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Home » Asia » India » Goa

GOA Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

Gorgeous Goa is India’s smallest state stretching along the shores of the warm Arabian Sea. It has been a jewl in the crown of Indian tourism since the 1960’s attracting hippies and sun-seekers each winter.

Goa (like all of India) is a place of celebrations and you’re bound to experience a festival or parade sometime during your stay. The wonderfully festive province of Goa will remind you that there’s always a reason to celebrate (ie, you are alive)!

Its rich cultural history and lush forests make it a wonderful place to explore and there are some great guided tours on offer. If you’re looking for the perfect way to spend your time in Goa, you’ve come to the right place because we’ve put together the ultimate Goa itinerary.

Wondering how many days in Goa you need ? You’re in the right place my friend, read on!

A Little Bit About This Goa Itinerary

Where to stay in goa in 3 days, day 1 itinerary in goa – panjim & old goa, day 2 itinerary in goa – anjuna party time, day 3 itinerary in goa – arambol, what to do with more than 3 days in goa, best time to visit goa, how to get around goa, plan a trip to goa – what to prepare, faq on goa itinerary, final thoughts.

When you talk about backpacking India , you’ll quickly hear all about Goa, which is undoubtedly one of the most laidback and beautiful places in the entire country. If you’re wondering how long to spend in Goa, a good place to start is to plan what you’d like to do and see.

Whilst Goa is India’s smallest state, it is still nevertheless a state and is as big as some small countries. This itinerary covers the entire state from North to South and with several incursions inland.  Therefore, to execute this Goa itinerary in 3 days you will need to change accommodation a few times.

The good news is that finding places to stay in Goa is pretty easy wherever you are. There are loads of guest houses, party hostels , hotels and homestays all eager for foreigners to crash – it is usually as simple as turning up in town and asking around.

The itinerary does leave time for changing accommodation and moving around and has also been designed to be flexible enough to adjust to suit your own needs. In terms of traveling around Goa, the bus system is very cheap, but rides can be long and very uncomfortable. Therefore if you have the budget, we suggest taxi’s – if you book ahead and haggle you can cover even large distances for well under $30.

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Goa 3-Day Itinerary Overview

• Goa Itinerary Day 1- Old Goa | Spice Garden | Panaji Tiatre
• Goa Itinerary Day 2 – Vagator Beach | Foot Massage | Paddle Boarding | Trance Party
• Goa itinerary Day 3 –  Querim Beach | Sweet Lake | Yoga Session | Drum Circle | Ecstatic Dance

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Let’s get this straight, Goa is a State. Whilst it is India’s smallest state it is still bigger than a lot of countries. You need to choose where to stay in Goa and decide how long to stay in Goa very carefully as it will inform your experience and will affect your Goa itinerary hugely.

Goa is roughly divided into North Goa and South Goa. North Goa has a few more famous attractions than South Goa so if you’re wanting to spend some time doing typically touristy things then North Goa is a great place to start!

Most visitors opt to stay in a beach town or village. The prime ones in the North are Anjuna & Arambol for hippies & backpackers, and Baga beach and Calangute for package tourists. In the South, Palolem Beach & Agonda and Candolim are popular. There are Airbnbs in Baga , Calangute & Candolim but very few in Arambol & Anjuna.

If you don’t want to be near the beach then there are a few nice towns and cities set further back inland, Goa Airbnb listings tend to provide a nice variety of options to choose from.

Panjim is a nice city in the Northern Goa region! It’s home to many gorgeous old Portuguese mansions and some good art galleries.

Best Hostel in Goa – Folklore Hostel

Situated in Vagator, Goa Folklore Hostel can only be described as a home away from home! With communal spaces that encourage interactions and facilities that you provide everything you need, there’s no better place to spend your stay in Goa if you’re looking for a hostel experience!

What’s more? If you don’t want to leave your furry friend at home, feel free to bring them with as the Folklore hostel is pet-friendly!

Best Airbnb in Goa – 2 Bed Lotus Villa @ Tito’s Street

This quirky and comfortable villa in Goa is located in the heart of the party district. With Bardez’s best beaches and hottest clubs within walking distance, you won’t find a better Airbnb in Goa.

Best Budget Hotel in Goa – Crystal Goa

This quaint hotel offers everything you’ve come to expect from a hotel, plus an incredibly tranquil setting! The restaurant and bar on the property are also a great place to dine during your stay in Goa. But don’t worry, should you feel like lying in and having a lazy morning, breakfast will be delivered to your door! Crystal Goa is located in Palolem in South Goa so perfect for those who prefer peace to partying.

Best Luxury Hotel in Goa – Vivanta Panaji

This incredibly beautiful luxury hotel is located right in Panjim center! But convenience is not its main drawing card.

A 24-hour gym and spa might have something to do with it! As well as the fact that the hotel is pet-friendly. This is very rare to find in such a luxurious venue! Live music is provided every night so there is no shortage of entertainment at the Vivanta Panaji!

For the first day of our 3 day Goa itinerary we are gonna base ourselves in Panjim or Panaji, the Goan state capital. Whist this city is inland, away from the lush beaches, it is one of India’s cleanest and most pleasant cities. It abounds with beautiful old colonial mansions and is well situated for executing day 1 of our itinerary.

10:00 – Old Goa

Old Goa is the former Portuguese Colonial capital. It was once considered a great city of the world rivalling even Lisbon itself I’m terms of its wealth, culture and beauty.

Most of Old Goa has been lost to the ravages of time but thankfully, enough has survived to justify a visit. The Dom Jesus Basilica is perhaps the grandest Christian temple in the whole of Asia. Then there are the ruins of the old Church of St Augustine. which blend into the Goan jungle like a level from Tomb Raider.

Old Goa can easily be explored in a day or even in half a day. The issue is getting there as it is about 20km away from the beaches. You can book a private or a bus tour from any travel agent in pretty much any resort which will leave in the morning and drop you back home after dark.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus Church is now a UNESCO world heritage site. Although the building is very rustic, it’s incredibly beautiful too. A church may seem like a strange place to visit while staying in Goa, India. But because Goa was colonized by the Portuguese for so long, many Hindus converted to Catholicism over this period of time. This is one of  Goa’s best places to visit  in 3 days.

A solid option, is to join an electric bike tour so you can really explore the jungles and roads!

• Cost – Most of the sites here are free
• How Long Should I Spend Here? Half a day
• Getting There – Old Goa is about 30 minutes drive from Panjim. I recommend getting a taxi or joining a tour bus

 15:00 – Sahakari Spice Farm

At the Sahakari Spice Farm , you’ll get the chance to take in the incredible fragrance of the beautiful spice farm! These lush plantations are not all there is on offer at the spice farm though.

During your tour, you’ll be shown how to climb the trees and swing from palm to palm! If any guest on the tour is brave enough to give it a try, they’re encouraged with enthusiasm. This often creates a lot of laughs among the tour group!

For those interested in a more relaxing form of entertainment, you will be treated to a folk dance by some of the female laborers and children who live on the farm. These often contain lots of color and excitement!

• How Long Should I Spend Here? 90 minus is plenty
• Getting There – It’s a 20-minute ride from Old Goa. Get a cab.

18:00 – See a Tiatr Production

The Hanuman Theatre in Mapusa is home to some of the most incredible Tiatr! Just like Broadway there are many different types of Tiatr that take place, these all have different names and contain different entertainment elements (dancing, singing, etc.)

To be honest, it doesn’t really matter which you decide to go see, they’re all great and can be enjoyed whether you understand the words or not.

The word Tiatr comes from the Portuguese word ‘Teatro’ – meaning theatre. As you know by now, Goa is heavily influenced by the Portuguese because of its previous colonization by Portugal.

• Cost – $1.45
• How Long Should I Spend Here? 2 hours
• Getting There – Get a taxi back to Panaji and then either walk or take a Tuk-Tuk to the theatre

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

For day 2, we’re gonna head for the beaches. Pack your bag into a taxi, or jump on a bus towards Anjuna. Whether you decide to base yourself in Anjuna or Vagator is fine.

 10:00 – Relax on Little Vagator Beach

Once you’ve checked in to your new digs, hit the beach!

Although it’s free to relax on the beach, if you’d like to make use of the loungers that line the beach, you’ll have to buy something from the restaurant. This isn’t a bad deal at all, cause trust me, you’ll want to be there a while! You can have drinks and food brought to you.

While lying back on your lounger, it’ll be hard to miss the many cows that stroll past and sit on the beach alongside you. There’s nothing to be scared of though, they are very peaceful creatures!

Due to the Hindu culture in Goa, it’s illegal to kill or harm these beautiful creatures. This means that you’ll find them roaming the streets and congregating in open areas – such as the beach.

• Cost – Free – but bring money for food and drink
• How Long Should I Spend Here? A good few hours
• Getting There – Depending on where you are staying, either walk, get a cab or hire a scooter

 14:00 – Foot Massage on The Beach

After all your gallivanting around you’ll be doing during your trip, you’ll be in need of a great foot massage! Luckily for you, they offer them right on the beach – along with a variety of other treatments. So it’s about time you put your feet up and enjoyed some good ol’ relaxation!

Be sure to ask around for the best price before settling on a masseuse, some tend to charge a lot less than $6!

• Cost: Bater hard and it will by anywhere between $2 – $5

14:30 – Sea Rafting

After all that relaxing, I’m sure you’re down to try something crazy. How about a bit of sea rafting?

After about half an hour of training on the beach, you and your team will be ready to hit the waves! Don’t worry, your guide will be with you to lead you every step of the way! The waves can be a bit daunting at first, but once you’ve caught your first wave, you won’t want to stop!

Be sure to head up the beach for some beers at one of the many beach shacks that call this beach their home.

• Cost: $6.50
• How Long Should I Spend Here? 60 minutes is usually enough
• Getting There – It’s on the beach

17:00 – Dinner at Artjuna

Artjuna is one of my favourite spots in Artjuna. It is a cafe with spacious grounds where you can spend the whole day for a price of a few coffees. The food is proper decent offering a mix of Indian food, vegan grub and a few Israeli specialities.

Other excellent dinner spots include Sakana in Vagator (delicious, pricy, sushi) or you can just hit up on the beach shacks like Curries for a fish tandoori.

• Cost: $5 – $10
• How Long Should I Spend Here? 60 – 90 minutes. Service takes time in India
• Getting There – Walk, ride or jump a cab

18:00 (Onwards) – Attend a Goan Trance Party

Goan Trance (latterly Psytrance) is perhaps Goa’s greatest gift to the world and you absolutely should not miss the chance to experience a Goa Trance party first-hand. The scene emerged in and around Anjuna in the early 90’s and reached worldwide fame with “Goa parties” popping up all around the world.

The music itself, is a fast, intense and utterly trippy form of electronic dance music. If you have never heard it before, it may be a bit much for you but bear in mind that it is a sound best heard in altered states . There’s a reason Goa ranks as one of the best places in the world to party !

There are trance parties most nights during high season (Nov – Mar) but the scene is curtailed a bit during election years. My personal picks are Shiva Valley (Anjuna) on Tuesday nights and the occasional, underground parties organised by The Trip Foundation in and around Arambol. The parties start after sunset (around 18:00) and go on until well after sunrise the following morning.

Another great venue is House of Chapora (Chapora is a 10 minute aside from Anjuna). I particularly recommend following Pandora Collective who are organising 2-3 great parties each week all across North Goa – there Instagram handle is @pandoracollective.

Hilltop (Anjuna) attracts the big names but is a bit over-priced and soulless but still the Sunday afternoon sessions are nice if you want to be in bed early.

• Cost: $0 – $10
• How Long Should I Spend Here? All night!
• Getting There – Get a taxi. Walking at night in Anjuna can be risky

For day 3, we’re heading North across the river up towards Arambol. If you stayed out all night partying, either skip over the morning section of this itinerary or sack it off altogether and spend today hanging out in Anjuna’s German Bakery.

 10:30 – Ride to Querim Beach

For a taste of true paradise, you must make the 30 minute scooter ride North from Arambol towards Querim (Keri) beach. Keri is a small village set in the mangrove forests and is home to one of North Goa’s quietest beaches. You can rent a sun longer, order food and drinks from the shacks or even rent a surfboard.

As well as exploring the beach, the ride itself is also worth savouring. There is little traffic in and around Keri and plenty of back roads that lead through the forest to explore. Bring a bottle of water and sun cream and simply enjoy the experience of being in the riding seat watching beautiful Goa pass by.

• How Long Should I Spend Here? 3 hours minutes including the ride
• Getting There –  Rent a scooter and ride. Wear a helmet as the road does pass a police checkpoint.

13:00 – Fish Thali at the Thali Shack

Just by the first, main park on Arambol beach, there is a completely unassuming looking little shack (a man selling coconuts sit’s by the door). Whilst you may be tempted to walk right past, don’t; because it offers the best and possibly cheapest Thali’s in Arambol.

A Thali is a big silver tray filled with rice, veg and a few different types of curry. The options are Veg, Chicken or Fish – the latter is particularly sublime.

 14:00 – Visit the Sweet Water Lake in Arambol

The Sweet Water Lake is a freshwater lagoon with a source that originates in the Goan Jungle. The Sweet Water Lake is warmed by a natural hot spring, so going for a swim is a must in the late evening!

The Lagoon is surrounded by luscious greenery, overhanging thick jungle branches, and coconut groves. Steam rises slowly from the lagoon, making it a beautifully picturesque scene to take in, and the perfect place to snap some pics for the gram!

There is a beach just a short walk from the lagoon that is only accessible by foot. There are loads of shack’s and restaurants selling classic Goan food.

• How Long Should I Spend Here? 60 – 90 minutes
• Getting There – Walk here from Arambol beach – it is the only way!

15:00 – Join a Yoga Session

I once checked the notice board in Arambol and realised that there is a yoga class taking place somewhere in town, at every minute of the day. Arambol is a proper yoga Mecca and churns out newly qualified yoga teacher like Yale & Oxford churn out future venture capitalists and war-mongers.

Therefore you won’t have to try too hard to find a Yoga class. Either check the notice board, ask around or ask any slender, toned yogini you encounter.

17:30 – Sunset Drum Circle & Market

Every evening on Arambol beach, the place to be is the drum circle. It is literally a circle where anybody can come, bring a drum and bang it. Whilst the sound is (for me) a bit tedious, it is nevertheless a very pleasant gathering and attracts the Goa freaks who come to congregate.

From here, walk down to the sunset market where you can barter for hand made jewellery, post cards and other wares.

• Cost: $4 – $8
• Getting There – Most sessions are within walking distance from the beach

19:00 – Ecstatic Dance at The Source

Dance is a way of life in Goa. Whilst you may be exhausted from last nights trance session, I guarantee your legs will still summon the energy for one more boogie! Ecstatic Dance is a giant sober (no drugs or alcohol) party that takes place around a giant Banyan tree at the source.

You may initially need some time to get over your inhibitions (dancing sober?!) but you’ll soon get into it. Ecstatic Dance is massive fun, don’t miss it. If this is your first time in Goa, then its time to embrace your inner hippy!

• How Long Should I Spend Here? Stay as long as your energy lasts
• Getting There – Walk from the beach or get a taxi

21:00 – Late Dinner at Aladdin’s

Aladdin’s is one of Arambol’s best restaurants. It has massive menu ranging from bar-bq, Indian classics and some very interesting vegetarian dishes. It is quite pricy for Indian standards but worth it for a treat.

• How Long Should I Spend Here? Until they throw you out!
• Getting There – Walk from the Source – bring a torch though as the way is dark

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Goa

Tiswadi is the best place to stay if you’re visiting Goa for the first time. Home to the capital city, Panjim, Tiswadi is where you’ll find most of Goa’s cultural sights, the vibrant Latin Quarter, and charming Old Goa.

• Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which contains the tomb and mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.
• Explore Fontainhas, Goa’s Latin Quarter full of colonial character, cobblestone streets, and vibrant, and colourful houses.
• Be amazed at Sé Cathedral, the largest church in Asia measuring more than 76 meters long and 55 meters wide.

When deciding how long to stay in Goa, If you are planning a trip that is longer than 3 days in Goa, then here are a few things you need to add to your itinerary for the rest of your trip.

Arpora Night Market

The Saturday night market in Arpora is a true Goa institution. It is a weekly mega market where you can barter hard for incense, jewellery, stones, gods, clothes, sheets and wonderful things you probably don’t even know exist!

As well as being a shoppers delight, the market has plenty of food stalls and a few bars mixing Techno into the early hours.

All of the above said, the word on the street is that the sun is setting on the Arpora Night market. Apparently the conduct of management has forced a lot of boutique owners and niche designers away and they can now be found at the Hilltop Friday Night Market instead. The Night Markets are amongst the best things to do in Goa in 3 days.

Visit Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary Near Ganjem

The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary contains a mini zoo so that children and adults alike can see the animals up close. Plus, it has a massive deer park, which means that the deer can roam freely in their natural habitat! It also contains a botanical garden and a rose garden, for those who love flowers!

Here you’ll be educated about the animals and the bird life, as well as the vegetation found in Goa! This is a trip that will intrigue nature-lovers, so be sure you don’t miss out!

• It’s only 38 kilometers from Margao.
• There is a jungle resort containing tourist cottages on the property, just in case you want to stay the night.
• There are plenty of different attractions, so you’re bound to find something that will suit your taste.

Visit Brahma Karmali Temple

The Brahma Karmali Temple is one of the oldest temples in Goa! The temple attracts a lot of devoted worshippers from around the region. Based in Carambolim, this temple is said to have played a pivotal role in Goa’s struggle for freedom. Many sessions were held in the building by a member of Congress during the time of struggle.

Learning about the fascinating history of this temple is spiritually moving, and exploring the temple grounds is a wonderfully relaxing experience!

• This temple is named after a nearby town – Brahma Karmali.
• The main idol inside the temple is said to date back to the 12th century.
• Visiting and exploring this temple is absolutely free.

Hike to Hivre Waterfall

This waterfall is a great place to visit for nature-lovers and adventure junkies alike! During the hike to the waterfall, you will walk along a narrow pathway through the forest. Along the way, you’ll see beautiful river creeks that wind their way through the forest.

The locals that visit the waterfall are always friendly and helpful, and don’t mind guiding tourists to the waterfall with them!

• Hivre Waterfall is popular amongst locals and tourists alike so it’s often busy, especially on weekends.
• The waterfall is located only 14 kilometers from Valpoi City.
• You will need to travel through the Thane village to get to the Hivre falls!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Goa is definitely a seasonal destination and best experienced during the Northern hemispheres winter. The crowds flock to Goa between November and February when the weather is perfect. If you come off-season, not much may be happening. The high summer months are best avoided altogether as this is when monsoon hits.

During peak tourist season in Goa, the beaches are the place to be! The water is perfect, there are nightly parties, and it never rains. As the monsoon season in Goa approaches though, the beaches become more and more empty.

However if you’re not a beach bum, then the rainy season can be equally as beautiful! During the summer in Goa, mist rises over the plantations and fields, and rain cleans the cities, leaving them smelling fresh and new. Visiting India during June will also allow you to attend the Sao Joao Festival, which is one of the coolest celebrations in Goa .

There are a number of Goa transport options available depending on where in Goa you are, where you are going and what you want to do. For example, beach towns and cities themselves are pretty easy to walk around. However, to get between them you will need an engine. Tuk-Tuk’s (Rickshaws) are available in some parts of Goa but are banned from a lot of the Northern tourist hubs. Taxi’s are easy to find but Goa’s are expensive by Indian standards.

Renting a scooter is the most popular transport method. They can be rented anywhere in Goa easily and cheaply.

Hiring a tour guide with a vehicle is also a good idea for tackling some of the suggestions on this itinerary.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or traveling with your posse, there’ll be plenty of activities to keep you occupied on your trip to Goa! Here’s just a few that you shouldn’t miss out on!

Travel in India does carry with it a set of risks and Goa is no exception.

The biggest danger is the endless raft of scams which are played on unsuspecting foreigners and of which there are too many to list. Other than this, never leave your valuables unattended and always lock your room.

Be very careful of bad drivers whether you are riding a scooter or simply a pedestrian. If you are riding a scooter, always wear a helmet.

Be careful when swimming whether in the sea or the delta as under-currents can be deadly, especially at night. Use lots of sunscreen and drink plenty of bottled, mineral water. Food hygiene is generally pretty good in Goa but use common sense.

Women travellers sadly need to be extra careful as each year they are the victims of rape, assault and even murders in Goa. Take great care at night and try to travel in a group whenever possible. Avoid dark, unlit areas as much as possible. If you are riding your bike at night, do not stop in lonely areas ( you may be being followed ). Be very careful in or around Trance parties, be mindful of what you consume and watch your drinks like a hawk.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Goa

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning how long to spend in Goa.

How many days Goa do you need?

Despite being India’s smallest state, Goa is packed with incredible experiences and attractions. We recommend visiting for 3-5 days minimum to make the most of it.

What should you include on a Goa 5 day itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these awesome places to visit in Goa: – Old Goa – Sahakari Spice Farm – Braganza House – Sunset Drum Circle & Market

When is the best time to visit Goa?

November-February offer the best weather for exploring Goa. March and April also get warm and have smaller tourist crowds.

Is Goa worth visiting?

Absolutely. From the verdant forests and stunning shorelines to the vibrant food and buzzing festivals, Goa is a very popular destination among travellers.

Goa is the perfect place for your next holiday destination! With white sandy beaches, a rich cultural history and some great architectural beauties, there isn’t a single thing you could possibly miss out on!

Its beautiful landscapes are begging to be explored and the culture that surrounds every building in Goa is worth learning about! No matter what time of year you choose to visit, there will always be something going on in this province. From festivals and parades to cultural ceremonies, there’s never a dull moment in Goa!

It’s a great place to travel whether you’re with your crew or a solo traveler. The safety of this beautiful province adds to the appeal of Goa for solo travelers. Be sure you’re not the only one missing out on the amazing experience of visiting Goa, India! And be sure to add a few of these great activities to your Goa Itinerary!

Suzanne Borders

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I’m confused – you have this article but also this warning people away from Goa? https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/is-goa-still-worth-visiting/

Where is the Braganza mansion (that you have mentioned close to Arambol). All search results only point to Menezes Braganza mansion in Chandor, South Goa.

Yes you are right. The Braganza mansion is in South Goa which is nowhere near Arambol at all. The writer who created this piece clearly had a moment of confusion. We have rectified the copy.

The typical mindset of western people. “watch your drinks like a hawk” hahaha! I hope you share some positivity also. Please teach your countrymen about Indian hospitality which is sorely missing in your country. I would love to read a blog about the USA itinerary mentioning “watch out for f…ing racists”

Personally I absolutely love Goa (Psytrance!!!!), have spent several months there and cannot wait to visit again. However, the FACT is that Goa can be very dangerous for women and there is no point in denying this – it doesn’t help anybody.

FYI – I am not from the US so cannot comment on American hospitality.

Good work on the blog, very helpful 🙂

This makes me want to rush to goa right now. Amazing blog

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A Complete 7-day Itinerary and Guide to Goa for First Timers

This guide to Goa is perfect for those of you planning to travel there for the first time, as it talks about the best time to visit, how to reach Goa, popular beaches in North and South Goa, where to stay for your first visit, and how to get around. Also included is Goa itinerary for 7 days.

Goa is a tropical paradise with endless white and golden-sand beaches lined with swaying palm trees. This small state in the southwestern region of India is unlike any other, with its laid-back culture balanced by its thriving nightlife. But that’s not all there is to Goa. It is a land of soothing bike rides, fascinating world heritage sites, plush resorts, friendly hostels, delectable seafood, and various forms of spiritual practices. It is definitely the most popular destination in India amongst Indian and international travellers (after the Taj Mahal, of course), as it has something for everyone.

Guide to Goa For First Timers

What is the best time to visit goa.

March-May : These are the summer months when Goa gets unbearably muggy, with temperatures touching 40ºC (104ºF).

June – September : During these monsoon months, Goa becomes lush green. It is relatively quieter than other months. Most shacks are temporary structures that are dismantled during this period and water sports aren’t going on. But this is a charming time in Goa overall, with plenty of restaurants and activities to keep you entertained.

November–February : Winter is the peak season here. Goa, being a coastal area, is balmy while the inland parts of the country go through typical winter temperatures. The sun is always out and the cool sea breeze blows through from time to time. December is the busiest month as Goa hosts the Annual Sunburn Music Festival, which attracts people from all over. Plus, people flock in to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s holidays at this party destination.

Verdict: For your first time in Goa, you should visit during the season, Mid-October to Mid-March , so that you can see all that Goa has to offer. The shacks will be open, beach stays will be available in South Goa and the weather will be pleasant. However, the prices will be higher than any other time of the year.

How to reach Goa?

Goa’s international airport is situated at Dabolim, near Vasco Da Gama, and there is also a new airport in North Goa, Manohar International Airport. You can land at either of these and hire a taxi to your hotel/hostel.

While most cities in India have an organised cab service like Uber and Ola, Goa has  GoaMiles  ( now also an app) that can pass for Goa’s very own Uber. We’ve used it a few times and found cabs at a good rate. You can also opt for the taxis lined up on the road outside the airport (be prepared to bargain and ensure to set prices before the start of the trip) or prepaid taxi stands at airports that have a set price. You can always ask at your accommodation if they provide airport transfers but these might turn out to be more expensive.

Local buses in Goa are significantly cheaper but also very inconvenient, as you would have to change multiple vehicles to get to your destination in Goa. Use the local bus only if you’re on a super low budget.

Bus, Cab and Car

You can also opt to reach Goa by overnight bus or cab from major cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and Hyderabad in India. If travelling by bus, Mapusa would be your de-boarding point for North Goa , Panjim for Central , and Margao/Canacona for South .

You can book your bus via Redbus .

We’ve driven it down from Pune a few times now and once from Hyderabad. The road is full of potholes as you get closer to Goa. But you’ll cross ghats and waterfalls. It is beautiful!

Goa is also well connected by train to the rest of India. The main train stations are Vasco da Gama (central), Margao (south) and Thivim (north) .

Which area to stay in Goa?

Goa is divided into North and South Goa, with its capital, Panaji (popularly known as Panjim), located around the centre. For your first time in Goa, it can be confusing to decide where to stay, as different corners of the state offer different experiences. In this itinerary, you’ll be staying in both North Goa and South Goa .

Baga, Calangute, Candolim or Anjuna : This is a good option for your first time in Goa, as the area is very central, so all places to see would be close to you.

However, please note that these beaches aren’t best, as they’re the most popular in Goa. Every Tom Dick and Harry visit these beaches so the crowd is also such. However, your purpose of staying around this area is different. You’re here to enjoy the water sports, the parties, the food and maybe even shop a little.

A little further north is Anjuna. While it is not the best location to stay for this itinerary, this area has come up a lot in the past few years, so you’ll find a lot of  must-visit restaurants in Goa  around this area.

Stay Options:

Casa Cenica (2BHK in Arpora) Onastay  (2BHK in Candolim) Casa De Mezzanine (Beautiful 1BHK in Arpora) Jade by CasaFlip (2BHK in Anjuna) Beach Villa With Private pool (luxury) Canary By CasaFlip (1BHK in Anjuna).

Palolem or Agonda: For your first trip to South Goa, you should stay at one of these two beaches and explore other beaches nearby. These beaches have restaurants but still maintain a relaxed vibe so you can enjoy time on the beach. Remember that you should only stay in South Goa beaches beach from October to March, as the huts and shacks are mostly dismantled before the monsoons and built back up when the monsoons get over. Click to  know more about South Goa Beaches .

Stay Options: Jardim-a-Mar (Agonda Beach—I’ve stayed here twice) Simrose (Agonda Beach; this one is often open all-year round) Agonda Serenity Beach Villa (has a jacuzzi on porch at Agonda Beach) Agonda Island View (Agonda Beach) BunkNBrew (hostel in Palolem)

How to get around Goa?

Taxis are expensive in Goa and not ideal for getting around and sightseeing. Buses are quite cheap but again, inconvenient. Instead, opt for a scooter or motorbike for the duration of your stay in Goa. There is no better way to get around, as it will give you the utmost freedom. The best bit is that it is inexpensive at about Rs. 500–800 a day, depending on the season (off-season or peak), type of bike (scooters like Honda Activa, low-end bikes like Bajaj Pulsar or high-end ones, like Royal Enfield) and your haggling skills.

If you don’t want to ride a bike or moped, you can hire a car . Most offer stick shifts so if you don’t know how to drive these, finding an automatic may not be easy. However, we have always managed to find one and so should you. Economy cars usually cost about Rs. 1000–1200 per day but may go up depending on the season.

You can get a bike or car on hire easily by talking to your accommodation host or hotel.

The Perfect 1 Week Goa Itinerary: North and South Goa

The Goa experience is different for every individual, depending on their style of travel. It’s never one size fits all because there is simply so much to see and do. We have stayed in Goa for 2 months and have yet to see it all. Your personalised Goa itinerary would largely depend on what you enjoy—nature, culture, beaches, partying, etc. In this 7-day Goa itinerary, we’ve tried to include a bit of everything so you can get a true feel of the different sides of Goa and decide for yourself which aspect of Goa you enjoy the most!

Day 1-2 North Goa – Watersports, Shopping, and Partying

Stay near the Baga Beach/Arpora area. Despite being crowded, it is close to a lot of North Goa tourist spots you’ll be visiting. And also, hire a scooter, bike or car. You’ll need it to get around. Prior reservations for restaurants are needed!

Day 1: Beach, Water sports, Party

• Reach Goa and check into your hotel or Airbnb
• Rent a vehicle
• Calangute Beach for lunch at Pousada by the Beach
• Water sports and sunset at Baga Beach
• At night go partying at Hammerz (popular music) in the Baga Area or Las Olas (Bollywood music) at Baga Beach. Or both as they’re close by! Start at Hammerz and end at Las Olas.

Day 2: Cliffside Restaurants, Fort, Sundowner, and Party

You don’t need to do all of the things mentioned below. Select the ones you wish to do based on your preferences and how much time you have. I’d recommend not partying till late this night so you can be fresh to explore Goa the next morning.

• Wake up late this day since you’ve partied the previous night
• Lunch:   Titlie OR Antares OR Casa Playa at Little Vagator or Felix OR Artjuna or Vinayak at Anjuna.
• Shop: Now go shop at Anjuna Flea Market!
• Explore Chapora Fort (The movie ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ was shot here so expect it to be crowded)
• Stay for sunset or go for a sundowner to Thalassa closeby
• Dinner at Ida in Vagator
• Party at one of the following – Soro (Siolim) or Romeo Lane (Little Vagator).

Day 3–4: North Goa: Culture, Heritage and Nature

Day 3: culture and heritage.

