8-Day Ultimate Goa Itinerary: Beaches, Culture, and Cuisine Adventure

Day 1: North Goa Beaches

Calangute, Goa, India on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Infantaria

A popular bakery cafe in Calangute known for its Goan and Continental breakfast options such as bread omelette and pork sausages to start your day right.
INR300, 1h

9:30am

Calangute Beach Visit

Popular bustling beach perfect for sunbathing, water sports, and people watching. Open all day.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Souza Lobo

Enjoy traditional Goan seafood dishes right on Calangute beach, known for their authentic Goan fish thali and prawn curry.
INR700, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Fort Aguada

Historic Portuguese fort with scenic views overlooking the Arabian Sea. Open 8AM to 6PM.
INR40, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Baga Beach

Vibrant beach with lively cafes, shacks, and water sports to enjoy the late afternoon ambiance.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Britto's

Iconic beach shack serving seafood and Goan delicacies. Try their Goan pork sausages and seafood platter.
INR900, 1h30m

Day 2: Culture and Markets

Panaji, Goa, India on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Bhonsle

Traditional Goan cafe famous for its local breakfast items like poi bread and bebinca.
INR250, 1h

9:30am

Visit Latin Quarter in Panaji

Explore the charming Fontainhas area with Portuguese colonial houses and quaint streets. Great for culture and photography.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Visit Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception

Iconic white baroque church landmark in Panaji with impressive architecture.
Free, 30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Vismaya

A local favorite offering authentic Goan cuisine including xacuti and sorpotel.
INR600, 1h

2:30pm

Goa State Museum

Explore Goan history, art, and culture through exhibits. Open 10AM to 5PM, closed on Mondays.
INR30, 1h30m

4:30pm

Panaji Market Visit

Shop for local spices, cashews, and souvenirs in the vibrant street markets of Panaji.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Mum’s Kitchen

Known for authentic and award-winning Goan culinary specialties in traditional recipes.
INR1000, 1h30m

Day 3: Southern Goa Beaches

Palolem, Goa, India on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Art Resort Café

A charming café near Palolem beach offering fresh coffee and light continental breakfast.
INR350, 1h

9:30am

Visit Palolem Beach

Known for its crescent-shaped white sand beach and calm waters ideal for swimming and kayaking.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Dropadi

Cozy beachside restaurant serving Goan and Indian fusion cuisine with fresh seafood dishes.
INR700, 1h

2:30pm

Boat trip to Butterfly Island

Short boat ride from Palolem to Butterfly Island for snorkeling, swimming, and nature watching. Boat trips typically run till 5PM.
INR500, 2h

6:00pm

Evening walk at Agonda Beach

A quieter beach famous for its tranquility and scenic sunsets, ideal to unwind.
Free, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Magic Italy

Highly recommended for delicious Italian food with a Goan twist near Palolem beach.
INR900, 1h30m

Day 4: Nature and Wildlife

Cotigao, Goa, India on May 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel in Palolem

Early breakfast at your accommodation to prepare for the nature day ahead.
Included with stay, 1h

8:30am

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary Trek

Explore the dense forest, spot exotic birds and wildlife. Sanctuary open from 8AM to 5PM; guided treks available.
INR50 entry + INR300 guide, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at nearby local eatery

Enjoy a simple Goan thali or local vegetarian fare near the sanctuary area.
INR350, 1h

2:30pm

Relax at Rajbagh Beach

Secluded beach perfect for peaceful relaxation and bird watching.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Palolem

Travel back to Palolem and rest.
Transport cost varies, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Fisherman’s Wharf

Popular spot for Goan seafood with live music and a lively atmosphere.
INR1000, 1h30m

Day 5: Temples and Heritage

Old Goa, Goa, India on May 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before heading to Old Goa.
Included with stay, 1h

9:00am

Visit Basilica of Bom Jesus

UNESCO World Heritage site known for its baroque architecture and the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Open till 5PM.
INR40, 1h

10:30am

Visit Se Cathedral

One of the largest churches in Asia, famous for its golden bell and stunning interiors.
INR40, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Venite Bar and Restaurant

Historic Goan restaurant in Panaji area that serves a mixture of Goan and Portuguese cuisine.
INR750, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Mandovi River Cruise

Enjoy a 1.5-hour cruise along the Mandovi river to view local life and enjoy sunset. Evening cruises start at 3PM till 7PM.
INR600, 1h30m

6:00pm

Shopping at Panaji Flea Market

Browse for handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs in the lively evening market.
Free, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Gunpowder

Excellent South Indian restaurant with authentic flavors, popular for dosa and seafood.
INR900, 1h30m

Day 6: Adventure and Water Sports

Candolim, Goa, India on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Chocolatti

Delicious pastries, coffee and breakfast dishes near Candolim beach to fuel up.
INR400, 1h

9:30am

Water Sports at Candolim Beach

Try parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides available from 8AM to 5PM.
INR1500 (package), 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf Candolim

Savor authentic Goan seafood in a relaxed setting near the beach.
INR900, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Sinquerim Beach and Fort Aguada Light House

Explore the historical fort's lighthouse area and enjoy views of the beach. Open till 6PM.
INR50, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at beach shacks

Unwind with drinks and tapas at popular shacks like Souza Lobo catching the sunset.
INR400, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Gunpowder

Return again for a hearty South Indian meal or try their seafood specialties.
INR900, 1h30m

Day 7: Relax and Spa

Ashwem, Goa, India on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Escape Coffee

Light, healthy breakfast options including smoothies and fresh juices near Ashwem beach.
INR350, 1h

9:30am

Spa session at Tao Wellness Center

Luxury spa offering Ayurvedic massages and wellness therapies. Prior appointment recommended. 9AM to 7PM open.
INR2500, 2h

12:00pm

Relax at Ashwem Beach

Calm, less crowded beach ideal for relaxation and swimming.
Free, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at La Plage

French-style beach restaurant serving delicious seafood and French cuisine with a view.
INR900, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Mandrem Beach

Quiet beach that’s perfect for a serene walk or meditation.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Fisherman’s Wharf

Indulge in seafood specialties once again before concluding the relaxation day.
INR1000, 1h30m

Day 8: Departure Day

Panaji, Goa, India on May 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Café Alchemia

Enjoy a healthy and hearty breakfast with fresh coffee and local English breakfast fare in Panaji.
INR300, 1h

9:00am

Final Shopping and Sightseeing in Panaji

Quick last-minute shopping in Panaji and visit local art galleries before proceeding to airport.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Travel to Dabolim Airport

Head to the airport for your departure.
Transport cost varies, 1h