3 Day Goa Vacation | Best Itinerary for A Holiday in Goa

Goa, the most happening state in India, was earlier a small union territory in India. Also referred to as the budget version of Thailand, Goa has plenty to offer. Though primarily known for its vast beaches and night long parties, it also offers plenty of other attractions. These attactions should definitely be part of your 3 day goa vacation itinerary

3 day goa vacation sinquerim beach — Sinquerim Beach

Things to know before you head to Goa

No Uber & Ola : Goa taxi association has strongly objected to Uber, Ola etc in the state. So you are basically forced to hire expensive cabs or taxis that never charge by a meter.

The North & South Split : Goa is primarily divided into South and North Goa. North Goa is where all the action happens (parties/beaches/water sports), while South Goa still remains to be a calm, serene place

To & Fro Airport/ Railway Station : The airport is located in Vasco Da Gama,roughly 35 KMs from North goa. The Madgaon station is in Margao (45Kms to North goa). Average cab fare from Airport to any hotel in North Goa would be around 700-1000 (~35KMs) . Hence always preferable to choose hotels that offers free pickup from airport or railway stations

Season Time : The most critical thing is to decide when is the right time to vacation in Goa. Most ideal months will be Oct-March. May to September are considered off season. Goa has extreme summer heat in May-June and heavy rainfall from June to Sep. Both these conditions will make you to not to step out of the hotel. Roads can be tricky during rainy seasons and therefore beaches and sports are no longer viable

Choosing Hotels : It’s advisable to choose some resorts in North Goa with a decent pool, some activities. In case its out of budget, choose hotels in Candolim/Calangute/Baga/Anjuna.

Transportation : Bike & Car Rentals

Though Goa doesn’t have app enabled cabs, you can find plenty of bike , car rentals in every street corner . By just producing a original ID Card, you can easily rent a Pulsar or Yamaha FZ or Honda Activa (Scooter) or even a Royal Enfield. In cars, you get options like Maruti 800, Santro and even open air Jeeps.

Cost of Bike rentals vary from 400-600 on normal days and go to 750-1500 during peak seasons ( especially during Christmas and New Year).Car Rentals can range from 600-2000 a day (Based on how well you negotiate). Though difference between bike and car is not much , its advisable to opt for a bike . This is because most roads are very narrow and easy to manage.

3 Day Goa Vacation Itinerary

Day 1 : Check-in/Swim/ Stroll in Nearby Beach

Arrive at hotel . Post checkin, go to the nearby bike rental shop and get your ride ready. Visit a good nearby hotel for lunch for a nice Goan delicacy. Chill out in your resort/hotel and relax at your swimming pool or even visit a nearby beach . You can visit any of these beaches towards evening: Calangute / Candolim / Anjuna / Morjim. You can have a nice candelight dinner , shake a leg and even avail the hookah services in the beaches itself.

3 day goa vacation candolim beach — Candolim Beach

In case if it falls on a wednesday or Saturday, don’t forget to visit the Flea markets for some shopping. You can easily get some rare antiques, collectibles, Goan food, accessories among other things.

Goa Flea Market Details

Saturday (Night only) : Arport Flea Market ( the best).
Wednesday : Anjuna Flea Market

Day 2 : Water Sports at Sinquerim Beach

Post breakfast, it’s an ideal time to get into some nice watersports. These include Parasailing, JetSki, Banana Boat ride etc. Though several beaches offer water sports, the popular beaches including Baga may be a tad bit expensive compared to others. In my opinion, the water sports at Sinquerim beach was affordable, has fixed rate tariff cards and a great experience. The beach is slightly less crowded compared to others as well.

3 day goa vacation sinquerim beach water sports — Sinquerim Beach

You can have lunch at a nearby restaurant and explore the Fort Aguada & the adjoining Lighthouse. This should take you a couple of hours. Head over to hotel for some much needed rest.

Day 2 : Evening: Party at Baga/ Titos Club

Day 2 of your 3 day Goa Vacation should definitely include some partying. The famous Baga beach is a happening place and an ideal time is around 4-5PM. The world famous Tito’s club is right across the alley. If you’re in the mood for some partying, this is the best place you can be.

Day 3 : Morning – South Goa

The final day of your 3 Day Goa vacation can be spent on a short tour to South Goa. Though its just an hour’s drive from North Goa, South Goa is almost like a quaint little peaceful town. Once you reach here, visit the nearby beach and see the statues at Dona Paula. Have lunch at Kamat Hotel for an excellent South Indian Thali.

You can also visit the famous St.Basilica Church and this is where the body of St.Xavier is located and kept on display once every 10 years.

Day 3 Evening : Dinner Cruise/ Local Shopping

For some cruise/gambling lovers, you can go for a small round of cards and gambling at the famous Deltin Royale ship. Do check their website for entry fees, cover charges. Else, visit the local markets in North goa .

Purchase some good quality cashews(at very low prices) in different flavors, some goan artefacts and chill out at the other beaches. A lot of beaches have small dance floors with dinner area, which can be a good time pass for the evening.