Head for a day trip to Panjim and Old Goa . On this day, you’ll get a good glimpse of Portuguese influence on Goan heritage.

Old Goa Churches : Start with Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the following churches in this order:

• St. Augustine Church Ruins
• Basilica of Bom Jesus (the most renowned)
• Convent of Santa Monica and The Museum of Christian Art (optional but good)
• Se Cathedral
• Church of St. Cajetan
• Viceroy’s Arch
• Our Lady of Mount Chapel (optional- for panoramic views of the Panjim area)

Going on a tour will help you make the most of your time and understand the significance of Old Goa and its churches. It is highly recommended. We’ve taken several tours by this company and loved all of them.

Lunch : Head for either a local Goan lunch at Kokni Kanteen or Cafe Al Fresco By Cantina Bodeg a for continental food. Both are close to your next stop.

Fontainhas : After lunch, take a walk in Fontainhas, Asia’s largest Latin Quarter, which has lanes lined with houses built in the colonial style and painted in bright shades of red, yellow, green, and blue. We highly recommend seeing this area on a Latin Quarter walking tour ; only then will you truly be able to appreciate the history, architecture, and all the stories.

However, if you don’t wish to take a tour, start your walk at Maruti Mandir or Phoenix Springs, ending at the Church of Immaculate Conception. See the colourful houses, click a lot of photos at the colourful wall of Old Quarter Hostel, buy some Azulejo tile décor at Velha Goa Galleria, admire the white façade of St. Sebastian Chapel, and have some bebinca (Goan Dessert) at Confeitaria 31 De Janeiro .

Evening: Get drinks and small bites at Antonio@31 or head for a full-fledged dinner at Black Sheep Bistro . Please check the prices of these restaurants beforehand to see if they fit your budget and make reservations accordingly. You could also go for a fun Pub Crawl instead.

Night: Later, you could head to a Deltin Royale Casino (buy tickets online for the best deals) OR go back home to rest for an early morning the next day.

Book Tours in Goa

Day 4: Nature and Heritage

Chorao Island and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary : Do this either on a tour or by yourself. You’ll have to take a ferry from Ribandar. Don’t miss the famous Mangrove Broadwalk. It is beautiful. We haven’t been here yet but can’t wait to go!

Lunch: Lazy Goose , Nerul. Reserve the table with the lake view if you can.

Depending on the time you start the day, see one/two of the following attractions. Choose one museum and one fort:

• Houses of Goa Museum (do this only after a walking tour of Fontainhas; otherwise, nothing will make any sense) OR Museum of Goa (modern art tinged in Goan history).
• Aguada Fort (great for sunsets but crowded) OR Reis Magos Fort (relatively less known and beautiful).

Have dinner in the Candolim, Calangute, or Baga area. There are plenty of good restaurants.

A Reverie : Fine Dining Toro Toro : Continental/Goan Yazu – Pan Asian Beach Club: Asian

Day 5–6: South Goa: Beaches and Relaxation

Day 5: spice plantations, iconic restaurants, relaxation.

Now, head to South Goa. Stay at Agonda or Palolem Beach—both are fantastic beaches for your first time in Goa.

But on your way, you have the option of making a few stops.

• Sahakari Spice Plantation: Wonder why the Portuguese were so fascinated by Goa? The answer lies in the tantalising smell and flavours of spices like Cardamom, Cinnamon, Cloves, Allspice, Cumin, etc. See how these spices grow and learn about them. End with a local buffet lunch at the plantation. I found the experience very interesting and learned a lot. You can buy the ticket on reaching there.
• Iconic Restaurants: If you’re not in the mood for the above, stop at Martin’s Corner or Fisherman’s Wharf for lunch. They are both very renowned.

Check into your hotel and use this day to do nothing and just relax on the beach, see the sunset, etc. Otherwise, you could also choose to head to Sundowner Palolem (Bar) for a sundowner!

Day 6: Beaches and Viewpoints

Today is going to be a long day of beach hopping.

Cola Beach: Start your day at Cola Beach. It’s a bit of a hike down to the beach. You can even take the jeep to the beach to save time and effort but it’ll cost a bit. Cola Beach is famous for its lagoon, where you can swim and kayak. You can have lunch here before heading to your next stop.

Kakolem Beach: This beach has a waterfall. Yes, you read that right. ( you can skip this beach if you’re running short on time or want to take it a bit slow).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Modi & Trisha – Travel Couple (@trywanderingmore)

Cabo De Rama Fort and Cabo De Rama Viewpoint for sunset . Both are gorgeous spots with fantastic views – you’ll love the sunset here. You can also choose to have a meal and drink at the Cape Goa restaurant near the viewpoint before heading back to your hotel.

Day 7: Butterfly Beach and Palolem/Agonda Beach

• Butterfly Beach : It’s a beautiful secluded beach. You can hike it to the beach or go via boat but I’ll suggest going as early as possible to avoid crowds.
• Palolem/Agonda Beach : For lunch head to either of these beaches that you’re not staying at. At Palolem, you can have lunch at Dropadi by the beach and at Treetop Tava or Zest (vegan cafe) at Agonda. Walk around the beach later afterwards.

Depart for home this evening or the next morning!

But do not forget to book your tours in goa before you get there!

Tips to Stay Safe in Goa

This guide to Goa would be incomplete if I didn’t mention tips to stay safe there. Goa is really welcoming and local-friendly. But because it is a  thriving party location and has people travelling from all over, you should take care of the following, especially if you’re a woman.

• Don’t hitchhike.
• If you’re a woman travelling solo, preferably rent a car. If you’re a woman travelling in a group, bikes will do. 
• Always get a video of the vehicle hired to avoid being ripped off on returning the vehicle.
• Don’t go out with people you don’t know and never go to parties alone.
• Watch your drink.
• Try to stay vigilant, even when drunk.
• Some Indian men can assume friendliness as flirting. 
• Be cautious of theft at your accommodation. Huts can easily be broken into.
• Drugs are available abundantly in Goa. Avoid getting stuck in the middle of a drug racket. 
• Avoid drunken driving. It is being monitored by the police more strictly than before.

Don’t let these scare you. I (Trisha) have  travelled solo to Goa  and also with my girlfriends and had an absolutely fantastic time. Most of these tips should be adhered to anywhere in the world. Here is a complete list of  ways to stay safe while travelling alone .

Wrapping up

Goa is a place that you can never get enough of. With each visit, you discover something new – a secret beach, a quaint café, a shack with amazing music, a magnificent fort, and so on. We have visited Goa about five times for short periods – with different people, as different people in different phases of our lives, or wanting something different from our trip- and Goa has never let us down. We are sure you will be taken by the charm of Goa and not want to leave just like the hippies in their heydays. Hope you found this Goa Travel Blog useful and have an amazing first trip to Goa. Tell us how it went!

This blog post on the ‘Travel Guide to Goa for First Timers’ has affiliate links that enable us to earn a small commission when you make a purchase, with no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and activities we like and those that might interest you. If you like any suggested product, do buy from the given links.

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Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Goa Dabolim International Airport Guide

Top Places to Visit in Goa

72 Hours in Goa

Day Trips From Goa

Top Things to Do

Best Beaches

Yoga Retreats and Wellness Resorts

Top Restaurants in Goa

Nightlife in Goa

Your Trip to Goa: The Complete Guide

Let's face it. Most people visit Goa for the beaches and parties. However, there's plenty more to experience. The Portuguese occupied Goa for about 450 years until the Indian Armed Forces finally drove them out in 1961.   The state was also a significant destination on the 1970s hippie trail. As a result, it's quite unlike anywhere else in India and has a distinctly different culture. This Goa guide will help plan your trip.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Goa's tourist season runs from October to March, when the weather is warm and dry. Most beach shacks open in November. They pack up by April or May due to the extreme heat and humidity. The southwest monsoon brings rain from June to September.
• Language: Konkani is the native language of most Goans, however, English and Hindi are widely understood and spoken.  
• Currency: Indian rupee.
• Time Zone: UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) +5.5 hours, also known as Indian Standard Time. Goa does not observe daylight saving time.
• Getting Around: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are the most common methods of transportation. Unfortunately, the notorious Goan taxi mafia keeps fares high and prevents app-based cabs such as Uber from operating. There is a state-run, app-based taxi service called GoaMiles . The Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus is an inexpensive way of reaching Goa's tourist attractions. Hiring a motorcycle or scooter is popular and affordable.
• Travel Tip: The monsoon season in Goa is ideal for spending time in the state's mountainous interior hinterland. White water rafting is possible.

Things to Do

Most people are surprised at how many things there are to do in Goa apart from the beach and nightlife. This includes water sports and adventure activities , hot air ballooning, cooking lessons, exploring old forts, seeing the spice plantations, browsing museums and art galleries, bird watching at Doctor Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, hiking in the nature reserves, yoga and natural therapies, cruising along the Mandovi River in a private yacht , betting at the casinos , listening to live jazz music, and of course shopping. Active travelers can go on these off-beat electric bicycle tours or walking tours .

Three of the main things to do in Goa are:

• Hanging out at the Wednesday flea market at Anjuna beach, Friday Goa Collective Bazaar at Hilltop near Vagator, and Saturday Night Market at Arpora (between Anjuna and Baga). These markets are seasonal.
• Wandering around Old Goa and the Fontainhas Latin Quarter .
• Touring the Portuguese mansions in South Goa .

Find out more about the top places to visit in Goa and cultural things to do in Goa beyond the beaches .

What to Eat and Drink

Goan cuisine was influenced mainly by the Portuguese and is predominantly non-vegetarian. Lesser-known is the traditional cuisine of the state's Hindu Saraswat Brahmin community. Fish curry and rice is a ubiquitous staple in Goa. Common types of dishes you'll find on the menu are xacutti (coconut-based curry), cafreal (marinated and fried/grilled), sorpotel (stew), recheado (stuffed), ambot tik (sour and spicy), and vindaloo (fiery curry marinated with garlic and vinegar or wine). Goan chourico (sausages) and pao (bread) are popular as well. However, you'll need to venture away from the beach shacks to get authentic Goan food.

Feni is Goa's pungent local brew and the unofficial state drink. It's made from cashew fruit or the sap of coconut palms. Drink it with tonic water or lemonade and a slice of lime. Avoid cheap, commercially produced feni though, as it has a distinctively unpleasant smell. Instead, try and get your hands on some home-distilled feni ( Dudhsagar Plantation Farmstay makes their own). Or, a bottle of premium Big Boss or  Cazulo feni. It's now possible to go straight to the source of Cazulo feni, as the company has opened its cellar in the Cansaulim foothills for tours and tastings. Call 8605-008-185 to book. Joseph Bar in Panjim's Fontainhas Latin Quarter crafts some innovative feni cocktails. On the beach, King's beer goes well with a curry.

Explore the best Goan cuisine restaurants for all budgets and hottest bars and beach shacks in Goa .

Where to Stay

Goa's coastline extends for about 100 miles. Every beach is different , and there are so many types of accommodations ranging from beach huts to luxury private villas. It can be confusing! If you're looking for action, base yourself in North Goa because South Goa is relatively undeveloped and laid-back. Most of the luxury hotels are situated in South Goa. Palolem is the most happening beach in South Goa, while Agonda is ideal for chilling out and doing nothing. Patnem offers a bit of both. In North Goa, the Candolim-Calangute- Baga stretch of beaches is especially commercialized and gets super crowded during peak season. Backpacker hostels are prevalent near Anjuna beach, and the famous Wednesday flea market takes place there as well. The remaining psychedelic trance scene exists around Vagator beach, the Mandrem-Morjim-Ashwem stretch of beaches has become quite trendy, while Arambol beach is the new traveler's center with a wide range of alternative therapies. Capital city Panjim is centrally located between north and south Goa. Its Fontainhas Latin Quarter is an atmospheric neighborhood to stay in a restored Portuguese mansion.

Discover Goa's best homestays, budget accommodations, and yoga retreats, and wellness resorts .

Getting There

Goa has one airport. It's an international airport that operates out of a military airbase in Dabolim, roughly equal distance from Goa's north and south beaches. Most people take a prepaid taxi from the airport to their hotel. There's a counter in the arrivals terminal where you can book and pay. A shuttle bus service also runs from the airport to Panjim, Calangute, and Margao. It can be booked online here or at the airport.

Indian Railways train is another option for getting to Goa. It's handy for budget travelers, and conveniently has multiple stops in north and south Goa. The stretch from Mumbai to Goa along the Konkan Railway is particularly scenic. Here are the best trains from Mumbai to Goa .

Culture and Customs

Goa is more liberal than other states in India. This means women can wear short dresses and bikinis on the beach. There's no need to dress conservatively.

Scams are common in Goa, including the infamous gem scam . Beware of any Indian guys who try to befriend you. People offering to sell you drugs may also approach you. Don't accept, as dealers often have arrangements with the police. The police are corrupt and will extort money from tourists found in possession of illegal substances such as marijuana. The cops often demand bribes for traffic violations too. If you hire a motorcycle or scooter, make sure you carry your license with you and wear a helmet at all times.

While Goa has a reputation for being a party hub there are very strict drug laws. Those caught with drugs could face jail times of 6 months to 30 years and there is no option for bail.  

Money-Saving Tips

• Hotels offer huge discounts of up to 50 percent during the low season from May to September.
• There are many budget accommodations in Goa that don't advertise on the Internet. If you're not traveling during peak season (mid-December to mid-January), turn up and find a place and negotiate the rate.
• Stay in a dorm or private room in a backpacker hostel.
• Keep an eye out for happy hours and ladies' nights at bars for cheap or free drinks.
• Make sure you bargain at markets to get a good deal.

Encyclopedia Britannica. "Portuguese India."

Goa Tourism Development Corporation. "Languages."

Goa Tourism Development Corporation. "Laws."

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Patnem Beach Goa: Essential Travel Guide

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The Perfect 3-Day Goa Itinerary for Slow Travel.

On my first trip to Goa as an adult, my partner and I stayed at an “offbeat” beach that had already been invaded by overtourism. That experience, filled with characterless beach shacks, multicuisine food and hordes of tourists, turned me off Goa.

Much later, I returned to experience slow travel for the first time.

I’m grateful that the universe conspired to have us stay at Cancio’s House , a 500-year-old traditional Goan homestay in Aldona, with its own well for drinking water, jackfruit trees for shade, and a courtyard around which three generations of the Amaral family have grown up. It was here that I first learnt about the susegad Goan life – aka the art of slowness and contentment.

Trying to find success as a travel creator? Join my free 5-day email course, to fix the biggest mistakes travel creators make .

The weeks we spent here were filled rain-filled walks, destination-less scooter rides, warm conversations with our hosts, visits to the local bakery, and a lot of observation and introspection. It was for the first time that I learnt that this is what travelling is really about. Not a checklist of places to tick off, but a chance to experience a world different from the one we’re familiar with.

I’ve returned to Goa pretty much every year since, sometimes for several months, and sometimes for a few days. Each time, I’m reminded that slow travel isn’t about how much time we have but how we choose to spend it.

Thanks to this ever-growing connection with Goa, I’ve advised so many friends on how to make the most of their Goa trips. This day-to-day itinerary includes some of my favorite adventures and spots, and takes you away from the beaten path to a slower, more intimate experience of the Goa I love.

Also read: Responsible Travel Tips for Meaningful Experiences on the Road

Goa Trip Plan for 3 Days

With that in mind, my recommended Goa itinerary is one that allows enough time and mind space to live and breathe its slow, susegad life – even it’s just over 3 days.

These North and South Goa itineraries aim to take you away from the well-trodden tourist path, and challenge the idea of Goa you’re probably familiar with. They are filled with meaningful outdoor, culinary and cultural adventures that often get buried under the sun-sand-party scene of Goa. These experiences also support small local businesses, and protect Goa’s living culture and natural ecosystems – ensuring that your 3-day trip is not only fun and memorable, but also positively impacts Goa.

Also read: Offbeat Goa: 12 Mind-Blowing Experiences

3 Day Goa Itinerary at a Glance

North Goa Itinerary for 3 Days

Where to stay in north goa.

There is something for every budget in Goa, but in all honesty, a lot of it is sh*t. Since the surge of remote workers and revenge travel in the last few years, accommodation prices in Goa have been soaring. Sadly, many ‘homestays’ have turned into commercial businesses, and you often end up paying a lot for not very hospitable experiences.

Here are some places I recommend:

Cancio’s House, Aldona

Stay in the outhouse cottage of a 500-year-old traditional Goan home at Cancio’s House , hosted by three generations of the Amaral family! I’ve stayed here several times over the years, and each time, I’m amazed by the warmth, wealth of stories, and Goan recipes I get to try (even as a vegan ). The village of Aldona may have changed quite a bit over the years, but it still retains its Goan charm – a 16th century church, lush rice paddies, old Goan houses, and their quirky owners, always a delight to chat with.

Siolim House, Siolim

Located at easy driving distance from both, the cafes and restaurants of Assagao and several beaches across North Goa, Siliom House is a restored 17th century heritage house turned into a boutique hotel. An ode to the casa do sobrado style of Goan-Portuguese architecture that is fast disappearing from the state.

Jardin d’Ulysse, Morjim

Located right across the beach from Morjim, Jardin d’Ulysse was my go-to spot for ‘work from home’ days afternoons from their breezy terrace overlooking the sea, and delightful, vegan-friendly food from their kitchen. The huts out back are aesthetically crafted to invite the elements of nature in – perfect to work from, and have some beach time.

Botanique, Assagao

One of the OGs of Assagao before its hotel and restaurant scene exploded out of control, Botanique retains its original character in a restored Goan house, with the addition of Japanese food at Izumi in its backyard.

Mojigao, Assagao

Built on the philosophy that there should be no borders between the inside and outside world, my friends still rave about their stay at Mojigao . Its wood and tiled roof cottages are scattered among the wilderness of Assagao, with a cafe (a branch of Artjuna) overlooking the greens, in-house yoga classes and several independent music gigs through the week.

The Secret Garden, Saligao

I wrote parts of my first book at The Secret Garden – a traditional Goan house painstakingly refurbished by a Goan-British couple, and now home to its own food forest. On offer are heartwarming conversations, sourdough pancakes (YES!), and swimming under the stars.

Also read: My Alternative Travel Guide to Goa

Where to eat in North Goa

Goan thali and local Saraswat cuisine

Even after all these years of visiting and living in Goa, I’m surprised to learn about Goan food I haven’t tried before. While family kitchens (like Raquel’s kitchen in Cancio’s house) are the real treasure trove of Goan dishes, the true blue Goan thali at Kokni Kanteen is a good starting point. My favorite Goan restaurant is Mum’s Kitchen in Panjim (avoid the Assagao branch), where I love the uddamethi and tamdi bhaji with sanna. A breakfast spot I love is The Local Table , for a wicked patal bhaji.

Best cafes and restaurants in North Goa

North Goa can spoil anyone for choice, but as someone who looks for vegan-friendly, preferably organic and nourishing food, some of my favorite places include Bloom & Brew in Assagao, The Rice Mill in Morjim, Bean Me Up in Vagator, and Moka in Siolim.

Also read: Insider’s Guide: 27 Best Vegan Restaurants in Goa

How to Spend 3 Days in North Goa – Day 1

My Goa trip plan for 3 days can be mixed and matched, depending on your mood and the weather:

Get to know your Goan neighborhood

Whether you’re staying in Aldona, Saligao or elsewhere in North Goa, take the morning to acquaint yourself with the slow Goan life. Go on a long walk to the local church, along the rice paddies, and past old Goan homes (noticing how many of them are in a state of disrepair). Stop by to pick up poi at the local bakery, visit the morning market where local farmers sell their produce, and aim to have a chat with atleast one local. Getting yourself into the pace of Goa is a great way to set yourself up to slow exploration over the rest of the trip.

Cycle or e-bike on the sleepy Chorao island

Away from the crowds of Calangute and Baga, escape to the island of Chorao for a glimpse of Goa that once was – full of wild mangroves, endless paddy fields, and glorious old houses with a balcao. Sign up for a guided cycling or e-biking ride with Cycling Zens or B:Live , exploring the quiet beauty of the island on two wheels – one of the best places to see in goa in 3 days. Remember to carry your own reusable water bottle to stay hydrated!

Find pre-loved delights in Vagator

It’s so exciting that Goa finally has its own thrift store – Good Karma , in Vagator. Featuring pre-loved clothes, accessories, shoes and books, this is not just a way to buy second hand, but also buy stuff embedded with the stories of strangers. If you have clothes and books in good condition, you can also donate them to the store. Part of the profits are channeled towards local non-profits like WAG (Welfare for Animals in Goa).

Shop for organic, fair trade clothes at No Nasties

Ditch the wasteful fast fashion brands taking over Goa and other parts of the world, to shop at No Nasties – a homegrown, organic, fair trade store in Assagao. I bought my first t-shirt from No Nasties over eight years ago, and it’s still serving me well! This kind of slow, ‘I can wear this forever’ fashion, is a guilt-free answer to the overconsumption plaguing our planet.

Also read: Goa is a State of Mind

How to Spend 3 Days in North Goa – Day 2

Hike to a secret waterfall or swimming hole

Wake up early morning for a Goan adventure far off the beaten path. Head to the far reaches of the Western Ghats, to go on a forest hike for a short while or half a day, depending on your interest and abilities. Swim in a secret waterfall, or jump into a forested swimming hole (like the cenotes in Mexico!). Wrap up the outdoor experience with a traditional Goan meal cooked by a local family. In these wild pockets lies the realization that there’s so much more to Goa than the cocktails-and-sunsets long promoted as its cover image.

Two of my favorite adventure travel companies run by local Goans who genuinely care about protecting these wild areas and their geo-locations are Beatroute Explorers and The Local Beat . Expect to spend the entire day on their trips, including a long drive to a hidden location, short or long hike, plenty of chill time in the outdoors, and homemade lunch with a local family.

Also read: Wake Me Up When September Ends (in Goa)

How to Spend 3 Days in North Goa – Day 3

Take a surfing lesson with Salty Soul

Of course you’re in Goa and you want to spend some time by the sea! Take your playfulness in the waves a notch up by signing up for a surf lesson. As someone who used to watch surfers with awe, I never imagined I’d be able to get up on a surfboard someday. But the waves in Goa are gentle – and one of the best places to learn, or atleast experiment. There’s nothing like the adrenalin of catching a wave! My go to surf spot is Salty Soul , run by two Goan surfers in Mandrem.

Have a lazy beach day

Have your sun, sand and sunset evening in Goa after all. Laze at the beaches of Morjim or Ashwem, or venture further ashore to Keri. After sunset, stay for a quiet beach walk under the sunset sky, as the stars shimmer out one by one.

If you happen to be in North Goa on:

A Sunday: Check out MOG Sundays for soulful talks curated by the Museum of Goa , featuring local authors, entrepreneurs, environmentalists, historians and more. A great coming together of Goans and the Goa-curious.

A full moon night: Catch a Hindustani classical music performance, alongside some incredible sushi, at Tien in Vagator.

An alternate Sunday: Go for the New Earth Gathering at the Offbeat Goa Space – a vegan, community market bringing together local and resident entrepreneurs who specialize in all things natural and eco-friendly. The venue is in the same space as the Good Karma thrift store.

Also read: 10 Local Restaurants in Goa for Authentic Goan Food

South Goa Itinerary for 3 Days

While a lot of restaurants and events are clustered around North Goa, I recommend staying in South Goa for a quieter, slower, closer to nature holiday.

Where to stay in South Goa

Turia villa, canacona.

A tastefully restored Goan house, built over a 100 years ago in the village of Canacona, and restored by the Goan architect Sandesh Prabhu. While close enough to the beaches of Palolem and Patnem, I loved Turiya Villa ‘s slow travel vibe, with hammocks in the old courtyard that just made me want to read and while time away.

Tanshikar Spice Farm, Sanguem

Conveniently located as easy driving distance to some stunning waterfalls and vegan-friendly cafes in South Goa, Tanshikar Spice Farm is a working, family-run organic farm, with unique huts scattered across cashew and black pepper plantations. The traditional Goan food on offer – made largely with organic in-house produce – is some of the best I’ve had.

Mangaal Farmstay, Quepem

In a protected area of South Goa, Mangaal Farmstay is a working organic farm that has all the Bali feels. Lush forests, farmlands and old Goan villages where time seems to have stopped. Oh, it even has its own private waterfall, a 1.5 hour trek away!

Cabo Serai, Canacona

Hidden away on a hill near the Cabo de Rama Fort, Cabo Serai is an experience unto itself. Accessible only by a short hike, the stunning pinewood and thatched roofed huts are built to leave no trace. On offer are stunning sunset hikes, innovative plant-based food, and thoughtful eco-friendly touches. One of my favorite eco-lodges in India!

Alila Diwa, Majorda

Architecturally inspired by Bali and Goa, I loved the laid back vibe of Alila Diwa , the infinity pool overlooking the rice paddies, and their Dine in the Dark Thursdays! If you’re looking for a luxury resort experience with familiar comforts, yet a boutique feel that is very Goan, this is your spot.

*Note that Mangaal Farmstay and Cabo Serai are experiences unto themselves, and located quite far out from the other activities of South Goa.

Also read: 10 Incredible Eco-Lodges Around the World: Indulge Yourself and Spare the Planet

Where to eat in South Goa

Cantine indienne.

Cantine Indienne is a rustic, farm-to-table eatery in Palolem, run by a French-Tamil couple. They turn the organic oyster mushrooms grown in their backyard into crunchy ‘wings,’ and offer other creative delights like pesserattu  (green mung dosa), beetroot curry, oyster mushroom pickles, and wild spinach and horsegram stir fry. Yum!

Go to Bibhitaki for healthy comfort food inspired by Ayurveda. I love (read drool over) their sumptuous smoothie bowls, and recommend the Mexican Bhel as well as the hearty Mexican and Japanese Buddha bowls. So good.

Also read: How to Travel as a Vegan and Find Delicious Food Wherever You Go

How to Spend 3 Days in South Goa – Day 1

Explore your goan neighborhood.

Whether you stay in Canacona or elsewhere in South Goa, take the morning to observe and flow with the slow life of Goa. Find out about all churches in your backyard, stop for a chat with Goans on their morning walk, and pick up poi at the local bakery.

Learn about spices and cashews at Tanshikar Organic Farm

South Goa is the land of spices and cashews, and Tanshikar Organic Farm is one of the best places to visit in Goa in 3 days. Spices like black pepper and cardamom are grown organically here, on 25 stunning acres. Stay for a lip-smacking Goan lunch, much of it cooked with organic ingredients!

Have a quiet evening at Patnem beach

While away the evening at the relatively quiet Patnem beach. Swim in the waves, catch the sunset, and walk under the stars with the Arabian Sea humming in your ears.

Also read: Ideas of Love and Life From the Tribes of Chattisgarh

How to Spend 3 Days in South Goa – Day 2

Go on a hiking adventure.

Hike to a sea cave or go on a moonlit forest walk in the wilderness of South Goa. We did the guided sea cave excursion with Adventure Breaks – which involved a short ocean hike and scrambling over some rocks to reach the west coast’s largest sea cave! An easy one, good for most ages and abilities.

Visit Cabo de Rama Fort

There are plenty of places to visit in Goa in 3 days, but if you pick only one in the south, pick this. Built in the medieval times and last restored during the Portuguese era, the Cabo de Rama Fort is full of history and panoramic views over the Arabian Sea. If you’re up for another walk, a trail winds around the fort, offering panoramas in all directions. If you’re tired, pick your spot for a stunning sunset over the ocean!

Also read: Offbeat, Incredible and Sustainable: These Companies are Changing the Way We Experience India

How to Spend 3 Days in South Goa – Day 3

Take a surf lesson on agonda beach.

I’m yet to go surfing in South Goa, but surfer friends recommend catching the waves at Agonda Beach for all beginners. Aloha Surf is a popular surf school in the area.

Learn about Goan culture and cuisine at Palacio Do Deao

On the shores of the Kushavati River, travel back to a different era at the 200+ year old mansion that is Palacio De Deao . A blend of Portuguese and Saraswat architectural styles, it’s the perfect place to learn about ancient Goan culture and its Portuguese history, over a sumptuous traditional Goan meal. Advance bookings only.

Also see: In Photos: Hiking from Darjeeling to Sikkim

How to Plan a Trip to Goa

Best time to visit Goa

Goa is different every season – both in terms of landscapes and crowds. My favorite time is monsoon in Goa (July to September), when the paddies are lush green, it’s not as busy as the rest of the year, and the waterfalls and swimming holes are the most inviting. For surfing and beach life however, the winter months from October to January are ideal.

How to reach Goa

Take the scenic Vista Dome train from Mumbai to Goa, or the Vande Bharat from Bangalore to Karwat. Other places across India are also connected with long train journeys to Margao in South Goa or Thivim in North Goa.

The overnight buses from Mumbai or Bangalore to Goa are convenient for short trips.

The quickest way to get to Goa is to take a flight to Dabolim (GOA) or MOPA (GOX) airport.

How to get around in Goa

There’s a standing joke that almost every shop or house in Goa (especially close to the beaches) can arrange a scooter or taxi! Taxis can be expensive, with short routes costing as much as ₹600-1000. Scooter rentals usually cost ₹300-400 per day, depending on the length of stay. Ask for a newer bike and model. My favorite is an Activa 5G. Alternatively, rent a bicycle or e-bike from Cycling Zens. Cost depends on the duration of rental.

Estimated Cost of a 3 Day Trip in Goa

The cost of a trip to Goa can vary wildly, depending on the budget and comfort level you’re after. Besides accommodation costs, I recommend budgeting atleast ₹5000 per day, including a scooter rental, a mix of cafe and thali meals, and some activities. It is possible to do a Goa budget trip for 3 days if you eliminate any paid hiking, surfing and shopping.

