Why Golf in Lisbon?
Looking for world-class golf in a setting that combines sunshine, sea views, and historic charm? Welcome to Lisbon, one of Europe’s best golf destinations. With over 300 sunny days a year, scenic coastal courses, and challenges for every level, it’s a dream for golfers.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a golf holiday, Lisbon’s golf scene offers a unique mix of nature, culture, and top-tier play.
Top 5 Golf Courses Near Lisbon
1. Oitavos Dunes – Golf With Ocean Views
📍 Cascais (30 min from Lisbon)
Par: 71 | Designed by: Arthur Hills
Why play here: This links-style course offers stunning Atlantic Ocean views and ranks among the top 100 courses in the world.
Pro Tip: Play in the morning to avoid wind. Stay at The Oitavos Hotel and enjoy a sunset drink after your round.
2. Penha Longa – Championship Golf in Sintra
📍 Sintra Natural Park
Par: 72 | Designed by: Robert Trent Jones Jr.
Why play here: Surrounded by hills and forests in a UNESCO World Heritage park, this course blends nature and design perfectly.
Pro Tip: Pair golf with a visit to Sintra’s castles and palaces for a royal day out.
3. Belas Clube de Campo – Peaceful and Challenging
📍 Near Queluz (20 min from Lisbon)
Par: 72 | Designed by: Rocky Roquemore
Why play here: Eco-friendly layout with lakes, elevation changes, and peaceful woodland surroundings.
Pro Tip: Weekday mornings are quieter and more relaxing.
4. Troia Golf – A True Test of Skill
📍 Troia Peninsula (1 hour south)
Par: 72 | Designed by: Robert Trent Jones Sr.
Why play here: Narrow fairways and coastal dunes make this one of the most challenging golf courses in Portugal.
Pro Tip: Take the ferry from Setúbal and consider staying overnight to enjoy the peaceful setting.
5. Aroeira Golf Resort – Play in the Pines
📍 25 km south of Lisbon
Par: 72 (Aroeira I & II)
Why play here: Known as the “Lisbon Riviera,” these courses are surrounded by pine forests and host many national events.
Pro Tip: Try both layouts—Aroeira I is a classic design; Aroeira II is longer and more modern.
When Is the Best Time to Golf in Lisbon?
🌸 Spring (Mar–May): Perfect temperatures and colorful landscapes
🍁 Autumn (Sep–Nov): Fewer crowds, crisp air, and excellent conditions
☀️ Summer (Jun–Aug): Warm with long days—play early or late
🌧️ Winter (Dec–Feb): Quiet and affordable, though rain is possible
Top Tips for Golfing in Lisbon
✅ Book tee times in advance, especially for popular courses
🏌️ Rent clubs ahead of time – most courses offer quality sets
👕 Dress smart – collared shirts, golf shoes, and no denim
🎯 Practice your short game – fast, tricky greens are common
💼 Look for golf packages with hotel + green fees to save money
Best Places to Stay on a Golf Trip
Luxury on the Course
The Oitavos Hotel (Cascais) – Ocean views, spa, and great food
Penha Longa Resort (Sintra) – Elegant stay in a historic setting
Affordable Golf Resorts
Pestana Sintra Golf Resort – Good value and an on-site course
Stay in Lisbon for City + Golf
The Lumiares (Bairro Alto) – Boutique hotel with rooftop views
Memmo Alfama – Cozy charm near historic sights
Where to Eat After a Round
🍽 Fortaleza do Guincho (Cascais) – Michelin-starred, clifftop dining
🍷 Arola (Sintra) – Modern tapas from a celebrity chef
🍲 Casa da Comida (Lisbon) – Classic Portuguese with a twist
Golf Tournaments & Local Events
🏆 Portugal Masters (October): Often based in the Algarve but Lisbon courses host satellite events
⛳ Amateur & Club Events: Courses like Penha Longa, Belas, and Aroeira host regular competitions—ask your concierge or club directly
Combining Golf with Sightseeing in Lisbon
One of the best things about golfing in Lisbon is how easy it is to mix in world-class sightseeing between rounds. Here’s how to make the most of your trip—on and off the course.
🏰 Play & Explore in Sintra
After teeing off at Penha Longa, spend your afternoon visiting Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, or the Moorish Castle. Sintra feels like a real-life fairy tale and is only 30 minutes from Lisbon.
🌊 Golf by the Sea in Cascais
Oitavos Dunes is just minutes from the charming coastal town of Cascais. Walk the seaside promenade, visit Boca do Inferno, or relax on the beach after your round.
🏙 Urban Golf Escape
Staying in Lisbon city? Golf in the morning, then dive into history with a visit to the Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, or a ride on the iconic Tram 28. Lisbon’s culture, food, and nightlife are right at your doorstep.
🍷 Wine & Dine After 18 Holes
Many golf resorts have excellent restaurants, but don’t miss out on Lisbon’s wine bars and seafood spots. Head to Time Out Market, Bairro Alto, or Alfama for a great night out.
Final Thoughts: Why Lisbon Is a Hole-in-One
Golf in Lisbon is more than just sport—it’s a full experience. Tee off by the ocean, explore fairy-tale castles, and dine like royalty at sunset.
Whether you’re chasing birdies or just enjoying the views, Lisbon delivers golf, culture, and relaxation in one unforgettable trip.
✅ Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Bookmark this guide, share it with your golf buddies, and start planning your dream round in Lisbon.
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