Lunch in Goa combines the best of Portuguese-Indian fusion with unforgettable settings. The most rewarding experiences start at Old Goa’s UNESCO sites, where you’ll work up an appetite exploring 16th-century churches before heading to nearby spice plantations for authentic Goan curry and fresh seafood. I love the Divar Island experience – it’s off the tourist path and offers home-cooked meals in centuries-old Portuguese mansions. The spice plantation tours are particularly special, letting you see where your food’s seasonings come from before sitting down to eat. For nature enthusiasts, combining Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary with a traditional village lunch makes perfect sense – you’ll spot monkeys and deer before feasting on local specialties. Let’s explore my favorite lunch tours in Goa…
Key Points
- Divar Island Experience offers a traditional Goan lunch at a Portuguese house or riverside resort, providing an authentic culture.
- Full-Day Shore Excursion includes a lunch at a tropical spice plantation, enhancing the overall sightseeing experience.
- Spice Farm and Church Tours feature a traditional Goan-style lunch as part of the itinerary, complementing the cultural and culinary exploration.
- Spice Plantation Tour provides a buffet lunch, allowing visitors to savor a variety of local Goan dishes.
- Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary tour includes a traditional lunch, offering a holistic nature and culinary experience.
Old Goa Churches, Temples & Spice Plantation With Goan Lunch
Exploring the rich cultural heritage of Goa, this private tour takes visitors on a journey through the historic sites of Old Goa.
Travelers will visit serene spice plantations, enjoy the lush greenery, and savor a traditional Goan lunch.
The tour also features a visit to the 400-year-old Mangeshi Temple, a symbol of Hindu legacy.
With a flexible cancellation policy and competitive pricing, this comprehensive cultural experience is highly rated by previous participants who praise the knowledgeable tour guides and the educational aspects of the tour.
Whether you’re a cruise ship passenger or an independent traveler, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage of Goa.
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Divar Island: Local Goan Village Tour With Traditional Lunch
Situated across the Mandovi River, Divar Island offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Goa.
This 3.5-hour tour takes you on a journey through the island’s ancient temples, baroque churches, and holy sites, including the St. Mathias Church, Our Lady of Candelaria Chapel, and Saptakoteshwar Temple.
Along the way, you’ll learn about the island’s multicultural history shaped by Portuguese occupation.
The highlight of the tour is a traditional Goan lunch at a Portuguese house or riverside resort, where you’ll also get to visit a local bakery and learn about bread-making.
At just $23.57 per person, this tour is a great value for money.
Read our full review: Divar Island: Local Goan Village Tour With Traditional Lunch Review
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Full-Day Goa Shore Excursion Including Lunch at Spice Plantation
Offering a comprehensive Goa shore excursion, this full-day tour whisks visitors away to explore the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the region.
Priced at €156.26 per person, the tour features a lowest price guarantee, instant mobile ticketing, and a non-refundable policy.
Lasting 8-9 hours, the experience includes pickup from the port, visits to significant sites like the Basilica of Bom Jesus, and lunch at a tropical spice plantation.
Customers praise the knowledgeable guides and memorable experiences, with an overall 5.0 rating.
However, it’s important to note the strict cancellation policy before booking.
Read our full review: Full-Day Goa Shore Excursion Including Lunch at Spice Plantation Review
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Mormugao Goa Offshore Old Goa Churches,Spice Farm Lunch Tour
The Mormugao Goa Offshore Old Goa Churches, Spice Farm Lunch Tour provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the region.
Spanning 6 hours, the tour takes guests to famous churches in Old Goa, showcasing their 150-year-old architecture. Visitors will also explore a spice plantation, learning about various spices and their uses, followed by a traditional Goan-style lunch.
The tour includes transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle and is guided in English and Russian.
While the tour generally receives positive feedback, there have been some concerns about the availability of elephant experiences not meeting expectations.
Read our full review: Mormugao Goa Offshore Old Goa Churches,Spice Farm Lunch Tour Review
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Private Cultural Tour: Ancestral Goa, Shantadurga Temple and Spice Village Including Lunch
This private cultural tour provides an immersive journey into Goa’s rich heritage and spiritual traditions.
Highlights include visiting the Ancestral Goa cultural center, exploring two historic Hindu temples, and touring a spice village. Travelers will learn about local customs, the spice trade, and see a 250-year-old mansion.
The tour also includes a traditional Indian lunch. While reviews are mixed, with some finding the cost high, most praise the knowledgeable guide and temple visits.
Read our full review: Private Cultural Tour: Ancestral Goa, Shantadurga Temple and Spice Village Including Lunch Review
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Goa: Spice Plantation Tour and Traditional Local Lunch
Travelers seeking a glimpse into Goa’s vibrant spice culture can embark on a captivating 4-hour Spice Plantation Tour and Traditional Local Lunch excursion. Priced at $64.82 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance to the spice plantation, a buffet lunch featuring local Goan cuisine, herbal tea, and a tasting of feni, a signature local liquor.
During the guided walking tour, guests learn about the uses and health benefits of various spices. The tour also offers wheelchair accessibility, though the walking tour may be challenging.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 26 reviews, this tour provides an immersive culinary and cultural experience in Goa.
Read our full review: Goa: Spice Plantation Tour and Traditional Local Lunch Review
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Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary With Lunch in Spice Plantation in Goa
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary With Lunch in Spice Plantation in Goa offers an enriching day-long excursion for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
The tour lasts 8 to 9 hours and includes a visit to the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, where visitors can spot diverse flora and fauna. A highlight is the traditional local lunch served in a spice plantation.
The experience is priced from $99 per person, with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
Traveler photos showcase the sanctuary’s wildlife and scenic beauty, while overwhelmingly positive reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor attest to the tour’s quality.
Customers can find assistance for booking issues and get answers to common questions through the Viator Help Centre.
Read our full review: Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary With Lunch in Spice Plantation in Goa Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Book a Table at the Best Restaurants in Goa?
To book a table at Goa’s best restaurants, you can visit their websites or contact them directly. Many offer online reservations, while others may require a phone call or email to secure a spot. Making reservations in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
What Are the Most Popular Local Goan Dishes to Try?
When visiting Goa, some of the most popular local dishes to try include fish curry and rice, vindaloo, xacuti, bebinca, and sorpotel. These dishes showcase the region’s diverse culinary influences and provide an authentic taste of Goan cuisine.
Do the Lunch Experiences Include Vegetarian or Vegan Options?
Many Goan lunch experiences offer vegetarian and vegan options, catering to diverse dietary preferences. These include traditional Goan dishes as well as plant-based adaptations, ensuring an enjoyable dining experience for all.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tours?
Most lunch experiences allow photography, though some may have restrictions. It’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand to understand any guidelines or rules around taking photos during the tour.
How Can I Customize the Lunch Experience to Suit My Dietary Needs?
Many restaurants in the area offer customizable lunch experiences. Guests can discuss their dietary needs with the staff, who’ll work to accommodate preferences and restrictions. This allows for a personalized and enjoyable lunch tailored to individual requirements.
The Sum Up
Goa’s lunch experiences offer a diverse range of options, from exploring historic churches and temples to touring spice plantations and local villages. These tours provide an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to savor traditional Goan cuisine while seeing the region’s rich heritage. Whether seeking a full-day excursion or a private cultural tour, Goa’s lunch experiences cater to various interests and preferences, ensuring a memorable culinary and sightseeing adventure.