What not to do in Goa

• Plan a trip to Goa for 3 days only 😉 The real essence of Goa is in slowing down and spending longer. But if life doesn’t allow that right now, I hope some of the experiences I’ve recommended above will allow you to slow down mentally anyway.
• Try to cover all ‘must see places in Goa’ in 3 days. Instead of running from one place to the next to try to do everything, pick a few things that really interest you and enjoy them deeply. It’s always nice to have a reason or three to come back.
• Stay in accommodations that have cut down Goa’s green cover. Sadly, a lot of the fancy villas in Goa fall in this category. I’ve seen it happen before my eyes – they cut down stunning old trees, put in luxury villas and apartments, and raid the local wells for water (delivered by a tanker). Avoid them, please.
• Photograph people and their homes without permission, especially in Panjim. Fontainhas, Panjim’s charming Latin quarters, has become overrun by impolite tourists climbing into people’s yards, going uninvited into their homes, peeping in through their windows, and photographing them without permission. It’s sad to see signs all over prohibiting photography, and hearing about the animosity local residents now feel towards tourists.
• Block the road to take the same photos as everyone else. Goa has plenty of pretty, palm-lined by-lanes, but a stretch of road in Parra – popularized by a Bollywood film – has become full of wannabe influencers and selfie-takers, constantly disrupting the flow of traffic.
• Leave without trying Goan food. I’ve met so many people who’ve been to Goa but have no idea what Goan food is. Sadly authentic Goan food is not as easy available as it should be, but make the effort to try it at a restaurant like Mum’s Kitchen or Kokni Kanteen. Ideally pick a vegan option, that’s kinder to animals, the planet and our own health.
• Ignore the locals and their quirks. I love that Goans have a strong collective identity, along with quirks that can only be understood once you get to know atleast a handful of them. Staying with a Goan family at Cancio’s House, attending a Goan-centric gathering at the Museum of Goa, or having a meal with local hosts at Palacio Do Deao are some ways to do that over a short period of time.

I used to swear I would never create itineraries on this blog, but multiple friends have convinced me otherwise. This is my first attempt at creating a meaningful 3 day itinerary for Goa, and through it, I hope you too will be able to experience the art of slowness and contentment in a place I love so much.

What do you love most about Goa, or what are you most looking forward to?

Welcome to my blog, The Shooting Star. I’ve been called a storyteller, writer, photographer, digital nomad, “sustainability influencer,” social entrepreneur, solo traveller, vegan, sustainable tourism consultant and environmentalist. But in my heart, I’m just a girl who believes that travel – if done right – has the power to change us and the world we live in.

The Shooting Star Academy

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Orange Wayfarer

Culturally Immersive & Responsible Travel

The Ultimate 7 days Itinerary for Goa with beaches, heritage, food trail and more!

About this blog: Seven days in Goa is a decent amount of time to design an itinerary brushing past Goa’s beautiful beaches and ancient heritage of ruins and churches. Needless to say, there are plenty of offbeat things to do in Goa which require a slow and immersive travel time. However, consider 7 good days to explore the state’s breathtaking beauty and indulge in fine coastal sea food that shall compel any gourmet to fall in love with Goa!

Please note, this week-long Goa itinerary is helpful for a first time visitor in Goa. It is packed with activities and day trips. If you are planning to relax, may be skip a few day trips and head straight towards South Goa, or Ashwem beach.

Read all the blogs related to Goa Travel!

By the shore of Arabian Sea, Goa, a small Indian state sits pretty on the Western coast. Aside numerous pretty beaches dotting the sea, Goa unfolds luminous layers of history for a curious soul. A walk on the old Goa’s narrow cobbled (and UNESCO heritage) streets tells volume on the 450 years of Portuguese colonial past. Tambi Surla, a Shiva temple hidden on in the forest of Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary has stories to tell from another era. Beyond the sunny long stretched shore of Baga and Candolim, Goa keeps her secrets in the lagoons and backwaters of Mandovi river. It had always been my dream to travel to Goa for seven days. When I finally did, I wished if only I would have had another couple of weeks to explore all the splendors the state has on offer.

7 days in Goa needs to be allocated wisely!

Just to give a rough idea before I explain this 7 days in Goa Itinerary further, Goa can be segmented in 4 parts. This includes the most beautiful beaches of Goa . You may explore some of them in a long weekend vacation to Goa as well!

• Baga and Calangute: The two beaches on the North Goa are strategically located closeby. This is where maximum number of tourists visit. These beaches are usually crowded on tourist season (super crowded on long weekends). However, there are plenty of activities, cafes, places to stay. Expect to pay tourist price for everything.
• North Goa : Beyong Baga, there are beautiful beaches at the wee end of the north. Consider Arambol, Ashwem, Mandrem. They remain pristine and away from the hawk eye of vendors.
• South Goa : Away from everything, South Goa holds the true secret of freedom, which gave Goa its fare share of fame. beaches, forts, hikes and plenty of unexplored regions lies here. If you seek quaint, you must visit South Goa!
• Panaji : The capital of Goa, houses only a couple of local beaches. Panaji is where you will be heading if you are in Goa for work. Despite a lack of beach life, Panaji is famous for old Latin quarters, UNESCO heritage churches and vibrant local life.

Also read: First time in Goa? Read this detailed guide to prepare for Goa travels!

Day 1: Reaching Goa & Stay at Baga

Stay at Baga, Dine by the beach

Assuming you are flying into Goa, you are ideally to reach Dabolim airport at the start of the day. If you are late, say reaching by 10 pm or so, it may be a challenge to get a mode of public transport to Baga. It is best if you get in touch with you accommodation provider. 

Kadamba line of AC bus fleet runs at least till 6 pm. However, public transport in Goa is still in its nascent stage.

If you are traveling by train, you have plenty of cabs to hire from the station itself. indian railway stations are identical that way. 

It will take at least an hour to reach from airport to Baga. 

Reserve this day for rendezvous with the beach. Expect a glorious sunset. 

Secure a seat by the beachside restaurants. Ratnakar is a fine choice if you like sheesha and alcohol with high streaks of energy. Tito’s is more famous among the tourists. Do make a reservation before you visit.

Alternatively , Goa also houses India’s only casino ships close to its shoreline. Since gambling is prohibited on Indian land, these casino ships are permanently anchored on the sea. They ensure even the rough waves of monsoon very well. I visited Deltin Royal Cruise on the fateful night of Cyclone Kyarr and did not feel a thing. The next morning, the fallen coconut trees of the Ashwem beach narrated the story.

Anyway, experiencing a cruise liner is a prized deal. The ship has various games on-board and forms of entertainment aside a large buffet. Sparkling goblets of wine galore everywhere. I did not find the food amusing though. If you like to party the night away, the Cruise liners of Goa will be your best choice!

Also read: A week in Shillong, Meghalaya, amidst clouds, valleys and flowers.

Day 2: Birding at Salim Ali Sanctuary, Divar Island & Latin quarter at Old Goa UNESCO sites

Birding and heritage walk in Old Goa

Since Goa will have you for good seven long days, we will allocate a day for the hinterlands of the coastal state.

Wake up early and head towards the Divar island, Goa’s largest riverine island on Mandovi river. Ironic because in Konkani language, Divar means small.

Home to an exclusive high class wellness resort Mercure Devaaya, Divar island is intense on local heritage. Timeless Portuguese bungalows sleep under the shadow of banyan trees. Old churches and quaint little sleepy neighborhood covers Goa’s Mantra for peaceful life, Susegad.

Next to Divar island, lies Chorao island , connected by Ribandar ferry. Chorao island houses the famed Dr. Salim Ali Bird sanctuary. I think this can be a great educational experience for kids too. From mangroves to crocodile and mud-skippers & crabs, all join in to celebrates the fast depleting bird population.

Best time for birding at Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary: 6 am to 8 pm. “Afternoon no bird”, told me the guard at Mercure Hotel.

Some species of Birds that can be seen at Chorao island: Brahminy Kites, Egrets, Heron, Little Black Cormorants, Paradise fly catcher, Kingfishers, woodpeckers, Drongo etc.

No cost for passengers on the ferry. INR 10 for vehicle, in case you are bringing in a cycle. There is a ferry at 6:20 am.

If you reach early, you will find a guide, who shows around the island on a private boat and charges a fee.

Also read: A travel guide to Dandeli, North Karnataka’s birding paradise!

On the way back, make a stop at Old Goa. Also known as Velha Goa, this is listed as WORLD UNESCO heritage site for cultural heritage of its numerous churches! It is also one of the first seats of Catholic Christianity in India.

Goa, during the rule of Portuguese was hailed as the Rome of the east. One look at the remnants of the Old Capital of the Portuguese in India, and you will know why.

Velha Goa houses some of the country’s finest cathedrals and Churches. Be it the whitewashed Se cathedral or the humongous Basilica of Bom Jesus, they are grand in structure, and stand witness to Goa’s regal past. A catastrophic plague outbreak and subsequent invasions led to Velha Goa being abandoned.

Also read: Top 12 Cultural experiences in Goa!

There are plenty of other churches and historical areas to be visited in close vicinity. Here is a list of Old Goa’s famed churches:

• Convent of Our Lady of Angels
• Church of Our Lady of the Rosary
• St. Augustine Tower
• Agustinian Convent
• Church of St. Cajetan
• Mill Stones of Gun Powder Factory
• Museum Of Christian Art

Old goa has beautiful Hotels and Home stays available for rent. Check out here .

Take care while exploring the area, especially if you are on your own. The narrow alleys and old houses are often prone to snake attacks.

Head towards Fontainhas , the Latin Quarter of Goa. This is the last stop before you are heading back to the beach at Baga.

Often termed as the Old Quarter or Latin Quarter of Goa , Fontainhas houses Old Portuguese Bungalows that are painted with a riot of color. Do not be surprised if they resemble like one quaint little town from an obscure European countryside. The houses has old school wall sized glass window, panes of which is colored in white. Oftentimes, an Azulejos tiles adorn the gate.

There are two beautiful eateries at Fontainhas. They are, Venite Bar and Viva Panjim . Both are quirky and very photogenic (okay, Instagrammable places in Goa). Google both and choose where you wanna visit. Joseph Bar remains as one old world wonder at Fontainhas! If you are craving for good Konkani cuisine, head towards Saib . I love their fish Thali. Awadh House is one of the better places to eat in Panjim if you are craving fro delectable Awadhi cuisine of North. It differs from the Punjabi Thalis to a large extent so try if you are a meatlover.

Truth is, I have seen neighborhoods like Fontainhas in multiple places while exploring the interiors of Goa. However, Fontainhas has opened its arm for tourists, with beautiful galleries, guest houses, and cafes and is located strategically in Panjim. You will not get these benefits in the rest of old neighborhoods in Goa, though they seemed to be more rustic and authentic.

The best part of Fontainhas is, you can retire here for a day, if you can let go the call of the beach. A few famous home stays at Fontainhas are: La Maison , the Caravela Homestay , Abrigo Fontainhas , Mateus Boutique Hotel, the White Balchao . A good Hostel in this area is the Old Quarter .

Check here for more stay near Panaji .

Considering it is a long day since early morning, it is recommended to put up at Fontainhas. However, if you have to, you can be back at Baga or Calangute. Try to make it before the sunset so that you have beautiful view of the setting sun behind ocean.

Baga has a number of beachside accomodation. Feel free to check the may. I would recommend a few based on previous experiences: Casa Cubo , Goa Beach House , Casa De Goa Boutique Resort.

Day 3: Beach Hopping to North Goa, Visit a night Market

Explore beaches of North Goa: Vagator, Anjuna, Morjim, Ashwem, Mandrem, Arambol

The day starts with exploring the beaches of North Goa. Rent a bike and start early. Things you need for a bike rental: 1. Government ID for deposit. You get it back once you return the bike, with fuel recharged. 2. INR 250 per day as rental fee (seasonal variation is expected) 3. Goa, like the rest of India, drives on the left of the road

Paved highway stretches till the wee end of the state border. You can ride as far as you want. Make pit stops on the way for a quick sugar cane drink, or snap a postcard of the rural huts adorned with floral design. You can take a detour off the highway and make pit-stops among the coconut groves for that quintessential Instagram shot.

Originally, it was shot in ar Parra. I am talking about the famous Goa scene from the Bollywood movie, Love you Jindagi, where Alia Bhat cycles amidst pristine verdant valley dotted with coconut trees with a hill at the backdrop. Now the village is raged with tourist footfall and is on the verge of charging tourists an entry fee.

I suggest skip Parra and look out for a similar setting off the main road, which lies plenty in Goa. Drive towards up north till you reach Vagator beach. The cliff hides the moon-shaped beach from prying eyes of the world.

From Vagator, head towards Morjim beach. Morjim is a rocky beach. Tidal waves bare up the sandy shore in day time. If you are looking for a beach to swim, head towards Ashwem. I stayed by the Ashwem beach at Yab Yum Resort for a couple of days and vouch for the relaxing vibe here. It is a crescent shaped beach, great for swimming. The waves swell well and make it a choice for surfers too.

I suggest stop at the La Plage for lunch. The beachside restaurant serves great French cuisine.

If you want to explore more beaches up north, you have Mandrem and Arambol on the same coast line. Saddle up the bike and wizz past green patches of verdant valley, cow shades, backwaters, dry river beds. You have reached the last wilderness of Goa!

Heading back to Baga from this area is a good 1.5 hours drive. Road is good. I have even seen traffic jams on certain days post sunset. In this route, there are 4 scenic spots to watch the sunset. You choose one based on your preferences.

Sunset points:

• Chapora Fort (of Dil Chahta Hain movie fame) for adventurers
• Sunset point at Anjuna for those who love a rocky beac
• Romantic sundowner at the Thalassa Cafe, small Vagator beach
• Arambol Beach where sunset takes place in the rhythm of iconic drum circle by the last remaining hippie trail (Far off from Baga hence be prepared for a long drive back home)

On the way back, make it a point to stop at the night markets of Calangute. You may also plan a visit to the iconic Anjuna Flea market which runs every Wednesday from 9am to 6pm. Once a place where Hippies traded their exotic European made items, now is flooded with Chinese products, swimwear and costume jewelry.

Once you are back in Baga, rest for a while. For dinner, head out to Souza Lobo. Now running by the third generation of a local family, Souza Lobo is a beach side iconic bar and served amazing cheese baked crab. Highly recommend.

Also read: 5 days travel itinerary for Leh with offbeat day trips suggestions

Day 4: Indulge in some watersports & reach South Goa

Fort Aguada, Sinquerim beach, Travel to South Goa

This is the last day in North Goa for this one week itinerary. To make the most of it, we will let our adrelanine rush through! Today, we will flirt with the crazy waves of Arabian sea.

From Baga, head straight towards Aguada beach. The Portuguese Fort stands erect for centuries keeping a close eye against enemy invasion. Aguada is also famed for filling ship tanks with potable water in olden days.

A four storey light house stand at the end of Aguada. Explore the fort and find a a way to the Sinquerim beach which lies next to Aguada.

Watersports at Sinquerim Beach

People from all over India head towards Sinquerim beach for a number of watersports. From benign banana boat to dangerous jet jet ski, you name it and you get it! Kitesurfing, parasailing etc takes place too.

I suggest go for parasailing. You fly high over the Arabian sea, with the Aguada fort on left and endless ocean on the other side. It is simply breathtaking.

Prices vary depending on demand and seasonal footfall. Also, water sports activity is closed during monsoon owing to killing wind and swells. we paid INR 2000 per head back in 2017 for parasailing.

Also read: Things to do in Dalat, Vietnam

Heading towards Palolem Beach, South Goa

It is time to head towards South Goa now. While South Goa does not match up to the North Goa when it comes to party or lively vibes, it hides stretches of pristine, verdant land and some of the finest beaches of Indian subcontinent.

From the Central bus station at Panjim, bus ply towards Margaon in South Goa till 6 pm. It charges a nominal INR 30/50. You can also rent a car or a bike and drive towards Palolem in south. On the way, make it a point to stop at the ruined fort of Cabo De Rama. If you can make it during Sunset, you will be getting pristine shots! Cabo De rama is one of the most offbeat things to do in Goa.

Day 5: Beach day at Palolem & Patnem

A relaxing beach day in Goa by the world famous Palolem beach

From Yoga to Cow watching to boat-ride to catch a glimpse of the Dolphins, you have an entire day to relax and soak in the glorious sun in Goa on this day! In this 7 day long itinerary of Goa, this is probably the first day of a beach living.

As we say, “Der Aye par Durast Aye.” It came late but it came in style!

One of the leading reporting agency listed Palolem as Top 20 places to visit in Asia or sorts, you know what I mean. Ever since, a number of tourists head towards Palolem and long for a stay by the coveted beach hut. Colorful bamboo made beach huts adorn the sea-shore. With tourists came shops and cafes too.

However, Palolem remains significantly off the beat beach destination in Goa, compared to Baga or Calangute. Tourist footfall has not yet disrupted local life. Early morning, you can see fishermen busying themselves for the day’s toil. A dog and a cow will join you at the beach as you tan yourself. Overall, it remains one of the laid beach beaches in Goa and feels nice.

In the evening, walk towards, Patnem, a smaller and lesser known beach located close by. I think it is 10 minutes walk. It is beautiful nonetheless.

Best beach huts to stay at Palolem beach in Goa

Dream Catcher Goa , Marron Resort , The Found Things , Beach Resort Palolem , Crystal G oa

Affordable Beach huts: Rainbow , The Charming Nights , Cozy Nook , Cube Beach Hut

Hotels: Summer , the Lost Hostel ,

Also read: 2 weeks in Myanmar, the only itinerary you need!

Day 6: Choose a day trip between Dudhsagar or Karwar

Dudhsagar Waterfalls embodies what monsoon does to the state of the Goa, with its lush green dense surrounding amidst the steep of the Wetern Ghats and four tiered cascading flow of white water, meaning ocean of milk. Located at Mollem, South Goa, Dudhsagar calls for a day trip and trekking up the hill to experience something ethereal. The waterfall is shared between the states of Karnataka and Goa.

It is located by the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. A few spice plantation and a farm stay is located close by too. Tambi Surla, a twelfth century Shiva temple is located here.

If you are heading towards Goa from Bangalore by train, make a stop at Castle Rock. From Pune or Mumbai, stop at Kulem. Shared Jeep goes till the waterfall if you are not too keen to trek the entire distance. Also, there is a daily cap on the number of people allowed to visit, especially during monsoon. Do take an account for that while planning for Dudhsagar trekking.

The trekking is through dark long tunnel made a century ago, now abandoned. Lifeless train tracks kiss the ground. Aroma of fresh rain makes one dizzy. You reach the fall and reach a small natural pool, where swimming is allowed. You can even change to a swimsuit.

If you are journeying by train through Konkon coast, you will get a full view of the falls. It looks spectacular during comsoon. earlier train used to stop for a few minutes. However, trains just slow down these days and do not stop.

Usually fed by torrential rain, Dudhsagar loses its glory during dry season. Though the trek is rewarding nonetheless.

Alternatively, visit the Karwar Beach

“The sea beach of Karwar is certainly a fit place in which to realize that the beauty of Nature is not a mirage of the imagination, but reflects the joy of the Infinite and thus draws us to lose ourselves in it. Where the universe is expressing itself in the magic of its laws it may not be strange if we miss its infinitude; but where the heart gets into immediate touch with immensity in the beauty of the meanest of things, is any room left for argument?” Rabindranath Thakur

If you are not too keen on trekking to Dudhsagar Falls or traveling during turbulent monsoon, I suggest drive towards Karwar. Located by the coast of Uttara Karnataka, Karwar is an untouched region, where local flavor is very strong. It is only half an hour’s drive from Palolem. It is where kali river meets Arabian sea.

Karwar has a beach named after Rabindranath Thakur. Tagore beach, as they call it, also houses the annual three days Karwar festival. For me that is reason enough to fall in lve with Karwar.

You can also visit nearby pristine islands, provided low tide, and a ruined fort named Sadashivgar.

Kurle Ambat , the delightful Crab Masala of Konkan region is a must have while traveling in Karwar. Also, the iconic Gadbad ice cream, where bits of fresh fruit tease cold cream gently in a tunbler! Hotel Amrut is particularly famous for sea food platter. The ghee roasts and sukka tells you that you are truding a fine border area, close to Goa yet so not Goa!

Karwar has plenty of water sports but rates are cheaper than Goa. The beach also houses INS Chapal Warship museum. INS Kadamba (named after the Kadamba dynasty of the region) is Indian naval base located at Karwar.

Day 7: Beach day & Return

The seventh day in Goa beckons. The seven days in Goa whizzed past, right?

I know. Goa always does this. She akes up for a tremendeous trip and only leaves you wanting more of Goa.

If you are roadtripping in Goa and live somewhere down south, afternoon is a good time to start. If you are headed back towards Mumbai or the airport, you need to pack up early. Palolem is is 60 KM away from Dabplim. On a good day, it is a 90 minutes drive. But we suggest account for another hour extra. Dabolim is a small airport and sometimes the queue can get painfully long.

Assuming the flight/train is scheduled at night, you still have the morning to explore a few more beaches of Goa. It is all the more possible since the drive is through the coastal route.

Following are the beaches you can stop by while heading back to the airport.

• Agonda beach
• Colva beach
• Betul beach
• Varca beach
• Benaulim beach

Instead of beach hopping, you can also make a quick day trip to the nearby Butterfly beach from Agonda. Secluded by high cliffs, Butterfly beach can only be accessed by a boat. It looks a lot like a small lagoon with clear water. Butterfly beach is famous for Sunset views.

Agonda has plenty of good places to eat. I love Little Plantain leaf in Agonda. Love Bite is a great choice too for cozy vibes.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Things2doinIndia (@things2doinindia_) on Jan 10, 2020 at 6:06am PST

Also read: Zakaria Street- Kolkata’s hidden streets w here food connects the worlds apart!

If you have a little longer than 7 days in Goa, I suggest follow this itinerary but spread it evenly. Keep a day to explore the beaches of south. Take two days to relax by Palolem beach and one extra day at Ashwem beach in North. Thus, you get to enjoy Goa for 10 days and indulge in the best things to do in the sunshine state. This itinerary equally covers the heritage and beaches of Goa.

If you are heading to Goa during monsoon, may be add one day for Divar island. Monsoon in Goa makes plenty of beaches off limit for tourists with coast guards barring entry. They are justified because Arabian sea becomes a demon with undercurrent pulls etc. Shacks do not open either. That said, monsoon in Goan hinterlands is breathtaking with lush green Western ghats and hidden waterfall trails!

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5 Responses

I’ve never been parasailing but it looks so fun! Especially getting a view of the beautiful beaches.

Goa looks so beautiful to visit! Dudhsagar Waterfalls looks stunning with the train tracks that go beneath it. The food there looks really yummy as well.

Dudhsagar Falls looks particularly incredible – it kind of reminds me of Multnomah Falls in the US with the way the bridge goes across it. We didn’t make it to Goa on our India trip, but southern Indian food is one of my all-time favorites so next time we’ll definitely be checking this region out!!

Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us. We provide Watersports & Adventure trips. Convenient & affordable to your advantage.If you are looking for water sports package with scuba diving , do contact us.

Amazing blog!!Thank you for sharing with us. We provide Car rental services in Goa. Convenient & affordable to your advantage.If you are looking for Self Drive Car Rental in Goa , do contact us.

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The Best 3-Day Goa Itinerary And Mini Travel Guide for 2024

Last Updated on May 9, 2024

In this post, I will share with you the best itinerary for Goa in 3 days for beginners based on my personal experience. 

A travel lover, lived in Bangalore for 4 years and never been to Goa yet? Do you even exist? Because if you do, you must know that we are with you too. At least we were till December 2018.

So finally on our third wedding anniversary, we decided to explore Goa in 3 days. We took a 2-day leave from office and embarked upon the long drive in the wee hours of the night. 

Unlike big cities, Goa is a tiny yet diverse state of India that needs to be explored slowly. But since it was our first time to Goa, I charted out a plan to see the best of Goa – the historic sites, the beaches, and the western ghats, all in just 3 days.

But the best thing is that we didn't rush from one spot to another and had enough time to relax. That's because I spent considerable time charting out our itinerary which I am going to share with you here (along with alternatives).

The post contains affiliate links for tours, hotels etc. This means if you make any purchase through the links in the post, I may get a commission without any additional cost to you.

Goa In 3 days – Where to stay in Goa?

The first step to planning an itinerary is to decide your base location. Goa is full of surprises and attractions which would leave you spoilt for choices of what to do in Goa in 3 days.

Panaji, the capital of Goa is a good place to base yourself if you are visiting for the first time. Being centrally located it offers you the opportunity to explore the best of Goa with ease.

Check out the best places to stay in Goa for different types of holidays.

We stayed at Crown Goa , an excellent 4-star hotel located right across the river Mandovi. Being situated at an elevation makes it a visible landmark and a great place to enjoy views of the riverside.

The favorable location helped us explore a lot of places just by walking leisurely in the evening.

Quick Goa Itinerary for 3 days

It’s difficult to decide upon just one common itinerary for all, especially in a place like Goa which attracts all types of tourists.

This is the itinerary I made based on the thins we love – nature, castles, rivers, beaches and some cultural experiences.

Day 1 – Get acquainted with Goa

• Reach Panjim by 2 pm, freshen up at your hotel and have lunch
• Dolphin watching cruise at Miramar beach (1 –1.5 hours)
• Explore new Panjim (1 hour)
• Cruise party in Mandovi (1 hour)

Day 2 – Explore Goa beyond the beaches

• Dudhsagar falls (4 hours including 1-way drive)
• Private spice plantation and old Goa city tour (4 hours)
• Visit the Reis Magos Fort and watch the sunset  at Miramar beach (2 hours)
• Retire with a spa or hit the casinos at night if interested

Day 3 – Dive into Goa and her golden beaches

• Aguada Fort, Central jail Aguada and rocky beach (3 hours)
• Sinquerim Beach (2 hours including a couple of water sports)
• Candolim beach
• Sunset at Chapora fort (1.5-2 hours)
• Foot massage at the Anjuna or Baga beach
• Return to the hotel or dine out with live music

Day 4: Goodbye Goa – on your way back

• Drive to Bangalore via Karwar to get a glimpse of south Goa
• Halt for a bit at the Tagore Park in Karwar 

We didn’t visit casinos or engage in water sports as we preferred to relax on our wedding anniversary. That’s because we realized that we are going to visit Goa often from now on.

You can squeeze in a couple of those easily on this trip. If you like scuba diving, you can replace the Dudhsagar falls and plantation tour with a guided sports trip .

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Now that your itinerary is sorted, let’s take a look at the highlights of our 3-day Goa itinerary.

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Short historical background of Goa

Goa is not just about parties and casinos. It has a history of thousands of years since the prehistoric ages. So, to fully appreciate Goa it’s good to know a little bit about its long and diverse history that helped shape the unique Goan culture.

Goa has been the melting point of several cultures from time immemorial. Before the Portuguese, Goa was ruled for 2000 years by many Hindu dynasties, followed by the conquest by Bahmani sultanate. 

In 1510 the Portuguese conquered Goa and established the first European settlements in India. Even after independence from the British rule, Goa remained under the Portuguese till 1961.

Thus, there is a strong Portuguese influence in the modern Goan culture.

I f you like historical sites, you can check out this itinerary for Hampi , the capital of the great Vijayanagara Empire. 

Best of Goa in 3 days  – In and Around Panjim

As I said earlier, Panjim is an excellent place to base yourself as you can get the best of everything in Goa. Panaji, the Goan capital that is also called Panjim is divided into two parts – Old Panjim and new Panjim. The Old part of the city is famous for the Latin quarters and the Portuguese ruins. The new Panjim city is where you find the floating casinos, Miramar Beach and  Dona Paula.

Old Goa Churches

We headed to Old Goa on the first day right after lunch at our hotel. That’s a good thing to do, but you may not have the time for a guided spice plantation tour then.

I recommended it for day 2 along with Dudhsagar falls as they are in the same direction . The   churches and convents of old Goa have been accorded with the UNESCO world heritage status .

Built in the 16th and 17th centuries they are some of the finest Portuguese architecture in the world. The churches are still active and are frequented by locals and tourists alike.

The most attractive structure here is the Basilica of Bom Jesus , also called St. Francis Xavier's tomb which was completed in 1605.

It is regarded as one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in the subcontinent. The other two important structures which are a part of the World UNESCO group of monuments in Goa are the Se Cathedral and St Augustine’s tower both of which lie opposite to the Basilica.

I highly recommend a guided tour of the heritage churches . You can also book a combo of old goa and spice plantation guided tour in Goa.

Fountainhas

Fountainhas is the Latin quarter of Goa where the wealthy Portuguese families lived. The houses in the neighborhood are painted in pastel shades typical to 18th-century Portuguese houses.

These houses are painted every year, so they appear new. Cute little cafes that are 100-years old are dotted around the neighborhood. Walking on the narrow streets of Fountainhas will take you to 18th century Portugal.

Book this guided tour of the Latin quarter now available at an introductory price.

Mandovi River

The Mandovi river flows through Panjim before it meets the Arabian Sea. There are multiple floating casinos in the river and river cruise parties.

At just Rs. 250 you will get to sail on the river for 1 hour while watching some traditional Goan dance performances.

After the performances, the floor is open for the DJ party. Remember that the last tickets are sold at 8:30 pm.

Miramar Beach

Situated at the confluence of the Mandovi river and Arabian sea, Miramar is one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa. We visited the Miramar beach first to go for a dolphin-watching cruise. The cost of the dolphin cruise is Rs. 300 for one hour guided trip.

The best time to see dolphins is in the morning and afternoon. We were surprised to spot at least 4 dolphins on the trip.

I have seen some guides introduce historic places by the name of its architect or its commissioner, or some mythological story around the place.

This was the first time I saw a guide introducing every single place in the skyline only by the name of the Hindi movies that were shot there.

Some of the movies were not even popular so he had to name the actors and songs to remind us of the scenes. It was quite amusing.

We visited Miramar beach again in the evening the next day to bathe in the Arabian sea and watch the sunset. It was not as desolate as it was in the morning but was still calm.

The calm and clean Miramar beach is an awesome place to watch the twilight unfold.

This is a beautiful promenade and a former fishing village in Panjim. The viewpoint is very pretty with the hills at the backdrop.

We visited Dona Paula on the day we left Goa for Bangalore. This is different from other beaches in central and north Goa in look and feel.

It is named after Dona Paula, a Portuguese woman who did a lot of philanthropic work for the fishermen. If you have time, you can visit the Cabo Raj Bhavan and the historic British cemetery.

The grand palace turned government residence; Cabo Raj Bhavan could only be admired from the outside till 2018. From January 2019, the Raj Bhavan has opened its doors to tourists on the weekends.

Church and markets in Panjim

When in Panjim you cannot miss the beautiful church of “Our Lady of Immaculate Conception” which was built in the 16th century.

The church is whitewashed and so well-maintained that there is no way to say that it is so old. There are daily masses held here.

A short walk from the church brings you to the Panjim market where you can find all kinds of shops.

If you are looking to buy some fancy Goan dresses do not purchase anything here and rather go to Aguada, Calangute and other beaches that have to flea markets all around.

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3- day Goa itinerary – Bustling Beaches of North Goa

North Goa is known for its vibrant beaches and amazing nightlife. Unfortunately, most of the beaches are crowded all day because of the same reason.

Good thing is that despite the crowd the beaches are mostly clean. The calm waters make it apt for bathing, swimming and water sports.

