. In the afternoon, head to the nearest beach and soak up the sun. In the evening, explore the local markets and indulge in some delicious Goan cuisine.
Relax at the hotel: Prices vary, 4-6 hours
Beach time: Free, 3-4 hours
Explore local markets: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near your hotel is Cafe Alchemia, known for its delicious omelettes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head over to Fisherman's Wharf, a waterfront restaurant that serves excellent seafood dishes. Don't miss their signature Goan fish curry. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
In the evening, dine at Vinayak Family Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Goan cuisine. Try their prawn curry and bebinca dessert. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Saturday, December 9: Old Goa Exploration
Start your day by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Goa. Marvel at the stunning churches, such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Sé Cathedral. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride on the Mandovi River. In the evening, enjoy a cultural show that showcases Goan music and dance.
Old Goa Churches: Free, 3-4 hours
Mandovi River Boat Ride: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Cultural Show: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Café Alchemia, a cozy cafe known for its freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Treat yourself to a satisfying lunch at Vinayak Family Restaurant, a popular local eatery serving authentic Goan cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Indulge in a delectable seafood dinner at Fisherman's Wharf, a waterfront restaurant offering a wide range of grilled and tandoori dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Sunday, December 10: Water Sports and Spice Plantation
Get ready for some adventure! Spend the morning enjoying thrilling water sports at one of the popular beaches like Calangute or Baga. In the afternoon, visit a spice plantation and learn about the spices that make Goan cuisine so flavorful. End the day with a relaxing sunset cruise along the coastline.
Water Sports: Prices vary, 4-5 hours
Spice Plantation: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Sunset Cruise: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Infinito, a cozy café located near Calangute beach. They serve delicious breakfast options like fluffy pancakes and scrambled eggs. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
For lunch, visit Gunpowder, a charming restaurant nestled in a spice plantation. They offer a variety of authentic Goan dishes, including their famous pork vindaloo. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
For dinner, try Souza Lobo, a popular beachfront restaurant in Calangute. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes like grilled fish and prawn curry while listening to live music. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Monday, December 11: Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Embark on a day trip to the majestic Dudhsagar Waterfalls. Start early to reach the falls and witness its breathtaking beauty. Enjoy swimming in the natural pools and capturing memorable photographs. On the way back, visit the picturesque village of Tambdi Surla and explore its ancient temples.
Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Prices vary, 7-8 hours
Tambdi Surla Village: Free, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 12: Wildlife Safari and Beach Relaxation
Experience the wildlife of Goa by visiting the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. Take a thrilling jeep safari and spot various species of animals and birds. Afterward, head to one of the serene beaches like Palolem or Agonda to relax and unwind.
Wildlife Safari: Prices vary, 5-6 hours
Beach Relaxation: Free, 3-4 hours
Wednesday, December 13: Fontainhas Heritage Walk and Sunset Cruise
Explore the charming Latin Quarter of Fontainhas on a guided heritage walk. Admire the well-preserved Portuguese architecture and colorful houses. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the bustling streets of Panjim and indulge in some shopping. End your trip with a relaxing sunset cruise on the Mandovi River.
Fontainhas Heritage Walk: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Panjim Shopping: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Sunset Cruise: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Goa, don't miss out on exploring the lesser-known gems. Visit the peaceful Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda, where you can witness the vibrant butterflies in their natural habitat. Take a family picnic to the serene Divar Island and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. For a unique cultural experience, attend a traditional Goan carnival, held in various villages, showcasing vibrant costumes, music, and dance.