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7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Goa, December 2023

Friday, December 1: Exploring Panaji

In the morning, start your Goa adventure in the capital city of Panaji. Visit the beautiful Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, a stunning white church with panoramic views. Afterward, head to the vibrant Market Square and browse through the local stalls selling spices, handicrafts, and Goan treats. In the afternoon, take a relaxing cruise on the Mandovi River, enjoying the scenic views and Goan music. As the evening sets in, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Fontainhas, Goa's Latin Quarter, known for its colorful houses and art galleries.

  • Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception: Entry is free. Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Market Square: Souvenirs and treats cost around INR 500. Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Relaxing Mandovi River cruise: Prices start from INR 500 per person. Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Fontainhas: Free to explore. Time spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 2: Beach Day in Calangute

Start your morning by heading to Calangute, one of the most popular and family-friendly beaches in Goa. Spend the morning building sandcastles, swimming in the clear blue waters, and soaking up the sun. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Calangute Market, where you can find everything from clothes and accessories to spices and souvenirs. As the sun begins to set, indulge in a beachside seafood dinner at one of the local shacks.

  • Calangute Beach: Free entry. Time spent: Half-day
  • Calangute Market: Cost depends on purchases. Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Beachside Seafood Dinner: Prices vary depending on restaurant. Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 3: Cultural Delights in Old Goa

Experience the rich history and culture of Goa by visiting Old Goa. Start your day by exploring the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, visit the Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. Take a leisurely stroll through the ancient streets of Old Goa, admiring the Portuguese-style architecture and enjoying the quaint cafés. End the day with a visit to the Archaeological Museum, which showcases Goa's fascinating past.

  • Basilica of Bom Jesus: Entry is free. Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Se Cathedral: Entry is free. Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Exploring Old Goa: Free to explore. Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Archaeological Museum: Entry fee of INR 5. Time spent: 1-2 hours
Monday, December 4: Adventure at Dudhsagar Waterfalls

Embark on an exciting day trip to Dudhsagar Waterfalls. Start early in the morning and travel to the falls by jeep or an organized tour. Marvel at the stunning cascade of water surrounded by lush greenery. Take a refreshing dip in the pool below and enjoy a picnic amidst the picturesque setting. In the afternoon, explore the nearby spice plantations, where you can learn about the cultivation and processing of various spices. Return to Goa in the evening.

  • Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Entry fee of INR 400. Time spent: Half-day
  • Spice Plantations: Prices start from INR 400. Time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, December 5: Wildlife Encounter at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Immerse yourself in nature by visiting the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. Spend the morning exploring the sanctuary's lush surroundings, inhabited by various wild animals and exotic birds. Take a guided nature walk or enjoy a safari to spot animals like deer, peacocks, and sloth bears. In the afternoon, visit the Bondla Zoo, which houses a variety of animals including leopards, monkeys, and crocodiles. Enjoy a picnic amidst the tranquil surroundings before heading back to your accommodation.

  • Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Entry fee of INR 20. Time spent: Half-day
  • Bondla Zoo: Entry fee of INR 5. Time spent: 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 6: Serenity at Palolem Beach

Spend a relaxing day at Palolem Beach, known for its pristine shoreline and peaceful atmosphere. Start your morning by taking a walk along the golden sands, with the gentle waves lapping at your feet. Enjoy a refreshing swim or try your hand at water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding. In the afternoon, indulge in a beachside massage or simply relax under the shade of a palm tree. Don't forget to savor the delicious seafood options available at the beach shacks.

  • Palolem Beach: Free entry. Time spent: Half-day
  • Water Sports: Prices vary depending on activity. Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Beachside Massage: Prices start from INR 500. Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Beachside Seafood Lunch: Prices vary depending on restaurant. Time spent: 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 7: Shopping and Sunset at Anjuna Flea Market

Wrap up your Goa adventure by visiting the popular Anjuna Flea Market. Spend the morning exploring the vibrant market stalls filled with unique souvenirs, clothes, jewelry, and handicrafts. Bargain with the vendors to get the best deals. In the afternoon, head to Anjuna Beach and enjoy a leisurely swim while soaking in the serenity. As the day comes to an end, find a cozy spot to witness the breathtaking sunset over the Arabian Sea.

  • Anjuna Flea Market: Cost depends on purchases. Time spent: Half-day
  • Anjuna Beach: Free entry. Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Witnessing the Sunset: Free to enjoy. Time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Goa, consider visiting the following hidden gems and local favorites. Take your family to the Splashdown Water Park for a fun-filled day of water slides and pools. Visit the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary to marvel at the diverse bird species in their natural habitat. For a unique cultural experience, attend a traditional Goan fado music performance at one of the local venues. Don't forget to try the delicious Goan seafood at popular local eateries like Ritz Classic and Mum's Kitchen.

For more hotel and flight options, check prices on kayak.com.

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