Some of the most famous beaches have a car parking charge of Rs. 100 and the car needs to be parked almost a kilometer away from the beach. The beaches are lined with pretty shacks and free loungers.

Sinquerim beach

Located near the Lower Aguada the Sinquerim beach is perfect for having a peaceful time. We enjoyed strolling at the walls of the fort overlooking the calm blue waters.

There are various activities like jet boat rides, banana rides and paragliding  at the beach.

Up for some marine adventure? Book a Malwan Scuba-diving trip online.

Rocky beach near the Aguada Central Jail

This beach is refreshingly different than the others because of the rocks and the fact that it is nicely tucked away from the tourist zones in north Goa. There is nothing much to do here except sit, watch the waves and just talk.

Baga beach is located near the Chapora fort and is a real party hub. The shacks turn into silent bars and nightclubs in the evening.

The loungers are full throughout the evening with people enjoying foot massages. On your walk from the parking area to the beach, you will find a host of shops for fashion garments and souvenirs and tattoo parlors.

Other party beaches of North Goa are the Candolim beach, Calangute, Anjuna, and Vagator beach.

Goa is where you have the freedom to explore and experiment with your fashion sense like no other place in India. So, shop freely for your Goa Trip – swimwear , bikini , stylish cover-ups , shorts , summer dresses, hats , flipflops and more.

Shop on Amazon for your Beach Holiday!

 Goa itinerary for 3 days | Explore the forts of Goa

Goa is home to some centuries-old fort which are the best examples of Portuguese military architecture in the subcontinent. The forts were raised mainly to defend against the invasion by other foreign traders.

Aguada Fort

The biggest fort that you cannot miss on your 3-day itinerary for Goa is the Aguada fort. It's a large fort divided into upper and lower Aguada and is one of the few intact Portuguese forts in the subcontinent.

In 1604 the Dutch troop blocked the mouth of river Mandovi with seven ships for one month. The Portuguese could not thwart them from their original forts Reis Magos and Gasper Dias.

They identified this gap in their defense and raised the huge Aguada fort at the mouth of river Mandovi and another fort Mormugao at the mouth of the river Zuari.

The Aguada fort has a lighthouse, chapel and a huge underground water storage system.

Chapora Fort

The Chapora Fort is in ruins but offers a spectacular view of the sunset at Vagator beach and the unending view of the Arabian sea.

It involved a short trek in uneven lands, so be careful of wearing comfortable shoes if you plan to visit there. The fort has a long history of defiance against the Portuguese colonizers.

The site was destroyed and recreated multiple times since 1510, the time of the Portuguese invasion in India.

The fort lost its military significance towards the end of the 18th century. The place shot to fame after the popular Hindi movie Dil Chahta Hai.

There are many other forts to explore in Goa namely the Reis Magos fort which was the oldest Portuguese fort in India, Fort Mormugao and other smaller ones.

Love forts? Check out this amazing list of best forts of India from North to South, and the East to West.

Another side of Goa in 3 days – Dudhsagar falls and the Western Ghats

Discover Goa beyond the beaches – the lush green forests of the Western Ghats , wildlife and one of the tallest cascades in India – the Dudhsagar falls. To protect the environment the tourism in the area is put under tight control.

There is now only one legal way to visit the Dudhsagar falls. You have to park your car outside the gates and book a jeep safari from there. You have to drive 68 km from Panjim to Kulem for booking the jeep safari. It is a 1.5-2 hour drive on an average day.

The jeep then takes you on an off-roading trip through the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a 40-minute drive as the jeep shoots across several small streams.

Each jeep has a capacity of seven people and costs Rs. 3500. On contrary to what we had heard before, the people at the counter assisted in the formation of groups.

Despite such controls in place the Dudhsagar falls are brimming with tourists all the time, so be prepared to stand in the queue for at least 30 minutes.

The natural pool at the foot of Dudhsagar falls is so clear that you can easily see the fish inside. Here are some travel tips for the Dudhsagar falls to visit. There are many lifeguards in the area for additional safety.  Here are some important travel tips to visit the Dudhsagar falls.

• Plan to visit Dudhsagar falls the first thing in the morning as it keeps getting crowded with time. We had our breakfast and started at 9 am.
• It's a plastic-free zone so please do not carry any plastic bottles as they will be taken away from you at the gate.
• Carry a change of clothes for swimming but do not carry any soap or detergent. Respect the purity of the environment here
• As soon as a jeep is allotted to you, you need to board it. The jeeps are not allowed to wait for any passengers because of the rush.
• You are given 1.5 hours to reach the waterfalls and swim in the pool. After the jeep drops you they will give you a cut-off time by which you need to return. Be on time.
• One of the reasons for the scarcity of jeeps in the afternoon is that the tourists do not care about the rules and they spend more time than they are allowed to. It's important to respect the rules and other people’s time, more so when you form a group with unknown people.

You can book a package tour for a complete guided tour of the forests, falls and spice plantation including pick up and drop.

How to reach Goa?

Bangalore and Mumbai are the nearest metropolitan cities to Goa. The shortest driving distance from Bangalore via NH48 is 556 km. From Mumbai, the shortest distance is 587 km by AH 47 and NH48.

Goa by self-drive

However, there are several other routes that you can follow for a scenic drive from Bangalore to Goa. The most popular route from Bangalore to Goa is through the Konkan coast via Karwar. It's one of the best routes for long drives from Bangalore .

🚙 🚗 Rent a  Zoomcar  for self-driving all the way in Goa 🚔

That is the route that most of the overnight buses connecting the two cities take. NH48 is the best road to drive on and on an average day, you can reach Goa within 10 hours with usual breaks if you start before 4 am. 

Goa by public transport

There is no dearth of buses leaving from Bangalore to Goa every day. Trains are the most preferred mode of transport not only because of the comfort but also because of the spectacular views of the Western Ghats, not to forget the mesmerizing Dudhsagar Falls.

The most preferred trains are Kcg Yesvantpur Junction Express (17603) which passes through Yesvantpur station at midnight and Vasco Da Gama Superfast Express (02683) which starts from the same station at 10:30 PM.

After reaching Goa you can hire a taxi or rent bikes for exploring the city.

Related: Best one-day trips from Bangalore

3 days in Goa – FAQs

What is the best time to visit goa.

Goa has a hot and humid climate for a larger part of the year. So the best time to visit Goa is in winter between November to February . To avoid the peak-season crowd you should visit between November to 2nd week of December. Christmas and new year are celebrated with great pomp in Goa. So you can visit for these events if you don’t mind the crowd.

Where and what to eat in Goa?

You must try the variety of seafood in Goa. Fresh prawns and pomfret cooked in different styles from grilled to fried are a foodies delight.

Fenny is a popular and cheap alcoholic drink in Goa which I honestly hated. But I hardly drink, so don’t take my word for it and try it yourself. Discussion about food in Goa will take another post altogether but all I can say is that it's one of my favorite food destinations now.

One tip will be to not eat at the beach shacks and instead eat in the hotels outside the beach. The food is cheaper and of better quality off the beach.

What are the recommended tours in Goa?

It's a great idea to go for guided tours if you only have 3 days in Goa. I highly recommend it to foreign tourists and Indians who don't plan to visit Goa often.

While hop-on-hop-off buses are available, they are not very popular here. The most highly rated guided tour of Goa is the Get Your Guide full-day private tour of 8-hours.

What are the best books about Goa?

Goa is a beautiful tiny state that has inspired thousands of travelogues and stories. Here are some of the best books of Goa I can recommend for you.

Goa Travel: Being the Accounts of Travellers from the 16th to the 21st Century

Goa – A Daughter's Story

• Lonely Planet Travel Guide – India

If you have any more questions be sure to write to me in the comments. Or better, join the new Facebook Community where I and other travellers will answer all your questions. You can also share photos and experiences from your own trips there!

Before going, I'll leave you with my Top travel sites for trips in India.

Did you like the post? Share the post to help them plan their Goan vacation. Here are some other places you will love, if you like Goa.

• Kerala Travel Guide
• Pondicherry Travel Guide
• Dhanushkhodi Travel Guide
• Andamans Travelogue

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59 Comments

We went there 26 years ago – blimey was it really that long ago? Rekindled some lovely memories of our two weeks. Thank you. kx

I visited Goa a few years ago now and found it so pretty and relaxing. I loved the fact that we saw cows wandering along the beaches and the people there were friendly and chilled out. I would definitely go back to check out more of what you’ve mentioned in this post!

That’s a very detailed post! I have been to Goa several years but with my parents and can’t recall much besides the church and the location of that iconic Dil Chahta Hai scene. Keeping this bookmarked for a handy guide if we plan on doing a long weekend getaway from Delhi

I have yet to travel to India but I continue to read so many people talking about their travels there. Now I need to add Goa to the list of places to visit when I finally make it to India! Great read!

Decent itinerary you’ve put together! Glad you mentioned that off-peak times were during the winter season as Goa seems like a great place to go to escape the cold and snow. Pictures of the rivers and beach are really beautiful too!

Such a thorough and interesting guide to Goa and your photographs are great too. Thanks for sharing 🙂

Goa is on our list but we hadn’t considered a drive tour. thanks for all the in-depth info and ideas.

That illuminated garden is stunning! And that view of Vagator beach is something else! 🙂

I visited Goa many years ago and wasn’t impressed but my friend had booked it and we stayed in a town that was popular with Brits and I came away feeling very disappointed. But this itinerary makes me want to give it another go. I love your mix of forts, falls and beaches. This is the Goa I was hoping to see 🙂

I hope you get to see that next time. The forts are very beautiful.

So interesting to learn that Goa has a history that stretches waaaayyyy back to prehistoric times! So amazing that there is history from the Paleolithic age. Good to know that the best time to visit here is from November to February and I will be sure to do it before Christmas to avoid the crowd. I am like you and am not a big partier, but great to know that there’s still plenty to do for the non party type. The natural side of Goa looks incredibly beautiful and visiting via car I think would be the best option for me because of the flexibility of getting around and exploring.

I’d love to visit Goa one day! India is a country I’ve still yet to see, but there’s something special about Goa. The churches sound amazing, and it’d be interesting to see the Portuguese influences there too. Miramar Beach sounds like a dream right about now, it’s so cold where I am.

You would love Goa, it’s a perfect place for tourists from all over the world

Thanks for bringing back memories of our time in Goa. We loved Panjim, great accommodation and food and sightseeing was excellent. We enjoyed the beaches. This is a great 3 day itinerary that you have provided. Thanks.

I haven’t yet been to India, but it’s very high up on my list. I’d love to visit all these picturesque cities, like Bangalore, Mumbai, or Goa. However, 10 hours on the road to reach Goa from Bangalore seems like a very long time. Trains would probably be better. Do they have any flights there from any of the big cities around? I would rather fly there.

Ofcourse Anda. There are many flights to Goa from all the major cities. But the roadtrip is beautiful, especially the one through the Konkan coast.

Goa is an amazing place for some awesome food and culture. We have been to Goa several times and every time it feels like a new place. We love the beaches in South Goa as compared to North Goa as they are a little less crowded and are clean.

Yes, I have heard that a lot. We loved our drive through South Goa and Karwar. Will definitely plan a visit next time.

I totally identify with your first statement on the post. I have lived in Mumbai for so long and I travel on every possible weekend. Yet, I have never been to Goa. And yes! I do exist. I am so glad you have put together such a wonderful itinerary of the state. I am not party-goer either. So, I like the inclusion of everything natural and historical in your itinerary. I am planning a trip there very soon. So, this will come in handy.

Wow! same pinch.. haha.. Yes I really loved Goa because there is so much more to do than parties. I don’t mind parties either, just that I find it overpriced for non-drinkers.

Goa looks so lovely! I would love to go and see the fort and the beaches!

Wow so many places to explore in Goa. I am amazed to see that cathedrals, the beautiful river and famous forts. It seems India have the majority of cultures in their country. I wish to visit it someday.

Thanks Blair. Yes India will surprise you at every junction.

I visited Goa for a week to do some photography for a holiday company a few years ago and absolutely loved it. I’d dearly love to go back on holiday. My favourite memory was sitting with my feet in the sand one evening with a cool beer outside a beach shack. We then had the best Indian meal I’ve ever tasted at The Garden Restaurant in Colva. We also spent a night on a rice boat which was fabulous and visited the Dudhsagar Falls. Much better than a week in the office any day!

Thank you so much. Yes, we loved the chilled out life in Goa too.

Hahaha! Sometimes the destinations close to home are the least visited because we’re so busy going so far away. This is true for me. Living in Australia, I have yet to explore New Zealand properly! Love the beaches and that waterfall but had no idea the churches were so beautiful too. I have heard amazing things about Goan cuisine, especially their curries. One day, I shall explore this region!

Yes you will surely enjoy Goa. I found Goan cuisine a bit tangy for my tastebuds, but I loved the fresh seafood.

The more I read about Goa, the more I would like to go! Great itinerary- you included so many great tips and details. I would especially like to visit those old churches. I love history, and this beautiful area seems to be full of it. Great photos!

This would be a dream destination to reach Goa, and India itself one day. I’ve watched several documentaries about the trains there, and I’d like to take your suggestion and see those views of the falls on the way to Goa. The old churches, resembling the Portuguese rule are so stunning too. I hope to see it one day!

Great informative post! Glad you finally made it to Goa. We visited Goa last year and really loved it so many great restaurants to choose from. We spent most of our time on the beach so I’d love to go back again to see the old churches and whale watching.

The old Goa churches are so impressive! Seems the details are still looked like when they built it. Walking around the Fountainhas sounds wonderful, too! Just like you, if I get a chance to visit Goa, Old Panjim will be my first choice.

There was a time when I used to visit Goa every year. Pretty much-covered everything you wrote about. I love South Goa more than North. Find it more peaceful and beautiful. Love the Mondovi river.

Great details. I am also a travel blogger, a Goan, who writes about Goa.

Goa is an interesting sea beach and it’s amazing. I love the marine drive there.

Your guide was impressive and mind-blowing photos.

Wow very nice intenerary. I have been to Goa so many times but haven’t visited all these places. Next time will catch up on the remaining. Thanks for sharing

Seems really beautiful! But do you think 3 days in Goa is enough?

Thanks Ann. Ofcourse not. People come to Goa and stay here forever. But 3-days is a realistic minimum number of days needed to see the highlights and enjoy your trip.

Thanks for all the live links in this blog its a great help for planning. I have wanted to go to Goa forever! I think it might happen in 2020. I got a lot of great ideas from your blog and I am saving to help with my itinerary.

Thank you so much. Hope you have an awesome holiday in Goa soon.

Goa is an amazing place for some awesome food and culture. We have been to Goa several times and every time it feels like a new place. We love the beaches in South Goa as compared to North Goa as they are a little less crowded and are clean.Thanks for sharing the blog with information of different ways and things.

Thanks Shweta. I also loved what i saw of the south Goa beaches. Will make sure that I visit it next time.

Thank you for sharing this information your post is amazing. I was huge like Goa I love this place.

Thanks Ordan. Hope it is helpful.

I visited Goa for a week 25 years ago and stayed for 2 months Back then it was a very different place, with empty beaches and dolphins swimming off the shore. You’ve made me want to return, thank you for rekindling fond memories.

I am extremely impressed with your writing skills and also with the layout on your weblog. Is this a paid theme or did you customize it yourself? Anyway keep up the nice quality writing, it is rare to see a nice blog like this one nowadays..

Thanks Jackqueline. Yes it’s a paid theme but just one time payment

Loved your blog. Goa being the most attractive place where all love to visit to have a peacfull vacation.

Wow! That sounds like a busy 3 days but a fab itinerary, thank you for sharing. I went to Goa years ago & have to admit I didn’t venture far from the beaches so clearly missed a lot! But I always like a reason to return 😉

Great detailed blog. Perfect

This was helpful to get so much info and knowledge that could help in planning a short trip to goa. I liked that many important aspects were included and talked about to present maximum details for readers. Thank You

I have been to Goa about 5 times, and I totally agree when you say that it is not only about beaches and nightlife. There is so much more to the beautiful state.

Thanks for your comment Anukriti. Hope you enjoy reading our travel stories.

The beaches of Goa are incredible but I also do love the backwaters and hinterlands. The villages are so quaint and laidback! And the pace of life is so refreshing. I love the food and the sunshine, and thanks for including Panjim. It is one of my favorite cities!

Thanks Mohana and Aninda. Panjim is such a lovely city – modern and rooted and laidback at the same time.

GOA seems to offer everything: history, literature, nature & architecture, I want to visit!

Goa looks beautiful and I’d love to visit one day. This seems like a great itinerary for 3 days and has made me want to visit even more!

Thanks for your comment Natali.I’ll be happy to help you with local tips if you decide to visit.

I have always wanted to go to Goa and always only saw images of the party scene so love how you described it with the beautiful architecture and culture.

Thanks Amina for your comment. I’m glad you liked my style of writing.

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1 week in Goa | A Fun-Filled Goa travel itinerary

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Are you considering spending 1 week in Goa or longer? Wondering what should be on your Goa travel itinerary? Well, look no further! In this article I have it all covered- from the best beaches, to waterfalls to nightlife.

Read on to find out how to make the most of your Goa travel itinerary….

Tourism in Goa

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Goa is a state in western India . With year-round warm weather, Goa attracts both domestic tourists and international tourists . Most people flock here for the beautiful sandy beaches. But Goa has much more to offer too- there are popular places of worship, incredible wildlife and heaps of culture .

Gos is a former Portuguese colony. For this reason, it has a much more European feel to it than the rest of India. Of course, there are still plenty of amazing curries and plenty of chai around here, but you can also easily communicate in English and buy a beer if you want to- which are not things that are easy to come by in some parts of India!

Goa’s tourism industry really took off back in the 1960s. During this time the beach bars were frequented with hippies and backpackers in search of the exotic at affordable prices. Since this time it has developed into a mass tourism destination. British tour operators send troves of tourists each year, most of whom are on package holidays.

Goa is also a significant domestic tourism destination in India. Many Indians will travel by plane or train to the coastline , where they are able to let loose and live the life that may not be available to them back home. For many, a visit to Goa is the only opportunity that they may have to swim in the sea or to drink alcohol.

In recent years the Indian Government has been trying to promote more ‘upscale’ tourism in Goa. Whilst backpackers and budget holiday makers are great, the economic impacts of their visits aren’t always that high. This is especially true if tourists have booked all-inclusive holidays, where enclave tourism results in substantial economic leakage .

I am a strong advocate of educational tourism. No, you don’t have to spend your Goa travel itinerary studying, but I do recommend that you learn a little bit about the destination before you travel. Not only does this make for a more enjoyable visit, but it will also help you to travel more responsibly.

Here are some of my ‘must read’ and ‘must watch’ recommendations:

• Lonely Planet Goa & Mumbai – this is the best travel guide on the market. It tells you everything you need to know from the history of the Portuguese colony to the best places to eat waffles for breakfast.
• Barefoot To Goa – A fascinating film about two children who travel through Goa to find their grandmother.
• Bombay to Goa – A golden oldie, this film was a big hit back in 1972. It’s an Indian adventure-comedy film with some great tunes.
• Last Hippie Standing – A fascinating documentary capturing the way that East met West when the first foreign tourists descended on the Goan state.
• The Essential Goa Cookbook – Goa has some of the best food in all of India! Learn hoe to make these delicious dishes yourself with this cookbook.

The best time to visit Goa

You can plan a fantastic Goa travel itinerary year-round. Whilst Goa is almost always warm and sunny, there are some times of the year that are more favourable than others.

Peak season in Goa is winter time (November-February).

I have been to Goa twice and both times were in December January. During this time the weather was PERFECT. It was nice and hot in the day and the water was beautifully warm to swim in. In the evenings the temperatures cooled to a comfortable level, sometimes cool enough to warrant putting on a shawl or a lightweight cardigan.

This time also coincides with Christmas and New Year. Much of Goa is of the Christian faith, meaning that Christmas is widely celebrated here. For us Brits it is a wonderful place to escape to during the gloomy winter!

Most people are instantly put off by travelling during the monsoon season, but don’t be!

Travelling in rainy season can actually be a great experience. Prices are generally cheaper, there are less crowds and the country is beautiful and green.

Oh, and it doesn’t rain all the time ! Rain often occurs for only an hour or two late in the day… so there is still plenty of time to relax on the beach and explore everything that Goa has to offer.

The best places to stay in Goa

There are plenty of places to stay for your 1 week in Goa holiday. For me, having good accommodation is pretty important and it is a key part of my Goa travel itinerary. Fortunately, there is something for everyone here, whatever your budget.

The first thing that you need to decide, is where in Goa you want to stay. Goa is a big place and choosing a location for your Goa travel itinerary can be a bit daunting. The coastline is around 100km long, encompassing three main areas:

• Central Goa

Where you choose to stay really depends on what you are looking for in your holiday. Personally, I would probably opt for a few days in the north and a few days in the south, but that’s because I like to see as much as I can when I travel. But where you choose to stay really depends on what you are looking to get out of your 1 week in Goa.

If you are looking to party then North Goa is definitely the place that you want to be! This part of Goa is more built up than the rest and is home to the famous beach areas of Arambol, Calangute and Candolim. There are also some great all-inclusive resorts here, if that’s your thing.

If you prefer a quiet holiday, with serene and empty beaches then you will likely prefer South Goa . South Goa is home to some of the most luxurious resorts in India as well as a number of budget and midrange options.

There are a lot of accommodation options to choose from for your Goa travel itinerary. Below, I have recommended some of my favourites, based on budget.

The best budget accommodation in Goa

Many people who come to Goa are travelling on a budget. Goa is perfect for backpackers and budget travellers because the cost of living is low. You can easily survive on just a few Pounds per day here!

The Noname Guesthouse has some of the best reviews of all accommodations in Goa! This place is small and welcoming. The rooms have private balconies and there is a lush garden. It is also walking distance from the beach-perfect!

Anjuna is where the parties at and the Red Door Hostel has a great party vibe. This hostel is just a stone throw away from the beach. Red Door Hostel is almost always packed, so make sure you book ahead.

Located in South Goa, Jes Guesthouse offers great value for money. It’s close to the beach and it has a lovely homestay vibe. All rooms comes with a TV, electric kettle and a fridge. Bikes and cars are available for hire here too.

The best midrange accommodation in Goa

There are plenty of places to stay in Goa that are not cheap and not too expensive. Here are my top picks:

Chalston Beach Resort is family run, which I love. It gives you a great cultural experience and you know that your money is staying in the local community. The hotel is set on the beached there is a beach side restaurant too. I like this place because it has live music and anIndian dance show once a week. They have standard rooms and cottages.

Vaayu Waterman’s Village is located across the road from an AMAZING beach. They offer surf lessons here if that’s your thing and they have some of the best food in ALL of Goa! I loved the relaxed beach vibe here.

The Tamarind is a holiday home located in a quiet spot between Anjuna and Assagao. This two bedroom house is great for families or groups of friends who want a value for money accommodation option. There is free parking on site too.

The best luxury accommodation in Goa

As I mentioned earlier, the Indian government are trying to attract more luxury travellers to Goa. This means that there are a number of luxurious resorts that have been built in recent years. Here are my favourites:

The Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa is a world-class Goan resort. Located on the beach, rooms have sea views. The resort is well equipped with excellent food options, relaxing spa massages, a golf course, gym, squash and tennis courts and water sports at the beachfront.

The Planet Hollywood Beach Resort is the perfect romantic destination. The settings and rooms are absolute luxury and the services are impeccable. Every room has massage chairs (so cool!), seasonal tents and excellent views of the surrounding paddy fields. This is without a doubt, one of the best resorts in all of Goa!

Ahilya By The Sea is close enough to Calangute for you to enjoy the hustle and bustle and far enough away to get away from it all. The hotel features Portuguese-Balinese style villas with private terraces. The located is just magical!

Unusual places to stay in Goa

I’m always a big fan of staying in unique and cool places! And Goa has some GREAT options. Here are my favourites…

This place is chic, elegant and seriously cool. It attracts the hippie vibe, but not the late night parties…. which I personally find super appealing. Just as the name suggests, you can stay in a luxurious tent. They also have jungle huts and apartments for rent here too. The outdoor showers are a novelty (showing beneath the stars is soooo awesome!) and there are meditation and yoga classes too.

Ever fancied staying in a renovated Fort ? Well, now you can! This luxurious accommodation option in Northern Goa offers some of the best cuisine around. There are just seven rooms and you have your own private gourmet chef. The views are incredible.

If staying in a luxury beach hut surrounded by lush jungle is your thing, then look no further. Anahata Retreat is the perfect place for tranquility and relaxation. You can spend your days relaxing on the beach and your evenings doing candlelit yoga and drinking cocktails whilst listening to the sounds of the sea. Bliss!

If you are into ecotourism then you will LOVE the Wildflower Villas . Located just 1.9km from the main beach, this resort offers you the chance to get away from it all (in an evironmentally-friendly way). It is set amongst 8acres of lush greenery and the views are to die for. The infinity pool makes for the perfect Insta tourism setting too!

Goa is a wonderful place to visit. Goa is easy to reach from other parts of India and abroad too, making is easily accessible and convenient.

Whilst most people come here to relax on the beach, there is soooo much more to Goa than beach bars and sun loungers!

Below, I have outlined the different things that I did during my Goa travel itinerary.

However, I am aware that there are many other things to see and do that I didn’t get to a chance incorporate into my 1 week in Goa. Therefore, I have outlined these below in the section ‘other things to do in Goa’. There is easily enough to keep you occupied for a month or more here, and I plan to return soon to try all of these things out for myself!

Many people who travel to Goa, particularly those who book a package holiday, will choose to spend the majority of their time at the beach.

The beaches in Goa are absolutely stunning- soft sand, long open beaches, warm water to swim in.

I also love that there are lots of beach bars along the beach. As long as you buy a drink, you are entitled to use the sun loungers in front of the beach bar all day long. The staff here are great and they bring you food and drinks when ever you want, right to your sun lounger.

Wondering which beaches to visit? Head on over to this article to find out which are the best beaches in Goa !

Goa has several markets that are fantastic for grabbing some bargains.

The most famous market in Goa is Anjuna market. Here you can buy anything from clothes to pottery.

Haggling is a must here! You can get some fantastic bargains, but sadly the locals will try to make as much money from you as they can. I get that they need to make a living, but sometimes it just feels like you are being completely ripped off!

Even if you don’t fancy doing any shopping, the markets are a great place to soak up the atmosphere and experience the local culture .

Goa is famous for its nightlife scene.

A legacy of the hippy days, Northern Goa is home to numerous lively beach bars and nightclubs.

During our visit we had our fair share on cocktails on the beach…. it was lush!

I have spent New Years eve in Goa twice, which was fantastic. There were fireworks on the beach and the parties were brilliant!

Goa has some of the most spectacular waterfalls around!

Some are big and filled with tourists , others are also big but are completely off the tourist track.

Some allow swimming (but watch out for the HUGE fish!) and others don’t.

Want to know which waterfalls I recommend? Take a look at my article on the best waterfalls in Goa .

As I mentioned earlier, Goa is a fantastic cultural tourism destination.

I enjoyed visiting some of the many temples and churches.

I also enjoyed just wandering around the area, going off of the main tourist path and getting to know the local people a little bit.

If you want experience some of the wonderful Goan culture, but don’t want to use up too much of your beach time, then it might be worth joining a tour. There are plenty around and I personally recommend this one day tour of the Goan temples, churches and spice plantation . You see a lot in a short space of time and it gives you the perfect cultural fix for your 1 week in Goa.

For one night and two days we booked on a tour that was being sold at our hotel. The tour was called the Jungle Book Tour, which seemed to be a pretty popular excursion for package holiday tourists.

The tour included a visit to a spice plantation, yoga by a waterfall and elephant riding and washing in the jungle.

I have written about the tour in detail in this post- The Jungle Book tour, Goa. You can also read the reviews of the tour on Trip Advisor .

*Note- most places in Goa have now stopped the use of elephants for riding or washing.

Many tourists who travel to Goa choose to incorporate a visit to the Tropical Spice Plantation in their Goa travel itinerary.

This is a fascinating place where you can learn all about how the spices are grown and try some authentic Goan food .

As the spice plantation is not far from one of Goa’s best waterfalls, it makes sense to combine them both into one day trip. This tour is affordable and great fun !

Many people wish to include a visit to see elephants in their Goa travel itinerary.

Sadly, there have been many reports of maltreatment of elephants in India. Fortunately the Indian government have recognised this negative impact of wildlife tourism and have banned the use of elephants in unethical conditions.

If you want to visit elephants in Goa then you should find a place where you can do so in ethical conditions. As far as I am aware there are no sanctuaries in the state of Goa at thistle, but I expect that one or two will emerge in the near future, as they have in other parts of the world.

India is the home of yoga, so it is a right of passage to do some yoga as part of your Goa travel itinerary!

Yoga is found in many places throughout the state go Goa. Beginners are usually welcomed.

As I said before, you could keep yourself busy for several weeks in Goa! Whilst I haven’t had the chance to visit every place myself yet (I plan to though!), here are some of the cool places that have been recommended to me:

• Go cycling through the paddy fields
• Visit the body of St. Francis Xavier at The Basilica of Bom Jesus Church (a UNESCO site)
• Have an authentic Goan massage
• Do watersports at the beach
• See a Tiatr production at the the Hanuman Theatre
• Visit Brahma Karmali Temple
• Visit Braganza House
• Visit the Sweet Water Lake in Arambol
• Visit Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
• Learn about the local history at Fort Aguada
• And learn some more at Chapora Fort aka Dil Chahta Hai Fort
• Gamble away at Goa’s new casino, Casino Pride
• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sight of Se Cathedral
• Explore the Museum of Christian Art
• Visit Mangeshi Temple
• Relax at Mollen National Park
• Get your aviation fix at the Indian Naval Aviation Museum
• Go bungee jumping

Are you ready for your 1 week in Goa?

As you can see, you can do as little or as lot as you like. You can enjoy lazy days at the beach in Goa or you can create an action-packed Goa travel itinerary with culture, sport and lots of fun!

Whatever you choose to do, Goa is a fantastic place to visit. Have fun and enjoy!

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Goa Itinerary | Top Activities & Things to See During a 5-Day Holiday

Goa offers travelers so much to see and do that it’s helpful to map out an itinerary to ensure visits to all the best places. Goa , of course, is world famous for its majestic beaches on the Arabian Sea . Visitors come to enjoy scuba, snorkeling, jet skiing, parasailing, and relaxing on powdery white sands. However, Goa has so much more to offer travelers with its cultural and historic attractions and natural attractions situated off the beach. When visiting, travelers will want to plan excursions to some of Goa ’s old forts, spice plantations, and animal sanctuaries if time permits.

