Family-Friendly Goa Itinerary for 5 Days

  • Day 1: Basilica of Bom Jesus
    31 minutes (14.9km) from Goa International Airport

    The UNESCO World Heritage Site houses the tomb and mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. The famous 'Open House' museum also showcases Jesuit artifacts and paintings giving travelers a glimpse into the rich history of Goa.

  • Day 2: Dudhsagar Falls
    1 hour 24 minutes (60.4km) from Basilica of Bom Jesus

    Enjoy a scenic drive to the majestic Dudhsagar Falls which translates to 'Sea of Milk' in English. Here, visitors can marvel at the stunning natural beauty of the four-tiered waterfall or even take a refreshing swim in the cool waters.

  • Day 3: Baga Beach
    50 minutes (19.0km) from Dudhsagar Falls

    With its many shacks serving delectable seafood and a plethora of water sports, Baga beach offers something for everyone in the family. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the beach during the day and watch the sunset while sipping a cocktail in the evening.

  • Day 4: Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
    29 minutes (10.7km) from Baga Beach

    The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of birds and other flora and fauna, making it a favorite among nature enthusiasts. A great way for families to bond while taking a small boat ride and spotting exotic birds in their natural habitat.

  • Day 5: Ancestral Goa Museum
    37 minutes (19.3km) from Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

    The open-air museum showcases the life of a Goan village with its various structures, such as the typical Goan house, farm, and art gallery. An experiential and educational journey into the Goan way of life.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Basilica of Bom Jesus (1-2 hours, free)
  • Dudhsagar Falls (4-5 hours, 400 INR per person for entry)
  • Baga Beach (4-5 hours, various costs for water sports and food)
  • Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (2-3 hours, 25 INR per person for entry)
  • Ancestral Goa Museum (2-3 hours, 400 INR per person for entry)
  • Total Estimated Costs (per person): 825 INR

Transportation

Goa has various modes of transportation, such as buses, taxis, and rental cars. Taxis are the most convenient and efficient way to travel with fares varying based on the distance of travel. A rental car is a good option for more independent travel if you plan on exploring the area. Buses are the cheapest but the most time-consuming mode of transportation.

Estimated Transportation Costs (per person):

  • Airport transfer to hotel: 1500-2000 INR
  • Taxi from hotel to attractions: 500-1000 INR per day
  • Rental Car: 2000-2500 INR per day
  • Local buses: 10-50 INR per ride

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you could consider visiting other beaches such as Calangute or Palolem. Also, consider taking a scenic drive on the winding roads of Goa’s countryside, leading to nearby attractions like the Savoi Plantation or the Sahakari Spice Farm. If you have less time, it’s best to prioritize which attractions to visit based on your interests and travel goals.

Airports

Goa International Airport (GOI) is located in Dabolim and is approximately 26 km (16 miles) from Panaji.

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