6-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for South Goa and North Goa
Tuesday, October 24: Arrival in Goa
Welcome to Goa! After checking into your hotel, take a leisurely walk along the beautiful Miramar Beach in Panjim. In the afternoon, visit the fascinating Naval Aviation Museum, showcasing the history of Indian Naval Aviation. In the evening, head to the vibrant and lively Baga Beach, known for its beach shacks, seafood, and live music.
Miramar Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
Naval Aviation Museum: INR 100 per person, 2-3 hours
Baga Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Alchemia, a cozy and charming cafe known for its delicious coffee and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try Vinayak Family Restaurant, located near Miramar Beach. This restaurant offers a variety of Goan and Indian dishes, including seafood specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at Britto's, a famous beachfront restaurant on Baga Beach. Known for its mouthwatering seafood dishes and lively atmosphere, it offers a true taste of Goan cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Wednesday, October 25: Exploring Old Goa
Begin your day by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Basilica of Bom Jesus, home to the remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Se Cathedral, known for its stunning architecture. End the day with a visit to the Museum of Christian Art, which houses a unique collection of religious art and artifacts.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: Free, 1-2 hours
Se Cathedral: Free, 1-2 hours
Museum of Christian Art: INR 10 per person, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Alchemia. This charming café offers a variety of freshly baked pastries and mouthwatering breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Martin's Corner, a popular restaurant known for its Goan cuisine. Enjoy authentic Goan dishes like seafood curry and fish fry. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Fisherman's Wharf, a waterfront restaurant serving a wide range of seafood delicacies. Enjoy the serene ambience and delightful dishes such as butter garlic prawns and grilled fish. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, October 26: Wildlife and Nature
Start your day with a visit to the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot various animals and enjoy nature trails. In the afternoon, head to the picturesque Dudhsagar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Spend the evening at the peaceful and scenic Chapora Fort, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: INR 10 per person, 3-4 hours
Dudhsagar Falls: Free, 2-3 hours
Chapora Fort: Free, 1-2 hours
Friday, October 27: Beaches and Water Sports
Explore the stunning beaches of South Goa. Start with Palolem Beach, famous for its scenic beauty and tranquility. In the afternoon, head to Agonda Beach, known for its soft white sands and clear blue waters. Enjoy various water sports activities like jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing. End the day with a relaxing sunset at Cola Beach.
Palolem Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Agonda Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Water Sports Activities: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Cola Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
Saturday, October 28: North Goa Cultural Experience
Start your day by visiting the vibrant and colorful Anjuna Flea Market, offering a variety of clothes, accessories, and handicrafts. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Fort Aguada and its lighthouse, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. End the day with a visit to the bustling Calangute Beach, known for its nightlife and beachside shacks.
Anjuna Flea Market: Free, 2-3 hours
Fort Aguada: Free, 1-2 hours
Calangute Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Sunday, October 29: Spice Plantations and Sunset Cruise
Embark on a tour of the spice plantations in Ponda, where you can learn about various spices and their cultivation. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch in the plantation. In the evening, go for a sunset cruise along the Mandovi River, enjoying live music, dances, and Goan cuisine on board.
Spice Plantation Tour: INR 500 per person, 3-4 hours
Sunset Cruise: INR 1,000 per person, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Head to Vincent's Cafe for a hearty breakfast with a variety of options such as pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a delicious lunch, visit The Fisherman's Wharf, a popular seafood restaurant known for its fresh catch of the day and Goan specialties. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Martin's Corner, a local favorite famous for its mouthwatering Goan delicacies like pork vindaloo and Goan fish curry. Average cost for a meal is about ₹700 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a family-friendly off the beaten path experience, visit the peaceful and less crowded Butterfly Beach, accessible by a short boat ride. Another hidden gem is the Divar Island, known for its scenic beauty, old-world charm, and beautiful churches. Don't miss the chance to try the local Goan delicacies like Bebinca (traditional Goan dessert) and Goan fish curry at authentic local restaurants.