Anyone planning to travel to Goa should check out Agoda to book Goa hotels near the best attractions of the state. Goa boasts a wide range of hotels and villas in close proximity to its most celebrated beaches. To find the best deals on luxury resorts or budget-friendly hotels, travelers can book their accommodations in Goa with Agoda.

Getting Around Goa

To get around Goa , travelers have several public and private transportation options. Whether flying into Goa or traveling there by train, vacationers can take public buses to its most popular beaches and towns or opt for taxi service. Travelers in search of a luxury experience can hire a chauffeur with a private car to transport them during their stay. There are also budget-friendly options such as renting a car or scooter to visit the sites. For local travel throughout Panjim , for example, rickshaw service and bicycle rentals are also popular.

Goa Itinerary for 3 Days

If you’re planning on a short visit to Goa , this 3-day itinerary will ensure that you visit the best attractions of North Goa . Tourists flock to the beaches of North Goa because of their fun party scene and myriad of nearby restaurants, hotels, and shopping venues. Although South Goa boasts equally stunning beaches, it’s best suited for vacationers in search of a quieter vacation without the all-night party scene.

Day 1: Explore North Goa Beaches

The beaches of North Goa attract vacationers from all over the globe. Many are highly developed with plenty of amenities like beach chairs and showers as well as nearby restaurants and cafes. The following are among Goa ’s not-to-be-missed beaches and are celebrated for their beauty and exciting water sports.

Calangute Beach

Calangute Beach is the star of Goa , which might be why it’s referred to as the ‘queen of beaches’. Just a few miles from the capital of Panaji , Calangute Beach is easily accessible and home to a wide array of upscale and budget-friendly hotels. Visitors to the beach enjoy swimming, water skiing, snorkeling, and other water sports. Banana boat rides and sailing excursions to see dolphins are also popular here.

Located near Calangute Beach , Baga Beach is also a popular tourist destination with its picturesque stretch of coast and exciting water sports. Windsurfing and parasailing are popular pastimes here. Visitors will also find a wealth of restaurants and shops in close proximity to the beach.

Querim Beach

While many of North Goa ’s beaches get crowded, especially during peak tourist season between December – April, Querim Beach tends to remain quiet and more relaxed. Visitors enjoy shady palm trees and gentle waves. Parasailing and jet skiing are also popular activities here.

Dona Paula Beach

Dona Paula Beach is famed for its exciting water sports activities. In addition to water skiing and jet skiing, activities like kayaking, windsurfing, parasailing, yachting, and sport fishing are popular with vacationers.

Anjuna Beach

In many respects, Anjuna Beach offers a quintessential Goa beach vacation experience. Having long been known for its ‘hippie’ scene, the beach boasts an exciting atmosphere with its youthful atmosphere, flea markets, and music.

Day 2: Culture and History Tour

Although Goa ’s beautiful beaches remain its most popular attractions, travelers will want to set aside time to visit some of the state’s best cultural and historic attractions. Many of these sites are located near the beach or Goa ’s major cities and towns. When designing your travel itinerary, don’t miss the following:

Located on the banks of the Mandovi River , Old Goa dates to the 15th century, but soon after its founding, it was taken over by the Portuguese and became an important center for the spice trade. Filled with Portuguese Colonial architecture, Old Goa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Chapora Fort

One of the best places to enjoy a Goa sunset, Chapora Fort overlooks the Arabian Sea from its location on the Chapora River . Constructed by Adil Shah in 1510, the historic fort is one of Goa ’s most visited historic attractions.

Aguada Fort

Aguada Fort juts into the sea near Panjim . This coastal attraction dates to the 17th century and was constructed by the Portuguese. Many visitors pair their fort visit with time at Sinquerim Beach .

Goa State Museum

To learn about Goa , visitors should head to the Goa State Museum , which is home to a substantial collection of regional artifacts and exhibits.

Museum of Christian Art

As one of the only museums of its kind in Asia, Goa ’s Museum of Christian Art is popular with tourists. It houses collections of paintings, textiles, sculpture, and more.

Basilica of Bom Jesus

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a major Goa attraction for foreign visitors. The basilica is noted for its Baroque exterior and as a pilgrimage point for Catholics. The basilica holds the remains of St. Xavier and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Fontainhas is Goa ’s popular Latin Quarter. Founded by the Portuguese during the 19th century, the area brims with colonial architecture as well as churches, shops, and restaurants that retain the Portuguese culinary influence.

Day 3: Shopping and Nightlife in Goa

Goa ’s cities and most popular beaches are celebrated for their nearby shopping centers and lively nightlife scene. Shopping at Goa ’s marketplaces for handicrafts and other souvenirs and dancing the night away at beach clubs are quintessential Goa pastimes.

Shopping Spots

There are several iconic shopping venues in Goa that shopaholics won’t want to miss. The Anjuna Flea Market , for example, is celebrated for its bohemian vibe and wide selection of textiles and souvenirs. The Panjim Market is another popular venue. Because it’s located in the capital, it’s easy to reach. Many travelers also flock to the Night Bazaar at Arpora for its evening ambience.

Nightlife Areas

Goa ’s popular nightlife areas are located near Calangute Beach , Baga Beach , and Anjuna Beach , but there are also celebrated clubs at other North Goa Beaches . However, travelers who like to club or bar hop will find these areas especially lively. Goa ’s clubs feature music, dancing, and loads of cocktails.

Goa Itinerary for 5 Days

Visitors to Goa who are able to stay a week or longer can luxuriate in Goa ’s beautiful beaches and other scenic and cultural attractions. Goa boasts many restaurants that celebrate its diverse food heritage. Visitors who have more time to spend in Goa may want to book a boat charter to explore the coast or do some scuba diving. While many visitors confine their stay to the north, South Goa boasts a wide range of things to see and do. Its more relaxed and undeveloped beaches is ideal for travelers looking for a quiet vacation experience.

Day 4: Explore South Goa

Visitors to Goa who are able to stay a week or longer will want to spend time in South Goa to enjoy its more pristine atmosphere. South Goa is known for its clean beaches and myriad of nature-inspired attractions. The following South Goa attractions are perfect for visitors looking for a full Goa travel experience.

South Goa Beaches

South Goa beaches are less crowded than the beaches of North Goa , which is precisely their draw for many vacationers. South Goa ’s beaches are no less beautiful; in fact, they’re known for their pristine charm and breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea . The following are among the most celebrated South Goa beaches:

• Varca Beach – Varca Beach is known for its postcard-worthy setting. Noted as one of the cleanest beaches in Goa , Varca Beach retains its air of untouched beauty. Its proximity to Benaulim makes it easy to access.
• Palolem Beach – Also revered for its unspoilt beauty, Palolem Beach is backed by a lush fringe of palm trees that enhances its aura of paradise. Visitors here enjoy relaxing on the beach and water sports.
• Velsao Beach – Though a remote beach, Velsao Beach is worth checking out because of its untouched beauty. Rarely visited by tourists, it’s a romantic destination and perfect for travelers who want to avoid crowds.
• Mobar Beach – Mobar Beach is well known for its water sports scene, but it’s also an area that is rich in biodiversity. Many people enjoy snorkeling and scuba here in order to witness its diverse marine ecosystem.
• Cavelossim Beach – Known for its lava rocks, Cavelossim Beach is a picturesque setting where beach goers enjoy relaxing on the sand or visiting its area markets or the Holy Cross Church. Its quiet ambience is popular with families and couples looking for a relaxing getaway.
• Butterfly Beach – Butterfly Beach is best reached by boat, but it’s worth the trek. This South Goa beach is named for its resident butterflies. The beach is small and uncrowded. Its idyllic scenery makes it another of Goa ’s most romantic beaches for couples.
• Agonda Beach – Agonda Beach offers visitors to South Goa a more lively experience. Though still lovely and less crowded than many northern beaches, Agonda Beach features many nearby restaurants and hotels. It’s also a great place to catch a glimpse of resident Ridley turtles.

Temples and Museums

South Goa is also home to many museums and temples. The following are some of the region’s most revered sites:

• Mangeshi Temple – Mangeshi Temple boasts stunning architecture with its white tower and colorful adjoining buildings. The site is an important pilgrimage destination for Hindu people as well as a major South Goa tourist attraction. Its annual festival in February is one of the best times to visit.
• Shri Damodar Sansthaan Temple – Located quite inland from Goa ’s coast, the Shri Damodar Sansthaan Temple is, nevertheless, worth trekking to. The temple is located a few miles from the city of Margao . The temple is known for its stunning architecture and festivals.
• Big Foot Museum – One of the best-loved museums in Goa , the Big Foot Museum features exhibits–including interactive displays–of rural Goa life. It also features collections of handicrafts and art for sale that are popular with tourists.
• Chitra Museum – South Goa ’s Chitra Museum features more than 4,000 artifacts, including pottery, musical instruments, and more. The museum celebrates the cultural heritage of Goa with its artifacts and exhibits.

Day 5: Day Trips from Goa

Getting off the beaten path is a great way to get to know the state of Goa . Fortunately, there are some far-flung attractions that make it well worth the time to reach. The following are some terrific day trip options for visitors to Goa .

Dudhsagar Falls

With its four tiers and 1,000 feet, Dudhsagar Falls is one of Goa ’s most iconic scenic sites. The falls are the tallest in all of India. Located in Mollem National Park , they are just one of many natural attractions to enjoy. Visitors to the falls and surrounding park enjoy hiking and witnessing the diverse range of flora and fauna.

Chorla Ghat

The Chorala Ghat area is famous for its mountain landscapes and subtropical forests. Not surprisingly, the area attracts wildlife biologists from all over the world. Within the area, there are many treks, making this a must-visit site for hikers and eco-tourists.

Often dubbed the ‘adventure capital of South Goa ’, Dandeli is just over the border in the state of Karnataka. Visitors to Dandeli enjoy rafting the Kali River and exploring the Dandeli Wildlife Reserve , a great place to catch glimpses of leopards and rare equatorial birds.

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How to plan Goa trip for 3 days – Itinerary PDF

By Goa Headline

September 8, 2023

A paradise that hosts almost hundreds of thousands of tourists every month . I know it’s huge, but why not? Who would like to skip enjoying such beauty? However, an unplanned trip can ruin the holiday, costing you money and much more. So, let’s dive into the beauty of Goa and see How to plan Goa trip for 3 days ,, especially for those tourists who are tight on time.

Goa Headline

Goa Headline is a team of dedicated travel enthusiasts who are passionate about exploring and showcasing the beauty of local destinations. Our team is comprised of experienced writers, photographers, and videographers who work together to create compelling content that inspires and informs travelers.

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Places to Visit in Goa in 3 days – Perfect Goa Itinerary for 3 Days

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from any qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

This travel blog post details the best places to visit in Goa in 3 days

Whether it's your first time visiting Goa for your tenth, there are always new, exciting places to visit and adventures you can embark upon. Given the craze of Goa and the countless things it has to offer, planning a Goa trip can often get overwhelming. Everyone has a busy life and planning an epic trip while you have a 100 other things to do is not always possible. That's where I come in. This article tells you all the best places to visit in Goa in 3 days. If you need more info, you can also take a look at my Insider's Guide to Goa (opens in new tab) based on my experience of living in Goa for 13 years. So dive in and drop a comment of you still need more information 🙂

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Goa

How to reach goa.

• Places to Visit in Goa in 3 days - Goa 3 Day Itinerary
• Day 1 - North Goa
• Day 2 - Panjim City and Old Goa
• Day 3 - South Goa

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Goa is the most popular destination in India. In fact, most Indians love to make a Goa trip plan for 3 days during the long weekends. From the trendy cafes in the north to the quieter beaches in the south, there's a lot to be covered. This article breaks it down for you in the form of a list of places to visit in Goa in 3 days as well as a Goa itinerary for 3 days. Moreover, it covers the must-visit sights in Goa to make sure you don't miss out on the best places.

Anytime is a good time to visit Goa. Although, that being said, October to April is the dry season which is considered the "on" season. Most tourists visit Goa during the "on" season. In fact, there are lots of events held in Goa during the months of November and December. Some of the events include IFFI (International Film Festival of India), Rider Mania, Sunburn, Serendipity Art Festival and many more.

On the other hand, May to September is the rainy season also said to be the "off season". This is when beach shacks are closed and most places are deserted. This is the time to visit Goa if you want to explore what Goa has to offer beyond the beaches, without the crowds.

Goa is located on the western coast of India, wedged between the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. One can reach Goa from anywhere in India quite easily. Take a look at some of the ways you can reach Goa:

Goa has one international airport located in Dabolim, South Goa . Goa is well connected by direct flights to popular Indian cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi and many others. Moreover, with Goa being one of the most popular destinations in India, it has many flights to and from international destinations as well. There is another airport being constructed in North Goa which will be in operation in a few years.

Margao railway station is the biggest railway station in Goa, located in South Goa. On the other hand, Thivim is the popular station in North Goa. Goa is easily connected to lots of places across India by rail. Visit the IRCTC website to book trains to and from Goa.

If you're looking to reach Goa from nearby cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru etc., you can catch an over night bus to reach Goa in the morning. Buses to Goa come in AC/ non-AC variants with various seating or sleeping arrangements. Head over to the redbus website to book a bus.

Places to Visit in Goa in 3 Days - Goa 3 Day Itinerary:

This 3 day Goa itinerary makes sure that you don't miss out on exploring any part of Goa. It makes you cover all of Goa within  short span of 3 days. Start your holiday at the busy and happening North Goa. There are a lot of beaches, forts and restaurants to keep you busy throughout the day. The next day, head to Panaji, the capital city of Goa, which is full of Portuguese architecture with river views for company. On the third and final day, take a deep breath and relax on a tranquil beach in South Goa. Here's a breakdown of the itinerary for a Goa trip for 3 days:

DAY 1 - NORTH GOA

Places to Visit in North Goa

When it comes to beaches, north Goa is known for Calangute, Baga and Vagator beach. Most lightlife happens around these beaches. However, Baga is the most crowded and touristy beaches among all others in Goa. Calangute and Vagator are much better alternatives. Whereas if you want to experience the hippie side of Goa, head up to Arambol , Ashwem or Madrem beach to get a taste of what hippie beaches in Goa look like.

Other places to visit are the forts, namely, Aguada fort , Chapora fort (where the famous Dil Chahta Hai sequence was shot), Sinquerim beach and fort as well as Reis Magos fort (shown in the picture above).

There are many markets held in North Goa such as the Arpora Saturday night bazaar or the Wednesday flea market in Anjuna.

Read 15 best places to visit in North Goa to know more such places.

Where to Eat in North Goa

There are lots of great restaurants in North Goa. From breakfast food to bohemian vibes, sea views to river views, you'll find it all. Eva Cafe (shown in the picture above) as well as Chef Cantando are my personal favourites in Anjuna. When it comes to fine dining, Old Bombay and The Lazy Goose are top choices. To know more, take a look at the best restaurants in North Goa .

North Goa Beaches

While I honestly feel that South Goa has the best beaches, there are a new in North Goa that you cannot skip from your Goa itinerary for 3 days. When you have just three days in Goa, you MUST visit the best of the best. That being said, there are 4 beaches in North Goa that are absolute favorites namely, Arambol, Ashwem, Morjim and Mandrem beaches. They are all nearby so you can cover all of them in one go. I suggest reading this guide to Arambol beach to help plan your visit.

Where to Stay in North Goa

Stay in the greener neighbourhood of Anjuna or Arpora if you're looking for some quiet time in close proximity to cafes. On the other hand, if you want to be in the middle of all the action, head further north towards Calangute .

Find hotels in Anjuna on Booking.com

Find hotels in Calangute on Booking.com

Must Read: 23 Best Hostels in Goa for Travel and Work from Home

DAY 2 - PANJIM CITY and OLD GOA

Where to Stay in Panjim City

There are numerous hotels in Panjim city. While some are located in the quaint neighbourhood of Fontainhas, others offer mesmerising views of the ocean. Book a stay near Panjim Church or Panjim market if you want to explore the city. On the other hand, find a hotel in Dona Paula in case you want to sit back and relax. If you're a solo traveller looking for a good hostels, Old Quarter by the HostelCrowd is the best option. In case you need a nice hotel with breathtaking views, I couldn't recommend Doubletree by Hilton Panaji enough.

Book Old Quarter by TheHostelCrowd on Booking.com

Find hotels in Panjim on Booking.com

Places to Visit in Panjim

Panjim might seem like a tiny laid-back city but there's no shortage of things to do here. Take a heritage walk through the best places to visit in Fontainhas to discover the history of this vibrant area. Next, pay a visit to Panjim Church , one of the most popular attractions on Goa. The other more famous church is the Old Goa Church which can easily be covered by taking a quick trip to Old Goa from Panjim. Come back to Panjim city to watch the sun going down from Miramar beach. If you have time for more, take a look at all the top attractions in Panjim City .

Where to Eat in Panjim City

Panjim city can easily satisfy your hunger pangs and how! Some of the best restaurants in the city are The Black Sheep Bistro and Barrels and Bones. Coming to cafes, Urban cafe and Cafe Basil are top choices among locals. Take a look at the top restaurants in Panjim Goa for the complete list.

DAY 3 - SOUTH GOA

Where to Stay in South Goa

South Goa, being a vast area, has numerous beaches and stay options. Palolem, Agonda and Benaulim are the top choices. Palolem is popular for it's relaxed hippie vibe. Furthermore, there are lots of beach huts to choose from. Agonda is like Palolem except for a smaller crowd. There are very few Indian tourists and a lot more foreign visitors here. Benaulim on the other hand, has a good mix of all kinds of people. All these places have lots of restaurants and cafes as well. Take a look at this guide to Palolem beach and Palolem beach huts in order to discover the best beach huts in Palolem, Goa.

Find hotels in South Goa on Booking.com

Places to Visit in South Goa

End your last day of your 3 day Goa trip by relaxing at one (or more) of the South Goa beaches . You can even do a beach hop. First, start from the farthest beach which is Palolem. From there, head up towards Agonda beach. Next, enjoy the cliff-side views at Cabo de Rama beach . Agonda beach is another favorite among locals and visitors to Goa. Other beaches that can be covered are Cavelosim, Benaulim and Majorda.

Where to Eat in South Goa

When in Palolem, don't miss Art beach resort for drinks and Little World Palolem for a healthy yet satisfying breakfast. Speaking of healthy, Blue Planet Cafe in Agonda is the ultimate vegan and vegetarian cafe in all of Goa. Tucked away within a forested area, it's the best place to find homemade organic food in Goa (pictured above). Moving over to Cavelosim, Fisherman's Wharf is a popular river-side restaurant frequented by celebrities, and not just locals and tourists.

Must Read: What to Wear in Goa: A Complete Clothing Guide

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This is so helpful. I am dying to visit Goa and hope to do so while I’m in Sri Lanka. No plans yet but I will definitely use this when I am in the area!

Goa’s beaches are on my list next time I go to India.

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gorgeous your all photographs and article too.. informative publish too sincerely exceptional thanks for sharing and hold it up thanks a lot…..!

Once you’re full, continue your sojourn in Panaji with a visit to its most frequented place – Miramar Beach. Clean and filled with soft sand, this beach is perfect for unwinding or taking an evening stroll or even binge drinking at one of the pubs or bars along the shore.

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3 Days Goa Itinerary: A Perfect Plan for Sightseeing

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Tours & Itineraries > 3 Days Goa Itinerary: A Perfect Plan for Sightseeing

No wonder Goa tops the list of best holiday destinations in India. The sun, sand and the sea together with the party hotspots in the north and the serenity down south make it an irresistible combo of fun and leisure. But scenic beaches and eccentric nightlife are not the only attractions that await you in Goa. From exploring ancient temples and churches, age-old forts and pretty Portuguese villages to captivating sunsets, flea markets, exciting water sports and a night of gambling at the casino, there’s a lot more to experience in this beach paradise.

With so much to see and do, even a week’s time might seem less to explore this beautiful state. But if you can’t accommodate such a long trip, choose a Goa itinerary for 3 days.

Here’s a perfect itinerary to help you explore the best of North and South Goa:

8.00 am – 10.00 am: Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast in North Goa

Breakfast in North Goa | 3-Day Trip to Goa

As you arrive in Goa early in the morning, you probably wouldn’t want to waste even a split second to delve in the amazing vibe of the state. So just drop off your luggage at the hotel and head for an appetizing meal at one of North Goa’s most-loved breakfast places.

Where to eat?

• Infantaria, Calangute
• Baba Au Rhum, Anjuna
• Lila Café, Anjuna
• Artjuna, Anjuna

Places to Stay: Hotels in North Goa

10.00 am – 4.00 pm: Visit the sun-kissed beaches in the north

Beaches in North Goa | 3-Day Trip to Goa

Post a sumptuous English breakfast or an authentic Goan morning feast, it’s time to hit one of the popular beaches in the north… after all, isn’t that why you planned a trip to Goa in the first place? Depending on what you want to do, choose where you wish to go.

Where to go and why?

• Baga Beach : For water sports like scuba diving, jet skiing and paragliding, dolphin cruises and banana, bumper and boat rides
• Calangute Beach : For swimming, yoga, long walks, sunbathing, surfing, catamaran sailing and water skiing
• Anjuna Beach : For water sports, Ayurvedic massages, hair braids and temporary tattoos

In case it’s a Wednesday, don’t miss out on the popular Anjuna Flea Market to buy souvenirs, beachy clothes, home décor, artificial jewellery, spices and much more.

• Timings : 9.00 am till sunset (November to March)
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Baga Beach , Hotels near Calangute Beach

After strolling down the long stretches of golden sand and indulging the water baby in you, you must have worked up an appetite by now. You can try the seafood delicacies and other local fare served at one of the beach shacks or head to a good restaurant nearby.

• Pousada by the Beach, Calangute
• Souza Lobo, Calangute
• Britto’s, Baga
• Fat Fish, Baga
• De Baga Deck, Baga
• Purple Martini, Anjuna
• Burger Factory, Anjuna
• Café Cotinga, Anjuna

Thereafter, continue your Goa journey to the iconic Chapora Fort.

• By road : Approx. 20-30 minutes’ drive

Do check our blog:  North Goa vs. South Goa

4.30 pm – 6.00 pm: Recreate ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ pose at Chapora Fort

Chapora Fort | 3-Day Trip to Goa

If you’re a Bollywood buff at heart, you wouldn’t want to miss out on exploring the historical ruins of Chapora Fort located next to Vagator Beach. You might find the trek up to the fort strenuous but the captivating views of the sunset sky above and the sea below will be worth it! Plus, you’ll get to click a picture at the place where the blockbuster, Dil Chahta Hai was shot.

• Last Entry : 5.30 pm (All days)

After sunset, carefully climb down the fort and proceed to Vagator.

• By road : Approx. 10 minutes’ drive
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Chapora Fort

6.10 pm – 8.00 pm: Unwind under the starlit sky at Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach | 3-Day Trip to Goa

Unlike its counterparts that are known for tourist traffic, Vagator Beach is one of the cleaner, quieter and rather isolated beaches in North Goa. You can just relax here; soaking in the cool sea breeze, the sound of the waves lapping the shore and the beautiful night sky.

If you stay at the beach for long, you can even attend one of those famous Goa parties that go on till the wee hours of the night and play some hypnotic trance music.

• Places to Stay: Hotels in Vagator Beach

8.00 pm onwards: Eat, drink and make merry till late night hours

Eat-Drink late Night | 3-Day Trip to Goa

Should you wish to stay back in Vagator for dinner, it has some of the finest European restaurants in the area serving exotic Goan cuisine especially seafood delicacies.

• Olive Bar and Kitchen
• Spice Traders

Another option would be to get in your car and drive down to Thalassa.

• By road Approx. 15 minutes’ drive

This happening Greek tavern in Siolim is all the rage amongst party seekers and popular for its good food, electrifying music and spirited ambience. And to top it all, it offers the most beautiful views of the Arabian Sea owing to its amazing location right on the shore.

You can party here till late amidst music and madness and then come back to the hotel in North Goa for a goodnight’s sleep so you wake up refreshed the next day.

8:00 pm onwards (alternate option): Shop at Goa’s night markets

NIght Market in Goa | 3-Day Trip to Goa

If it’s a Saturday, then you can leave Vagator Beach for one of the famous night markets in Goa: Saturday Night Market (Arpora) and Mackies Saturday Nite Bazaar (Baga).

• By road : Approx. 15 minutes’ drive

These markets are not just great to shop for an extensive selection of handmade goods but they also have everything you need to feel the true Goa vibe. There’s live music; food stalls serving salads and waffles and other local fare; cocktail bars; fun zones; and more.

• Timings : Saturday Night Market (Arpora): 4.00 pm – 11.00 pm (November-April) Mackies Saturday Nite Bazaar (Baga): 6.00 pm – 1.00 am (November-May)

You can shop your heart out, binge on savoury and sweet treats and have a gala time at the markets before retreating to your hotel in Goa to sleep off the night.

9.00 am – 12.00 pm: Delve into history with a trip to Old Goa

History in Goa | 3-Day Trip to Goa

Goa is not all about partying and chilling… it also has a totally different side to it that speaks volumes about the state’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. So start your second day with a quick breakfast at the hotel followed by a long drive to Old Goa (or Velha). Once the capital of Portuguese India, Velha has many colonial-era buildings for history buffs to explore.

What to see?

• Basilica of Bom Jesus
• Se Cathedral
• Church of St. Cajetan
• Church of St. Francis of Assisi
• Church of Our Lady of the Mount
• Chapel of St. Francis Xavier
• Augustine Tower
• Museum of Christian Art

Click as many pictures as you can at these magnificent edifices dating back years and thereafter, take the road back to Panaji, the state capital, to explore its gems.

12.30 pm – 5.00 pm: Take a tour of the best of the best in Panaji

Panaji | 3-Day Trip to Goa

Drive through the cobblestone streets and bright, colourful Portuguese-era houses of Panaji to get a true feel of what the real Goa is. En route, catch a glimpse of some of the most popular landmarks in the area and if you have the time, don’t miss to capture them.

• Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
• Fontainhas Latin Quarter

It’s almost time for lunch now, so take a break from all the sightseeing and halt at one of the popular restaurants or cafes in Panaji to sample an authentic Goan meal.

• The Fisherman’s Wharf
• The Black Sheep Bistro
• Kokni Kanteen
• Ritz Classic

Once you’re full, continue your sojourn in Panaji with a visit to its most frequented place – Miramar Beach. Clean and filled with soft sand, this beach is perfect for unwinding or taking an evening stroll or even binge drinking at one of the pubs or bars along the shore.

You can also check , Budget Hotels in Goa , Couple Friendly Hotels in Goa  and 3 Star Hotels in Goa

5.00 pm – 7.00 pm: Go for a boat cruise on the River Mandovi

Boat cruise on River Mandovi | 3-Day Trip to Goa

After spending a couple of hours at the tranquil Miramar Beach, prepare yourself for the experience of a lifetime: an hour-long boat cruise on Mandovi. The relaxed sail, traditional dance performances like Dekhni and Fugdi , DJ music, sightseeing and the best of all, the enchanting Goan sunset all make it the best way to spend some quality time with friends or family.

• Last Cruise : Around 8.00 pm

7.00 pm onwards: Try your luck at Goa’s anchored casinos

Goa’s anchored casinos | 3-Day Trip to Goa

When in Goa, you definitely shouldn’t miss out on the memorable gaming experience offered by the state’s offshore casinos. Who knows, you just might get lucky!

Where to go?

• Deltin Royale
• Deltin Jaqk
• Deltin Caravela
• Big Daddy Jetty
• Casino Pride

You can also enjoy live music and dance from 9 pm onwards along with a world-class gourmet buffet and free drinks that make the casino visit all the more worth it.

• Entry Fee : Starting @ 1500 per person

Spend as much time as you wish at the casino; you can even stay here till the dawn of light and keep playing and hopefully, winning before you return to your hotel.

(Alternate Option)

5.00 pm – 7.00 pm: View a spellbinding sunset at Fort Aguada

Sunset at Fort Aguada | 3-Day Trip to Goa

From the Miramar Beach, you can also head back towards the heart of North Goa but don’t forget to make a stop at Fort Aguada to enjoy a captivating view of the sea.

• By road : Approx. 45 minutes’ drive
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Fort Aguada

Reach the fort via the 4 km-long road from Sinquerim Beach or take the shorter 2 km-long foot path; however, do note that it is a steep climb. But watching the sun setting on the horizon from atop this fort would be a memory that will be etched in your mind forever.

• Last entry : 6.00 pm (All days)

After experiencing the tranquillity and enjoying the natural beauty at Fort Aguada, proceed to one of the famous pubs along Candolim-Baga stretch for max-level fun.

• By road : Approx. 15-30 minutes’ drive

7.00 pm onwards: Party till you drop at North Goa’s pubs

North Goa’s Pubs | 3-Day Trip to Goa

You’ve spent time at Goa’s beach shacks that are open till late but your trip will be incomplete if you don’t witness the state’s happening nightlife at its various pubs. The delicious food, the cocktails and the peppy music are sure to bring out the party animal in you.

• Cohiba, Candolim
• SinQ, Candolim
• LPK Waterfront, Nerul
• Café Mambos, Baga
• Cape Town Café, Baga
• Tito’s, Baga

Do visit St. Anthony’s shack on Baga if karaoke is your thing.

Since most pubs are open till late, you can dance (or sing) your heart out while sipping on drinks and binging on snacks before you head back to sleep off the night.

Full Day: Explore the beaches of South Goa and more

Beaches of South Goa | 3-Day Trip to Goa

Relish a delicious breakfast at the hotel or outside and then get ready to explore the tourist hotspots down south. From serene and beautiful beaches to revered shrines to wildlife sanctuaries and more, South Goa has a lot on offer for people of different interests.

• By road : Approx. 2-3 hours’ drive

Since the first two days have been quite frenetic, it would be ideal to spend your last day of the tour just lazing around, away from the hustle-bustle of the north. The sun-kissed beaches and spectacular landscapes of South Goa are sure to offer you absolute bliss.

• Colva Beach: For adventure sports like skiing, parasailing and paragliding
• Benaulim Beach: For spice plantations, boat rides, bike rides and other water activities
• Agonda Beach: For windsurfing, hiking and dolphin rides
• Palolem Beach: For silent parties, dolphin spotting, scuba diving and sunset viewing
• Polem Beach: For swimming and sunbathing

You can also visit Shantadurga Temple, which is a sight to see.

Whenever you’re hungry, you can enjoy a sumptuous Goan meal or other multi-cuisine delicacies at any of the restaurants, cafes or shacks dotted across South Goa.

