3-Day Itinerary for Goa – A Perfect Plan for Sightseeing

With so much to do and things to see, even a few months may seem less to explore this beautiful state. But if you can't afford a long holiday, it is advisable to choose a Goa itinerary for 3 days.

For a good reason, Goa is one of India's most popular tourist destinations. Sandwiched between Maharashtra and Kerala, Goa is a tiny coastal state known for its pristine beaches and many party places. Unsurprisingly, the state has earned the moniker, 'party capital of India.' 

But the beaches and the eccentric nightlife are not the only attractions in Goa. From exploring the magnificent churches, historic fort ruins, ancient temples, pretty Portuguese villages, exciting water sports, gushing waterfalls, and flea markets, many more experiences await you in this beach paradise. 

Here is a perfect 3-day Goa itinerary to help you explore the best holiday experience in both north and south Goa. So, without any further ado, let's get started. 

Day 1: 3-day Goa itinerary

As you have only a limited time in Goa, you probably wouldn't want to waste even a single second to delve right into the amazing vibe of Goa, right? So, as you arrive in the morning in Goa, head straight to your hotel, drop off your luggage, and enjoy a delicious Goa-style breakfast. 

Next, rent a scooter and head out to explore the stunning beaches in North Goa. You can go to:

• Baga Beach – It is among the most popular beaches in the state. It is best known for offering a range of water sports like paragliding, jet skiing, and scuba diving.
• Calangute Beach – Another famous beach in north Goa, Calangute Beach is an ideal place to swim in the sea, sunbathe and just relax on the sand while enjoying the stunning view of the sea and the cool breeze.
• Anjuna Beach – When you talk about places to visit in Goa in 3 days, you cannot miss seeing Anjuna Beach. It is one of the most happening beaches with a laid-back vibe. It is also a wonderful place to enjoy an Ayurvedic massage and get temporary tattoos. 

If you visit the beach on a Wednesday, don’t miss exploring the popular Anjuna flea market to buy souvenirs like artificial jewellery, home décor items and beach clothes.  

After visiting the beach and indulging the water baby in you, you may have worked up an appetite. Walk into one of the many beach-side shacks and enjoy a wonderful lunch. Most of these restaurants have plenty of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, and you will surely get something to suit your palate. But, if you eat non-veg food, try the seafood delicacies for an authentic Goan culinary experience. 

After lunch, relax before heading to one of the most iconic spots, the Chapora Fort. It is one of the best places to visit in Goa, especially if you are a Bollywood buff. It is the spot where the Bollywood blockbuster, 'Dil Chahta Hai’ was shot. You can recreate the iconic pose at the fort with your friends. 

The fort is located right next to Vagator Beach and offers a panoramic sea view and lush greenery. Also, don't miss out on the mesmerising view of the sunset. It is a spectacle that will swoon your senses! 

After sunset, north Goa comes alive, and you can experience the undying party spirit of Goa by visiting one of the pubs, letting your hair loose, dancing to popular numbers till your feet hurt, and making merry all night. If you prefer a silent evening, head to the Vagator beach and unwind under the starlit sky. 

Day 2: 3-day Goa itinerary

As mentioned earlier, a Goa trip plan for 3 days need not be about exploring the beaches and partying. After hitting the beaches and pubs on day 1, today, gear up to enjoy a completely different side of Goa that speaks volumes of its rich cultural and architectural heritage. 

So, start your day 2 with a quick breakfast at the hotel, followed by a long yet joyful ride to old Goa. Once the Portuguese capital during the colonial era, this side of the town takes you back in time, and the many colonial-era buildings will make you feel like time has stopped here. 

You can click beautiful pictures of these magnificent edifices; it will be one for your collection and travel diaries. After exploring the old Goa, you can continue your journey to Panaji, the capital of Goa. Explore the colourful and bright Goan houses built in the Portuguese style and the cobblestone streets. Panaji is a wonderful place to explore and get the true feel of what Goa is all about. 

Along the way, you can stop to glimpse popular landmarks like the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Fontainhas Latin Quarter, etc, and click some pictures with these monuments in the background. 

Enjoy your lunch in Panaji at one of the local restaurants and get a taste of Goan delights and some local beverages like cashews or coconut Feni. In the evening, it is time for some relaxation and fun, and what better way to do that than going on a cruise tour over the azure waters of Mandovi River? 

Make sure you put this boat ride right at the top of your 3-day itinerary to Goa as one of the must-have experiences. The ride is usually about 60-90 minutes long. As you set sail, the cruise operators have traditional dance performances on board. Music and dance all through make it a great way to spend quality time with your friends or family. 

After you return to the shore, you can either call it a night and head back to the hotel to unwind, or you can keep the fun going and walk into one of the boat casinos to try your luck at gambling. 

Day 3: 3-day Goa itinerary

If you think your first days in Goa, planned for 3 days, were fun and exciting, you have yet to have half the experience. As today is your last day in Goa, you would want to make it memorable and end your trip on a high note, right? 

Start your day early and set out on a ride to South Goa. It is sure to show a completely different side compared to north Goa. The beaches here are quieter and cleaner. Also, you may have realised that there is no shortage of things to do in Goa, so it would be nice to spend the last day just lazing around and staying away from the hustle and bustle. 

Explore famous beaches like Palolem Beach, Agonda Beach, Colva Beach and Cabo De Rama Beach. You can also visit the famous and one of the best places to visit in Goa, the Shantadurga Temple, which has a rich history and is one of the most sacred places in the state for the Hindu communities.

Spend as much time as you want on the beaches of south Goa, soaking in all the peaceful vibe and rejuvenating, before heading back to the airport with a bag full of memories for your flight home.