Family Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Goa

Wednesday, November 1: Arrival in Goa

Welcome to Goa! Start your trip by checking into your preferred hotel and taking some time to relax and settle in. In the morning, explore the local area around your hotel, perhaps taking a walk on one of the beautiful beaches. In the afternoon, head to the Goa Science Centre, a fun and educational attraction for the whole family. In the evening, indulge in some delicious Goan cuisine at a local restaurant.

• Hotel check-in: Prices available at Kayak
• Goa Science Centre: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Dinner at a local Goan restaurant: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, November 2: Old Goa Exploration

Discover the rich history of Old Goa. In the morning, visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier. Afterward, explore Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. In the afternoon, take a leisurely boat ride on the Mandovi River. Enjoy the scenic views and keep an eye out for dolphins. In the evening, visit the vibrant Panaji Market and shop for local handicrafts.

• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Se Cathedral: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Mandovi River boat ride: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Panaji Market: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Friday, November 3: Beach Day at Calangute and Baga

Spend a relaxing day at the picturesque beaches of Calangute and Baga. In the morning, soak up the sun and enjoy water activities like swimming and beach volleyball. Have lunch at one of the beach shacks, where you can savor fresh seafood. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the bustling Calangute Market Road for some souvenir shopping. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset at Baga Beach.

• Beach activities at Calangute and Baga: Free, Estimated time spent - Full day
• Lunch at a beach shack: Estimated cost - INR 800 per person, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Shopping at Calangute Market Road: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, November 4: Dudhsagar Waterfalls Excursion

Embark on an exciting adventure to the majestic Dudhsagar Waterfalls. In the morning, travel to the falls by road or train, enjoying the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats. Spend the afternoon amidst the lush greenery, swim in the natural pools, and take stunning pictures. In the evening, return to your hotel and relax after a thrilling day.

• Dudhsagar Waterfalls trip: Estimated cost - INR 1,500 per person (includes transportation), Estimated time spent - Full day

Sunday, November 5: Wildlife Safari at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Explore the rich wildlife of Goa at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. In the morning, visit the sanctuary and immerse yourself in the natural beauty. Enjoy a safari ride to spot deer, peacocks, and various bird species. Take a walk through nature trails and marvel at the flora and fauna. In the afternoon, have a picnic amidst the serene surroundings. In the evening, head back to your hotel and unwind.

• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person (entry fee), Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours

Monday, November 6: Water Sports at Calangute Beach

Engage in thrilling water sports at Calangute Beach. In the morning, try activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. After an adventurous morning, have lunch at a beachside café. In the afternoon, go for a relaxing swim or simply lounge on the beach. In the evening, explore the nearby nightlife options and enjoy live music performances.

• Water sports at Calangute Beach: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - Half day
• Lunch at a beachside café: Estimated cost - INR 600 per person, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, November 7: Spice Plantation Tour

Delve into the aromatic world of spices with a tour of a spice plantation. In the morning, visit one of the spice farms and learn about various spices and their cultivation. Enjoy a guided tour where you can see and taste a variety of spices. Indulge in a delicious lunch served with traditional Goan flavors. In the afternoon, explore the plantation or simply relax in the serene surroundings. In the evening, savor a traditional Goan dinner.

• Spice plantation tour: Estimated cost - INR 800 per person (includes tour and lunch), Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
• Dinner at a traditional Goan restaurant: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Goa, make sure to visit the following off the beaten path attractions loved by locals and suitable for families:

• Netravali Butterfly Sanctuary: A nature park home to numerous butterfly species. Enjoy a guided tour and experience the butterfly magic.
• Chapora Fort: Famous for its stunning views of the Arabian Sea, this fort was featured in the Bollywood movie "Dil Chahta Hai".
• Arambol Sweet Water Lake: Take a dip in this serene lake surrounded by hills and enjoy the scenic beauty away from the crowded beaches.