• Martin’s Corner, Betalbatim
• The Fisherman’s Wharf, Cavelossim
• Dropadi, Palolem
• The Red Ginger, Colva
• Mickey’s Colva
• Zeebop, Majorda

After spending whatever time you have at the most popular places in South Goa, it is best to head back to the airport in time for your flight with a bag full of memories.

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Perfect Goa Itinerary for 3 Days: Sun, Sand, and Culture Unveiled

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Are you looking for a Goa itinerary for 3 days? Look no more. This article talks about everything you can do in Goa for three days. We have covered everything from beaches, forts, museums, churches, and more. Nightlife is the attraction that lures people from around the globe to visit Goa. The article walks you through famous clubs and vibrant markets. These markets are full of colourful surprises. Walk, ride, swim, dance, and put your heart out. Now you know what to add to your Goa itinerary for 2 nights 3 days.

How To Reach Goa

Goa International Airport at Dabolim welcomes all flights from major cities of India like Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Pune and Chennai. The travel time is less and comfort is maximum.

The twisted tracks of trains in India take you comfortably to Goa from metro cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai and Pune. The journey is long but filled with fun and food.  

Many private and government buses offer a safe and quick journey to Goa. These buses are equipped with various services and tracking options for hassle-free travel.

Road trips have always been on our bucket list. And roads with scenic ghats, unique food joints, energetic music and adventurous friends make unforgettable memories.

Highlights on Goa Trip Plan for 3 Days

Shopping: There are ample options for shopping in Goa, from stalls near beaches to luxurious boutiques. Some places have flea markets on particular days, like Wednesday Anjuna Flea Market.

Nightlife: Goa has exceptional nightlife. For all the night owls, the clubs are open till morning for you to groove your hearts out. You can also enjoy a silent disco at Palolem Beach. Tito’s Lane at Baga is a favourite tourist place where people dance from dusk to dawn with the same energy.

Beaches: The 105 km coastline of Goa houses numerous beautiful beaches, each with its own uniqueness. North Goa beaches are vibrant, while south Goa beaches are equally calm. These beaches are filled with excellent restaurants and colourful shacks.

Watersports: Goa beaches are not only for sun, sand and shells, but they also challenge brave hearts. For the gang that loves adventure, you can enjoy various water sports activities, like parasailing, motorboating, jetskiing, etc. Tourists can also experience snorkelling and dolphin spotting.

Sightseeing: The interior of Goa is full of marvellous architecture. The churches and houses portray the incredible Portuguese style influence. The forts stand as testimony to many historical events. There are many beautiful waterfalls for a different experience and art galleries exhibiting local artists. Walk in the lanes of Panjim for a colourful Instagram post.

Goa Itinerary for 3 Days

Day 1: north goa – the land of hippies.

The sand of North Goa shines golden throughout the day, and the palate at the horizon changes its colours beautifully by twilight. The night becomes young, and everybody taps on the music till dawn.

Ashwem Beach : In the Goa itinerary for 3 days, Ashwem Beach is a not-to-miss secluded beach. The exceptional beauty, beachfront resorts and vibrant vibes, this place balances everything. 

Sweet Water Lake : The lost paradise is found at Sweetwater Lake, Arambol. It originates from the natural hot springs of the Goan jungle—a calm and scenic place to relax or dip in the water and immerse in nature. You can sit here for hours and enjoy the view.

Anjuna  

Anjuna Flea Market : During your 3 days in Goa, Anjuna Flea Market is a must-visit place. The place is a treasure trove for those who love shopping. In this market, every Wednesday market, you can get cheap clothes, footwear, jewellery, bags and much more. From the lot, buy amazing souvenirs for your family back home.  

Baga Beach : Baga is the synonym for nightlife in Goa. The place attracts tourists from all over the world due to its happening parties. This party hub is also popular for adventurous watersports, dramatic sunsets, luxury hotels, romantic restaurants and local shopping places.

Tito’s : Tito’s is a place where you can dance your heart out. The party here starts in the evening, and you see the first ray of the sun crashing down in a blink. The club offers a variety of cocktails, beer and DJ music. Create a lavish experience for a lifetime.

Snow Park : Want to enjoy snow in Goa? Head to Snow Park for a thrilling experience. Play in the snow or enjoy the rhythms of the DJ’s songs with a mesmerising thunder effect; the place offers numerous fun activities. From kids to adults, there is something for all age groups.

St. Alex Church : Apart from beaches, Goa has some magnificent churches with exquisite architecture. St Alex Church is one such place. This place away from the city offers peace & serenity.

Recommended Hotels To Stay

• Fiesta Beach Resort
• Colonia Santa Maria
• De Baga Deck Comforts
• Cavala The Seaside Resort
• Little India Beach Cottages

Day 2: North Goa – Picturesque Places

North Goa is a complete package of entertainment, adventure and romance. From picturesque beaches, famous clubs, romantic restaurants, challenging watersports, and colourful flea markets to luxurious hotels, you name it, and Goa has it.

Art Chamber : Rudolph and Yolanda Kammermeier’s Art Chamber promotes local artists. Started in 1997, the gallery served as a cradle to Goan art. The building is a beautiful representation of Goan society. The serenity of this place is what makes it stand out. The place is a must in the north Goa itinerary for 3 days.

Calangute Beach : Famously known as the “Queen of beaches,” Calangute Beach witnesses a huge crowd every year. The markets here sell everything from junk jewellery and food to drinks and much more. The beach offers watersports activities like parasailing, water surfing, banana riding and jet-skiing. This beach party place has a charm of its own, offering a memorable vacation.

Grand Island : Grand Island is a half-day retreat in the Arabian Sea. Tourists can experience snorkelling by coral reefs. Go spot Dolphins in their natural habitat. A boat trip takes you to the island. The journey itself starts with mesmerising views of the sea. One can simply swim on the beautiful island or go fishing.

Church of our Lady of Hope : Church of our Lady of Hope stands at the foothills of Candolim, having a Mannerist Neo-Roman style. A pediment tops the front piece.

Aguada Fort : 3 day itinerary Goa is incomplete without this historically significant fort. Aguada Fort is an excellent example of Portuguese architecture standing since the 17th century. The jail and lighthouse are notable attractions here, though the jail is closed to tourists.

Mandovi River Cruise : During your Mandovi River Cruise , witness a scenic view of the sprawling rays of the sunset. Every hour as the cruise sails, the sky slowly gets covered with stars, and the mesmerising night of Goan culture starts with a luscious dinner. It offers your favourite tracks, dances, delicious feast and much more.

Fontainhas : Fontainhas is the Goa Latin Quarter flanked by vibrant and colourful Portuguese-style villas. Traditional Goan eateries and retro bakeries serve local dishes, while small boutiques sell Portuguese azulejo tiles. It is best explored on foot to transfer you to the bygone era.

Goa State Museum : In your Goa itinerary for 3 days, learn about the historical side of the place. Goa state museum preserves antiquities, art objects and objects of cultural importance. Established in 1977, the museum has departments like Ancient History and Archaeology, Geology, and Art and Crafts.

• Vivanta Goa
• The Hawaii Comforts
• DoubleTree by Hilton
• Fortune Miramar Goa
• O Pescador an Indy Resort

Day 3: South Goa – A Paradise in South Asia!

South Goa is no less than a paradise. The place is full of lush greenery, and churches portray excellent Portuguese-style architecture. The calm and clean beaches are places for yoga and meditation.

Betul Beach : Nestling on the southernmost tip of the shoreline, Betul Beach is a stretch of pristine and isolated land. This fishing hamlet is an escape from a stressful life. Under the moonlight, the soft sand turns silvery. The fruit trees and swinging palm trees give a relaxing ambience. Betul Beach offers a 360-degree natural panorama with the Western Ghats at the backdrop.

Our Lady of Merces Church : While finalising your south Goa itinerary for 3 days, add Our Lady of Merces Church. The place was originally a chapel and was later affiliated with the church.

Holy Trinity Church : For a memorable Goa itinerary for 3 days, visit Holy Trinity Church. It also has a home for the aged and an educational institution.

Leopard Valley : Leopard Valley is a high-octane nightclub in a jungle quarry of Agonda. Make one of your nights wild on your 3 days trip to Goa.

Conco Island : Conco is a 5-acre lush green island near Palolem and is a perfect picnic spot. Spend some peaceful time amidst nature and fresh air. Tourists can take the ferry to reach the island. Beware of monkeys!

Butterfly Beach : For adventure and nature lovers, Butterfly Beach is the best place to land. The picturesque view is breathtaking, and the beach is clean and secluded. A small trek to this beach opens the door to heaven.

Cabo de Rama Fort : Cabo de Rama Fort is a historical marvel. It predates Portuguese rule making it one of the oldest forts in Goa. The fort still stands proudly, guarding the mouth of the Sal River and overlooking the panoramic view of the sea. Cabo de Rama Cliff is known for its extraordinary sunset. And the beach is one of the finest in the country.

Palolem Beach : Palolem Beach, lined with palm trees and colourful wooden shacks, transports you into some foreign country. Relax at shacks, go kayaking or tap in the silent disco options.

• The Lost Hostel
• Oxygen Palolem
• Whoopers Hostel
• Sobit Sarovar Portico
• Roundcube Beach Bungalows

Frequently Asked Questions

Which part of goa is best for your stay.

Goa is divided into north and south parts, and both are poles apart. While the north has sea-facing hotel rooms, south Goa welcomes you to its luxurious beach huts. There is a plethora of finger-licking food options in Goa. But both these chant spells take you to a magical world.

Are 3 days enough for a Goa trip?

Goa, famous as a party hub, has so much beyond beaches and clubs. 3 days are more than enough to explore the architecture and wander in the lanes to rediscover and experience the culture. One night can be spent stargazing while the other dancing under those stars till the sun greets you.

Is Goa expensive for travel?

Goa is a place that accommodates budget-friendly as well as luxury travellers. For solo travellers, there are many pocket-friendly hostels and local transport. People visiting with family and friends can opt for mid-range to luxurious hotels and rent vehicles to explore the state. Memories can be pretty expensive, though!

How much does a trip cost for 3 days?

To spend 3 memorable days in Goa, you can spend Rs. 2000 for your hotel. Rent the two-wheeler at Rs. 300 per day to explore the places. This gives you the freedom to wander without worrying about the timings of local buses. Food can cost up to Rs. 1000 per day for a couple. The total budget goes around Rs. 10000 for 3 days.

Which is the cheapest month to visit Goa?

You can enjoy a comfortable and budget-friendly trip in Goa. While Goa has parties throughout the year, the cheapest time to visit Goa is from February to April. During this time, the rates of flights, accommodation, cruises, clubs and watersports are low, and the crowd is also a handful. Plan a full package trip with your friends or family or solo.

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Goa Itinerary: Top 17 Places to Visit in Goa in 4 Days

Remember that Goa trip you have always been dreaming of? From friends to family, Goa always tops as the number one location for a fun vacation. From its scenic beaches with the most beautiful sunsets to the popular party hubs with the most extravagant nightlife, Goa is definitely “the destination” for an adventurous plus leisure getaway. 

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing retreat or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Goa has something to offer to everyone. However, planning a 4-day trip to Goa requires careful consideration of the best places to visit , ensuring you make the most of your time in this vibrant state. 

So, if you are wondering where to begin and where to end? We are here to help you with our comprehensive guide to planning a four-day Goa trip. So, deep dive into it and make sure to plan a successful Goa trip with your loved ones for unforgettable memories in the party capital of India. 

Exploring Goa – Itinerary for four days 

Goa being a famous vacation stop is visited and explored by many. With four days in hand, you have the perfect opportunity to delve into the cultural diversity and natural beauty of both North and South Goa. So, you can divide and plan your itinerary with 2 days in each of the Goa’s parts to have it covered in four days. 

From the vibrant beaches of the north to the serene landscapes of the south, let’s take you through some popular spots to explore in the regions on your four-day Goa trip : 

Day 1 & 2: North Goa

North Goa is a bustling hub of stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and historical landmarks. You can set two days to explore this region. And fret not, as we have crafted a well-crafted itinerary for you. From soaking in the sun on the beaches to immersing yourself in the local culture, this guide will help you make the most of your day in North Goa.

Calangute Beach

Start your North Goa adventure by heading to Calangute Beach, also known as the “Queen of Beaches.” This famous beach offers a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of water sports activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. Take a refreshing dip in the Arabian Sea, bask in the morning sun, and unwind on the sandy shores. As you stroll along the coastline, you’ll find numerous beachside shacks serving delicious breakfast options like Goan Poi (bread) with bhaji, omelettes, and fresh fruit juices.

Adjacent to Calangute, visit Baga Beach, famous for its exciting nightlife and lively atmosphere. You can try more water sports here or relax under the shade of palm trees. Baga offers an array of beach shacks and restaurants where you can enjoy a mid-morning snack and refreshing drinks. Remember to capture the stunning beauty of this picturesque beach while you are there. 

Anjuna Flea Market

If you are into shopping more than anything else, then Anjuna Flea Market in Goa could be your heaven. Make your way to this iconic market, held every Wednesday. This bustling market is a paradise for shopaholics, offering an extensive range of goods, including clothing, jewellery, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Also, you could show some great bargaining skills here or just practise your skills and bag some unique items to cherish your Goa memories forever.

Chapora Fort

‘Also famous as the Dil Chahta hai Fort, this fort was featured in a popular Bollywood movie and became one of the top tourist spots. Take a short drive to Chapora Fort, perched atop a hill offering panoramic views of Vagator Beach and the Chapora River. The fort carries historical significance, making it an ideal spot for photography and learning about Goa’s past. You can trek to the fort, which is quite easy, and suitable for all age groups.

Basilica of Bom Jesus

Visit the famous Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of India’s most important Christian pilgrimage centres. This historic church houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, a revered Jesuit missionary. Marvel at the exquisite Baroque architecture and the impressive marble flooring. Take a moment for reflection and soak in the spiritual ambience of this sacred place.

Se Cathedral 

Next, head to the Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia and another significant religious monument in Goa. The cathedral’s Portuguese-Manueline architecture and intricate carvings are awe-inspiring. Don’t miss the “Golden Bell,” known for its rich tone and historical significance. Explore the cathedral’s tranquil surroundings and learn about its cultural and religious importance.

Aguada Fort and Lighthouse

Make your way to Aguada Fort, one of Goa’s most iconic landmarks. The fort’s strategic location provides stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Aguada Lighthouse and enjoy the panoramic vistas.

Arpora Night Market

As the evening sets in, head to the Arpora Saturday Night Market for a lively and vibrant atmosphere. This bustling market showcases an array of stalls selling clothes, accessories, handicrafts, and local souvenirs. Enjoy live music performances, indulge in delicious street food, and soak in the vibrant energy of Goa’s nightlife.

Fontainhas Latin Quarter

Conclude your day with a visit to Fontainhas, the charming Latin Quarter of Panaji. Walk through the narrow winding lanes and streets lined with colourful Portuguese-style houses. The area exudes an old-world charm and offers a glimpse into Goa’s Portuguese heritage.

Day 3 & 4: South Goa

After unveiling all the great gems in North Goa in two days, welcome to the tranquil haven of South Goa! Far from the bustling crowds, South Goa is a haven of serenity, offering pristine beaches, lush greenery, and cultural delights. 

In this 2-day itinerary, we’ll take you on a memorable journey through the best of South Goa, exploring its natural beauty, heritage sites, and immersive experiences. So, get ready to relax, rejuvenate, and discover the hidden gems of this coastal paradise.

Colva Beach

Kickstart your South Goa adventure at Colva Beach, a picture-perfect stretch of soft white sand and clear blue waters. Spend your morning relaxing on the beach, taking leisurely walks, and trying water sports like parasailing or jet-skiing. Colva is also known for its vibrant shacks offering lip-smacking Goan cuisine, making it an ideal spot for a delightful beachside breakfast.

Palolem Beach

Next, head to Palolem Beach, a serene and scenic paradise with lush palm groves and charming beach huts. Engage in activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply unwind with a yoga session. Palolem is an excellent place for some peaceful beach time and to appreciate the untouched beauty of South Goa.

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

For a close meetup with nature, visit Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary. Go on a thrilling nature walk through dense forests, spot diverse wildlife, and immerse yourself in the serenity of this lesser-known gem. The sanctuary also offers birdwatching opportunities, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Agonda Beach

End your first day at Agonda Beach, a tranquil and unspoiled coastal haven. Relax on the secluded shores, witness the mesmerising sunset, and enjoy this beach’s solitude. Agonda’s serene ambience makes it a perfect spot for soul-searching and unwinding.

Dudhsagar Waterfalls

Kick off your second day with a trip to Dudhsagar Waterfalls, one of India’s tallest waterfalls, cascading amidst the lush Western Ghats. Opt for a thrilling jeep safari or a trek to reach the falls. Witness the milky-white waters tumbling down from a height of 1017 feet, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

Sahakari Spice Farm

After exploring Dudhsagar, visit Sahakari Spice Farm to indulge in an authentic Goan experience. Take a guided tour of the spice plantation, learn about various spices and their uses, and savour a traditional Goan meal prepared with fresh ingredients from the farm.

Mobor Beach

Head to Mobor Beach for some more beach time and relaxation. The beach offers a tranquil environment with fewer crowds, allowing you to unwind and rejuvenate. Take a stroll, indulge in beach games, or simply soak in the beauty of the surroundings.

Betul Lighthouse and River Cruise

Visit the Betul Lighthouse, perched atop a hill, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and the Sal River. Afterwards, consider taking a serene river cruise on the Sal River for a peaceful and romantic experience. Enjoy the sunset views as you cruise along the calm waters and end your day 2 in South Goa with beautiful memories to take with you. 

Of course, this is just a suggested itinerary, and you can tailor it to your interests and preferences. If you’re interested in water sports, you could spend more time at the beach. If you’re more interested in history and culture, you could explore Old Goa more. 

And if you’re looking for a party atmosphere, you could spend more time in Calangute Beach. You can divide your four days per the locations and experiences you want to gather. 

No matter how you spend your time, four days in Goa will surely be a memorable experience.

Here are some additional tips for planning your trip: 

• Set a Budget: Determine your budget and plan your trip accordingly. Goa offers a great range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxurious resorts.
• Choose the Right Time: Goa is delightful year-round, but the best time to visit is between November and March when the weather is pleasing and ideal for beach activities.
• Book Accommodation in Advance: As Goa is a popular tourist destination, booking your accommodation well in advance is advisable to get the best deals. 
• Plan Day-wise Itinerary: Organise your trip by allocating specific places to visit each day to make the most of your time.
• Transportation: Rent a scooter or a car to explore Goa at your own pace. Alternatively, use local buses or hire a cab for convenience.
• Pack Smart: Pack light, airy clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to stay comfortable during your trip.

Related: Goa in Monsoon: Where to Stay, Places to Visit & Hotel Packages

Experience Goa with jüSTa

Now that we have figured out the Goa itinerary for four days and how to plan this trip successfully, let’s help you with the best accommodation in Goa for a luxurious and comfortable stay. 

Goa is a top-visited location; thus, it has a range of luxury and budget accommodations. Whether travelling as a couple, with family or with friends, there’s something for everyone. And, if you’re looking for a luxurious experience, the jüSTa’s boutique luxury beach resorts are the right choice for you. 

Our boutique luxury beach resorts offer an amazing and unique travel experience with luxurious accommodations, world-class amenities, and astonishing views of the Arabian Sea. Our resorts are located along some of the most gorgeous beaches in Goa, offering a perfect setting for your four-day beach-cation in Goa! 

jüSTa Morjim Beach Resort

jüSTa Morjim Beach Resort is an ideal location to stay in Goa for a four-day getaway. With uninterrupted sea views and beautiful sundowners, our 4-star beach resort is the perfect Goa getaway for you and your loved ones. 

The property features well-furnished, spacious, and carefully organised spaces equipped with top-notch amenities and facilities to provide maximum comfort in complementing your four-days Goa itinerary . 

Come experience the stunning beach sits-outs of the resort and witness sea views along with pretty sunrises and sunsets. Enjoy delectable Goan-style cuisine and a range of drinks to entice your taste buds in our in-house restaurant amidst lush green surroundings.

Also Read: Best Things to do in Morjim, Goa

jüSTa Casa Frangipani

jüSTa Casa Frangipani is located in the North side of Goa, near Anjuna Beach, Baga Beach, Calangute Beach and Candolim Beach. The hotel is a perfect blend of elegance and comfort that offers a relaxing experience away from the hustling touristy crowds. 

Every aspect of Casa Frangipani is carefully designed to promote well-being and renewal, from our elegant Frangipani wallpapers to our lush green courtyard and pleasant surroundings in Assagao.  Both of our accommodations are carefully curated for individuals with fine tastes, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the aesthetic and aura of the space. Relax and immerse into your surroundings, and come enjoy your four days in Goa without any worries with jüSTa Hotels & Resorts .

Related Posts

Goa Beyond Beaches: Top Fascinating Places In Goa You Must Visit

Top 20 Places in Goa for a Memorable Trip

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How to Plan a Trip to Goa

Last Updated: March 29, 2019 References

This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff . Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 6,084 times.

With sandy beaches, fresh seafood, and a vibrant culture, Goa is India’s hidden gem - and the perfect vacation spot. Whether you like lounging by the water or partying it up at a rave, there’s no shortage of fun activities and beautiful sights. To plan your trip, consider where you want to stay, how you’re going to get there, and what you want to do while you’re there.

Planning Your Trip

• It’s smart to make copies of your travel documents before leaving. Keep some at home and bring a couple with you just in case.
• Because it’s so humid in Goa, wrapping your travel papers in plastic wrap or sealing them in a plastic bag will prevent them from getting damp or ruined. [2] X Research source

• Budget travelers should go during the months of February to April to enjoy nice weather without the expensive prices.

• Dabolim is only 18 miles (29 km) south of Goa’s capital, Panjim. You can take a taxi or bus there from the airport. [5] X Research source Avoid price haggling by getting your taxi at the prepaid taxi counter. [6] X Research source

• Not every place in Goa will accept credit cards. Those that do (mostly hotels and higher-end stores) typically take MasterCard or Visa. [10] X Research source
• Keep some U.S. dollars with you in case of emergency.

Staying in Goa

• If you prefer an off-the-beaten-path experience, you can backpack in the countryside or rent a beach shack.

• Unlike most of the country, it’s okay to meat - even beef - in Goa. [13] X Research source
• Remove your shoes and go barefoot in any holy buildings or shrines. [14] X Research source
• If you aren’t sure how to act in a situation, watch what the locals are doing and follow suit.

Choosing Your Activities

• Henna tattoo artists often stroll the beaches. These are temporary and a fun treat for tourists to participate in local culture.

• You can’t go wrong with any of the fresh seafood caught off the coast of Goa, either. You’ll find everything from tuna to mussels to prawns to sushi on most restaurant menus. [17] X Research source
• Always request bottled mineral water as some of the tap water may not be safe for drinking. [18] X Research source

• Some of the best spices are grown on spice plantations in Goa so pick up a packet or two while you shop. [20] X Research source

• If you’re looking for the hottest nightclubs, you’ll want to hit up Tito's Road (a strip of dance clubs) in Baja Beach or one of the rooftop raves in Anjuna Beach. [21] X Research source

Expert Q&A

You might also like.

• ↑ https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india/entry-requirements
• ↑ http://www.goatourism.gov.in/travel-tips
• ↑ https://www.fodors.com/world/asia/india/goa/travel-tips/when-to-go-266192550
• ↑ https://www.frommers.com/destinations/goa/planning-a-trip
• ↑ https://www.lonelyplanet.com/india/goa/practical-information/transport/flights-and-getting-there/a/nar/831d9f46-3f92-4f04-b1fe-32c23ef90bea/356223
• ↑ https://markets.businessinsider.com/currency-converter/united-states-dollar_indian-rupee
• ↑ https://traveltips.usatoday.com/exchange-money-india-32778.html
• ↑ https://www.lonelyplanet.com/india/goa/a/nar-gr/money-and-costs/356223
• ↑ https://www.cntraveler.com/stories/2007-10-17/etiquette-101-india
• ↑ https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/goa-india-things-to-do/index.html
• ↑ https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/jan/31/holiday-guide-goa-best-restaurants-hotels-beaches
• ↑ https://www.huffingtonpost.in/2016/08/16/10-eateries-in-goa-that-you-must-not-miss-at-any-cost_a_21452513/
• ↑ https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/sandy-dhaliwal/a-clubbers-guide-to-goa-t_b_5794752.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer_us=aHR0cHM6Ly9jc2UuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS9jc2UvcHVibGljdXJsP2N4PTAwODk1MzI5MzQyNjc5ODI4NzU4NjptamVfcmtqdjhtMA&guce_referrer_cs=Nrm4Tqb_PQ_ZZJVT0ZPgQw

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Goa Trip Plan For 4 Days

If there’s one destination that you can never get enough of, it has to be Goa. The place where palm-fringed beaches, gorgeous cathedrals and the endless stretch of the ocean beckons travelers from across the globe. And our Goa itinerary for 4 days packs in most of these experiences for you.

The North Goa sightseeing trip covers tourist hotspots and includes an option to indulge in some thrilling watersports. While South Goa sightseeing on your Goa trip plan for 4 days takes you to revered shrines, historic churches and the pristine beaches of the South.

For those who want to explore the gems of both north and south regions, this Goa itinerary for 4 days is the perfect choice that offers the comfort of travel and flexibility to spend leisurely moments by the sea.

Goa: Arrival and leisure

• Transfer to hotel
• Check-in formalities
• Goan cuisine.

North Goa: sightseeing

• Fort Aguada
• Ready to witness the best sights of north Goa
• Overnight stay

South Goa: sightseeing

• Local sightseeing
• Explore the attractions of South Goa
• Visit the holy temples
• Majestic Basilica of Bom Jesus, Miramar,

Goa: Departure

Have a fun-filled beach vacation in Goa.

Spectacular dudhsagar waterfalls

After the transfer to hotel and check-in formalities, chill out, relax and indulge in some delectable Goan cuisine.

Other Benefites

Stay Included

Fort aguada in Goa

The second day of your Goa 3 Nights 4 Days Package Itinerary is reserved for discovering the top attractions of North Goa, including Fort Aguada and the famous Anjuna, Calangute and Baga beaches.

Have fun at the beach

Choose to explore Old Goa today

After savoring a delicious breakfast, it’s time for a tour to explore the attractions of South Goa. Visit the holy temples and the majestic Basilica of Bom Jesus, Miramar, and Dona Paula beaches before indulging in shopping at the Panaji market.

Say good bye to Goa

Check-out from the hotel and get transferred to the airport/railway station for your journey back home, as you carry fun-filled memories along.

Marina bay beach resort

Behind Bobs Inn | Candolim Bardez, Candolim, Bardez 403515, India

Note: Our agents will provide you these or similar hotels depending on availability

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Goa Packages By City

Faq for goa, which is the most famous church in goa.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is the most famous church in Goa and a stunning example of baroque architecture.

How many days are enough to visit Goa?

At least 3 to 4 days are needed to explore both North and South Goa, with some spare time for shopping.

Which are the must-visit beaches to be included in Goa itinerary?

Anjuna, Baga, Calangute, and Palolem must be included in any Goa tour itinerary for 4 days or more.

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Mohan's 3 days trip to Goa

It was really nice experience with travel triangle. Enjoyed my goa trip to the fullest, accomodation was nice, so was pick up and drop. Sightseeing was also good Suggestion : Some of entertainment programs could be dropped and spice farm tour could be added in package or parra road visit Bus operators are sometimes rude Ferry sightseeing got to see dolphins Electric show was nice Sequerium beach, aguada fort etc

Mohan More Pune

Anil's 4 days trip to Goa

Driver Mr. Vinod Mane was not only a driver, he is a good guide. He describe everything very precisely. His nature was awesome. Also if I talk about Mr. Avinash and Mr. Anurag they treat fantastically and guided me through out the trip. They always attend my call and respond very gently. So every person was good. My family also satisfied by the hospitality. But the cleanliness of the hotel was the only issue. I hope you team will improve this next time. Thankyou so much to all the team. Regards Anil Dutt

Anil Dutt DELHI

Kashikasharda's 4 days trip to Goa

They are an amazing service with good planning and great service. Aman was commendable in planning and customizing everything according to our requirements. Anurag was a great trip coordinator, being available 24*7 and managing everything smoothly.

Kashikasharda Chandigarh

Prashant's 4 days trip to Goa

Travel agent was good. quite responsive, but even after paying my total amount he dint pay the due at the hotel, nd so the receptionist made us wait to get a room til the due was paid. Rest everything was good.

Prashant Borde Sikar, India

Shiwangi's 4 days trip to Goa

Hotel food was from outside, that wotel don't have their own kitchen, I prefer buffet service in food, but that was not there anyways all was okay Guide nature of all driver and good hotel management.. Hotel was nearby beach

Shiwangi Kackar Delhi

Surendrasingh's 4 days trip to Goa

Great experience with Dream Planner especially Praveen did a marvellous job. Great satisfaction. Last but not the least Travel Triangle again did 5 star work for me. In future we'll again connect for new destination.

Surendrasingh B New Delhi

Srinivas's 4 days trip to Goa

They promised me to get Riva beach resort and I have paid my first installment for Riva beach. Since the paid amount is non-refundable, we are forced to go with travel agent choice ie., Regenta Place, which I am not interested in. The assigned hotel (Regenta Place) should be cheaper than Riva but they charged the same price.

Srinivas Gadekarla Hyderabad

Sanjeev's 4 days trip to Goa

Quite good and helpful. It was a good experience. All the arrangements were great and the journey was soothing. The rates was reasonable and my group enjoyed a lot in Goa Will be looking forward to contact them again whenever I travel. I thanks Manish Sir for providing us great services

Sanjeev Uppin Bengaluru

Ramnath's 4 days trip to Goa

Support given was excellent in terms of postponing the trip because of family issue. The stay could have been much better though it was alright as cleaning was done for 4 days during our stay. I requested for dish recharge to both owner and caretaker from TT but it did not happen fo required set of channels.

Ramnath Awate Pune, India

Harika's 4 days trip to Goa

Hotel room is good ,but I didn't like some of the staff behavior and also even though room is booked they have given it for some other people on first day . Should have managed well in that aspect.

