Goa, a small state on the western coast of India, is renowned for its sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. With its unique blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures, Goa offers something for every traveller. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore historic sites, or indulge in water sports, this 8-day Goa itinerary will help you make the most of your trip.
You might find my post on 20 places to visit in Goa helpful when you are planning your trip. Also, my post on the best places to visit near Goa might help.
Where Does Our Itinerary Begin?
We shall begin our 8-day Goa itinerary at North Goa. As we are starting our itinerary from this place, make sure to reach North Goa on the first day.
My 8-day Goa itinerary
Before I begin my itinerary, I would like you to know how to reach Goa.
How to Reach Goa?
You might be travelling from other states in India. Otherwise, you might also be a foreign traveller interested in exploring Goa. Thankfully, you can reach Goa by flight, train or road. Here are some details I want you to know about reaching Goa by different modes of transportation:
By Air
Thankfully, Goa is well-connected by airline services to major cities in India. Not only domestic flights but also international flights reach Goa. The Goan International Airport is located in Dabolim. This place is close to the port town of Vasco-Da-Gama. From the capital city of Goa, Panaji, this airport is located at around 30 km. If you reach by flight, you can hire a taxi to reach North Goa.
By Road
Thankfully, Goa is connected well to major towns and cities in India via the National Highways 17A, 17 and 4A. Thankfully, all highway roads are in excellent condition. So, if you travel by car, you can ride at a fairly good speed.
Not only own a vehicle, but you can bus services as well to reach Goa. From popular Indian cities like Mangalore, Bangalore, Hubli, Mumbai, Pune and Belgaum buses are operated at regular intervals. You can also catch state-owned Kadamba Transport Corporation Buses.
When you do this, the transportation costs will be less compared to private buses. You can spot the Government-run buses easily as they are painted white and blue.
In case, you are travelling by your car from Mumbai, you will travel along the Konkan Coastline. This is a scenic ride, where you will pass through small villages and towns. To add to the charm of the journey, you will come across some steep and winding ghat roads too.
By Train
Goa has two major railway stations that connect the state to other cities and states in India. They are Vasco-da-gama and Madgaon. Both these railway stations are located in the southern part of the state. However, you can reach north Goa by hiring a taxi if you reach Goa by train.
You can book your train tickets either via the IRCTC App or the website. Based on the city from which you are travelling, you can either find direct trains or you can catch connecting trains as well.
Where to Stay in North Goa?
North Goa offers a vibrant stay experience to suit various budgets and desires.
- Candolim and Calangute boast a lively scene with beach shacks, restaurants, and nightclubs.
- Baga Beach is a great choice for those seeking a party atmosphere.
- For a luxurious retreat, consider secluded resorts in Sinquerim or Vagator.
- Anjuna and Arambol offer budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels, perfect for backpackers.
Ultimately, the ideal location depends on your preferences – tranquillity, nightlife, or proximity to specific attractions. Research each area’s vibe to find your perfect North Goa haven.
Day 1 & 2: Reaching North Goa and Exploring North Goa Beaches
Day 1: Reaching North Goa
On the first day of our 8-day Goa itinerary, you will reach North Goa. The time of your arrival might differ. Based on the mode of transport you choose and based on your original city, you might reach North Goa in the afternoon or evening.
Upon arrival, check in to one of the accommodations in one of the spots mentioned above. Based on the time finish your lunch or evening snacks.
You might find my post on the best hotels in Goa helpful.
If you have arrived in the afternoon, you can rest for a few hours before taking a stroll along a shoreline close to your accommodation. Relax yourself strolling along the shoreline enjoying the cool breeze.
Before reaching back to your accommodation, have your tasty dinner overlooking the beach in a beach-front restaurant. You can find many of them. Choose the one that you feel is impressive or less crowded as you prefer.
My post on top things to do in Goa might help you.
After dinner, come back to your accommodation. Take a restful sleep so that you can gain back your energy for exploring beaches on the second day of our 8-day Goa itinerary.
