• Private Tour
• Instantly Confirmed
• Carbon Neutral

Want to see the best of Goa? We got you covered. But as you can expect from a Withlocals experience, the real excitement is its hidden gems. Join your favorite local and get a feeling of the city's real vibe on a tour that has it all, so you can say: I experienced the real Goa!

Destination

Goa, India

Category

City Highlight Tours

Duration

3 hours

Transport mode

Walking tour

Available languages

English

Included

• Private Guide
• 1 Local Snack or Drink
• All Withlocals Tours are Carbon Neutral

Excluded

• Entrance to attractions

What you can expect

This is the plan

Check out the plan below to see what you'll get up to with your local host. Feel free to personalize this offer with the host of your choice.

1. Meeting point

   Meet at In front of Bookworm Trust & Library - Goa to start your journey

   View on Maps

2. Itinerary

   This is what our experience could look like, but it’s not set in stone! Once you book, you can chat directly with your host to make small tweaks to suit your preferences.

3. City Highlights

   See from Azad Maidan, Fontainhas Latin Quarter, Patto Bridge, and other landmarks and must-sees of the city. Your local host will take you to the main spots in town so you can get the perfect overview of what makes Goa so unique

4. Hidden Gems

   Along the way, your local host will show you treasures hidden in plain sight that only the locals know about. Get to know the city through a different perspective, the local way, and discover places and stories that not many tourists experience

5. Magical Storytelling

   Behind every landmark and every stop, there’s a story, and your local host is ready to tell it all. Get ready to listen to incredible stories, one-of-a-kind insights, and fun facts only a knowledgeable local would know!

6. Special Treat

   Follow your host to one of their favorite eateries for a snack or a drink beloved by the locals. Take a break and catch up with your new local friend and get the answers to all your travel questions

7. Make it yours

   Want to tweak the itinerary? Book directly & chat afterwards with your host to adjust highlights, skip stops, or make small changes to fit your preferences.

   Book risk-free: Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund.

   Need something special? Personalize your experience for more time, alternative locations or a completely tailored plan.

Flexible cancellation policy

• Feel confident booking

  Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund. Even up to 7 days before your experience, you’ll receive a refund, minus the service fee.

• Change of plans?

  Reschedule your experience to a date and time that works best for you.

• Loved by travelers worldwide

  Simple and flexible – your plans, your way.

Reviews from guests

Alison🇺🇸 United States

(About local Mario )

12 August 2024

1

We were at a resort in North Goa and were interested in seeing more of the area and learning more about Goa’s history. We were SO lucky to find Mario! What an enjoyable man to spend the day with! His knowledge of the area, his command of all dates in the state’s history and his engaging stories brought Goa to life. Mario introduced us to some special places, including a charming sweet shop. He was also heroically patient with our shopping :) We can’t recommend Mario enough. A Wonderful Day with Mario!

Murray🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Mario )

1 March 2025

A very enjoyable tour with a guide who is clearly passionate about his work. The tour was varied and detailed where required, but relaxed and laid back when appropriate. Well organised, there was history, architecture, a window into local life as well as a tasty lunch and a plantation visit. Cooling towels and chilled water kept us refreshed.Highly recommended.

jackie🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Mario )

9 January 2025

Mario is exceptional. His years of experience and high levels of knowledge are evident throughout the day. He left no question unanswered as he guided us expertly through a glimpse of the political, cultural and religious history of Goa. The day started at a wood fired bakery were we ate many pastries. The market was bustling , check out the produce and the art work. We got to visit historic churches and temples with detailed and interesting information along the way. The spice plantation gave us a great insight into the cultivation, harvest , dietary and medical uses of many plants. The plantation also served us with the most delicious meal that was beyond our expectations. Our comfort was considered throughout the day and water and cold towels were offered frequently. We finished the day with a swim at the beach and the door to door service was great. Communication was prompt and informative and we would not hesitate to reccomend Mario to help you enjoy a wonderful day in Goa.Exceptional

Longcharben

(About local Mario )

12 May 2024

Mario was exceptional. Professionalism exemplified. He is a local who carries unbiased unadulterated updated information both current and historic and very engaging in his delivery of the facts. Every bit of the tour was well arranged and top notch execution. No hiccups whatsoever. One of our group members had a small cut while getting off the bus, Mario made it unnecessary to find any medical store. He was prepared with a first aid kit. (kinda expected from a tour guide but no one expects they'll actually carry it. You know what I mean?) Yeah so the overall experience was worth down to the last coin. Locals like Mario adds to the beauty of Goa.Get the best of Goa from the best of Goa - Mario

Lucy Wooding

(About local Mario )

5 May 2024

Myself, my husband and my mother did Mario’s Goa In A Nutshell tour today and it was perfect! We were picked up in a clean, comfortable car with an excellent driver and Mario didn’t waste any time, giving us plenty of information on the things we passed on our way to our first tour stop. Mario was informative and spoke clear, excellent English and was responsive to all the questions we had for him. He was so thoughtful and came ready with cold water and cold washcloths so we could cool off and refresh each time we returned to the car. If you want a reliable, comfortable and enjoyable tour of north Goa and its history, make it Mario’s. Make it Mario’s!

Ching Soo🇸🇬 Singapore

(About local Mario )

24 April 2024

Mario sure knows his way around Goa and the delightful stories and history behind the market, temple, church... fill in the blanks! A day spent with Mario is a great way to get acquainted with Goa, with its rich history, colour, and real-life anecdotes. Passionate Mario! Thank you.