Harika Lakshmi Bengaluru, India

Ashwathi's 4 days trip to Goa

First of all Customisation of the spot will be done was said to us but when we reached, no customisation would be done was said to us. Hotel infrastructure was amazing but basic necessities were delayed ... First day cab driver was good in nature but second day the cab driver was bit rude

Ashwathi Nair Mumbai

Kimigupta's 4 days trip to Goa

It was so good. The day we arrived at the airport in Goa. It was so well planned. Driver, hotel, places we have seen worth it. Not even a single problem we faced. Credit goes to Mr Manish Gupta & Mr Farhan . I would definitely mention the name who booked everything. Thank you team , u made our trip wonderful. Thank you so much. We made a lot of memories. Will contact you guys soon for another trip somewhere else

Kimigupta Hyderabad

Brindhadevi's 4 days trip to Goa

IT WAS SUCH A GREAT TRIP FOR MY PARENTS , THEY ENJOY A LOT , SPECIAL THANKS TO MR MANISH , WHO ARRANGE THE TRIP WITH CARE , I WILL RECOMMEND TO GO WITH TRIPPY GOA. THANKS A LOT TRIPPY GOA

Brindhadevi Erode

Rahuldob's 4 days trip to Goa

I really enjoyed a tour in Goa. my friend's also enjoyed a lot and our travel agent friendly service and our agent Shruti from go relaxe explain to the tour friendly to service before the trip.

Rahuldob Madurai

Sayali's 4 days trip to Goa

Hotel Cochicos Resort was very beautiful, hygienic and the service was good. The travel agent assisted me with everything and was available whenever I called them.

Sayali Gaikwad Mumbai

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12 Useful tips to visit Goa on a budget

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I am super excited to be writing this post! Why? Because I am writing about my most favourite Indian destination – Goa and because I will be sharing all the wisdom that I have gathered from my many trips to Goa to help you visit Goa on a budget. 

Now, I know you will find plenty of naysayers around who will convince you that it is impossible to visit Goa on a budget. You will also find a few souls around who will make you believe that if you want to truly enjoy the spirit of Goa, you must set aside a minimum budget for Goa trip that’s almost equivalent to a few months worth of your salary!  

But if you are someone that has been pushing a trip to Goa only because of budget constraints, I urge you to – 

• read this post and 
• ignore everyone who tells you to set aside massive amounts of money for your Goa trip budget. 

Ha! So now that I have you on board, it’s time for me to tell you how to visit Goa on a budget and how to have fun doing it! 

Let’s get started, shall we?

How to visit Goa on a budget?

First, let me reassure you that each of the tips that I am about to share with you is one that I have tried and tested plenty of times. Travelling to Goa using these budget hacks has always helped me save thousands and thousands of rupees! 

So here is how you can visit Goa on a budget – 

Travel in the shoulder seasons

I will not be ridiculously harsh on you and tell you to travel to Goa in the summer when the temperatures touch 40 degrees celsius and visiting any beach would only equal getting yourself burnt. 

But that said, if you want to save your hard-earned (or hard-borrowed!) cash, you need to avoid Decembers. In terms of costs, a typical ‘Goa in December budget’ is usually at least 75% to 100% higher than Goa in any other month. Therefore, it is best to avoid this time if you don’t have a high budget. 

The best months to travel to Goa are the shoulder season months of late October and early March or any period close to these shoulder-season days as possible. 

But would that mean lesser fun? 

No! It certainly would not! Goa in December is a huge crowded pool of tourists and tourist scams. 

I have visited Goa in almost every month of the year (including the terrible harsh summers and the mad monsoons), and the least fun I have had in Goa is in December. 

Also here is some useful math for you – 

Goa expenses for 3 days in December = Goa expenses for 5-6 days in other months! 

Convinced? Let’s move on! 

Choose to travel on weekdays

If you plan on visiting Goa for just about 3-4 days, make sure you choose weekdays instead of weekends. 

Most working people tend to visit Goa on weekends. Thus, the weekend is the best time for the hotels, clubs and restaurants in Goa to make their moolah!

That’s precisely why most of these places have steeper rate cards for guests visiting them on weekends. 

But, if you want to stick to your budget, you need to steer clear of these traps. Basically, avoid being in Goa on weekends!

What do you risk missing out on? Long waiting periods outside restaurants and clubs, terrible customer service and the company of angry, disheartened guests! 

Travel to Goa by train

Ok, I know time equals money but travelling to Goa by air (to save time) does not mean saving money at all! In fact, in most cases, it does not even save time! 

Wait, I know how confusing this must sound to you. But let me explain. 

The number of times and the number of hours by which our flights to and from Goa have got delayed is a figure that definitely runs into double digits. 

I have no idea what it is about the air traffic at Goa airport that results in such delays, but no matter what airlines I choose, I almost always have to spend a few terribly boring extra hours at the Goa airport. 

Plus, I am not exaggerating when I say this, but the food stalls at Goa airport are worse than the food stalls at railways stations. All that they serve are varieties of stale pattice, samosa and chai and coffee in small paper cups! 

Therefore, instead of missing out on this fun-filled air travel experience, I always prefer opting for a train journey whether or not I am on a budget. A train journey to Goa (especially when travelling from Mumbai) is a joy-ride.

Travel in the Tejas Express from where you get to enjoy exotic views of the beautiful Sahyadri mountain ranges while sipping on hot chai and pampering yourself to the freshly made hot bhajiyas, cutlets, Vada Pavs, Cheese toasts served in Indian railways along the way.

Now let’s look at how much money you will save by travelling to Goa by train – 

A train journey from Mumbai to Goa costs only about Rs. 500 per person in Non-AC compartment and Rs. 1,500 in two-tier AC compartments. Whereas, travelling to Goa by air on one of the budget airlines that do not serve food costs approximately Rs. 3000-5000 (if booked in advance). 

Thus, train travel not only guarantees more fun but swill easily save you a few thousand rupees per person, each way! Its truly is the best way to ensure a low budget Goa trip! 

Base yourself in South Goa

There is a widespread misconception that South Goa is for oldies and family travellers while North Goa is for party-goers and youngsters. 

But the truth is that North Goa is for typical tourists and South Goa is for real travellers. This means that North Goa is full of eateries, party places, clubs and joints that only cater to tourists. Most of the areas in North Goa are crowded, over-priced and almost always disappointing. 

The beaches in North Goa have lost all of their natural charm on account of their over-exploitation by tourists. 

And the biggest reason to avoid North Goa is the high price of its resorts, hotels and homestays . The accommodation close to Baga, Calangute and Anjuna is significantly overpriced and offers very little value for money.  ( Check my in-depth article on where to stay in Goa here )

(But hey, if it’s your first time visiting Goa, then you must visit North Goa. Read our detailed post on the best places to visit in North Goa here .)

On the contrary, South Goa continues to retain its charm without stripping you off your savings!

The Goa resorts in South Goa are far less crowded and relatively cheaper than those in North Goa. Moreover, I have always found South Goa budget hotels to be cleaner and well-looked after. 

Again, this does not mean that you should skip North Goa altogether. You can always visit North Goa on day trips. South Goa to North Goa distance is only about 70 km if you base yourself close to Agonda.

The South Goa to North Goa distance will be cut down further by about 20 kilometres if you stay in Benaulim or Colva. 

GOA: PLANNED FOR YOU

Benefit from our expertise in Goa. Save hours of trip planning effort, save thousands of rupees on travel agents and kill trip planning overwhelm.

Get access to the best Goa trip plan with specially curated stay recommendations, restaurant suggestions, day-wise break-up of things to do, a fully interactive Goa map and much more in a single downloadable pdf.

Stay in hostels or homestays

The  numero uno  reason why Goa is such a popular destination is its ‘chilled out’ or sushegaat vibe. The shacks along the beaches, the many cafés and restaurants and the full-moon parties give Goa its charm. 

There aren’t many places in India that exhibit this vibe and that have the  infrastructure  that Goa has   to make chilling, relaxing, hanging out or partying so much fun. 

And the best way to absorb this fun, relaxed vibe is by meeting new people and being ‘available’ for interaction with locals and fellow tourists. 

In my opinion, hostels are the best way to engage in such interactions. Plus, hey – hostels are cheap! Enjoying Goa on a shoestring budget is impossible without staying at hostels. 

This is because hostels prove to be substantially cheaper than the many places advertised as Goa budget hotels or Goa budget resorts. 

(Hey, here you can easily find a huge variety of hostels)

( Or if you don’t want to look for accommodation yourself, here is our readymade Goa travel plan )

However, if you aren’t a hostel person, the other alternative, particularly suitable for introverts or those travelling as a couple or with their family is to opt for homestays. Homestays provide an incredible opportunity of experiencing Goa like a local.

You can cook your food here or share a meal with your host to get a feel of real Goa and cut down on restaurant expenses! 

And that takes me to my next point – 

Eat at roadside stalls, bakeries or beach shacks

You will read plenty of travel bloggers raving about the food at the Fisherman’s Wharf or Thalassa. But let me break the  first, and the only  bad news to you – these restaurants make you dig deep into your pocket. 

So does that mean you miss out on all the yummilicious food Goa has to offer? No. It means that you skip ‘touristy’ places and hog on the yumminess of authentic Goan food. 

The food served in most top-end restaurants is curated to cater to urban masses. I am not saying it tastes terrible. I am only suggesting that there are plenty of cheap, delectable and more authentic options available in the market. 

To begin with, eat the famous yet modest Russ omelette on a roadside stall in Goa.

You could even hog on the goodies sold in any local bakery in Goa. My favourite is the German bakery in Benaulim, which is always full of customers brimming with joy!

Finally, if you ever feel like actually sitting down at a restaurant for one of your meals, opt for a friendly shack on any of the beaches.

The prices of food in shacks has also gone up considerably over the past few years given their growing popularity. But the prices still remain low compared to the other air-conditioned / decked-up restaurants in Goa. 

To ensure that a visit to a beach shack does not damage your Goa trip budget plan, do not plonk your butt in the first shack next to the entrance of any beach.

The ‘prime’ the location of the shack, the higher it will cost to you. Be wise and choose a shack towards the deeper end of the beach! 

Buy your booze from a wine shop. 

Ok, let’s come to the real reason why everyone visits Goa – cheap alcohol. But hey, I am about to drop a truth bomb on you right now. 

The cheap alcohol that you’re craving for will not be found in restaurants or shacks. These places are tourist centres and always sell alcohol for a considerable premium.

The thrill you seek from drinking cheap alcohol will be available to you if you buy alcohol from wine shops. 

Yes! Buy your favourite spirits for throwaway prices at wine shops! 

Pints of beer in Goa will cost you approximately Rs. 60. The local variant, Kings, will be even cheaper. Even whiskey, rum, vodka, and tequila (basically everything that falls within the broad definition of alcohol) will be 30-40% less expensive in Goan wine shops. 

To give you an example, a Jim Bim Kentucky Bourbon 750 costs approximately Rs. 2,600 in Mumbai. Whereas in Goa, you only need to spend Rs. 1,400 on it! 

But let me reiterate, you lose this advantage if you drink at bars, clubs, fancy restaurants or even beach shacks. 

Buy your booze from wine shops if you want to experience the real ‘high’ of cheap alcohol! 

( Quick side note – Do you want to carry your cheap alcohol from Goa to your hometown? Read our post with all the rules on carrying alcohol on a domestic flight here .)

Rent a bike (or a car only if you are travelling in a large group!)

(Find the best car here )

We have saved thousands of rupees on our trips to Goa by ditching cars and travel-operated vehicles. Instead, we always rent a bike or scooter. 

The daily scooter rental in Goa ranges between Rs. 250-300 depending on where you stay and how solid your bargaining skills are. If you are a family that can’t fit on a scooter, rent a car and drive it on your own. Cars are available for rent in Goa for approximately Rs. 1,000 per day. 

Note that a chauffer-driven tourist car for a day in Goa costs nothing less than Rs. 2,000/-.

So your budget for Goa trip will come down considerably if you rent a scooter or a car. Moreover, Goa’s petrol prices are also approximately 15-20% lower than the petrol prices in other metropolitan cities of India.

Also, if you are one of our non-Indian readers, don’t panic! Driving in Goa is safer than driving in other parts of India thanks to the fantastic road conditions and adherence to traffic rules on main roads and highways. 

Do not explore Goa through tour operators

You will find tour operators in Goa vying for your attention in almost every popular lane. Many will even tempt you with Goa budget packages that will promise you to show all the main sightseeing attractions to you for a super low price. 

But trust me, even these cheap prices prove to be considerably higher than the cost of exploring these places on your own using your rented vehicle. 

Also, as I often state in most of my articles, the beauty of exploring a place on your own is unparalleled. It gives you hundreds of opportunities to interact with locals, make friends, and soak in the area’s cultural vibe. 

In short, leave the tour operators alone! They aren’t for you! 

Check out free attractions in Goa

There are plenty of free attractions in Goa to meet the needs of your Goa budget plan.

The good news for budget travellers is that most of these free attractions easily beat paid attractions in terms of their value. 

So skipping visits to paid touristic attractions such as zoos, spice farms, and cruises won’t hurt you at all. Most paid attractions fall way short in terms of giving you the real feel of Goa. 

To experience the authentic charm of Goa, visit its many beaches. Read my full in-depth guide with practical information on all the best beaches in Goa here.

Similarly, Goa’s famous forts such as the Aguada fort and the Chapora fort are also free for visitors. 

You could also experience the quiet side of Goa by visiting one of the many churches in Goa. 

What’s great about these places is that they are easily accessible by scooters and cars. You also do not need a guide at any of these places. 

Avoid water-sports in Goa

Water-sports in Goa are expensive and are the best way of going way over your Goa tour budget.  Period. 

If you have enjoyed water-sport activities at any other destination in the past, you can avoid these expensive money-making traps. 

If you have never tried out water-sport activities in the past, I highly recommend you to try those out in cheaper neighbours of Goa such as Gokarna or Tarkarli in Konkan!

Not only are these activities more affordable here, but the water at the beaches is also cleaner, and the overall experience is more rewarding! 

Avoid shopping in Goa

You will find plenty of shopping areas in Goa typically outside major beaches. The shops here sell sarongs, swimsuits, kaftans, hats, jewellery and other Indian knick-knacks. In addition to these markets, you will find proper market areas that sell cashews to tourists. 

Besides these types of shops, Goa is also home to several organised flea markets that sell Indian spices, teas, carpets, handlooms etc. 

But truth be told, none of the items sold in any of these markets is cheap.

Even cashews that were once a signature Goa product now sell at rates similar to those in Mumbai, Delhi, and other Indian metropolitan areas. 

Basically, shopping in Goa is absolutely not worth it if you are travelling on a budget. It is best to avoid it altogether if you want to restrict yourself to a small budget. 

How much does a budget trip to Goa cost?

So now that we know what exactly to do to save money and yet enjoy Goa to the fullest let’s see how much a cheap trip to Goa should cost you – 

Stay in a hostel or budget hotel or homestay – Rs. 500 per person, per night (Cheaper if not travelling solo)

Scooter rental- Rs. 350 per day

Petrol expense- Rs. 100 per day 

Food expense- Rs. 500 per person per day

Alcohol- Rs. 200 per person per day

Sightseeing- Nil

Shopping- Nil

Total expenses on a trip to Goa on a budget – Rs. 1,600 per day

Note that you can cut down this budget further if – 

• you travel as a couple and benefit out of double occupancy discounts
• limit your sightseeing and petrol expenses
• eat only at roadside stalls and bakeries
• do not drink

Now, you need to add the expenses of train travel to this budget. 

So travel to/from Goa by train (non-AC)— Rs. 400-1000 one way. 

Thus, if you plan properly, you should easily manage a 4 day trip to Goa in approximately Rs. 5,000 per person! 

So what are you waiting for? Stop making excuses and pack your bags already! 

Did you find this post useful? Save it for later on Pinterest!

Don’t forget to check out our travel guides on other amazing places in India here .

TOP TRAVEL RESOURCES

Here is a list of our favorite travel resources- the ones that I absolutely swear by when planning almost every trip. Go through this list to plan a hassle-free trip and save a lot of money!

Flight Booking: Check the availability of tickets, the best time to fly, and the cheapest fares on Skyscanner . You may also find a cheap flight via CheapOair

Accommodation: I absolutely love booking through Agoda . In most countries and particularly in Asia, I often find the best fares on Agoda. But I also love the no prepayment and no cancellation fee policy of Booking.com . For cheap accommodations and hostels, nothing beats Hostelworld .

Car Rentals: You may find and rent an appropriate car via RentalCars . It’s hassle-free and reliable.

Guided Tours: I absolutely love GetYourGuide for local sightseeing tours, walking tours, history tours, and food tours. The booking process is seamless, and the tours are super affordable. But in Asian countries, I prefer Viator or Klook for their affordably priced tours.

Lounge Access : Get Priority Pass – my personal favorite card that gives me unlimited access to premium airport lounges all over the world

Hey, if you found this post helpful, share it with more people or buy me a coffee !

Vrushali Ketkar is a lawyer turned travel blogger. She has travelled to 14 countries. She travels like a regular working woman with family. Her lawyer-level research skills make her a destination expert and help her get the most out of my trips. Today, her travel articles and videos help thousands of people across the world plan their trips to various parts of the world.

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• 30 Places to Visit in Goa in 4 Days

Tourist Places in Goa in 4 Days

Here are some of the best places to visit in goa in 4 days:, quick navigation.

Places to Visit in North Goa in 4 days

Anjuna beach.

Situated on the west coast of Goa by the Arabian Sea, Anjuna Beach is one of the best beaches in Goa. The hippies were the first people to come here in the 1950s and since then Anjuna Beach is a hotspot in Goa for local and international tourists. Anjuna Beach grows on you as you take a stroll along the glowing white sands and enjoy the sight of gently swaying palms in front of you.

Top Experiences To Do in Anjuna Beach

Fort Aguada

Showcasing the glory of the Portuguese empire this fort stands overlooking the Arabian sea. Built in the early 16th century to keep an eye on the enemies this fort give breathtaking views and, is one of the most majestic places to visit in Panjim. The mystifying structure is more than 400 years old and still, its majestic beauty remains intact. It also houses a lighthouse which was built to guide the ships and, another part is the Aguada Jail which is one of the largest jails in Goa. The location of the mighty fort is strategic so that it provides great defense from the rivals. Location: Fort Aguada Rd, Aguada Fort Area, Candolim, Goa 403515 Timings: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM Entry Fees: Free Distance from Panjim Bus Stand: Approximately 15 km

Baga Beach in Goa looks as though it has come straight out of a work of art. Lofty white waves hurrying to wipe out the prints of feet left by you on the white sand while the breeze keeps on playing with the palm trees is a sight to behold at this majestic beach in Goa. It is a decent place to appreciate some moments and abide in a serene consideration with oneself. It is counted as one of the best beaches in Goa where you can see wonderful.

Chapora Fort

If you are looking for amazing places to visit in North Goa, it will make you land at Chapora fort which is lying in a little ruin state at the edge of Chapora river. The fort stood at its position long back for a military significance during a fight between Portuguese and Marathas, which later lost the value. Surrounded by steep walls, it gives breathtaking views from all the sides including Vagator beach, Chapora river and of course, deep blue ocean. This fort will take you on a memory lane of Bollywood movies for sure.

What to say about Curlies shack that proudly gains tourists like anything at its service on Anjuna beach. Known for not only its glowing ambience but also the huge space it offers in form of a lounge, garden restaurant, bar, club zone, and open sea view platform. Travellers love to visit here for the heart throbbing parties and delicacies they serve with yummy cocktails. Curlies also provide stay options to its guests and water sports activities so you may call it all in one and one for all. Location: Very close to Anjuna flea market, you can find Curlies! Timings: Everyday 8.30 AM to 2.30 AM, all ready for your breakfast to party time Entry Fees: It only wants you to pay for the food and drinks you consume here! No entry fees required.

Grand Island Goa Tour With Scuba Diving

Activity Location:  Grand Island, Goa, India

Activity Duration:  6-8 Hours (approx.)

Starting Point:  Sinquerim Boat Jetty

Pick-up/ Drop locations:  You will be picked up from the following area's Hotel Locations;

• Arpora: 07:00 AM to 07:30 AM
• Baga: 07:30 AM to 08:00 AM
• Calangute: 07:30 AM to 08:00 AM
• Candolim: 08:00 AM to 08:30 AM

Activity Timings: 07:00 AM to 06:00 PM

Age Limit:  Above 12 Years

Calangute Beach

Deserving every reason to be called the ‘Queen of Beaches’ in Goa, Calangute Beach is a paradise for nature lovers holding the spectacular beauty and charm. The beach reflects the unique Goan culture with a glorious view of the landscape serving as a perfect retreat for visitors. Here you can find the effervescent markets selling everything from beer, trinkets to pawns.

Top Experiences To Do in Calangute Beach

Basilica Of Bom Jesus

The oldest withstanding Church of Goa, beautifully built under the influence of Portuguese architectural style, is one of the best places to visit in Panjim. The lovely marble floor embellished with valuable stones adds up to the charm of the magnificent church. The cathedral of the Church holds the remains of St. Xavier's in a silver casket which is elegantly decorated and, worshiped by his devotees.

Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach is one of the best beaches in Goa which provide a wholesome escapade offering everything like sightseeing, water sports, shopping and tranquility. The beach is mostly famous among Westerners and a permanent residence for many of them and it is the best places to visit in north goa in 1 day. Vagator Beach is the place that enchants people of all ages.

Top Experiences To Do in Vagator Beach

Anjuna Market

Let us give you a glimpse of why Anjuna Market is one of the utmost amazing tourist places in North Goa? Wednesday flea market that sells everything at a dirt cheap rate will bring one closer to this place. This place is so much livelier to chill at that you never want to leave it but alas, it's just a day in the week that it gains its prominence on. One can find here handmade clothing, jewellery, beach clothes, hammocks, Buddha or Shiva statues and anything that trance magic can provide you. Grab a drink, have some stall food, wear hippie jewellery and dive in a completely new era at Anjuna flea market. Timings: Wednesday, 8.00 AM to 8.00 PM Location: South end of Anjuna beach.

Mapusa Market

Another traditional and weekly market of Goa brings one step closer to a vibrant Mapusa market that takes place every Friday. Holding its grace within the Mapusa municipal market, get into the colours and noise and live the Goan charm distinctly. The market is known for jewellery, pottery, spice, and carpet shops. Not just this, you can also find a variety of delicacies to munch upon as well as take them back home. Take a whiff of fresh fishes, vegetable and meat along with cheap local wine that will turn the mood happy and hippie. Timings: Friday, 6.00 AM to 8.00 PM Location: Reach Mapusa Market Area in Panaji to shop at one of the best tourist places in North Goa Entry Fees: Pay for only the things you buy! There are no market entry fees, relax!

The Church Of Our Lady Of Immaculate Conception

‘Wow' is the one word that describes the church at first sight. Built-in 16th century, Portuguese style architecture speaks with a blow right here. Leading the main entry is the flight of stairs that rise like a floor above the floor. As the name is, the facade of the church is tarnished in immaculate, sparkling white colour and it is also one of the best places to visit in North Goa To your surprise, the interiors are decorated in a very calm manner, without any intricate or coloured details as seen in many other pilgrimage centres. Yet, the skills of the craftsmen could be seen at the graceful altar and sub-altar. Again, this location gives you a trivia of Bollywood that used this church as the background of various shots. A must visit a location, this is indeed not to miss tourist places in North Goa. Location: Within the main city of Panaji Timings: Every day from 9.00 AM – 12.30 PM and 3.30 PM – 7.30 PM Entry Fees: None!

Casino Pride (Majestic Pride)

Another amazing casino life could be experienced at Casino Pride (Majestic Pride) which has its anchor tied down in Mandovi river. The casino boat has the best of the facilities and services having well-trained staff, delicious meals and a good range of drinks making it one of the best places to visit in North Goa in 1 day.

Mandovi Lounge Boat Ride in North Goa

Activity Location: Fun Cruises Goa, Near, Holy Cross-Virlosa, Britona, Alto Porvorim, Penha de França, Goa

Operational Hours:

• Peak Hours - 4 PM to 8 PM
• Off-Peak Hours - 7 AM to 11 AM & 8:30 PM to 12 AM
• Discounted Hours - 11 AM to 4 PM

Activity Duration:

• Mandovi Lounge Boat: 2 hours (1 Hour Sailing + 1 Hour Anchorage)

Note:  For more Yacht Experiences in Goa, you can visit  Private Yacht Charter Experiences in Goa.

About Mandovi River Boat Ride in Goa:

Explore Goa's beauty from a new perspective with the Mandovi River Boat Ride. Glide along tranquil waters, surrounded by lush green banks and diverse wildlife. Engage in a variety of activities like fishing and crocodile watching. Take in the stunning scenery and immerse yourself in the city's serenity. Book your Mandovi river boat ride in Goa for an unforgettable perspective of the region's natural wonders.

If you are in Goa and are looking for a party place bursting with nicer crowds and groovy music then Tito’s is the place for you. Famed for throwing the best theme parties in Goa, Tito’s has been gracefully leveling up the party scenes on Baga Beach. From drinks to snacks and from dance to music, this place has everything you need for a fun vacation in Goa.

Places to Visit in South Goa in 4 Days

Candolim beach.

This beach has won the hearts of tourists for its tranquil ambience, adventure sports and other amusement options. The enchanting Candolim Beach is particularly famous for its nightlife which ensures fun and some crazy moments to remember for a lifetime. Interesting adventure sports, spellbinding scenery and a unique festivity makes Candolim Beach one of the best beaches in Goa.

Top Experiences To Do in Candolim Beach

Dudhsagar Falls and Spice Plantation Tour | Book @ 17% off

Activity Duration: 11 hours (6:00 AM to 5:00 PM)

Pick Up/Drop Off Points: Baga, Calangute, Candolim, and Panjim Bus Stand

Dudhsagar Falls (literally Sea of Milk) is a four-tiered waterfall located on the Mandovi River in the Indian state of Goa. Dudhsagar Falls is amongst India's tallest waterfalls with a height of 310 m (1017 feet) and an average width of 30 meters (100 feet). And then learn about the cultivation of herbs, tropical fruits, and spices at a local plantation.

Begin your day trip by getting picked up from the nearest landmark from Candolim, Baga, Calangute and Panjim bus stand at around 6:00 AM in a shared/ Private(min.4 pax required) transfer. Enjoy your jeep safari to Dudhsagar waterfalls and continue your experiential day with a guided spice plantation tour accompanied by Goan lunch. End your memorable day with the Old Goa Tour while returning from the Dudhsagar waterfall.

The Dudhsagar Falls jeep safari package can be made even more exciting by including the visit to the evergreen and refreshing spice farm along with its delicious and authentic Goan meal and the historical Old-Goa churches.

How to reach: Getaway on this day trip after getting picked up from the nearest landmark (within a radius of 1-1.5 KM) from Candolim, Baga, Calangute, Panjim bus stand and Mapusa at around 6:00 AM in a shared vehicle. These pickup points are easily accessible through Public & Private Transport.

Palolem Beach

Palolem Beach is probably one of the most gorgeous beaches of South Goa and generally famous among foreign tourists who flock here often. The tranquil surroundings makes an ecstatic setting for indulging in an occasional stroll or just appreciate this amazing landscape. The beach remains packed with shacks, hawkers, restaurants, and eating outlets occupying the one mile long shore in crescent shape.

Se Cathedral

Best of Alibag

Colva Beach

It is one of the most popular beaches in South Goa and attracts a lot of Indian visitors. The beach is an ideal destination to enjoy a range of activities from sunbathing, water sports to other leisure activities. Adventure freaks particularly flock here to get the adrenaline rush with adventure sports. You can find many shacks here selling street food and drinks to satiate your hunger and and its one of the best places to visit in South Goa in 1 day.

Agonda Beach

Agonda Beach in Goa is ideal for individuals searching for an energizing time in the water. The cool wind and warm summer sun help you alleviate the anxieties brought by the everyday routine. This shoreline is long and desolate, bordered with palms and casuarinas and overwhelmed by an expansive slope toward the south. In the event that you are searching for some tranquil minutes, Agonda Beach is the place to be.

Cabo De Rama Fort

This decrypted structure with towers and rustic cannons was claimed by the Portuguese monarchs. It was a well-equipped fort with 21 guns and several military barracks and a chapel but, when the Portuguese left India, the place was abandoned and, later used as the government prison. Now, the fort is housed only by the ruins but is a popular tourist place in South Goa.

Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary

This wildlife century came into existence in the year 1999 under the Wildlife Act. The Sanctuary lies on the Western Ghats in the northern part of the Panjim city. Sprawling over an area of 240 sq km, it has rich flora and fauna which attracts the tourists. One can witness bewitching scenic views at this splendid Sanctuary which is the largest protected wildlife.  Here at this sanctuary, you can come across numerous variant of animals like Pythons, Cobras, Slender Toris, Jungle Cats, Elephants, avian Birds, and many more rare species. One can even hire a jeep to explore every nook and corner of the diverse sanctuary. Location:  NH 4A, Caranzol, Goa, 403410, India Timings:  8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Entry Fee:  Rs. 20 per person for Adults                   Rs. 10 per person for Children                   Rs 30 per Still Camera                   Rs 150 per Camcorder

Top Experiences To Do in Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary

Best of Andaman and Nicobar

St Xavier’S Church

This is one of the most frequented sightseeing places in Goa famed as the prominent landmark for the Catholics. This extrusive church holds the incorrupt body of Saint Francis Xavier and, was built in the year 1605. After a few years of being built in 1622, the body of Saint Xavier was brought here and laid in a glass mausoleum. It is one of the most charming places to visit in South Goa which has showcased modern art in the gallery and, the structure exhibits a jaw-dropping baroque style of architecture. The best time to visit Bom Jesus Basilica is December, as in this month you can experience the traditions, cultures and a lot more at Christmas time. Location:  Off National Highway 4, Velha Goa, Goa 403110 Timings:  9:00 AM - 6:30 PM Entry Fee:  Free

Shantadurga Temple

“Pious Aura” this is what you will witness at this magnificent temple situated at the foot of Kavlem village in Ponda Taluka. This temple is devoted to goddess “Shantadurga” who is worshiped as the “Goddess of Peace” and, it is one of the most prominent and, large temples in entire Goa. The divine shrine was initially situated at, Cavelossim but during the demolition period of the Portuguese in the mid 15th century, the celestial being was relocated to Kavlem. The vibrant combination of the maroon, white and peach give the temple an enchanting old-charm look. Apart from these, Nayan Manohar Deepstambh is another point of attraction which is beautifully lit during the festivals and at that time, the beauty has no boundaries. Location:  Kapileswari - Kavlem Rd, Donshiwado, Ponda, Goa 403401 Timings:  5:00 AM - 10:00  PM Entry Fee: Free

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

Off the bustling Polem beach in South Goa, lies one of the major nature reserves in the state- the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary that not many tourists come to explore. Since its establishment in 1968, the sanctuary has played a key role in preserving the rich biodiversity of the stretch of moist-deciduous forests in Goa. These woods are home to a number of vulnerable species including flying squirrels, Indian pangolin, hump-nosed pit viper, mouse deer, flying lizards, panthers, hyenas, the Malabar tree toad, sloth bears, gazelles, four-horned antelopes, and avifauna. 