If you love to explore islands, you might find my 7-day Lakshadweep itinerary and 7-Day Andaman & Nicobar Islands Itinerary posts helpful.
Day 2: Exploring Goan Beaches
On the second day, finish your complimentary breakfast, if available, in your accommodation. Otherwise, finish your breakfast in a nearby restaurant before heading to Calangute and Baga Beaches.
Morning: Calangute and Baga Beaches
- Head to Calangute Beach, known as the “Queen of Beaches.” Enjoy the lively atmosphere, sunbathe, or take a dip in the sea.
- Walk along the shoreline to Baga Beach. Try water sports like parasailing, jet-skiing, or banana boat rides.
Have lunch at one of the beach shacks serving delicious Goan cuisine.
Afternoon
After you finish your lunch, get back to your accommodation as you might need some rest. The reason is that spending hours on the beach can make you tired. So, you need at least 2 to 3 hours of rest.
Evening: Arjuna Beach and Flea Market
- Visit Anjuna Beach, famous for its picturesque rocky shore and vibrant nightlife.
- If it’s a Wednesday, explore the Anjuna Flea Market. Shop for souvenirs, clothes, and handicrafts.
Enjoy dinner at a beachside restaurant. Curlies and Shiva Valley are popular choices. So, once you finish your dinner, get back to your accommodation. Here comes the end of 2nd day of our 8-day Goa itinerary.
Would you like to spend around 11 days in West Bengal? If so, you should go through my West Bengal itinerary post.
Day 3 & 4: Old Goa and South Goa Exploration
Day 3: Old Goa Exploration
On the third day of our 8-day Goa itinerary, we will dedicate the entire day to exploring Old Goa. So, start your day with breakfast at or near your accommodation.
To travel to Old Goa from North Goa, you can choose public transportation. The distance is around 10 km. You also have the option to hire a private taxi to travel.
Morning: Religious Exploration
Old Goa is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upon arriving at Old Goa, you can visit the following religious spots:
- Explore the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.
- Visit Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia, known for its beautiful architecture.
After exploring these two places, you can engage in some snacking at a nearby food outlet.
Afternoon
- Head to the Goa State Museum in Panaji to learn about Goa’s rich history and culture.
- Drive to a spice plantation in Ponda. Take a guided tour to learn about various spices and enjoy a traditional Goan lunch.
After lunch, you can spend some time strolling in the spice plantation.
Evening: Mandovi River Cruise
Get back to Panaji after exploring the spice plantation in Ponda. Here, embark on a Mandovi River cruise. Enjoy traditional Goan music and dance performances while cruising along the river.
Have dinner at a riverside restaurant in Panaji. The Fisherman’s Wharf is a great choice for seafood lovers. After dinner, you can travel back to your accommodation for a restful sleep.
If you would like to explore places in South India, my posts on the 9-day Telangana itinerary and 10-day Tamil Nadu itinerary can help you. Even, you can try reading my post on the 10-day Andhra Pradesh itinerary.
Day 4: South Goa Exploration
Start your day as early as possible on the 4th day of the 8-day Goa itinerary. You can have a coffee or tea before starting in South Goa.
Morning: Colva Beach and Water Sports
Travel to South Goa and start your day at Colva Beach. It’s a great spot for water sports like windsurfing, snorkelling, and diving.
Relax on the pristine sands and take in the serene surroundings. You can finish your breakfast when relaxing. You can find some simple food ideal for breakfast near the beach.
Afternoon: Benaulim Beach and Lunch
Move on to Benaulim Beach, known for its tranquil environment and fewer crowds. You can spend some time watching the beauty of the beach.
Have lunch at one of the beachfront shacks. Johncy’s is a popular choice for its seafood dishes.
Evening: Sunset at Palolem Beach
Drive further south to Palolem Beach, famous for its crescent-shaped coastline and stunning sunsets.
Take a leisurely walk along the beach, enjoy a swim, or rent a kayak.
