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Are you someone who is always planning a trip to Goa for a ridiculously long time and has never crossed the threshold of creating a Whatsapp group? Do you constantly save all the reels and posts about places to visit Goa and never execute them? Do you want a break from all the mundane life happenings and look at life from a different perspective? Or are you someone who is just jealous of your friends’ Instagram stories and posts bragging about their vacation to Goa? If any of this is you, I’m your genie. Stay with me till the end to get your Goa itinerary for 5 days. Trust me; you will not regret this time spent.
How To Reach Goa
Goa is a western Indian state with coastlines along the Arabian Sea. Goa has a long history as a Portuguese colony, with its vibrant culture still seen in every little aspect of its daily life. Being a central tourist attraction, Goa’s travel connections are universal. Here comes your Goa trip plan for 5 days.
By Flight:
You can avail of regular flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Kochi. The fastest flight is from Mumbai, which takes up an hour approximately.
By Train:
The 760 km long Konkan railway stretches from Mumbai to the North and Mangalore to the South. You can reach Madgaon or Vasco da Gama railway stations in Goa, and there are trains to Goa from major metro cities and towns.
By Bus:
Goa also has bus connectivity from cities like Chennai, Pune, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc. The dropping points are usually Panjim, Mapusa, and Madgaon.
By Road:
Goa Road has been long on our bucket list as Spotify says, “You, the roads, and the music” Ah! What better combination could there be? Plan with our perfect Goa tour itinerary for 5 days for a blissful journey.
Highlights on Goa Itinerary for 5 Days
- Your Local Tropical Paradise:
Enter Goa’s fresh flora and fauna with a blooming heart. If you are in India and have not explored the local Maldives of India, you are missing out!
2. Portuguese Architecture and Culture:
If you are an old soul inside and always want to try something new, Goa is the answer. Explore the ancient cultural traces of the Portuguese.
3. An Extravagant Party Culture:
Undeniably, North Goa has a happening party culture, and you will love it. In your Goa trip for 5 days, don’t miss out on this.
4. Meet People From Different Parts of the World:
Goa is where you can find a pool of people with different attitudes, traits, and cultures from all over the world.
5. Come out as a Different Person:
In the end, when you talk with different people, try their local cuisine, wear the local clothes and try the local language – everything changes you as a person.
Goa Itinerary for 5 Days
Let’s explore together your Goa itinerary for 4 nights 5 days and make the best out of it.
Day 1
The beach trail of North Goa: Ashwem-Vagator-Anjuna
Today is your dream being realised on all the beach walks. Some of the top things to do and notable places here are:
1. Ashwem Beach
One of the beautiful beaches of North Goa with spectacular views and palm trees giving you shade.
2. Sweetwater Lake
The Sweet Water Lake is a fresh-water lagoon from within the Goan jungle and is surrounded by hills of greenery.
3. Ozran Beach
Along with the famous sunset views, the rocky terrain of Ozran Beach lets visitors enjoy adventure bike rides.
4. Our Lady of Piety
Our Lady of Piety stands at the bottom of a small forested hill on Divar Island. The first Christian structure dates from the early 18th century.
5. Parra Road
Parra Road, also famous as Dear Zindagi Road, is lined with palm trees and overlooks fields on both sides.
6. Chapora Fort
Built on the rise of the Chapora river by a Muslim ruler Adil Shah. See the beauty of the deep blue ocean from the fort.
7. Anjuna Flea Market
Anjuna Flea Market on Wednesday is a treasure trove of souvenirs, handicrafts, hippie clothing, bags, footwear and much more.
8. Morjim (Little Russia)
Morjim, known as “Little Russia” because of the population of Russian immigrants, is home to many birds and is a nesting site for Olive Ridley sea turtles.
Recommended Hotels To Stay At Anjuna:
Booking.comDay 2
West Coast of Goa: Baga-Calangute-Candolim
The best places to visit in this beachside of Goa are:
1. Baga Beach
Baga Beach is where you find everything. Be it water sports, clubs, casinos, cafes, or anything you want in a breezy beach-style vacation.
2. Church of Our Lady of Hope
It is located in the foothills of Goa near the Nerul River. See the beauty of a Neo-Roman-style built church.
3. Tibetan Market
Purchase gifts from the local Tibetan market for all your friends and family. A wide variety of collections from market vendors.
4. Snow Park
A fun-filled experience in the snow park. Enjoy sledging, climbing an ice wall, building a snowman, have a snowball fight with friends and family.
5. St. Alex Church
St. Alex church has marvellous architecture and design. It is the only church in the whole of Goa which has the Indian style of architecture.
6. Calangute Beach
Calangute attract tourists from all parts of India to experience the water sports like parasailing, water surfing, banana riding and jet-skiing
7. Grand Island
During the Grand Island tour, spot dolphins and experience exciting water sports like snorkelling, where you explore the exotic underwater life.
8. Aguada Fort
This ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) protected monument is a well-preserved seventeenth-century Portuguese fort, along with a lighthouse, standing in Goa overlooking the Arabian Sea.
Recommended Hotels To Stay At Candolim:
- Novotel Goa
- Hyatt Centric Candolim
- Seashell Suites and Villas
- Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa
- Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa
Day 3
Panaji: The Paradise
Being the state capital of Goa, it is one of the most beautiful and calming places in South Goa. If you want to be with yourself, this is the place. Some of the things to do in Panaji are:
1. Mandovi River Cruise
The Mandovi River Cruise starts from the Santa Monica boat jetty at a 1km distance from the Panaji bus terminus. It would be a forever memory cherished by you with the beauty of sunsets and rivers and being one with nature.
