Offbeat 5-Day Goa Itinerary: Hidden Gems in North, South, and Old Goa

Day 1: Arrival & Anjuna Exploration

Anjuna, Goa, India on May 11, 2025

2:00pm

Check-in & Relax at Guesthouse

Arrive and check into your accommodation in Anjuna. Settle down and prepare for the first day's exploration in this vibrant beach town.
INR0, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Chapora Fort

Explore iconic but less crowded Chapora Fort offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Vagator Beach, a peaceful place to watch the sunset.
INR0, 1h30m

5:00pm

Anjuna Flea Market (if Sunday)

If it's Sunday, explore the famous Anjuna Flea Market for unique handmade crafts and souvenirs from local sellers.
Free entry, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gunpowder

Try authentic South Indian flavors at this hidden gem, famed for its spicy and delicious dishes in a cozy garden setting in Anjuna.
INR500 approx., 1h30m
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Day 2: South Goa Beaches & Relaxation

South Goa, India on May 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Artjuna Cafe

Start your day with fresh organic breakfast and smoothies in this artistic café surrounded by greenery near Anjuna.
INR350 approx., 1h0m

9:00am

Travel to Palolem Beach, South Goa

Head south to Palolem Beach, known for its pristine sands and calmer crowd, a perfect offbeat destination for relaxation.
INR800 (taxi fare approx.), 2h0m

11:00am

Explore Butterfly Beach

Take a boat ride or trek to Secret Butterfly Beach, a hidden gem accessible only by boat or a 30-minute hike from Palolem, known for tranquility and butterflies.
Boat ride INR600, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Magic Italy, Palolem

Enjoy authentic and less commercialized Italian cuisine close to the beach with incredible sea views.
INR600 approx., 1h0m

3:00pm

Relax at Palolem Beach

Spend the afternoon soaking up the serene vibes of Palolem Beach or rent a kayak for a calming paddle around the bay.
Free to INR400 for kayak, 2h0m

6:00pm

Return to Anjuna

Travel back to your base in Anjuna for a restful evening after an active day in South Goa.
INR800 (taxi fare approx.), 2h0m

8:30pm

Dinner at Café Lilliput

A waterfront hidden gem in Anjuna that serves Goan-Portuguese dishes and fresh seafood in a laid-back atmosphere.
INR700 approx., 1h30m
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Day 3: Anjuna & Mandrem Transfer

Anjuna to Mandrem, Goa, India on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at German Bakery, Anjuna

Enjoy freshly baked bread and healthy breakfasts at this beloved local bakery known for its artisanal offerings.
INR300 approx., 1h0m

9:30am

Hidden Beaches Exploration - Vagator and Ozran Beach

Explore quiet spots like Little Vagator Beach and Ozran, great for peaceful walks and scenic views away from the crowd.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Artjuna

Savor healthy, organic, and vegan-friendly meals at this garden café with a bohemian vibe, popular among locals looking for authenticity.
INR450 approx., 1h0m

1:30pm

Travel to Mandrem

Short transfer (approx. 1 hour) to Mandrem, known for its peaceful beaches and excellent yoga retreats.
INR500 (taxi fare approx.), 1h0m

3:00pm

Check-in & Beach Time at Mandrem

Settle in at your Mandrem accommodation and take a relaxing walk at the uncrowded Mandrem Beach.
INR0, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Mandrem Retreat

Experience authentic Goan seafood in a serene location. This place is a hidden dining gem with fresh and local ingredients.
INR700 approx., 1h30m
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Day 4: Mandrem & North Goa Nature

Mandrem, Goa, India on May 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Café Mandrem

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast featuring fresh juices and baked goods at this cozy café popular among yoga travelers.
INR350 approx., 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Arambol Sweet Water Lake

Explore Arambol's hidden sweet water lake, a peaceful spot perfect for nature lovers and a short trek from Mandrem.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Ashvem Beach

Stroll along the less crowded Ashvem Beach, enjoy its clean sandy stretch, beachside shacks, and calm waters perfect for relaxation.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Café Tina

This no-frills local café offers delicious Goan curries and seafood dishes at affordable prices near Ashvem Beach.
INR400 approx., 1h0m

2:30pm

Spa & Wellness Session

Relax with a traditional Ayurvedic massage or wellness therapy at a Mandrem spa known for authentic treatments.
INR1200 approx., 2h0m

5:00pm

Sunset at Mandrem Beach

Unwind at Mandrem Beach during golden hour, a quiet place to reflect and enjoy natural beauty without crowds.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Baba Au Rhum

An exclusive fine dining experience in Mandrem serving Mediterranean-inspired cuisine made from fresh local produce.
INR1500 approx., 1h30m
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Day 5: Old Goa & Departure

Old Goa, Goa, India on May 15, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Mandrem Homestay

Simple homemade breakfast to start your last day in Goa with local flavors and fresh ingredients.
INR250 approx., 1h0m

9:30am

Travel to Old Goa

Drive to Old Goa (approx. 1 hour), famous for its UNESCO World Heritage churches and Portuguese colonial history.
INR600 (taxi fare approx.), 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Basilica of Bom Jesus & Se Cathedral

Explore these stunning 16th-century churches, marvel at intricate architecture and historic relics of Goa’s Catholic past.
INR40, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Mum’s Kitchen, Panaji

Enjoy traditional Goan delicacies in a hidden gem restaurant in Panaji focusing on authentic recipes and fresh seafood.
INR700 approx., 1h0m

1:45pm

Stroll Around Panaji Latin Quarter

Walk through Fontainhas, Goa's heritage Latin Quarter with colorful Portuguese houses, quaint streets, and small cafes.
Free, 1h0m

3:00pm

Head to Bus Station

Prepare for departure by heading to the bus station for your 6pm bus, allowing enough time for travel and boarding.
INR0, 2h30m
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