Mopa or Dabolim? Goa's Airports and Getting to Your Villa

Goa has two airports, and the one you choose can add or remove an hour or more from the end of your journey. Check this before you book flights, especially if you are arriving late or travelling with family.

Manohar International Airport, Mopa (GOX)

Mopa opened in 2023 and sits in the far north of the state, in Pernem. It is the better choice for much of North Goa. Allow around an hour to reach Anjuna, Vagator, Assagao or Siolim, and a little longer for Candolim, depending on traffic.

Dabolim Airport (GOI)

Dabolim is near Vasco da Gama, on the coast between the two halves of Goa. It suits South Goa best. Colva, Benaulim and Cansaulim are usually around 30 to 45 minutes away. Candolim and the north are reachable too, but allow an hour or more, as the road crosses the Zuari and Mandovi rivers.

Which should you choose?

The simple rule is to fly into the airport on the same side as your villa. A flight into the other airport can be worth it if the timing or the fare is much better, but Mopa to South Goa can take two hours or more, so factor that in. See our guide to North and South Goa if you have not yet settled on a side.

Getting to the villa

Pre-booking a car is the easiest option, particularly if you are arriving at night or with luggage for a group. Taxis are available at both airports, though it is worth confirming the fare before you set off. App-based cabs in Goa are limited, so do not rely on them.

Our concierge can arrange a transfer to your villa. For larger groups, ask about a van so that everyone and the luggage arrive together.

Coming by train or road

Goa's main railway stations are Madgaon in the south and Thivim in the north, with Karmali closer to Panjim. The drive from Mumbai along the coast takes most of a day, and from Pune or Bengaluru about the same. If you are driving, check that the villa has parking.

Timing your arrival

Check-in at our villas is from 3 pm and check-out is by 11 am. If your flight lands in the morning, let us know, as early arrival can be arranged when the house allows. It also helps to share your flight details, so that the caretaker expects you.

Getting around once you arrive

Most guests hire a car with a driver or use a pre-booked taxi for days out, as distances are short but buses are slow. Some people hire a scooter, but only do so if you are an experienced rider. Roads are narrow and busy in season.

Once your flights are set, you can search villas by your dates.