2. Fontainhas
Fontainhas is where you get to experience authentic Portuguese architecture in the quiet part of the city.
3. Divar Island
It is based in the Mandovi River of old Goa. You might have seen the ancient Goa islands in various movies with their rich, dense plants and bushes.
4. Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Named after the famous Indian ornithologist, some exotic birds and an array of birds can be spotted here in this small wildlife sanctuary. It is one of the biggest in India.
5. Chorao Island
It is one of the 17 islands in Goa and shows the real countryside of Goa, with a nature trail with all its greenery. Feni making process and boating are some exciting things to do there.
6. Basilica of Bom Jesus
The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a Roman Catholic basilica known for its exemplary baroque architecture. It is a pilgrimage centre and the most iconic monument of Goa.
7. Miramar Beach
Miramar Beach is famous for its palm trees and soft golden sand. Locals and foreigners believe that the sand looks brighter in the moonlight.
8. Big Daddy Casino
The Big Daddy Casino is a live-spirited floating casino located offshore, on the breathtaking view of Mandovi River. Try your luck here!
Recommended Hotels To Stay At Panaji:
Booking.comDay 4
The Start of South Goa Tour: Vasco-Colva-Benaulim
1. Mormugao Fort
This is one of the popular tourist attractions in South Goa. It is a 17th-century fort built by the Portuguese on the outlook of Varca Beach with the scenic beauty of the Arabian Sea.
2. Japanese Garden
This is a perfect place for kids. It is a quiet and secluded small garden away from mainstream Goa.
3. Monkey Beach
It is based on the Mormugao taluk of Vasco. You can try water sports and adventure activities there.
4. Colva Beach
Colva Beach is again one of the famous beaches of Goa, which is easily accessible. This beach is known for its food, bars, pubs and serene atmosphere.
5. Indian Naval Aviation Museum
The Naval Aviation Museum is a military aviation museum focused on the history of the Indian Naval Air Arm. The museum is divided into two parts, an outdoor exhibit and a two-storey indoor gallery.
6. Our Lady of Merces Church
Our Lady of Merces Church was built in a cruciform style with a front wall resembling the Gothic style of church architecture.
7. Twin Waterfall
Twin waterfall is a pair of waterfalls falling down a cliff into a natural swimming pool. This is a hidden gem and hence less crowded.
8. Holy Trinity Church
The evidence of the Chapel of the Holy Trinity dates back to 1750. On March 1992, it raised to the status of a parish church of Holy Trinity.
Recommended Hotels To Stay At Benaulim
- La Grace Resort
- Fairfield by Marriott
- Azaya Beach Resort
- Palm Grove Cottages
- Pele’s Windsong Wood Cottage On The Beach
Day 5
The Last Day of South Goa Tour: Agonda-Palolem
Your perfect Goa itinerary for 5 days ends with this. Some of the must-visit places are:
1. Agonda Beach
Located in Canacona in the South Goa district, it is one of the four beaches designated as turtle nesting sites. Unlike other beaches, it is a 3km long beach with scenic beauty and a peaceful atmosphere.
2. Chapoli Dam
The perfect place for meditating, relaxing and spending a peaceful time with nature. It is an excellent eco-tourist spot where you can hear bird chirps.
3. Butterfly Beach
The hidden gem of Goa is famously called the honeymoon beach. Butterfly Beach is a coral stretch of fresh flora and fauna with breathtaking beauty.
4. Leopard Valley
Leopard Valley is a unique party place in Goa where you can enjoy meals and many activities in the club, decorated with impressive settings, laser lights, and fire pits.
5. Conco Island
Conco Island, also famous as monkey island, is enveloped with thick green forests and several shy monkeys who hide from visitors amid the woods.
6. Cabo de Rama
Cabo de Rama Cliff is the most beautiful place in south Goa to witness the sunset. It is the place that connects the sky, sea and land.
7. Palolem Beach
Palolem Beach is known for its calm waters and silent discos. Visitors can experience kayaking here amidst a beautiful panorama.
8. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
Gem for wildlife buffs, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a plethora of flora and fauna. It is the second-largest wildlife reserve in Goa.
Recommended Hotels To Stay At Palolem
Booking.comFinal Thoughts
I hope you liked my Goa itinerary for 5 days, and it would feel hardly like a day after the amazing adventures you will have in Goa. This beach destination makes your heart crave it more as if you belong there. Say Goodbye, until next time!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are 5 days enough for Goa?
Yes, 5 days of fun-filled adventures and authentic Goan culture will make you feel fulfilled. 5 days or 10 days, it is not about the time but how much you enjoy your moments there.
Where in Goa should I stay?
If you are a solo traveller, hostels are the best. Goa has some of the best staycation places if you travel with your family or friends. Goa also has luxury villas, spas and resorts for a memorable stay.
Which month is best for Goa?
It is always best to visit Goa in the off-season during February and March. But from November to February, Goa is at its peak tourist attraction.
How do I plan an itinerary in Goa?
Before planning an itinerary, be sure which side of Goa you want to visit. Is it the party side of North Goa or the peaceful side of South Goa? Goa has everything you are looking for. Based on that, plan your trip with places in your interest.
How many days are sufficient in Goa?
To experience the entirety of Goa with all its beaches, festivals, authentic culture, Goan cuisine, famous places, cafes, water sports, adventure activities and museums – you will need a minimum of 2-3 weeks. Who knows, you wouldn’t feel like leaving even after that incredible trip.
