Introduction: 3 Days in Goa? Let’s Make It Unforgettable
Planning a trip to Goa and have just three days? Worry not—you can still soak in the essence of this tropical haven without having to rush through it. With the perfect itinerary, you can sunbathe, sample the authentic Goan cuisine, visit historical sites, get partying under the stars, and hide away in quiet little corners—all within 72 hours.
This 3-day itinerary is carefully curated for first-time and returning travelers alike who want to make the most of their limited time in Goa. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this guide covers everything from beaches and forts to markets and hidden gems.
Day 1: North Goa – Culture, Coastline, and Nightlife
Morning: Arrival and Breakfast at a Beach Shack
- Arriving at Goa’s Dabolim Airport or Thivim Station? Catch a taxi and proceed to your North Goa hotel—Calangute or Candolim make excellent base points.
- Get refreshed and begin your morning with breakfast at a beachside café such as Infantaria or Cafe Chocolatti.
Recommended Dish: Goan Poi with omelet and black coffee.
Mid-Morning: Fort Aguada – History with a View
Start your day with a stroll along Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort atop the Arabian Sea. Walk along the old lighthouse, stone walls, and ocean vistas.
Entry: Free
Time to Spend: 1–1.5 hours
Late Morning: SinQ or Candolim Beach Walk
Drive to Candolim Beach, only 10 minutes away. It’s less crowded than Baga and ideal for your initial beach swim. Take a relaxing walk, spot some seashells, or have a coconut water drink.
Lunch: Goan Thali at Mum’s Kitchen (Panaji)
It’s time to drive to Panaji for lunch at Mum’s Kitchen, an authentic Goan eatery. Have their Seafood Thali or attempt Prawn Balchão with rice.
Cost for two: ₹1000–₹1200
Tip: Their traditional kokum drink is a must-try.
Afternoon: Fontainhas – The Latin Quarter
Experience a piece of Portuguese heritage at Fontainhas. Stroll down streets lined with brightly colored houses, ceramic name plates, and heritage art.
- Explore Mario Miranda’s Gallery
- Take a pause at Panaji Inn to indulge in traditional sweets
- Get Insta-perfect photos at Rua de Ourem
Evening: Sunset at Chapora Fort
Drive 40 minutes to Chapora Fort—trendy from the movie “Dil Chahta Hai.” The sunsets at the hilltop over Vagator Beach are pure magic.
Time to Spend: 1 hour
Travel Tip: Put on comfortable footwear—the path is slightly uphill.
Night: Dinner & Party at Baga or Anjuna
Feed and party to round off your day.
- Dinner Option: Thalassa in Siolim for sunset flavors of Greece.
- Party Places: Tito’s Lane, Club Cabana, or Curlies at Anjuna Beach.
Don’t Forget: Book your ride back in advance; taxis might run low late at night.
Day 2: Adventure, Markets, and South Goa Serenity
Early Morning: Water Sports at Baga or Calangute
Begin the day bright and early with a shot of adrenaline.
Activities Available:
- Parasailing
- Jet skiing
- Banana boat rides
- Bumper ride
Cost Range: ₹500–₹2000 per activity
Time Required: 1.5 to 2 hours
Mid-Morning: Anjuna Flea Market or Mapusa Market
If you’re visiting on a Wednesday, Anjuna Flea Market is a must. Otherwise, Mapusa Market (open daily except Sunday) offers everything from spices and textiles to Goan sausages.
What to Buy:
- Local spices
- Handicrafts
- Coconut oil soaps
- Beachwear
Lunch: Lazy Brunch at Vinayak Family Restaurant (Assagao)
A hidden gem serving authentic Goan cuisine. Try the fish thali or pork sorpotel with poi bread.
