Goa’s Dabolim International Airport, located 29kms from Panaji on the coast next to Vasco da Gama, provides the easiest access to the city. There are dozens of domestic connections to the major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore, where international travellers can catch a connection to virtually any city on earth. Direct international flights are a bit sparse, but there are a few charter companies that run flights to the UK and Germany. Indian Airlines, Jet Airways and Sahara Airlines operate most of the flights in the country from this airport.

The airport’s two terminals (one for domestic and one for international flights) have all the facilities a traveller will need upon arrival in Goa. There are ATMs, currency exchange booths, restaurants and shops to help get you on your way. An information desk can be found in the arrivals area to assist with any transport or tourism questions you might have.

The easiest way to get to your destination is to hire a prepaid taxi. The counter for this service is located just outside the terminal building, and is much less of a hassle than trying to get a taxi privately. Public buses also run from the airport into the city; but they are crowded, infrequent, and not a practical way to go.

In addition to flying, travellers who are already in India can get to Goa by ferry, train and coach. There is a boat service which runs from Mumbai to Panji, taking about eight hours. It’s also possible to travel by boat from beach to beach with smaller private operators. The train journey to Goa is certainly an adventure, but can be memorable and tolerable if you have plenty of time and patience. Goa is connected to Mumbai along a 760kms coastal route, which is a scenic but time-consuming trip. The main train stations in Goa can be found at Pernem, Karmali, Thivim, Margao and Vasco da Gama.

Once you arrive in Goa, public buses are a decent way to get around the city. They are very cheap, frequent and run just about everywhere a visitor would want to go. Tickets are sold by the conductor onboard the bus itself. The KTC buses are a little more expensive, but generally less crowded and more punctual. For more freedom, consider renting a moped. On these small motorbikes, you can reach all the remote beaches and other sites at your leisure. It’s a common thing for tourists to rent motorbikes, which are readily available at the coastal resorts.

Taxis are everywhere in Goa and provide a convenient and fairly cheap way to get around. Six-seat minivans are the most common form of taxi transport, and can be found outside of every decent hotel or at the designated taxi stands. Rates are always negotiable, so be sure and settle on your fare before getting in. These taxis can also easily be hired by the hour or day for more distant sightseeing excursions.

Motorcycle taxis are another easy way to move around if you are by yourself, and auto-rickshaws provide a cheaper alternative to traditional taxis if you want something more colourful to take you around. Renting a car in Goa can be rather expensive, and you’ll need an international driver’s license to rent one.