7-Day Goa Itinerary - December 23, 2023

Saturday December 23: Arrival in Goa

Welcome to Goa! Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and take some time to relax and freshen up. In the morning, head to Anjuna Beach, known for its vibrant flea market offering handicrafts, clothes, and jewelry. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic Fort Aguada, a Portuguese fort overlooking the Arabian Sea. In the evening, visit the lively Calangute Beach and indulge in some delicious Goan cuisine at one of the beachside shacks.

• Anjuna Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Fort Aguada: Estimated cost - INR 300 (approx. $4), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Calangute Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Evening

Sunday December 24: Old Goa and Spice Plantation

Start your morning with a visit to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Old Goa, housing the remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Mangeshi Temple and then head to a spice plantation to learn about the region's aromatic spices. Spend the evening at Miramar Beach, enjoying the sunset views and taking a leisurely walk.

• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Mangeshi Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Spice Plantation: Estimated cost - INR 500 (approx. $7), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Miramar Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Evening

Monday December 25: Dudhsagar Falls and Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Embark on an exciting day trip to Dudhsagar Falls, one of India's tallest waterfalls. Enjoy the scenic beauty and if weather permits, take a refreshing dip in the natural pool. In the afternoon, visit the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, home to various species of animals and birds. Stroll through the lush greenery and catch a glimpse of wildlife in their natural habitat.

• Dudhsagar Falls: Estimated cost - INR 400 (approx. $5), Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 100 (approx. $1.4), Time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday December 26: Panaji City Tour

Explore the capital city of Goa, Panaji, in the morning. Visit the beautiful Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church and take a walk through the charming Latin Quarter of Fontainhas. In the afternoon, discover the rich history of Goa at the Goa State Museum and enjoy a leisurely boat cruise on the Mandovi River. End the day with a delicious Goan seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

• Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Fontainhas: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Goa State Museum: Estimated cost - INR 10 (approx. $0.1), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Mandovi River Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 300 (approx. $4), Time spent - Evening

Wednesday December 27: South Goa Beaches and Cabo de Rama Fort

Head to the serene beaches of South Goa in the morning. Start with Palolem Beach, known for its scenic beauty and calm waters. Continue to Colva Beach, perfect for a relaxing sunbathing session. In the afternoon, visit the enchanting Cabo de Rama Fort, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Enjoy the sunset at Agonda Beach and savor a beachside dinner.

• Palolem Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Colva Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Cabo de Rama Fort: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Agonda Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Evening

Thursday December 28: Water Sports and Dudhsagar Plantation

Get your adrenaline pumping with a day of water sports on Calangute Beach. Try jet skiing, parasailing, or banana boat rides for an exciting adventure. In the afternoon, visit Dudhsagar Plantation to learn about organic farming and enjoy a traditional Goan lunch. In the evening, experience the lively nightlife of Goa at Tito's Lane in Baga, known for its clubs and bars.

• Calangute Beach Water Sports: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Dudhsagar Plantation: Estimated cost - INR 1,000 (approx. $14), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Tito's Lane, Baga: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Evening

Friday December 29: Divar Island and Sunset Cruise

Take a ferry to Divar Island in the morning and explore its picturesque villages and scenic landscapes. Visit the Our Lady of Compassion Church and enjoy a traditional Goan lunch at a local eatery. In the evening, embark on a delightful sunset cruise along the Mandovi River, enjoying live music, dance performances, and a sumptuous dinner buffet.

• Divar Island: Estimated cost - Ferry fare INR 10 (approx. $0.1), Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Our Lady of Compassion Church: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Sunset Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 1,500 (approx. $21), Time spent - Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the secluded Butterfly Beach, accessible by boat from Palolem Beach. Explore the vibrant Saturday Night Market in Arpora, featuring a wide range of stalls selling handicrafts, clothing, and local delicacies. Don't miss the charming village of Chorao, known for its bird sanctuary and scenic beauty. These hidden gems offer a glimpse into the lesser-explored side of Goa that locals love.

Check hotel and flight prices for your Goa trip here.