Best golf courses in Lisbon

Alex Mabbutt
7 mins read
Recognised as one of Europe’s premier golf destinations, Lisbon has firmly established itself as a true golfing hotbed. See below our selection of the best courses we think you should play on your next break.
Portugal
Golf & beach
Golf tours
Europe
Parkland
Links
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Golf & city

Lisbon is one of Europe’s oldest cities, boasting traditional cuisine and well-established resorts with years of experience and the best hospitality. This Portugal region (including up to Coimbra and down to the Alentejo) is a golf tour paradise with over twenty five golfing facilities and thirty courses.

It’s no surprise that golfing greats like Arnold Palmer, Seve Ballesteros and Robert Trent Jones are amongst the architects who designed some of the best golf courses in Lisbon. Our Golf Travel Experts have explored the region extensively, and with so many standout layouts to choose from, we’ve selected the very best courses to play on your next trip.

1. Dunas Golf Club

Ranked among the very best courses in Portugal and one of Europe’s most exciting modern links layouts

Location: Terras da Comporta | Par: 71 | Yards: 6,820 | Designer: David McLay-Kidd | Opened: 2023

The Dunas Golf Course is a sandy terrain, true links layout designed by David McLay-Kidd. Ranked the best course in Portugal according to Top 100 Courses Dunas requires golfers to implement high levels of concentration and accuracy. Fairways are cut from 84 hectares of Festuca grass-land and measure out at 6,820 yards in length.

Each hole is equipped with six tees creating the perfect golf venue for golfers of all abilities. The course is located an hours drive from Lisbon airport and is one of two new 18-hole championship courses being created at Terras da Comporta.

Dunas Golf Course

Signature hole: A series of exposed coastal-facing par-fours to start the back-nine where wind direction completely changes strategy from one day to the next.

3 reasons to play Dunas Golf Club:

  • Modern links-style design built on natural sandy terrain.
  • Creative layout by a renowned architect, offering a fresh challenge.
  • Pure golfing experience with minimal housing and dramatic natural surroundings.

Bonus fact: Dunas is one of two new championship courses being developed at Terras da Comporta, just one hour from Lisbon Airport.

2. Praia D'El Rey Golf Course

Consistently ranked among Portugal’s top championship courses

Location: Cascais | Par: 73 | Yards: 7,003 | Designer: Cabell B. Robinson | Opened: 1997

Ranked 12th in Portugal according to Top 100 Courses, Praia D’El Rey is a must for a golf trip to Lisbon. Large daunting bunkers strategically guard the perfectly manicured greens that come in all shapes and sizes.

The stretch from 12 – 15 deserves a special accolade; these holes run right alongside the seafront and provide some stunning coastal views. In fact, the back 9 just gets better and better. The 17th is a monstrous uphill par 5, measuring at over 620 yards. Pinpoint accuracy is required throughout this course, especially when the Atlantic breeze picks up.

Praia D'El Rey Course

Signature hole: Played along the cliffs with the Atlantic crashing alongside the 14th hole is a standout.

3 reasons play to Praia D'El Rey:

  • Stunning Atlantic coastline holes with dramatic ocean views and coastal winds.
  • Championship layout combining links-style dunes with inland parkland.
  • Closely located to lots of brilliant accomodation options and the stunning West Cliffs Golf Club

Bonus fact: The back nine is widely regarded as one of the strongest finishing stretches in Portugal.

3. Oitavos Dunes Golf Club

Top-100 European pedigree set within a protected natural park

Location: Cascais | Par: 71 | Yards: 6,526 | Designer: Arthur Hills | Opened: 2001

Another course ranked highly in Top 100 courses Portugal (6th) and European (34th) rankings, the well-crafted Oitavos Dunes Golf Course fits in perfectly with the picturesque surroundings of the Sintra-Cascais National Park. The treelines and hidden greens make the front nine feel like a parkland course. This completely changes, however, when you reach the back nine, when suddenly presented with the vast Atlantic Ocean.

The blustery breeze and course design will pleasantly remind you of links golf; simply a stunning place to place to play with the best variety of holes.

Oitavos Dunes Golf Club

Signature hole: The par-3 14th is a stunning ocean framed hole that is sure to be one of the best threes you'll play on your Lisbon trip.

3 reasons to play Oitavos Dunes Golf Club:

  • True links-style golf set among natural sand dunes and pine trees.
  • Top-100 European pedigree with a world-class reputation.
  • Spectacular setting within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park overlooking the Atlantic.

Bonus fact: The course sits within a protected national park, preserving its wild and natural appearance.

4. Troia Golf

A Robert Trent Jones Sr. masterpiece ranked among Portugal’s finest

Location: Troia Peninsula | Par: 72 | Yards: 6,912 | Designer: Robert Trent Jones Snr | Opened: 1980

On the Peninsula of Troia sits our fourth pick, in a truly magical setting. A truly incredible course, Troia boasts a magnificent par four 3rd, one of our favourite sea holes in Portugal, that was selected by Trent Jones himself as one of the best holes he has ever designed. Ranked 4th in the whole of Portugal, it is known for its intricate design with elevated tees and sloping greens, making it a must-play when on your Lisbon golf tour.