The wilderness of the Cotigao Sanctuary has the characteristics of a layered forest. Sky-kissing tall trees grow upto 30 meters forming a thick canopy in this forest, not allowing sunlight to reach the understory and forest floor. There are eight amazing nature trails going into the depths of the forests here in Cotigao that are open to visitors during most months, ranging from 500 meters to 5 kilometers in distance.

Beside taking safaris and trying your luck at spotting some of the unique creatures living here, there is a small nature interpretation center to visit to learn in detail about the typical flora and fauna of this forest, the specified nature trails to go hiking, interact with the aboriginal peoples- the ancient Kunbil and Velip tribes, and simply spend an enjoyable time picnicking on the banks of the sweetly rippling streams of Talpona and Galgibaga in the green shade.

There is a bunch of treetop watchtowers standing blended against the forest landscape near the watering holes in Cotigao. If wildlife sighting is the main draw for your visit here, do not miss staying on vigil from the towers during the specific hours when animals come to drink water. Early morning and late afternoon just before dusk are the best times to visit Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary. Schedule a trip accordingly!

Flora and Fauna at Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary 

Cotigao is noted for the wide range of flora and fauna these forests are home to. It was once the natural habitat of predatory big cats like leopards and tigers, the numbers of which have now decreased due to poaching and natural causes. There still remains a population of panthers and hyenas, but spotting is not common. 

Animal life in Cotigao includes Flying Squirrel, Indian Pangolin, Slender Loris, Flying Lizard, Golden-backed Gliding Snake, Sloth-bear, Hump-nosed Pit Viper, and Four-horned Antelope. Variants of interesting birdlife found in this area are the white-bellied woodpecker, Malabar Trogon, Velvet-fronted Nuthatch, the Heart-spotted Woodpecker, the Malabar Crested Eagle, and speckled Piculet.

Beside jeep safaris conducted for visitors from the forest department, there is provision for tourists to enter the jungle in their private vehicles as per convenience. In such a case, a forest guard will be accompanying you and guiding the tour in beneficial directions, like towards the tree-top perches from where the chances of sighting wildlife is more.

The dense jungles here consist mostly of moist-deciduous vegetation and partly, a forest cover of semi-evergreen trees. The trees are toweringly high, rising to 30 meters and higher with canopies that block the sunlight from reaching the forest floor. Botanical enthusiasts will be thrilled to find a range of old and ancient trees in these forests. 

Butterfly Beach

This relatively unexploited beach is becoming a buzzing North Goa places to visit. The place occupies a tiny semicircular bay on the high northern end of Palolem beach and the most astounding feature is that you can spot millions of butterflies flying over the hilltop blossoms. The golden sands against the warm blue water create postcard perfect location with palm trees and scores of butterflies.

Best of Pondicherry

Johnny Cool

This place gives a new dimension to the dining style, which is a combination of beach, exotic cuisine, and serene aura. This deadly combination can be experienced at the Johnny Cool Beach Bar which lies on the Dover Beach, famed as one of the most alluring beaches of Goa. Here, one can savor mind-blowing Caribbean delicacies with excellent ambiance accompanied by soft jazz music to make every part of your body move on the soothing beats. It is one of the most visited tourist places in South Goa with an unbelievable quality of service. Apart from these, one can even enjoy varieties of cocktails, beer and other liquors along the beachside bar. It is undoubtedly the best place to explore in southern Goa and enjoy meals in the relaxing environment coupled with striking sandy beaches. Location:  Dover Beach, Below Dover Playing Field, Dover, Barbados.

Majorda Beach

Majorda Beach in Goa attracts tourists for its idyllic and pleasant ambience. The landscape at Majorda Beach is accentuated by turquoise water, blue sky, soft sand, lush greenery and swaying palms against the golden sands which will leave you searching for words to explain your ecstasy. It doesn’t matter if you wish to have a quiet stroll, sit with a book by the beach or feel to get the adrenaline rush with water sports, Majorda Beach is a complete package.  

The great range of restaurants and stalls here will delight with lip smacking dishes prepared in Goan cuisine and you can enjoy drinks and snacks at the beach shacks. In a nutshell, the place is very tranquil and it takes voyagers to the universe of unwinding, peace and attracts a huge number of vacationers to this paradise.

Water Sports:  surfing, skiing, snorkeling, Paragliding, parasailing, banana ride, etc.

Nightlife: Martin’s Corner, Lourdes Bar, Aquamarine, Miranda, Monsoon Bar, Seashell, Blue Waves

Location : Majorda Beach, South Goa

Distance from Panaji: Majorda Beach is at a distance of 30 kilometers from Panaji.

How to reach from Panaji: Public bus transport connects Majorda Beach with the City of Panaji Buses are running frequently and you can also go via your private transportation.

Mobor Beach

Mobor Beach is vibrant with tourists and always bustling with parties and activities that go one here perpetually. The beach is beautified with natural creations with blooming lilies in ponds, sandy dunes and coconut palms which adore the landscape. This place is ideal for the individuals who need to make their vacation a more offbeat experience or just feel the light of common life in Goa.

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Goa Top Attractions

Dudhsagar Falls of Goa is a majestic waterfall where the white water gushing through the steep and vertical face of the mountain portrays a cascading effect. Standing as tall as 310 metres, it makes sure to stand in the list of tallest waterfalls in India. The cascading effect of this waterfall gives rise to the illusion of a milky white sea falling from such a great height. This is how the Falls acquired its name – Dudhsagar Falls. The four-tiered waterfall marks its presence along the Mandovi River in the Sanguem taluka (Goa). The main river of Goa – Mandovi, originating from the Deccan Plateau winds its way through the twists and turns of the Western Ghats. As soon as the river plummets through the hilly cover lying along the borders of Karnataka and Goa, it transforms into Dudhsagar Falls.The moment the water gushing out from the Falls flow towards its feet, it forms a green pool at its base. It is from here that the water of the Dudhsagar Falls starts flowing westwards to join and be a part of the mighty Arabian Sea. The entire landmark in the backdrop of the falls is covered with a vastly stretched forest cover. This is how the Dudhsagar Falls form a part of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. Embark the wildlife researching skills within you as there this sanctuary shelters a plethora of wildlife. In the past few years, the popularity of the Dudhsagar Falls has increased ten-fold as one of the most preferred weekend getaways from each of the cities of Bangalore, Mumbai, and Pune. If you’ve got a big group or a family, you surely must check-in the Dudhsagar Falls for a short family outing. 

Also called St. Catherine's Cathedral this 16th-century masterpiece took 80 long years to finish and is one of the largest churches in the world. The Cathedral attains to the west of the great square called Terreiro de Sabato and has its face turned to the east. A flight of steps approaches its beautiful courtyard.  It was consecrated in 1640 and was built to honour the triumph of the Portuguese over the Muslim rulers of the city.Owing to such a magnificent aura and the glory, Se Cathedral has been stated as a world heritage site by UNESCO. It is known as the largest church in Asia, and also has a giant bell and its elegant architecture makes it a majestic white beauty. Se Cathedral also endures the honour of being the seat of the Archdiocese of Goa. Se Cathedral is home to the historic “Golden Bell” which is famous around the world as it is the largest bell with a rich sound. When you will visit the church now you will be amused to witness the amazing construction techniques and designs used while building the church. The intricate work on wood in the interiors of the church add to its beauty as it the wonderful work of art. This place is a combination of peace and beauty, visiting this place will not only rejuvenate you but will also fill you up with positivity.Legend of Saint Catherine of Se CathedralCredits: NagarjunCatherine was a lady who was considered as a Christian Saint according to tradition, and was martyred in the early 4th century at the hands of the pagan Emperor Maxentius. It is believed that she was both a princess and a noted scholar, who became a Christian at around the age of 14 and also converted hundreds of people to Christianity, and was martyred around the age of 18. Catherine was known to be a spiritual pathfinder and raise her voice against the oppression of the Christians under the rule of Roman emperor Maxentius. She was so strong and logical with her arguments that the king himself was incapable of countering them and has a then he formed a committee of 50 philosophers to debate her ideas.However, even the assembly conceded defeat in front of her and confessed Christianity as their belief. Out of anger, the king burnt the philosophers alive and sentenced st.catherine to prison. Catherine did not give up, and she was succeeded in converting not only the jailers but also the king's wife. It is believed that she showed the path of Christianity to 200 people. Even when she was facing the worse condition of her life, she continued to stretch the word of Jesus. She was honoured with the title of"patroness of the wheel-wrights" because it is believed then when she was fastened to a spiked wheel as it was mentioned in her death sentence the wheel broke and she was left uninjured. And when she was finally beheaded, it is said that angle took her remains and laid them to rest atop Mount Sinai. When you visit the Se Cathedral, you can witness the Saint Catherine ornaments, a crown portraying her royal birth and has a book in her hands, which signifies her sound knowledge as she points a spiked wheel, which reveals her martyrdom.Se Cathedral HistoryThe Cathedral is devoted to St. Catherine of Alexandria, it is said that it was built to celebrate the victory of the Portuguese ruler Alfonso Albuquerque who destroyed the Muslim army and took ownership of the city of Goa. Consequently, it is also called St. Catherine's' Cathedral. In 1953, the Cathedral was presented with "The Golden Rose" by Venerable Pope Pius XII. It is a gold ornament, which the Popes of the Catholic Church have traditionally favoured and given as a symbol of devotion or affection.You can witness it as it is placed on the tomb of St. Francis Xavier. It was approved by Governor George Cabral to be spread in 1552 on the remains of an earlier structure. The formation of the church began in 1562. The church was completed in 1619 and was consecrated in 1640.  It is a perfect place to experience a blend of peace and tranquillity. You will be filled with positivity when you will visit this sacred place.The architecture of Se Cathedral  The architecture of Se Cathedral is awe-inspiring and elegant. The architectural style is a blend of Gothic elements and typical Portuguese style, or you can say that the architecture style of the Se Cathedral is Portuguese-Manueline. There were two different techniques that were opted to make the church. The exterior was made in Tuscan style and the interior has been built in and Corinthian style. With dimensions of 250 feet long and 181 feet wide, this church has a  delightfully decorated entrance that measures around 115 feet in height. The church is amazingly decorated, yet the style is intriguing and simple. The Cathedral has been built on an elevated base of laterite, which is covered with the thick lime plaster.You can also see the bell tower which is located on the southern side of the façade. The building of the church is rectangular on the plan but has a cruciform layout in the interior. The main altar is devoted to Catherine of Alexandria, and you can also see several old paintings on either side of it. You can also see the Chapel, which is known as the Cross of Miracles, it is believed that there was an image of Christ that was said to have appeared in 1619. 

Baga is a famous beach destination in North Goa that attracts thousands of tourists and watersports lovers to its heart. The beach shares its coastal line from the environs of Sinquerim, Candolim, and Baga, with the Baga shore being more lively and enticing. This bubbly beach is one of the best in Goa that stays awake the whole night. Called as "The Hometown of Nightlife," Baga beach is reputed for its cranky music celebrations by late-night, mouth-watering food, designer shops, and adventure sports.Tourism in Goa’s coasts got ignited by 1960 after the famous summer gathering of hippies from San Francisco. Baga beach then became popular among foreigners and slowly more exciting ventures like fishing, paddleboarding, discos, and tattoo shops started in the mainland. Named after “Baga Creek in Baga”, the tidal residuary channel that drains into the Arabian sea, Baga beach in Goa is also well organized with parking facilities and is maintained tidy by the local governing authorities, besides experiencing hordes of travelers clubbing around. Baga town is surrounded by the Baga river, and spotting the place where the river and the “sea meet, is a beautiful view to bait your eyes. Dolphins can also spotted deeper in the blue ocean and there are some spotting trips organized by local ship owners to spot the sea mammal.

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How to reach goa, best time to visit to goa, top beaches in goa, cultural experiences, adventure activities, popular eateries, travel tips, read more articles on.

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Plan a goa trip, planning a trip to goa.

Planning a vacation can be stressful, especially when you’re trying to figure out where to go and what to see. But planning a trip to Goa doesn’t need to be complicated. Here are some simple steps for making your next vacation an unforgettable experience. Start with the basics. What will you be doing when you arrive? Where will you stay? Once you’ve decided where you’re staying, you’ll need to decide what activities you want to do

Goa Tour – The Ultimate Travel Guide for Goa

You might think that a beach holiday is all about sunbathing and drinking cocktails, but there’s more to it than that. The best thing about Goa is that it’s so diverse. You can go from beachside parties to quiet getaways, from laid-back cafes to bustling markets. From the beaches to the temples, from wildlife to water sports, there’s plenty to see and do. You’ll find plenty of places to eat out too. From street food to fine dining, there’s something for every taste. And if you fancy a night out, then you’ll find bars, clubs, and live music venues galore. Whatever you choose to do, make sure you take advantage of the local culture. Goa is home to a vibrant mix of people from across India and beyond. So whether you’re looking for a relaxing break or a fun-filled adventure, Goa is the perfect destination. Goa offers everything you could possibly need. There are plenty of ways to explore Goa. All you need to do is pack your bags and book your flight. Now go and enjoy yourself.

Start planning your Goa trip today!

Choose the perfect destination. .

If you’re looking for a relaxing beach destination, then Goa is the place to be. With its beautiful beaches, laid-back vibe, and warm weather, Goa is one of the top destinations for tourists worldwide. If you’re after some serious relaxation, then head to the spa. If you’re traveling with kids, then why not take them to a theme park? If you’re looking for a little culture, then check out the local art galleries. For Fitness freaks there’s no better place to learn new skills than at a yoga retreat in Goa. And finally, if you’re looking for a bit of history, then visit the ancient monuments.

Book Accommodation.

Now that we’ve shown you how to plan a great trip to Goa, we’d like to share some tips on where to stay in Goa. You’ll need somewhere to stay while you’re there. There are plenty of hotels and resorts in Goa, so make sure you book early to avoid disappointment. The best hotels in Goa are located near the beach, so make sure you book early. You’ll find plenty of budget accommodation options, as well as luxury resorts. For those who prefer to travel with their own car, Goa offers a wide range of self-drive holidays. If you’d rather explore the city on foot, then you’ll find plenty of hostels and guesthouses. There are also plenty of boutique hotels and villas available. And lastly, if you’re looking to splurge, then you’ll find a number of five-star hotels.

Plan Your Budget.

If you’re planning a budget vacation, then you should definitely consider what you will spend money on during your trip. This includes accommodation, food, drinks, activities, transport, entertainment, shopping, etc.

Pack For The Weather.

You’ll need to pack light when traveling because you won’t be able to carry everything with you. However, you also don’t want to bring too much stuff as it will make packing more difficult.

Know When To Leave. 

If you’re planning a trip to Goa, you should leave at least two weeks before your departure date. This gives you enough time to book flights, find accommodation, and arrange visas. 

Activities & Trips

We at Goa Tours Planner Can help you search for the best Goa Tours, trips , activities, Adventure water sports , Scuba Diving , cruises , and many more. A wide range of water sports in Goa to choose from. All you need to do is search for the tour, pay small fees as an advance and get instant confirmation on your phone. So What are you waiting for Book your Goa Trip now!

More About Goa Tourism.. Goa tourism is famous for its places and beaches alike. If you are planning your trip package tour to Goa the following places should be on your list! There are many places to visit in Goa, the most famous in north Goa is the Basilica of Bom Jesus famous for the tomb of St. Francis Xavier, Mapusa, and Panjim Market famous for shopping and trading since ancient times. Our lady of Immaculate Conception Church which lies in the heart of Panjim City. The “Dil Chahta Hai Fort” or Chapora Fort, the 500-year-old Harvalem Waterfall. Calangute and Baga Queen of beaches, Anjuna and Vagator Trance and rave party beaches Miramar and Arambol are some of the top 10 places to visit in North Goa . South Goa Tourism has also flourished in recent years because of its silent locality and beaches. South goa trip packages include a trip to Dudhsagar waterfall , Margoa the capital city of South Goa, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, Vasco Da Gama the seaport and Cancona. Whereas tour to South Goa packages include, Colva the, “White Sand beach”, secluded Palolem beach, the famous Agonda beach, the magical butterfly beach and world renowned Varca beach!

Goa Traveller Tips

• If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out these awesome photos from our Goa trip!
• Don’t forget to share your own pictures with us on Whatsapp at @+91-9673992899
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• Have fun exploring the rest of our site!
• Check back often as we continue to update our list of the best things to see and do in Goa!
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• Enjoy your next adventure!
• Happy travels! See you soon! Cheers!

Which AI trip planning tool is the best? Here's how Expedia's and Booking.com's compared.

• Expedia Group's Romie and Booking.com's AI Trip Planner are AI-powered travel tools that can help travelers plan and manage their trips.
• Both tools can recommend destinations, places to stay, and things to do and even create a full itinerary for your trip.
• However, these AI travel planners are still in their early stages and can't yet be relied on completely.

This new travel adviser can help travelers plan and manage their trip – and then come with them on vacation.

Expedia Group revealed a new artificial intelligence assistant last month that users can access anytime via their phones. Named Romie, the alpha version available now via Expedia’s iOS app in the U.S., can help build itineraries, summarize travel plans discussed in group chats, warn customers of trip disruptions and more.

Jeff Miller, Distinguished Product Manager at Expedia Group, said “travel is a complicated business and part of the complexity is about orchestrating and managing all the parts of your trip.” The company previously introduced a travel planning feature powered by ChatGPT last year, but the new assistant marks an expansion of its AI capabilities.

“Romie’s job is to meet you where you are, not wait for you to come,” he said. The feature uses the same OpenAI models that power ChatGPT, but Expedia is “open to using other tech or models” as well.

Make travel easy: We tested ChatGPT itineraries in 5 US tourist spots

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Romie is the latest AI-powered travel tool , joining other travel platforms utilizing the technology to make a seamless, more customized experience for travelers. In an Oct. 2023 Booking.com survey of more than 27,000 travelers across 33 countries, 56% said they want to use AI to help inform upcoming travels.

Last summer, Booking.com launched its own AI Trip Planner, which also uses ChatGPT to help travelers find accommodations and build out personalized itineraries.

“Imagine having a conversation (with) the AI Trip Planner and being able to render or change what you see (on the Booking.com website) to match the content of your conversation,” Adrienne Enggist, Senior Director of Product at  Booking.com , told USA TODAY. “The hyper-personalization, really, can be supercharged to make your travel planning more productive, much easier.”

USA TODAY’s Nathan Diller and Kathleen Wong tested Romie’s itinerary-building capabilities against Booking.com’s AI Trip Planner to see what it’s like using AI to plan a trip to Rome from Sept. 9-12. Here’s what they found.

What is it like to use Romie?

I started by making a hotel booking on Expedia, which users need to use Romie’s itinerary-building features. iPhone users in the U.S. can opt-in to access the early version of Romie via the EG Labs section of the Expedia app, but the company does not yet have a public launch date.

I reserved a room at Suitedreams – just under $627 for three nights in September – with an “excellent” rating and over 1,000 reviews. Then I phoned a friend (or AI assistant, rather) to help with the rest. 

When I clicked through to my itinerary, Romie suggested restaurants near the hotel unprompted, with distances listed. When I clicked on one, it took me to a chat function where I could see various restaurants’ Yelp ratings, hours of operation and other info. I could peruse certain details from there, but other buttons moved me to the Yelp app.

Romie cannot complete restaurant reservations for users, but I was able to add bookings to my itinerary by telling the chatbot when I’d be eating. Miller emphasized that Romie is not “just automatically charging your credit card on your behalf.”

“We don't think that experience is quite ready yet, let’s put it that way,” he said. “But we do think that we can still guide you to be able to take action for yourselves.”

Romie also recommended “some of the best things to do” in Rome, like the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums. The chatbot was also able to suggest bookstores when I asked and give me directions to one I selected. When I requested other activities near my hotel, Romie provided several tours I could book through the Expedia app.

I did run into some hiccups when I clicked on the Colosseum option Romie listed on my itinerary page. The AI program pulled up a “B&B in Rome 2 stops from” the landmark, even though I already had a hotel. When I clicked on the listing, it took me to what looked like an external website that suggested I book it on Airbnb – a competitor to Expedia Group’s Vrbo.

When I asked whether I needed tickets for the Vatican Museums, Romie said yes, sharing a website where I could buy them. But the URL was not hyperlinked and I could not click through, nor could I copy and paste it from my phone, meaning I’d have to manually type it into my browser.

Curious to try another method of communication, I added Romie to my phone contacts to use its text message feature. Romie was similarly able to recommend coffee shops near my hotel that way, but this time, I had to tell the bot where I was staying. Unlike in the app, it did not have my booking information.

I also requested help with booking a rental car. Romie acknowledged my parameters – my travel dates and the budget I shared – and sent me an Expedia link. However, when I clicked on it, I was shown hotel listings.

At one point, I asked for a full itinerary for my three-night trip. Romie asked about my interests – I listed food, historical sites and art – and offered a detailed plan with activity and dining suggestions for the morning, afternoon and evening. I tried that separately with the in-app chat function and was given less of a true itinerary than a list of things to do.

“Launching an early version of Romie in EG Labs provides registered participants with the opportunity to test out products and share their feedback in real-time to help Expedia troubleshoot bugs prior to public launch,” Miller said.

Romie’s other features fell outside the purview of my hypothetical trip, but Miller said the tool will get to know users’ preferences over time, with “progressive intelligence” being a key principle.

“An assistant that forgets what you told it isn't very useful, especially in a complex process like travel planning that we all know takes weeks or sometimes months,” he said. “So, that notion that Romie’s learning as it goes and remembering is very important to what we think an assistant needs to do.”

Based on my test run with the current version of Romie, I’d recommend it to travelers as a starting point for generating ideas and tracking itinerary items of interest. However, given the apparent glitches in the user experience, I wouldn’t rely solely on the tool.

– Nathan Diller

How to use AI to plan a vacation: And what you should know first

What’s it like to use Booking.com’s AI Trip Planner?

Booking.com’s AI Trip Planner is only accessible via the Booking.com mobile app in English-speaking markets, including the U.S., U.K., Australia and New Zealand. Once I created an account, a pop-up screen prompted me to “start chatting” with the AI Trip Planner. The AI tool greeted me and asked how it could help my trip planning – it also warned me that it’s “still learning.”

According to Enggist, the AI language model is still in its “early discovery, early planning space.” It acts like a well-traveled friend who can provide guidance based on your answers, interests and tastes. The tool can recommend destinations, places to stay, and things to do and even create a full itinerary for your trip. 

“It’s less about generating search results and more about curating lists of things that are potentially ideal for you,” she said. 

In the future, Booking.com hopes to “extend the helper all the way through the journey,” like updating your ground transportation if your flight is delayed, Enggist said. 

I asked the AI Trip Planner to find me a hotel room in Rome for three nights in September, and it asked for specifics, like a preferred location or type of hotel. I said it would be my first time, and I didn’t know where to start. The tool responded with three hotel options, all of which are based in Rome’s city center, highly rated and cost between $264 and $602 for the stay.

While I could learn more about the hotels and read their reviews on the app, I couldn’t book directly through the AI Trip Planner. For that, I’d have to go to the hotel’s page on the app or website. I also couldn’t book a rental car through the AI Trip Planner.

I then asked the AI Trip Planner to come up with things for me to do during my trip, and it gave me eight “popular attractions and activities,” such as visiting the Colosseum and the Pantheon – typical Rome must-dos. I asked if the tool could help me get tickets to the Colosseum, and it told me that I had to visit the website for the Colosseum or a third-party vendor like Viator to do so. 

“The AI Trip Planner makes recommendations that are more niche or more hidden gems,” Enggist said. However, I found that even when I gave more specifics about what to do – like if I were a foodie – the first results were still the most popular or famous choices, which also means crowds and often overly touristy places.

When I asked for vegan restaurant recommendations, it gave me five. Although there were no links for me to learn more or how to contact the restaurants, I was able to ask for more detailed descriptions, like what I could expect from their menu and the atmosphere. 

I asked the AI Trip Planner to help me get from one of the recommended hotels to one of the suggested vegan restaurants. I was pleasantly surprised at how detailed the results were: I was told the stations and lines if I wanted to use the metro, or take a 20-minute walk “through some of Rome’s most beautiful neighborhoods.” 

Finally, I asked the AI Trip Planner to give me a three-day itinerary in Rome if I love food and am vegan. It broke down each day into the morning, lunch, afternoon and dinner, including what to do and where to eat each meal. The itinerary is a good starting point for travelers, but since it told me to visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum in the afternoon – which is peak visiting time – I’m not sure it accounts for crowds or long lines.

While I wouldn’t depend on the AI Trip Planner for my complete trip itinerary, I would certainly turn to it for help finding accommodations and initial ideas in the beginning stages of my trip planning.

If I were hoping to go on a beach vacation and had a budget in mind but no destination, this is where chatting with the AI Trip Planner would come in handy. I also liked how it helped narrow down my hotel options based on location and price, which is sometimes a challenging yet essential part of planning a vacation. Based on the vagueness of the AI Trip Planner when asked about day-to-day activities, I likely wouldn’t use the tool for restaurant recommendations or things to do since you need to leave the platform to book or get further details anyway. 

These AI travel planners are designed to personalize and simplify the travel planning process. Although they aren't yet at the stage where you can rely on them completely, only time will tell.

– Kathleen Wong

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

I've traveled 18,000 miles in an electric car. Here are the 4 things that surprised me about long-distance EV road trips.

• Gia Mora bought the Hyundai Ioniq 5, an EV with a 250-mile range, to reduce her need to fly.
• She and her partner have traveled 18,000 miles in the electric car on multiple road trips. 
• Mora was surprised by how temperature affects charging times and how often she charges at Walmart.

When I decided I would fly only once every three years for environmental reasons in 2021, my main concern was how to tackle long-distance travel.

My partner and I live in Los Angeles, but my family is in Colorado, and my adventurous other half fretted over the limitations on our holidays.

We compromised last June when we traded in our hybrid SUV for the all-electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 . With its fast-charging 350-kilowatt capacity and 250-mile range battery, the Ioniq 5 allows us to travel long distances for a third of the emissions of our hybrid. 

We paid the sticker price of $54,000, before the $7,500 federal rebate. 

Our first EV excursion to Scottsdale, Arizona, from LA was a success. We've since gone to San Diego, visited family in Colorado, and did a mountain-bike road trip through Nevada, Utah, and New Mexico, racking up over 18,000 miles. 

The Ioniq 5 also came with two years of free charging at any Electrify America charging station — the largest public-charging network in the country. 

We can charge the car at any station or at home, but we plan around Electrify America locations. We only charged somewhere else three times last year. According to the Electrify America app, it's saved us over $2,600 in fees. 

Initially, I was skeptical about owning an electric car, let alone road-tripping in one. Fears of long charging times at isolated stations or getting stranded with a dead battery are enough to stop anyone from switching to electric.

A year after purchase, I'm sold on long-range EVs.

Here are four things people should know if they're planning to travel long distances in an EV.

Plotting out charging is a breeze

Because charging stations aren't as ubiquitous as gas stations, traveling long distances in an electric vehicle requires more planning than a traditional road trip.

The Electrify America app makes finding and getting directions to chargers easy. Plus, it's compatible with Apple Maps and Hyundai's Car Play system, so we can view the route on our dashboard display.  

We arrange to fill up at an Electrify America station every 150 miles or so. The network offers 3,500 fast chargers at 800 stations in 47 states. 

We've never had trouble finding a station and never had to drive more than a mile or two off a major highway to access one.

If we are driving on a Sunday afternoon, we build extra time into our plans, because that's when charging stations are the busiest. 

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In all our travels, we've only encountered one situation when we had to wait 20 minutes for an open charger. With proper preparation, we can avoid charging during peak hours and reduce any delays to our adventures. 

It's faster to travel long distances in the summer in an EV 

EVs are the opposite of gas cars when it comes to temperature regulation. All electric cars, including the Ioniq 5, use more energy to heat than to cool.

That's why EVs experience range loss in colder weather . By our estimates, the Ioniq 5 travels about 15% fewer miles on the same charge in the cold as it does in the heat. It also drastically affects charging times. 

In moderate temperatures, with the 350-kilowatt Hyper-Fast chargers, the Ioniq 5 can go from 10% to 80% charged in under 20 minutes. But on days when the temperature falls below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, it can take as long as 30 or 35 minutes.

Because we charge so frequently, the distance we can cover in a day isn't affected by the cold, but it does mean that we have to be prepared to spend more time waiting for the car to charge.

Conversely, cooling the Ioniq 5 has very little effect on range and charge time.

Last summer in the Phoenix heat, it only took an extra minute or so to reach full charge, and it's much more comfortable to wait 20 minutes in air-conditioning than it is to spend five minutes outside in 100-degree temperatures filling up at the gas pump. 

I gained a newfound appreciation for Walmart

Walmart plays a bigger role in our road-tripping than I ever anticipated.

The vast majority of our charging stops are at one of the 280 Walmart and Sam's Club locations that host Electrify America and EVgo stations. 

I feel safe charging in Walmart's well-lit parking lots, even at night. While charging, we can use the sparkling-clean restrooms or take advantage of the store's extended operating hours to grab any necessities. 

It felt like a serious upgrade from grungy gas-station toilets and limited convenience stores typical of highway pit stops. 

Last month, Walmart announced plans to quadruple its network of chargers. Since 90% of Americans live within 10 miles of a Walmart , this expanded infrastructure could make road-tripping easier and make EV adoption accessible to more people.

More remote charging stations can be adventures in themselves

Plenty of charging stations look exactly as you'd expect, but when we ventured outside of major metropolitan areas, we discovered some unique stops. 

Green River, Utah, is home to 847 people, one Tesla Supercharger, and four Electrify America stations located beside the tiny, quirky Green River Coffee Company . A painting of the establishment's mascot — a scraggly but disarming vulture holding a steaming cup of coffee — keeps watch over the chargers which are available for use 24/7.

One night just outside of Yosemite National Park, we pulled in to charge at a small lodge. Seeking respite from the rain and a public restroom, we went into the Lucky Buck Cafe . 

The locals at the bar welcomed us and were delighted when I sat in with the live guitarist to sing a few country classics.

Road-tripping in the Ioniq 5 is enjoyable 

Despite any challenges, road-tripping along the Electrify America network in our Ioniq 5 is an enjoyable option compared to costly airline tickets and pollution. 

With more charging infrastructure on the horizon, I'm excited to see more people opting for all-electric travel plans.

Watch: Why it's so hard to recycle electric-car batteries

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