Best Golf Courses in Portugal

Portugal is home to some of Europe’s most celebrated golf courses, attracting players from across the globe. From the sun-soaked Algarve to the cultural charm of Lisbon and the dramatic coastline of the Silver Coast, Portugal offers world-class layouts, luxury resorts, and year-round golfing weather. If you’re planning a golf holiday, here’s our guide to the very best golf courses in Portugal – and where to play them.

Looking for complete packages with tee times, hotels and transfers? Explore our Portugal golf holidays.

Why Portugal Is a World-Class Golf Destination

Portugal consistently ranks among the top golf destinations in Europe thanks to its perfect mix of climate, accessibility, and championship pedigree. The Algarve is famous for golden beaches and more than 30 superb courses, Lisbon blends historic charm with challenging layouts, and the Silver Coast offers rugged Atlantic views and emerging gems. With direct flights from most European cities, excellent hospitality, and a reputation for value, Portugal makes golfing both easy and unforgettable.

Best Time to Play Golf in Portugal

Portugal’s mild climate means golf is playable all year round, but some months offer better conditions than others. Here’s a quick seasonal guide to help you plan your trip:

The Best Golf Courses in Portugal

From championship layouts in the Algarve to coastal gems near Lisbon and the Silver Coast, here’s a quick look at Portugal’s standout courses and what makes each one special.

Quick Comparison Table

Monte Rei Golf & Country Club (Algarve)

Widely regarded as the number one course in Portugal, Monte Rei is a Jack Nicklaus Signature design set in the eastern Algarve. The layout combines pristine conditioning with dramatic views of the Serra do Caldeirão mountains and Atlantic Ocean. Expect five-star service, luxury facilities, and an exclusive atmosphere. Perfect for golfers who want a once-in-a-lifetime round.

Vale do Lobo Royal & Ocean Courses (Algarve)

The Vale do Lobo resort is home to two iconic courses. The Royal Course features the famous cliff-top par 3 over the beach, while the Ocean Course flows beautifully alongside the coastline. Both are must-play for their mix of challenge and scenery. The resort also offers luxury accommodation and spa facilities, making it a complete holiday destination.

Dom Pedro Victoria (Vilamoura, Algarve)

Designed by Arnold Palmer, the Dom Pedro Victoria Course is best known as the host of the Portugal Masters on the DP World Tour. With wide fairways, strategic bunkering, and water hazards, it offers a true test of championship golf. Playing here means walking in the footsteps of Europe’s top professionals.

Oitavos Dunes (Cascais, Lisbon Region)

Set within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, Oitavos Dunes is consistently ranked among the world’s top 100 courses. It combines links-style holes with stunning ocean backdrops and a modern design by Arthur Hills. Just 30 minutes from Lisbon, it’s a fantastic option for a golf break with culture and nightlife on the doorstep.

Penha Longa Resort (Sintra, Lisbon Region)

Nestled in the hills of Sintra, Penha Longa is a 27-hole complex designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. It blends forest, lakes, and mountain views with championship-quality golf. The resort also boasts Michelin-starred dining and luxury spa facilities, making it ideal for couples or groups seeking more than just golf.

West Cliffs Golf Links (Óbidos, Silver Coast)

One of Portugal’s newest courses, West Cliffs has quickly established itself as a must-play. Carved through sand dunes with panoramic Atlantic views, it offers a raw and dramatic golfing experience. Located north of Lisbon, it pairs well with Praia D’El Rey for a Silver Coast golf getaway.

Troia Golf Resort (Setúbal Peninsula)

Troia is a challenging but rewarding course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. It features narrow fairways, tricky bunkering, and spectacular sea views. Just an hour south of Lisbon, it’s ideal for golfers looking for something off the beaten path.

How to Choose the Right Course for Your Golf Holiday

If you want variety, nightlife and easy access, the Algarve is unbeatable with courses like Monte Rei, Vale do Lobo and Vilamoura. For culture and world-class layouts near a vibrant city, Lisbon’s Oitavos Dunes and Penha Longa are top picks. For a quieter, more dramatic golf escape, the Silver Coast’s West Cliffs and Troia deliver unforgettable experiences. Pairing the right course with the right resort is key – and our Portugal golf breaks make it seamless.

Plan Your Portugal Golf Holiday

From championship links to clifftop par threes, Portugal has a golf course for every style of player. Whether you’re chasing luxury, culture, or pure coastal beauty, these are the courses that should top your list. Ready to book your trip? Explore our hand-picked Portugal golf offers for exclusive packages including tee times, luxury accommodation and transfers.

FAQs

What is the best golf course in Portugal?

Monte Rei Golf & Country Club is widely regarded as Portugal’s top course, but Oitavos Dunes, Vale do Lobo and West Cliffs are also highly rated by golfers worldwide.

Where do the pros play golf in Portugal?

The Portugal Masters is played at Dom Pedro Victoria in Vilamoura, attracting Europe’s top professionals on the DP World Tour.

Can you play golf in Portugal year-round?

Yes. The best months are March–June and September–November, but Portugal’s mild climate allows play throughout the year, even in winter.

How much does it cost to play golf in Portugal?

Green fees typically range between €80–€200 depending on the course and season. Packages often offer better value by combining accommodation and tee times.

Is golf in Portugal expensive compared to Spain?

Portugal can be slightly more expensive at its top resorts, but many golfers find the quality of courses, service, and all-inclusive packages justify the cost. Spain offers more volume, while Portugal focuses on quality.

What is the most scenic golf course in Portugal?

Many consider West Cliffs and Vale do Lobo’s Royal Course the most scenic, thanks to their dramatic coastal views and unique seaside holes.

Travel & Access

Getting to Portugal’s top golf regions is straightforward, with excellent international connections and short transfer times once you land:

• Faro Airport (Algarve) – Direct transfers to Vilamoura, Vale do Lobo and Monte Rei.
• Lisbon Airport – Convenient for Oitavos, Penha Longa, Troia and West Cliffs.
• From the UK & Europe – Short flight times make Portugal an easy choice for golf breaks.

Golf & Beyond: Off-Course Experiences

A golf holiday in Portugal isn’t just about the courses – each region offers its own unique experiences away from the fairways:

• Algarve – Golden beaches, buzzing nightlife in Vilamoura and fresh seafood dining.
• Lisbon – City culture, the palaces of Sintra and vibrant evenings in Cascais.
• Silver Coast – Medieval Óbidos, local wine tours and a quieter coastal charm.

Best Golf Hotels in Portugal

Of course, a great golf trip is about more than the course — where you stay matters too. Here are some of the best golf hotels in Portugal that combine luxury accommodation with world-class courses. For the complete list, see our dedicated guide to the Best Golf Hotels in Portugal.

• Penha Longa Resort (Cascais, Lisbon) – Championship golf with luxury spa and Michelin-star dining.
• Palacio Estoril (Cascais) – Classic 5-star hotel with direct access to Estoril Golf.
• Bom Sucesso Resort (Silver Coast) – Modern villas with access to Royal Óbidos and West Cliffs.