Located to the south of Lisbon a little farther down the coast you can reach the club via a lovely short ferry crossing from Setubal to the Peninsula of Troia.

Troia Golf Course

Signature hole: One of the greatest holes in golf, the par-4 3rd playing into the sea is simply breathtaking.

3 reasons to play Troia Golf Club:

  • Robert Trent Jones Sr. design with classic strategic challenges.
  • Dramatic peninsula location surrounded by ocean views.
  • Varied layout blending links and woodland holes with demanding green complexes.

Bonus fact: You will need to take the short and scenic ferry from Setúbal, adding to the sense of occasion.

5. Atlantic Championship Course, Penha Longa Resort

Former Portuguese Open venue set against the Sintra mountains

Location: Sintra | Par: 72 | Yards: 7,102 | Designer: Robert Trent Jones Jnr.

Another Robert Trent Jones masterpiece, the Atlantic Championship Course at Penha Longa is a beautiful equatorial landscape that famously hosted the ‘94 Portuguese Open. When the wind blows across the mountains this course is a challenge for even the most skilled golfer. If you want to play somewhere that will test every single part of your game, this is the one.

Another highly ranked courses in Portugal, coming in at 19th in Top 100 Courses 2025 rankings, its a great option for a Libson tour, especially if you choose to stay on-site at the Penha Longa Resort.

Atlantic Championship Course, Penha Longa Resort

Signature hole: The lengthy par-5 6th plays downhill into a valley shaped fairway, a real test off of the tee.

3 reasons to play the Atlantic Championship Course at Penha Longa:

  • Former Portuguese Open host venue with tournament credentials.
  • Beautiful Sintra mountain backdrop with elevated tee shots and scenic valleys.
  • Demanding parkland design that tests accuracy and course management.

Bonus fact: The resort also features an additional nine-hole course for extended play.

6. Royal Obidos Golf

Location: Obidos | Par: 72 | Yards: 7,017 | Designer: Seve Ballesteros | Opened: 2012

Royal Obidos is one of the newer courses in the area, designed by the legendary Seve Ballesteros, who sadly passed away before he saw this beautiful layout come to fruition. The course features lagoons on the vast majority of holes that are tricky to navigate, making this a true risk/reward course that is sure to add drama to your tour. Make sure to pack plenty of balls!

It offers a great option for something a bit different on your Lisbon trip, it is a very different design to that of Praia D'El Rey, but is still just as elegant of a layout.

Royal Obidos Golf Course

Signature hole: The closing holes along the lagoon offer risk-reward drama in true Seve style.

3 reasons to play at Royal Obidos Golf:

  • Signature Seve Ballesteros design featuring creative risk-and-reward holes.
  • Championship-length course with a strong finishing stretch near the lagoon.
  • Great mix of coastal and inland holes for variety throughout the round.

Bonus fact: Seve sadly never saw the course fully completed, making it a lasting part of his design legacy.

7. PGA Aroeira No. 1, PGA Aroeira Lisboa

Classic pine forest layout near Lisbon’s coastline

Location: Aroeira | Par: 72 | Yards: 6,610 | Designer: Frank Pennink | Opened: 1973

A golf club with two absolutely pristine courses where again water hazards are integral to the layouts. The No. 1 course, designed by Englishman Frank Pennink who used the dense pine forests to sculpt this stunning course, lining the lush Bermuda fairways. Every single hole is memorable; despite not being the most challenging in the area, they still provide a hugely entertaining round.

Consistently ranking in Top 100 courses top 20 courses in Portugal, its a superb option and with the brilliant No.2 course on-site makes for a convenient addition to your itinerary.

PGA Aroeira Lisboa

Signature hole: A collection of water-protected par 3s that demand precise club selection.

3 reasons to play the No.1 course at PGA Aroeira:

  • Two quality championship courses in one convenient location.
  • Historic tournament venue with strong competitive heritage.
  • Ideal location near Lisbon and the beach, perfect for golf & leisure trips.

Bonus fact: Often referred to as the 'Wentworth' of Lisbon, it has a rich tournament history.

8. Quinta do Peru Golf & Country Club

Exclusive parkland course in Portugal’s olive-growing region

Location: Azeitao | Par: 72 | Yards: 6,601 yards | Designer: Rocky Roquemore | Opened: 1994

Located on the south side of the Rio Tajo in Portugal’s olive growing landscape sits the Quinta do Peru resort. An exclusive course, so booking well in advance is advised. Designed by American Rocky Roquemore, Quinta do Peru has obvious references to US-style courses with large bunkers and show off water hazards that make this a thrill to play.

Quinta do Peru Golf Club

Signature hole: The 12th hole, although not long, offers an engaging challenge with a lake bordering the left side of the fairway all the way to the green.

