The Skyscanner guide to Goa: the Pearl of the Orient
Beaches, vibrant culture, a laid-back vibe.
Beaches, vibrant culture, a laid-back vibe. The “Pearl of the Orient” is the perfect place to feed your soul. We’re talking pure paradise on Indian shores. Vacation in Goa and experience nightlife, traditional local food, rich history and a blend of Indian and Portuguese influences. Time to dive in and discover the best of Goa.
Destination routes and airlines
Fly into Goa and you’ll land at either Goa International Airport at Dabolim in Marmagao or the newly opened Manohar International Airport in MOPA, North Goa. You’ll find flights here from major Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and more.
You can hop on a fight from all the major airlines in India too – Indigo, Air India, Vistara, AirAsia India all operate frequent flights to both airports.
Check out the latest flights below:
Goa Dabolim Airport
Goa Manohar Airport
Airlines operating direct flights into Goa include:
IndiGo
Flights from Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore
Air India
Flights from Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Bangalore
Vistara
Flights from Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore
AirAsia India
Flights from Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Jaipur
Travel insurance
Yes, you’re travelling within India, and whilst that means no visas, it doesn’t mean you can ignore travel insurance.
Pick up comprehensive travel insurance from a reputable insurance partner for peace of mind. You’ll be covered for medical emergencies, trip cancellations or delays, lost luggage, or any other unforeseen travel mishaps.
For an easy life, head to PolicyBazaar.com. Just enter all your details and search the best travel insurance. You’ll find all the major insurance providers like HDFC Ergo, ICICI Lombard, Bajaj Allianz or TATA AIG. You’ll get the best rates too.
Review the coverage options thoroughly, and select the one that best suits your needs.
Getting into Goa from the Airport
Land in Goa at either Dabolim or Manohar airport, and you’ll have plenty of options to get to your hotel.
- Book a prepaid taxi from either of the Goa airports. There’s no need to book – simply find the pre-paid both as you leave the terminal, tell them your destination, pay and head outside to find your taxi. A taxi to Panaji city centre from Dabolim costs around ₹2600 and takes around 40 minutes. Expect to pay around ₹1200 to 1500 from Manohar to Baga Beach.
- Book a cab via Uber or OLA – although not always available in and around Goa, you should be able to pick up an Uber from either airport.
- Rent a self-drive car from companies like Zoomcar, Limecar, EzeeCarRent, or search Goa car hire deals with Skyscanner’s car hire tool.
- For the cheapest option, hop on one of the many buses. They’re operated by Kadamba Transport Corporation. Ticket prices start from ₹100. Buses are much less frequent from the airport. You might be waiting a while. A pre-paid cab is likely a better (although more expensive) option.
Insider tip:
If you’re staying at a resort, transfers will likely be available. Speak to your hotel first to book a transfer then just look out for your name on the sign when you land.
Where to stay in Goa
Stay next to the sand. Spend time in the capital Panjim, or find peace and tranquillity away from the city. Some of our favourite hotels in Goa are:
The Baga Beach Resort
Located on the popular Baga Beach, expect luxurious suites and spacious rooms.
The Baga Beach Resort
Hilton Goa Resort
A luxury resort in Candolim offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea, elegant rooms, and world-class amenities.
Hilton Goa Resort
Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia Resort
Situated in Cavelossim, this family-friendly resort boasts spacious rooms, a beautiful pool, and access to Cavelossim Beach.
Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia Resort
Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa
Perched on a hilltop, this iconic resort offers breathtaking sea views, historic charm, and top-notch hospitality.
Taj Fort Aguada Resort
Cola Goa Beach Resort
Located on the secluded Cola Beach, this eco-friendly resort offers luxury villas and beach view rooms.
Cola Goa Beach Resort
For more recommendations on the best Goa Hotels and Resorts check out the best places to stay in Goa.
Goa prices
PLAN YOUR BUDGET
Goa is one of those holiday destinations in India that’s suitable for all budgets and caters to travellers from all walks of life. For a rough guide, here’s what you can expect to pay.
ACCOMMODATION PRICES IN GOA
Dorm bed in hostel 800IR+/night
Budget hotel 1,000IR/night
Mid-range hotel/resort 2,500-7,500IR/night
Luxury resort 10,000IR+/night
TRANSPORT PRICES IN GOA
The cheapest mode of transport in Goa is the local buses. Tickets start from 10IR.
MEAL PRICES IN GOA
Dining out in Goa can range from 100-300IR at local eateries and beach shacks to 1,500IR+ at upscale Goa restaurants and cafes.
DRINK PRICES IN GOA
Goa has some of the cheapest prices in India when it comes to alcohol. Enjoy a beer from a local liquor shop for a starting price of as little as 100 – 200IR. Expect to pay almost 50% extra when bought at any bar/beach shacks in Goa. Premium cocktails range from 300-800IR.
Want to read more? We list more of our favourite places to stay in Goa, along with the best beaches, the coolest festivals, and of course how to get around.
Thinking of travelling to Goa? Skyscanner can help you find the best flights, hotels and car hire deals for your next trip.
