In the morning, visit the historic neighborhood of Fontainhas in Panaji, known for its Portuguese architecture and colorful houses. Afternoon can be spent at the popular Miramar Beach, enjoying the sun and sand. In the evening, walk along the Mandovi River Promenade and enjoy the view of the illuminated floating casinos.
Fontainhas: Free, 2-3 hours
Miramar Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
Mandovi River Promenade: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Café Bhonsle, a quaint little café in Fontainhas. Enjoy their delicious sandwiches and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Ritz Classic, a local favorite known for its Goan cuisine. Try their mouthwatering seafood dishes like prawn curry and fish thali. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner, visit The Black Sheep Bistro. This trendy restaurant offers a fusion of Goan and international flavors. Don't miss their signature dishes like the pork belly and prawn risotto. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, January 8: Explore Old Goa
Start your day by visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, explore the Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. End the day with a visit to the Museum of Christian Art, located within the Convent of Santa Monica.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: Free, 2-3 hours
Se Cathedral: Free, 1-2 hours
Museum of Christian Art: INR 10, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Alchemia for a range of delicious options including pancakes, sandwiches, and coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, try Vinayak Family Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Goan cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
For dinner, dine at Black Sheep Bistro, offering a fusion of international flavors and unique cocktails. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Tuesday, January 9: Water Activities in Calangute
Spend the morning at Calangute Beach, popular for its water sports activities. Have a thrilling time with options like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Tibetan Market for souvenirs. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife at the famous Tito's Lane in the evening.
Calangute Beach: Free (Activities prices vary), 4-5 hours
Tibetan Market: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Tito's Lane: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Calangute Beach is Cafe Sussegado Souvenir, serving delicious coastal breakfast dishes like Goan Poi and Prawn Xacuti Omelette. Expect to spend around 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Fat Fish, a vibrant seafood restaurant offering a wide array of Goan delicacies. Don't miss their King Fish Fry and Goan Fish Curry. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Gunpowder, a cozy restaurant known for its South Indian and Goan fusion cuisine. Try their famous Pork Vindaloo and Appams. The average cost for a meal here is around 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, January 10: Visit Dudhsagar Falls
Embark on a day trip to Dudhsagar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. Enjoy the scenic train journey from Kulem to Dudhsagar, followed by a hike to the waterfalls. Spend the day marveling at this natural wonder and take a refreshing dip in its pool.
Dudhsagar Falls Day Trip: Prices vary (train fare + guide charges), 8-10 hours
Thursday, January 11: Explore Anjuna and Vagator
In the morning, visit the famous Anjuna Flea Market, known for its hippie culture and a wide range of goods. Afternoon can be spent at Ozran Beach, also known as Little Vagator, for its tranquil beauty. End the day with a visit to Chapora Fort, offering panoramic views of the surrounding coastline.
Anjuna Flea Market: Free, 3-4 hours
Ozran Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Chapora Fort: Free, 1-2 hours
Friday, January 12: South Goa Exploration
Start your day by visiting the beautiful beaches of Palolem and Agonda. Spend the morning relaxing on the beaches and enjoying the serene atmosphere. Afternoon can be spent exploring Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its diverse flora and fauna.
Palolem Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
Agonda Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary: INR 50, 2-3 hours
Saturday, January 13: Spice Plantation and Casino Cruise
Visit a spice plantation in Ponda and learn about various spices and their cultivation. Enjoy a traditional Goan lunch at the plantation. In the evening, embark on a casino cruise along the Mandovi River for a unique entertainment experience.
Spice Plantation Visit: INR 400, 4-5 hours
Casino Cruise: Prices vary, 3-4 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near the spice plantation is Café Tato. They serve delicious Goan breakfast items like pao bhaji and poha. Average cost for a meal is about 100 rupees per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Vinayak Family Restaurant in Ponda. They offer a variety of Goan and Indian dishes like fish curry and chicken cafreal. Average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, try Mum's Kitchen in Panjim. They specialize in traditional Goan cuisine with a modern twist, offering dishes like Goan prawn curry and Bebinca for dessert. Average cost for a meal is about 500 rupees per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, explore the Divar Island with its scenic beauty and old-world charm. Take a ferry ride from Ribandar to reach the island. Visit the peaceful Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, home to a wide variety of bird species.
Locals often love spending time at the lesser-known Kakolem Beach, also known as Tiger Beach, for its secluded and pristine beauty. Keep in mind that this beach can be difficult to access, so it's advisable to hire a local guide.