Shoestring Budget 7-Day Itinerary for Goa, starting October 8, 2023

Sunday, October 8: Exploring Historic Goa

Begin your trip by exploring the rich history of Goa. In the morning, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Basilica of Bom Jesus, known for its stunning architecture and housing the remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, head to Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. As the evening approaches, visit the charming Latin Quarter of Fontainhas, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses and quaint cafes.

• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Goa's most famous church with an estimated cost of 0 and 1-2 hours time spent.
• Fort Aguada: Explore the historic fort with an estimated cost of 0 and 1-2 hours time spent.
• Fontainhas: Wander through the Latin Quarter with an estimated cost of 0 and 2-3 hours time spent.

Monday, October 9: Beach Hopping

Embark on a day of beach hopping along the stunning coastline of Goa. Start your morning at Calangute Beach, known for its vibrant atmosphere and water sports. In the afternoon, head to Anjuna Beach, famous for its flea market and hippie culture. As the evening sets in, visit the serene Vagator Beach to witness a breathtaking sunset.

• Calangute Beach: Enjoy the beach and water sports with an estimated cost of 0 and 3-4 hours time spent.
• Anjuna Beach: Explore the flea market and relax on the beach with an estimated cost of 0 and 3-4 hours time spent.
• Vagator Beach: Witness a stunning sunset with an estimated cost of 0 and 2-3 hours time spent.

Tuesday, October 10: Dudhsagar Waterfalls and Spice Plantations

Venture into the lush landscapes of Goa on this day. In the morning, embark on an excursion to Dudhsagar Waterfalls, known for its milky white cascades amidst the greenery. After enjoying the waterfall, head to a local spice plantation in the afternoon to learn about the region's aromatic spices and enjoy a traditional Goan lunch.

• Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Experience the majestic waterfall with an estimated cost of 0 and 5-6 hours time spent.
• Spice Plantation: Learn about spices and savor a Goan lunch with an estimated cost of 0 and 2-3 hours time spent.

Wednesday, October 11: Old Goa Exploration

Take a day to explore the cultural treasures of Old Goa. Begin your morning at the Se Cathedral, one of Asia's largest churches. Then, visit the nearby Church of St. Francis of Assisi and the Archaeological Museum of Goa, housing artifacts from the Portuguese era. In the afternoon, explore the magnificent Church of St. Cajetan and the ruins of the Church of St. Augustine.

• Se Cathedral: Marvel at the grandeur of the cathedral with an estimated cost of 0 and 1-2 hours time spent.
• Church of St. Francis of Assisi and Archaeological Museum of Goa: Discover the historical artifacts with an estimated cost of 0 and 1-2 hours time spent.
• Church of St. Cajetan and Ruins of the Church of St. Augustine: Explore the architectural wonders with an estimated cost of 0 and 1-2 hours time spent.

Thursday, October 12: Wildlife Encounter at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Get closer to nature by visiting the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. In the morning, embark on a wildlife safari and spot various species of animals and birds. Take a leisurely stroll through the sanctuary's nature trails and enjoy a picnic amidst the green surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the onsite Deer Safari Park and Botanical Garden.

• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Experience the wildlife and nature trails with an estimated cost of 0 and 4-5 hours time spent.
• Deer Safari Park and Botanical Garden: Visit the park and garden with an estimated cost of 0 and 1-2 hours time spent.

Friday, October 13: Explore the Islands of Goa

Discover the scenic islands of Goa on this day. Take a ferry to Divar Island in the morning and explore its picturesque village and churches. In the afternoon, head to Chorao Island and visit the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, known for its rich avian population. Enjoy nature walks and birdwatching amidst the mangroves and wetlands.

• Divar Island: Explore the charming village and churches with an estimated cost of 0 and 3-4 hours time spent.
• Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary: Discover the diverse bird species with an estimated cost of 0 and 2-3 hours time spent.

Saturday, October 14: Relaxation at Palolem Beach

End your trip with a day of relaxation at Palolem Beach, known for its pristine waters and tranquil atmosphere. Spend the morning lounging on the beach and taking a dip in the Arabian Sea. Indulge in fresh seafood at beachside shacks for lunch. In the afternoon, pamper yourself with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage or explore the neighboring butterfly beach.

• Palolem Beach: Relax on the beach and enjoy fresh seafood with an estimated cost of 0 and 4-5 hours time spent.
• Ayurvedic Massage or Butterfly Beach: Treat yourself to a massage or explore the scenic Butterfly Beach with an estimated cost of 0 and 2-3 hours time spent.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals in Goa, consider visiting the peaceful and scenic Galgibaga Beach, known for its nesting Olive Ridley turtles. Another hidden gem is the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, offering opportunities for trekking and admiring waterfalls. Explore the vibrant and bustling market of Mapusa, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and sample Goan street food at affordable prices.

Check prices for flights and hotels in Goa here.