3 reasons to play Quinta do Peru:

  • Beautiful tree-lined parkland course with scenic elevation changes.
  • Playable yet challenging layout, suitable for a wide range of handicaps.
  • Welcoming club atmosphere with excellent practice facilities.

Bonus fact: Advance booking is recommended due to limited daily visitor availability.

9. Belas Clube de Campo Golf

Strategic valley layout just outside Lisbon

Location: Carregueira | Par: 72 | Yards: 6,684 | Designer: Rocky Roquemore | Opened: 1997

Another Rocky Roquemore design, Belas Clube has been carved through valleys and through the rolling hills of Carregueira. These lush green fairways stand boldly against the brown desert backdrop. Worth playing a couple of times as the severely sloping greens will most likely catch you off guard on your first round.

Belas Clube de Campo Golf

Signature hole: The par-5 15th, 'Jamor', is a beast form the back tees and will test even the very best golfers.

3 reasons to play Belas Clube Campo Course:

  • Championship-standard layout set in rolling countryside.
  • Strategic green complexes that reward precision play.
  • Peaceful, natural setting just a short drive from Lisbon.

Bonus fact: Many golfers choose to replay the course to better understand its green complexes.

10. Quinta da Marinha Course, Hotel Quinta da Marinha

Classic Cascais layout designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr.

Location: Cascais | Par: 71 | Yards: 6,419 | Designer: Robert Trent Jones Snr

Robert Trent Jones Snr designed this beautiful course in Cascais. The Quinta da Marinha course is famous for its 6 stunning par 3’s over water, with greens surrounded by sand traps. A number of professional competitions have taken place here and it’s used commonly on the Ladies European Tour. An immaculate tour standard course that’s open to the public, all the golfers we send here have fallen in love.

Quinta da Marinha Course, Hotel Quinta da Marinha

Signature hole: Played over a ravine to a difficult green the par-3 14th, is a hole you won't forget.

3 reasons to play Quinta da Marinha Golf Course:

  • Classic Robert Trent Jones Snr design with strategic bunkering.
  • Memorable water-feature and coastal holes.
  • Prime Cascais location, ideal for combining golf with beach and nightlife.

Bonus fact: Regularly used for professional and Ladies European Tour events.

11. West Cliffs Golf Links

Award-winning modern links overlooking the Atlantic

Location: Silver Coast | Par: 72 | Yards: 7,003 | Designer: Cynthia Dye | Opened: 2017

The West Cliffs Golf Course is a stunning track at one of the best golf resorts in Lisbon and is situated on Lisbon's silver coast, with views over the Berlengas and Obidos Islands. This pure links layout was designed by Cynthia Dye (daughter of Roy Anderson Dye) who's construction team focused on creating a course that sits perfectly in the natural landscape. The course measures out at 6,382 metres and plays a par 72.

West Cliffs Golf Links

Signature hole: The 9th-hole stands out in beauty, a sharp dog-leg left with water and heavy bunkering putting players off of trying to cut too much off.

3 reasons to play West Cliffs Golf Links:

  • Spectacular rugged coastline layout with panoramic Atlantic views.
  • Award-winning modern links design with strategic bunkering.
  • One of Portugal’s most visually striking courses, delivering a memorable round.

Bonus fact: Often paired with Praia D’El Rey for a premium Silver Coast golf experience.

Travel tips

When it comes to a Lisbon trip there are few things that are vital to get right, here are some of our Golf Travel Experts key tips for Lisbon golf trip:

  • Mix course styles: Combine links-style venues like Praia D’El Rey and West Cliffs with parkland options such as Quinta do Peru or Belas for variety.
  • Factor in daylight hours: Winter rounds may require earlier tee times to guarantee completion, especially for larger groups.
  • Organise on-course competitions: Stableford formats and team events work well on Lisbon’s varied layouts and add structure to group trips.
  • Plan for wind strategy: Morning tee times often offer calmer conditions, while afternoon rounds can be more exposed along the coast.
  • Allow time for practice facilities: Many resorts offer excellent driving ranges and short-game areas, arrive early to take advantage.

For more travel tips and information on booking a Lisbon golf trip, take a read of our Reasons to book a golf holiday to Lisbon article.

Final thoughts

With its mix of Atlantic links, championship parkland layouts and tournament-hosting pedigree, Lisbon stands out as one of Europe’s most complete golf destinations. Add in year-round playability, stunning coastal scenery and vibrant city nightlife, and it’s easy to see why golfers return time and time again.

Whether you’re planning a competitive tour, a golf & beach escape or a premium multi-course itinerary, Lisbon delivers quality, variety and exceptional value, making it a superb choice for your next golf break.

Feeling inspired?
Lisbon, along with the well-famed Algarve region, form the jewels in Portugal's golfing crown.

Published 11 August 2022

Alex Mabbutt

Senior Groups European Travel Consultant