Explore the Beach Paradise of Goa

Embark on an exciting 5-day journey to Goa, a tropical paradise known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. From Friday, January 5, 2024, to Tuesday, January 9, 2024, experience the best of Goa's attractions, hidden gems, and local favorites. Check out the hotel and flight prices on Kayak for a comfortable stay during your trip.

Friday, January 5: Explore Old Goa

Start your trip by exploring the historical charm of Old Goa in the morning. Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest churches in Goa. Admire the beautiful Portuguese architecture and the preserved remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, head to Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter of Goa, known for its colorful houses and narrow streets. Explore the art galleries and enjoy a traditional Goan lunch. In the evening, take a relaxing walk along Miramar Beach and witness a captivating sunset.

• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Fontainhas: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Miramar Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Old Goa is Café Alchemia, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious pancakes. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to Viva Panjim, a charming Goan restaurant in Fontainhas. With its authentic Goan dishes and warm atmosphere, you can expect to spend around 400 INR per person for a meal.
• For a delightful dinner experience, make a reservation at Fisherman's Wharf. Located by the river in Miramar, this restaurant offers a wide range of seafood dishes and live music. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 INR per person.

Saturday, January 6: Beach Hopping in North Goa

Start your day by visiting the famous Calangute Beach, known for its golden sand and water sports activities. Spend the morning soaking up the sun and trying out water activities like parasailing or jet skiing. In the afternoon, head to Baga Beach, a lively and popular beach in North Goa. Relax on the beach shacks, savor delicious seafood, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. As the evening approaches, visit the Saturday Night Market at Arpora, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and enjoy live music and entertainment.

• Calangute Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Half a day
• Baga Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Half a day
• Saturday Night Market at Arpora: Estimated Cost - Free entry, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For a delightful breakfast in North Goa, head to Café Chocolatti, known for its delicious pastries and excellent coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• For lunch, don't miss the chance to try the mouthwatering Goan cuisine at Fisherman's Wharf. This restaurant offers a stunning waterfront view and serves delectable seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
• If you're looking for a fantastic dinner experience, head to Gunpowder, a charming restaurant known for its authentic South Indian and Goan flavors. Savor the delicious curries and traditional dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹1,000 per person.

Sunday, January 7: Cultural Delights and Waterfalls

Immerse yourself in the cultural wonders of Goa by visiting the Shri Manguesh Temple, a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Admire the intricate architecture and serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Anjuna Flea Market, where you can find everything from clothes to handicrafts. Indulge in some shopping and sample delicious Goan street food. As the day continues, head to Dudhsagar Falls, a breathtaking waterfall nestled amidst lush greenery. Enjoy the natural beauty and take a refreshing dip in the cascading waters.

• Shri Manguesh Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Anjuna Flea Market: Estimated Cost - Free entry, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Dudhsagar Falls: Estimated Cost - Transportation fees, Time Spent - Half a day

Monday, January 8: South Goa Exploration

Discover the tranquil side of Goa by exploring the beautiful beaches in South Goa. Start your day by visiting Palolem Beach, a pristine stretch of golden sand surrounded by palm trees. Relax on the beach, take a boat ride, or indulge in a yoga session. In the afternoon, head to Agonda Beach, known for its serene beauty and nesting sites of Olive Ridley sea turtles. Enjoy a peaceful beach walk and relish a seafood lunch at one of the beachfront shacks. As the evening sets in, visit Cabo de Rama Fort and soak in the stunning panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.

• Palolem Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Half a day
• Agonda Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Half a day
• Cabo de Rama Fort: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in South Goa is Cafe Inn, known for its delicious European-style breakfast options. Enjoy a hearty breakfast here for an average cost of about ₹300 per person.
• For lunch, head to The Fisherman's Wharf, a beachfront restaurant offering a wide variety of seafood dishes. Indulge in fresh catch of the day and Goan specialties for an average cost of about ₹800 per person.
• In the evening, dine at Martin's Corner, a renowned restaurant known for its authentic Goan cuisine. Experience the flavors of Goa with their flavorful curries and seafood dishes, with an average cost of about ₹1000 per person.

Tuesday, January 9: Spice Plantations and Sunset Cruise

Embark on a journey to the spice plantations in Goa and learn about the rich flavors of Indian spices. Take a guided tour through the plantations, witness spice cultivation, and enjoy a traditional lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a sunset cruise along the Mandovi River. Enjoy the scenic beauty, live music, and dance performances while sailing through the Goan waterways. As the day comes to an end, savor a delicious Goan dinner at a riverside restaurant before departing from Goa.

• Spice Plantations: Estimated Cost - Entrance fees + guided tour, Time Spent - Half a day
• Sunset Cruise: Estimated Cost - Cruise ticket, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Goan Dinner: Estimated Cost - As per restaurant prices, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Goa, make sure to visit the off the beaten path attractions and explore the local favorites. Visit the lesser-known Butterfly Conservatory in Ponda, where you can witness a variety of colorful butterflies in their natural habitat. Another hidden gem is the Divar Island, a quaint island known for its scenic beauty and old-world charm. Take a ferry ride and explore the island at your own pace. Don't miss out on trying the local delicacies like Goan fish curry, pork vindaloo, and bebinca, a traditional Goan dessert.