Goa isn’t just about beaches and parties; it’s a food lover’s paradise with a surprising variety of lunch experiences that highlight its unique culture and history. Whether you prefer a private tour that combines sightseeing with a delicious Goan meal or a relaxed plantation visit with local flavors, there’s something for every palate and interest. We especially like the Full-Day Goa Shore Excursion Including Lunch at Spice Plantation, which combines cultural highlights with a fragrant spice farm and a hearty local meal—perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day on land.
Below, you’ll find a list of the top lunch experiences ranging from half-day spice tours to full-day explorations of historic sites and wildlife sanctuaries. Each offers a distinct way to enjoy Goa’s culinary and cultural richness—whether it’s through a private boat ride, a village visit, or a wildlife safari with a tasty meal included.
1. Full-Day Goa Shore Excursion Including Lunch at Spice Plantation
At number 1, this private full-day shore excursion offers a balanced mix of cultural exploration and local flavor. Starting from the Goa Cruise Port, the tour takes you to iconic sights like the UNESCO-listed Basilica of Bom Jesus, the colorful Fontainhas neighborhood in Panjim, and the historic Tropical Spice Plantation. The spice plantation tour is a highlight, with a chance to learn about the fragrant spices that define Goan cuisine. The included local lunch at the plantation provides authentic flavors, giving you a taste of Goa’s culinary traditions.
What sets this tour apart is its personalized touch—it’s private, so you get the guide’s full attention and flexibility. Visitors rave about their guides, with one emphasizing the memorable experience created by local expert guides and smooth logistics. The tour’s price reflects its comprehensive nature, making it ideal for those who want a deep dive into Goa’s culture, history, and flavors in just one day.
Bottom line: If you’re on a cruise and want a full, worry-free day with highlights and a delicious lunch, this tour hits the mark.
2. Goa: Spice Plantation Tour and Traditional Local Lunch
At number 2, this half-day tour offers a relaxed, fragrant experience perfect for those who want to sample Goa’s famous spices and cuisine without a long day’s commitment. Visiting a family-run spice plantation in Ponda, you’ll benefit from an immersive walking tour where you can see, touch, smell, and taste the variety of Indian spices that grow in the region. The guide shares insights into spice cultivation and its significance in local cooking.
The highlight is the lunch buffet, featuring traditional Goan dishes, allowing you to enjoy authentic flavors in a tranquil setting. The tour’s reasonable price makes it accessible for travelers on a budget or those with limited time. Past reviews praise the friendly atmosphere and the sensory experience of being surrounded by fresh spices.
Bottom line: Ideal for spice lovers and those seeking a relaxed, aromatic taste of Goa’s culinary heritage in a few hours.
3. Divar Island: Local Goan Village Tour with Traditional Lunch
Number 3 on our list takes you to the quieter side of Goa—Divar Island—by ferry. This village tour offers a peek into local life, with visits to ancient temples and baroque churches. It’s a colorful, authentic experience that highlights Goa’s multicultural past.
The highlight is the Goan lunch, served at a Portuguese house or riverside resort, providing a chance to enjoy traditional recipes in a charming setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want a slow-paced, cultural experience with a taste of local hospitality. Note: this tour isn’t a heritage walk and requires you to arrange your own vehicle for some parts, but that keeps it flexible.
Reviewers love the chance to relax and savor home-style Goan cuisine while exploring a less touristy side of the region.
Bottom line: Best suited for those interested in local culture and authentic village life, combined with a delicious homemade meal.
4. Old Goa Churches, Temples & Spice Plantation With “Goan” Lunch
Number 4 is a private, cultural day tour focused on Goa’s historic religious sites and a spice plantation. The tour visits Old Goa, with its stunning Se Cathedral and the Basilica of Bom Jesus, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. After exploring these architectural marvels, you move to a serene spice plantation for a lunch of traditional Goan cuisine.
The tour is expertly guided, with a focus on the region’s Hindu and Christian heritage. Past guests commend the personalized experience, highlighting the rich history and beautiful sites. The inclusion of bottled water and a buffet lunch adds value, and the visit to Mangeshi Temple gives a glimpse into Goa’s Hindu roots.
Bottom line: Perfect for history and culture enthusiasts wanting a comprehensive day of sightseeing and local flavors.
5. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary with Lunch in Spice Plantation in Goa
For those who prefer a nature-focused adventure, number 5 offers a wildlife safari combined with a spice plantation visit. Starting with a drive through Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, you’ll see animals like gaur and bison, and birdwatchers can enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Afterward, a mouthwatering Goan lunch is served at the Tropical Spice Plantation.
This tour is best for travelers who want to mix wildlife, nature, and local flavors in one outing. The price is higher, reflecting the private transportation and the wildlife park entrance fees, but the experience of combining nature and culture makes it worthwhile. Past reviews mention the friendly guides and the well-organized itinerary, which offers a good value for a full-day experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for families or nature lovers seeking a combination of wildlife and authentic regional cuisine.
6. Private Cultural Tour: Ancestral Goa, Shantadurga Temple and Spice Village Including Lunch
Number 6 offers an intimate, private exploration of Goa’s art, culture, and religion. Visiting Ancestral Goa (Big Foot Museum), the Portuguese mansion Casa Araujo Alvares, and the Shantadurga Temple, you get a detailed look at Goa’s multicultural roots. The tour also includes a spice village visit where you learn about Indian spices and enjoy a traditional Indian lunch.
This tour is perfect for travelers interested in cultural preservation and regional cuisine. The reviews highlight the well-paced visits to religious sites and the insightful explanations by the guide. The private setting enhances the experience, and the inclusion of lunch makes it a full-value day.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting an in-depth cultural and culinary experience with personalized attention.
7. Private South Goa City Tour with Spice Plantation and Lunch from North Goa Hotel
At number 7, this private day tour from North Goa takes you to Dona Paula, the Bom Jesus Basilica, and Se Cathedral—some of Goa’s most iconic sites. It also includes a visit to a spice plantation and a local lunch. The tour is well-suited for travelers who want a mix of culture, history, and scenery in a manageable eight-hour format.
While the price point is lower, it offers a rundown of Goa’s highlights. Travelers mention the beautiful sites and the convenient hotel pickup, making it a good choice for those with limited time in Goa. Keep in mind that the reviews are mixed, with some noting the tour’s simplicity, but it remains a value option.
Bottom line: Great for budget-conscious travelers who want a solid overview of South Goa’s cultural gems and spice farms.
$44.31 per person
8. Private Dudhsagar Waterfalls & Spice Plantation with Lunch from Mormugao Port
Number 8 takes you on an adventurous day trip to the famed Dudhsagar Falls, with a private Jeep safari and a spice plantation tour. Starting from Mormugao Port, the trip includes a lunch of Goan cuisine, and visitors get to swim or relax by the waterfalls. The tour’s unique feature is the off-road jeep ride, which offers a thrilling way to reach the cascades.
Perfect for adventure seekers and those wanting a spectacular natural sight, this tour combines wildlife, scenery, and local flavors. The reviews note that the climb to the falls requires some fitness, but the breathtaking views make it all worthwhile. The price reflects the private transport and park fees, making it a slightly higher-investment option.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers looking for a memorable day of nature, adventure, and authentic Goan cuisine.
$91.65 per person
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience in Goa
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If you want a full day of sightseeing combined with a hearty local lunch, the Full-Day Goa Shore Excursion is a top pick. For those seeking a more relaxed, aromatic taste of Goa’s spices, the Spice Plantation Tour is perfect.
Travelers interested in history and architecture should consider the Old Goa Churches and Temples tour, while nature lovers will appreciate the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary and Spice Plantation combination. Budget travelers may opt for the Divar Island Village Tour, which offers authentic experiences at a lower price, or the South Goa City Tour, which balances sightseeing with affordability.
Practical tips: Book early during peak season (October to March) to secure your preferred date, especially for private tours. Check whether tours include transportation and meals to understand the true value for money.
Final Thoughts
Goa offers a wide range of lunch experiences that go beyond its beaches. Whether you’re craving a cultural tour with historic sites, want to learn about spice scents, or prefer a wildlife safari with a scenic waterfall, there’s something to match your style. For travelers looking for comprehensive days with plenty of history and tradition, the Full-Day Goa Shore Excursion and the Old Goa Churches and Temples Tour stand out.
If you prefer something more relaxed and aromatic, the Spice Plantation Tour and the Divar Island Village Tour are excellent choices. For adventurous types, the trip to Dudhsagar Falls offers a memorable day of scenery and activity. No matter your preference, booking early ensures you’ll secure a spot on these popular experiences, ensuring a truly flavorful and authentic taste of Goa.