A Family-Friendly 2-Day Itinerary in Goa

Monday, October 23: Exploring North Goa

Morning:

Start your day by visiting the beautiful beaches of North Goa. Begin with Calangute Beach, known for its golden sand and water sports activities. Take a dip in the sea or relax under the shade of an umbrella. Afterward, head to Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.

• Calangute Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
• Fort Aguada: Entrance fee - INR 10 per person, 1-2 hours

Afternoon:

Explore the vibrant markets of North Goa. Visit the Anjuna Flea Market, held every Wednesday, where you can find a variety of clothing, accessories, handicrafts, and delicious street food. Afterwards, make your way to the charming village of Mapusa and explore its bustling Friday Market, offering a wide range of spices, fruits, vegetables, and traditional Goan handicrafts.

• Anjuna Flea Market: Free entry, 2-3 hours
• Mapusa Friday Market: Free entry, 1-2 hours

Evening:

End the day with a visit to the charming town of Panjim, the capital of Goa. Take a leisurely stroll along the Mandovi River promenade and enjoy the sunset. Visit the vibrant Latin Quarter of Fontainhas, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses. Indulge in some Goan cuisine for dinner at a local restaurant.

• Panjim: Free, 2-3 hours
• Fontainhas: Free, 1-2 hours
• Dinner: Cost varies, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot near Calangute Beach is Cafe Lazydays, offering a variety of delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• For lunch, head to Fisherman's Wharf, known for its seafood dishes and beautiful waterfront location. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
• In the evening, enjoy a dinner at Souza Lobo, a famous Goan restaurant serving authentic Goan cuisine with live music. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.

Restaurants

• Head to Cafe Mambo for a delicious breakfast with a wide range of options such as pancakes, omelettes, and fresh fruit juices. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
• For lunch, visit Britto's, a popular beachside restaurant offering a variety of Goan and international dishes. Try their seafood platter or chicken xacuti. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• In the evening, dine at Gunpowder, a charming restaurant known for its authentic South Indian cuisine. Don't miss their flavorful dosas and spicy curries. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in North Goa is Café Alchemia, known for its delicious European-inspired dishes. Enjoy a hearty breakfast here for around ₹300 per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to Gunpowder, a cozy restaurant that specializes in South Indian cuisine. Indulge in their flavorful curries and traditional thalis, with an average cost of ₹600 per person.
• In the evening, treat yourself to a dinner at Villa Blanche Bistro, a charming French restaurant in Mapusa. Delight in their gourmet dishes and fine wines, with an average cost of ₹800 per person.

Tuesday, October 24: South Goa Exploration

Morning:

Start your day by visiting the historic Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the elaborate baroque architecture and marvel at the preserved mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Next, head to Mangeshi Temple, a famous Hindu shrine known for its stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings.

• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Free entry, 1-2 hours
• Mangeshi Temple: Free entry, 1-2 hours

Afternoon:

Enjoy some family fun at the vibrant and bustling Colva Beach. Build sandcastles, play beach games, or simply relax under the swaying coconut trees. Take a dip in the Arabian Sea and try some of the local beachside snacks. Later, visit the nearby Naval Aviation Museum, showcasing the history and achievements of the Indian Naval Air Arm.

• Colva Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
• Naval Aviation Museum: Entrance fee - INR 20 per person, 1-2 hours

Evening:

End your trip with a leisurely boat cruise along the scenic Mandovi River. Enjoy the mesmerizing views of the Goan coastline and witness traditional Goan folk performances on board. After the cruise, savor a traditional Goan dinner at a riverside restaurant and indulge in some local music and dance.

• Mandovi River Cruise: Cost varies (around INR 300-500 per person), 2-3 hours
• Dinner: Cost varies, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

One off-the-beaten-path attraction in Goa is the Butterfly Conservatory at Ponda. It is a perfect place for families, where you can witness a variety of beautiful butterflies in their natural habitat. The conservatory also educates visitors about butterfly conservation efforts.

Another popular local favorite for families is the Splashdown Waterpark in Anjuna. With its thrilling water slides, wave pools, and a designated kids' play area, it offers a fun-filled day of water activities for all ages.

For a peaceful escape, head to the peaceful village of Chorao and explore the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. This mangrove wildlife sanctuary is home to a diverse range of bird species, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Plan your stay in Goa by checking hotel and flight prices here.