Goa has earned its place as a premier tourist destination, not just because of its beautiful beaches and fascinating historic sites, but because of the warm welcome and laid-back charm of its people. Goa has been a melting-pot of races, religions and cultures over the centuries, leaving it with a wealth of wonderful old churches, temples and forts, a delightfully varied cuisine, and a multicultural lifestyle that’s quite different from the rest of India.

But it’s the white sands, glistening clear seas and swaying palms of the lush green landscape which continue to draw holidaymakers to this uniquely enchanting region. With fragrant vanilla plantations, rivers teeming with wildlife and herds of wild buffalo among the sights to be seen, it’s no wonder Goa is known for being a traveller’s paradise, and a firm favourite among British tourists. With dependable weather, too, it’s a dream winter sun destination. Check out our fantastic selection of hotels in Goa here.

Please note: Indian Authorities require customers to travel by return flights on the same charter airline. One-way charter flights from Goa are not permitted. If you do not take your outbound flight from the UK you will not be permitted to travel back on your return flight to the UK. Charter flights and scheduled flights cannot be mixed.

Whether you're in need of a relaxing retreat or a new and thrilling adventure, a Goa holiday won't disappoint. In this unique destination, you will experience a one-off mix of cultures that has created the Goa of today and made it a favourite place to holiday with holidaymakers each year.

Within Goa, the north and south have developed characters of their own: North Goa holidays offer a lively mix of fascinating colourful markets and restaurants with delicious local specialities available. The fresh fish and seafood are among the best you will find anywhere. South Goa holidays are more relaxed with a slower pace to life in quiet fishing villages scattered around the coast and among paddy fields inland, where a wide variety of wildlife can be observed.

Discover the delights of Goa holidays

If you've booked a holiday in Goa to experience the world-renowned beaches, you won't be disappointed. Goa's virtually unbroken 70 kms of coastline includes such gems as Anjuna Beach and Calangute Beach among countless others.

Those seeking more active Goa holidays can choose between a wide variety of watersports. Try parasailing in Colva Beach or, between October and mid-May, join the action in scuba diving season with the unique opportunity to swim through sunken shipwrecks located off the coast.

Culture lovers will enjoy exploring the fascinating history and charming character of towns and cities such as Panaji and Vasco Da Gama. A must for visitors is a trip to old Goa with its stunning cathedrals, home to the sacred remains of St. Francis Xavier, and the fascinating museums such as the Goa State Museum and Houses of Goa which focuses on architecture.

Once the sun has set, try your hand at bargaining in one of Goa's lively night markets? And once you've worked up an appetite, you won't be disappointed with Goa's choice of culinary offerings - a delicious blend of Portuguese, Indian and local flavours.