Dawn

(About local Mario )

10 April 2024

We hired Mario for his Goa in a Nutshell tour on 5th February 2024 on the recommendation of friends. We are so glad we did! Mario is so knowledgeable about Goan history and the extra touches such as ice cold towels and drinks along the way were a welcome offering. We will definitely hire Mario’s services on future trips to Goa. Five Stars from us!Goa In A Nutshell

Scott Collins

(About local Mario )

9 April 2024

Mario is an excellent tour guide! We considered touring the Old Goa churches alone but decided at the last minute to hire a guide. I’m so glad we found Mario! He was knowledgeable and fun to listen to. He knows his way around and made our visit worth the walk in the heat. He has a great way of explaining history and architecture. We had our kids with us and they enjoyed his explanations too which is no easy feat with two teenagers!An Excellent Tour Of Old Goa the Former Capital

Sandeep Kaul

(About local Mario )

9 April 2024

For me, Goa has two Marios: The first is Mario Miranda, the cartoonist and then Mario Monteiro, the raconteur, guide, historian and engineer! It was a pleasure going around Old Goa as well as the Fontainhas Heritage Tour with Mario. His commentary is lucid, the nuggets of information are eye-opening and his planning is thoughtful. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves in his company and returned better informed and HAPPY. The coconut water treat was a godsend - Thank you, Mario! - and the bakery surprise at Confeitaria 31 De Janeiro - Thank you again! -were perfect examples of Mario's thoughtfulness. If I could, I would give Mario 7 stars!!Goa In A Nutshell

Wayne

(About local Damodar)

1 April 2024

My guide was very informative and helpful. he took his time to show my the old Portuguese sector, the coast and a good high view of the port. Well worth the money/time.Portuguese Panaji Goa

Wojciech Pprzybylski

(About local Mario )

29 March 2024

Mario offered my family a 5-day bespoke experience in Goa, covering places like Old Goa, spice plantations, heritage houses, and Divar Island. He meticulously planned our itinerary based on our requests and loosely defined plans, arranging transportation (including a rare child seat in Goa) with an excellent driver. Throughout our journey, he provided expert insights into the local history and culture. Mario was exceptionally attentive to our comfort, adjusting the pace to suit our needs and ensuring the car was stocked with beverages and cold wet towels to combat the 35°C heat. His company was a delight, and his knowledge greatly enriched our experience. I wholeheartedly recommend Mario to anyone looking for guided tours in Goa, be it for a single day or multiple days. Amazing Guide in Goa: Mario!

juliana.mateos🇪🇸 Spain

(About local Damodar)

21 March 2024

My recent tour through Goa was an unforgettable adventure filled with the enchantment of Hindu temples and the allure of Portuguese heritage. Led by the exceptional guide, Damodar, the experience surpassed all expectations, leaving me in awe of the rich cultural tapestry woven throughout this coastal paradise. From the moment I embarked on my journey, Damodar’s expertise and warmth set the tone for an extraordinary exploration. His deep knowledge of Goa’s history, coupled with his genuine kindness and affability Our first stop immersed us in the spiritual ambiance of ancient Hindu temples, where Damodar skillfully unraveled the significance of each architectural marvel. Transitioning seamlessly into Goa’s Portuguese legacy, Damodar guided me through ancient streets lined with vibrant colonial architecture. His insightful commentary illuminated the fusion of Indian and European influences, highlighting the enduring legacy of Portuguese rule. Throughout the tour, Damodar’s passion for his homeland shone brightly, infusing each moment with a sense of wonder and discovery. His genuine enthusiasm for sharing Goa’s treasures was infectious, leaving me captivated by every anecdote and historical story. As the tour ended, I found myself filled with gratitude for the privilege of experiencing such a rich moment of culture and history. Damodar’s exceptional guidance had not only met my expectations but far exceeded them, leaving an indelible impression that will linger in my memories for ever. I wholeheartedly recommend Damodar as a tour guide for anyone seeking to explore the magical wonders of Goa. A Magical Journey Through Goa Heritage 💫

Sonja

(About local Mario )

12 March 2024

We had a great tour with Mario through Panji. He explained very detailed the history of the old town. We even had the chance to had a bite of local snacks and were able to see an old family building from back then. We can highly recommend Mario as an excellent guide!Highly Recommend

Maria Tiu

(About local Mario )

17 February 2024

Loved our tour with Mario! Got a great flavor for Goa with the limited time we had. He was very accommodating with our schedule and tailored the experience to our needs. We learned alot about the history, culture and architecture of Goa and loved it!Loved our tour with Mario

Sylvie Rato

(About local Mario )

14 February 2024

Our 3 days with Mario were an absolutely amazing experience! He truly enriched our stay in Goa. Mario tailored the tours perfectly to our interests, providing detailed explanations and sharing fascinating historical curiosities along the way. The places we visited were truly magical, and the food was delightful. We completely emerged in Goa’s past and felt the real experience of the present. Besides the amazing guide Mario is, his personality and kindness brought these days to the top! He is extremely attentive and doing the extra mile for people to be the most comfortable as possible always providing fresh beverages and refreshing towels that saved us during the hot weather. Finally the driver was also excellent and the car very comfortable. I highly recommended Exotic Goan excursions for anyone visiting Goa!An Amazing and Magical Experience

Nabha Joshi

(About local Mario )

11 February 2024

Mario was very thorough with the information, very enthusiastic, and patient with the entire group!! Enthusiastic and Informative

Angel Pollock

(About local Mario )

29 January 2024

We had a wonderful day with Mario. Comfortable car, very knowledgeable and kind tour guide. He was brilliant with our little children. Highly recommend and would definitely reach out again if I return to Goa!A wonderful day with Mario