Budget-Friendly: Lunches below ₹500
Ambience: Local, laid-back Goan homestyle
Afternoon: Drive to South Goa – Palolem Bound
After lunch, head via cab or hired bike/car to South Goa (2-3 hours depending on traffic). En route, halt at:
- Colva Beach for a quick snack
- Breathtaking drives through Betul or Varca villages
Evening: Sunset Kayaking at Palolem or Butterfly Beach
South Goa provides calm. Opt for either:
- Palolem Beach: Crescent in shape, ideal for dolphin-watching and kayaking
- Butterfly Beach: Boat-accessible from Palolem, off the beaten path, and enchanting
Activity: Kayak rent or take a local fisherman’s boat on rent
Ideal Time: 4:30 PM to sunset
Night: Candlelight Dinner on the Beach
Finish your day with a peaceful dinner at a beach shack like Magic Italy or Art Resort Café. Fresh seafood, sand under your feet, and live acoustic music—it’s an experience you won’t forget.
Day 3: Nature, Heritage, and Spiritual Calm
Early Morning: Visit Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple
- One of Goa’s oldest temples, Tambdi Surla is nestled deep within the forests of the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary. A must-visit for culture enthusiasts.
How to Reach: Book a cab from Palolem or Panaji (earliest start possible!)
Nearby: Tambdi Waterfall (30-minute hike)
What to Expect: Dense forest, peaceful atmosphere, and black stone temple carvings
Mid-Morning: Spice Plantation Tour in Ponda
Following the visit to the temple, proceed to Sahakari Spice Farm or Pascoal Farm in Ponda.
Experience Includes:
- Guided spice field walk
- Cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, and others: learning about them
- Goan traditional lunch on banana leaves
Entry: ₹400–₹600 per person
Time Required: 2 hours
Lunch: Authentic Goan Village Food in Farm Itself
The spice farms typically provide traditional buffet lunch with offerings such as:
- Chicken Xacuti
- Vegetable Tonak
- Goan Red Rice
- Solkadhi
Afternoon: Dona Paula and Miramar Beach
On your way back to Panaji or North Goa, visit:
- Dona Paula Viewpoint – Breathtaking sea views
- Miramar Beach – Urban beach with golden soft sand
Best for: A peaceful afternoon stroll before you leave
Sunset: Sunset Cruise on Mandovi River
Book a 1-hour sunset river cruise from the Panaji jetty. Savor Goan folk shows, liquor, and sunset views as the sun sets over the river.
Time: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Price: ₹400–₹600 per head
Tip: Reserve tickets beforehand in peak season
Dinner: Café Bodega or Ritz Classic (Panaji)
Café Bodega: For a relaxed European-style courtyard dinner
Ritz Classic: Renowned for Goan fish curry rice and seafood platter
Optional Nightcap: Live Music at Joseph Bar (Fontainhas)
If overnight stay, go to Joseph Bar in Panaji for cold beer, vintage music, and laid-back atmosphere.
Where to Stay in Goa for This Itinerary
Day 1 Stay (North Goa):
- Mid-Range: FabHotel Prime Sarala Crown (Calangute)
- Luxury: Hyatt Centric Candolim
Day 2 & 3 Stay (South Goa):
- Budget-Friendly: Palolem Beach Resort
- Luxury: The Leela Goa or Agonda Serenity Resort
Travel Tips to Maximize Your 3 Days in Goa
- Rent a bike or self-drive car to save time and roam around easily.
- Pack sunscreen, a cap, and light cottons—Its is hot throughout the year.
- Book water activities and sunset cruises in advance, especially in season (Nov–Feb).
- Respect local customs when visiting temples and villages.
- Avoid overpacking your itinerary—Its is best enjoyed slowly.
Conclusion: Your 3-Day Goa Dream Is Possible
A short trip to Goa doesn’t mean a half-hearted experience. With this well-balanced 3-day itinerary, you’ll enjoy everything that makes Goa special—its beaches, its food, its culture, and its timeless charm.
So whether you’re a first-time explorer or a returning traveler, this guide ensures you’ll leave with sun-kissed memories, stories to tell, and a strong desire to come back for more.