4-Day Family Friendly Rail Trip to Goa on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Panaji

Panaji, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Cafe Alchemia

Start your day with a delightful vegetarian breakfast at Cafe Alchemia, known for its affordable and delicious local fare.
Located in the heart of Panaji, easily walkable from most accommodations.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

Explore one of Panaji's most famous landmarks, known for its stunning white façade and a great view of the city.
A short 10-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Stroll through Fontainhas

Wander through the colorful Latin Quarter with its Portuguese architecture, a great spot for family photos.
Walking distance from the church.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Venite

Enjoy a budget-friendly Goan lunch with local seafood dishes and hearty vegetarian options.
Located in Fontainhas, a brief walk away.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Dona Paula Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing and enjoying water sports or a quiet beachside walk at the iconic Dona Paula beach.
Take a local bus from Panaji bus station (about 30 minutes).
Free, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Ritz Classic

Savor a delicious dinner of Goan thali, a budget-friendly option with a rich variety of flavors.
Return to Panaji by bus and walk to the restaurant.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Historical Old Goa

Old Goa, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Cafe Tinto

Relish a simple but hearty breakfast with local Goan bread and coconut chutney.
Located near the Old Goa market area.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Basilica of Bom Jesus

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its stunning Baroque architecture and the remains of St. Francis Xavier.
A short walk from the café.
Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Explore Se Cathedral

Visit one of the largest churches in Asia, known for its impressive architecture and history.
15 minutes walk from the Basilica.
Free, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Gunpowder

Enjoy a flavorful lunch at Gunpowder, serving a variety of regional Indian dishes at reasonable prices.
About 10 minutes by local transport.
INR 650, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Archaeological Museum

Explore artifacts that uncover Goa's rich history, perfect for a family learning experience.
A short bus ride from the restaurant.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Suwadik Goan Kitchen

End the day with a home-cooked Goan meal, offering great flavors at very affordable prices.
Return to Panaji by local transport.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Experience in Margao

Margao, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at 9 Naat

Enjoy a down-to-earth breakfast with options featuring local bread and fresh juices.
Procure a local train to Margao early in the morning (approximately 30 minutes ride).
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Municipal Market

Explore the vibrant market and soak in local flavors, spices, and fresh produce.
A walkable distance from the cafe.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Church of the Holy Spirit

Visit this iconic church, known for its stunning interiors and serene atmosphere.
Take a local bus or taxi (15 minutes ride).
Free, 45 minutes

1:00 PM

Lunch at Anand Stall

Grab some famous Goan fish curry with rice at this popular stall, perfect for a family meal.
Located near the church.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Sanguem Waterfalls

Surround yourself with nature at these beautiful waterfalls—a perfect picnic spot for families.
Local bus service available from Margao (30-minute ride).
INR 50, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Madhu

Conclude the day with delicious homemade Goan specials, known for its authenticity.
Return by bus to Margao and head to the restaurant within the city.
INR 500, 1 hour
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Day 4: Beach Day at Calangute

Calangute, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day

Start your final day with a casual breakfast featuring coffee and light snacks.
Catch a local train to Calangute (1 hour ride); the cafe is near the beach.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Relax at Calangute Beach

Dig your toes into the soft sand and enjoy beach games and sunbathing with the family.
Located just a short walk from the café.
Free, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf

Savor the taste of seafood with quintessential Goan dishes at this beachfront spot.
Short walk from Calangute beach.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Water Sports at Calangute

Enjoy thrilling water sports activities like parasailing or jet skiing—an adventure everyone will love.
Opt for one of the many vendors on the beach.
INR 1500, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Wrap-Up Snacks at Shree Gajanan Restaurant

Enjoy light snacks and refreshments before concluding your Goa trip.
Located nearby, on the main road.
INR 300, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Departure

Conclude your delightful family adventure in Goa and head to the railway station for your onward journey.
Local transport available.
Varies, 1 hour
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