4-Day Family-Friendly Trip to Goa

Friday, December 1: Exploring Old Goa

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of Old Goa. In the morning, visit Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to admire its stunning architecture and the preserved remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, head to Se Cathedral, the largest church in Asia, and marvel at its grandeur. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely stroll along Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter of Goa, known for its colorful Portuguese-style houses and charming narrow streets.

• Basilica of Bom Jesus: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Se Cathedral: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Fontainhas: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Old Goa is Café Central, known for its delicious variety of Goan and Portuguese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• For lunch, visit Vinayak Family Restaurant, where you can savor traditional Goan cuisine like fish curry and prawn balchao. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• To experience a memorable dinner, head to Mum's Kitchen, a cozy restaurant that serves authentic Goan delicacies with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.

Saturday, December 2: Beach Day in North Goa

Spend the day enjoying the beautiful beaches of North Goa. In the morning, head to Calangute Beach, one of the most popular and bustling beaches in Goa, and soak up the sun. In the afternoon, visit Baga Beach, known for its vibrant beach shacks and water sports activities. As the evening approaches, experience the lively atmosphere of Anjuna Beach, famous for its Wednesday Flea Market and a great spot to catch a mesmerizing sunset.

• Calangute Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Half a Day
• Baga Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Half a Day
• Anjuna Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Evening

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in North Goa is Cafe Lazydays, known for its delicious pancakes and fresh fruit smoothies. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• If you're looking for a place to have lunch, consider visiting Gunpowder, a charming restaurant that serves authentic South Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
• For dinner, head to Vinayak Family Restaurant, a local favorite known for its mouthwatering seafood dishes and warm hospitality. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.

Sunday, December 3: Wildlife at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Discover the diverse wildlife of Goa at the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. In the morning, explore the sanctuary's lush greenery and encounter various animal species, including deer, peacocks, and snakes. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic amidst the serene surroundings or take a nature walk along the well-marked trails. As the evening approaches, visit the small zoo within the sanctuary, featuring exotic birds and reptiles.

• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated Cost - Entrance fee: INR 10 per person, Time Spent - Half a Day

Monday, December 4: Cultural Heritage of Goa at Museum of Christian Art

On your last day in Goa, explore the rich artistic heritage of the region at the Museum of Christian Art. In the morning, admire the collection of Christian art pieces, including sculptures, paintings, and gold and silver ornaments. In the afternoon, visit the nearby St. Cajetan's Church, resembling St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, and enjoy the tranquility of its surroundings. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along the Mandovi River and witness the breathtaking view of the city.

• Museum of Christian Art: Estimated Cost - Entrance fee: INR 100 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• St. Cajetan's Church: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Mandovi River: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Goa, make sure to visit the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, tucked away in the southern part of Goa, to witness the diverse flora and fauna in a peaceful setting. Also, don't miss the lively Saturday Night Market in Arpora, where you can indulge in shopping, live music, and delicious street food. For a serene beach experience, head to Palolem Beach in South Goa, known for its beautiful scenery and calm waters, perfect for a relaxing day with the family.

Plan your Goa trip by checking hotel and flight prices now!