Have dinner at one of the beachside restaurants. Draupadi is well-regarded for its Goan cuisine. After finishing your dinner, you can travel back to North Goa.
If you would like to travel around Maharashtra, my post on the 10-day Maharashtra itinerary might help you.
Day 5 & 6: Dudhsagar Waterfalls and Beach Hopping
Day 5: Dudhsagar Waterfalls
We will dedicate the first half of the fifth day of our 8-day Goa itinerary to spending some quality time at the Dudhsagar Waterfalls.
In the morning, finish your breakfast at a restaurant and travel to Dudhsagar Waterfalls. It will take around 2-3 hours to reach the falls. My post on how to reach Dudhsagar waterfalls might help you.
Afternoon: Dudhsagar Waterfalls
After reaching Dudhsagar, hire a jeep from the base camp to reach the falls. Enjoy the breathtaking views and take a refreshing dip in the pool at the base.
After a refreshing bath at the falls, you can choose to dine at one of the best restaurants in Dudhsagar. Thankfully, my post on the best Dudhsagar hotels can help you choose the best.
On your way back, visit another spice plantation in the region. You can skip this if you do not have time.
Get back to your accommodation in North Goa. You can relax for a few hours. Before dinner time, you can stroll along the streets of North Goa. Have your dinner and get back to your accommodation.
Know about the 14 best restaurants in Goa for the best dining experience. Also, read my post on 8-day Rajasthan itinerary.
Day 6: Dolphin Watching
On the 6th day of the 8-day Goa itinerary, take an early morning dolphin-watching tour from Palolem or Candolim Beach.
Spot playful dolphins in their natural habitat and enjoy the scenic boat ride.
After spending some time here, you can have your refreshing breakfast.
Late Morning: Agonda and Galgibaga Beaches
- Head to Agonda Beach, a serene and less crowded beach perfect for relaxation.
- Move on to Galgibaga Beach, known for its pristine environment and turtle nesting sites.
After spending time with your family playing on these beaches, you can finish your lunch in a beach-front restaurant. Relax for a few hours watching the beach before heading to Patnem Beach in the evening.
Evening: Patnem Beach
- End your day at Patnem Beach, a small and peaceful beach near Palolem.
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at one of the beach shacks. Sea Front Beach Huts is a great option for a laid-back dining experience. Travel back to your north Goa accommodation for a restful sleep.
Go through my post on the 11-day Madhya Pradesh itinerary.
Day 7 & 8: Exploring Panaji, Dona Paula and Departure
Day 7: Exploring Panaji
On day 7 of this 8-day Goa itinerary, let us head to Panaji after breakfast. Panaji is the capital city of Goa. When you are in Panaji, do the following:
- Explore the Latin Quarter of Fontainhas. This place is popular for its vibrant houses built in Portuguese style.
- Visit the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, a beautiful Baroque-style church in the heart of the city.
After you explore these two places, you can head to Dona Paula.
Afternoon: Dona Paula
- Head to Dona Paula, a famous viewpoint offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
- Visit the Dona Paula Jetty and learn about the local legend associated with the place.
- Have lunch at one of the seaside restaurants. Bar & Grill at the Dona Paula is a popular choice.
Evening: Miramar Beach and Casino Night
- Spend the evening at Miramar Beach, located near Panaji.
- For a unique experience, visit one of Goa’s famous casinos. Deltin Royale and Casino Pride are two of the most popular ones.
- Enjoy a casino night of entertainment, gaming, and dining.
After spending a few hours in the casino, you can get back to your North Goa accommodation.
Do not forget to check out my post on 9-day Punjab itinerary.
Day 8: Departure
The previous day of the 8-day Goa itinerary was fully packed. So, you can start late on the final day of this itinerary. You can start based on your flight or train time to your home.
Accordingly, check out your accommodation in North Goa and travel to the airport or railway station. You will indeed, carry a lot of memories when you depart from Goa.