The Clubhouse

A guide to golf in Italy

Ben Robinson
Ben Robinson
15 mins read
No matter what kind of getaway you’re after, Italy has it all. From sun-drenched coastlines and rolling vineyards to world-famous cuisine and art. Whatever you’re dreaming of, this handy guide will show you the best places to visit in Italy.
Golf toursCity breaksLuxuryGolf & cityGolf & beachItaly

Sitting gracefully at the heart of Southern Europe, Italy invites golfers to experience a country where world-class golf meets timeless culture, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. From the dramatic mountain landscapes to the rolling countryside and sun-drenched shores, Italy offers an unrivalled blend of golfing excellence and la dolce vita.

Golfers can enjoy Italy year-round, with spring and autumn offering perfect playing conditions, and summer bringing glorious sunshine across its coastal and countryside resorts. Choose to stay in a stylish city-centre hotel to immerse yourself in Italian culture, cuisine, and nightlife, or indulge in the serenity of a 5-star golf resort with world-class facilities and immaculate fairways.

Florence at night

What is the best time to play golf in Italy?

The best time to visit Italy for golf is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is warm and dry without being too hot. These seasons offer comfortable daytime temperatures in the low to mid-20s°C, providing perfect conditions for long rounds and time spent on the course.

Spring offers fresh, clear days and excellent course conditions, while autumn brings consistent sunshine, cooler evenings, and a relaxed atmosphere that’s ideal for unwinding after a round, whether that’s over local food and wine or by the pool.

Travelling during these months also means avoiding the peak summer heat and the busier tourist season, giving golfers more space, flexibility, and an all-round smoother experience both on and off the fairways.

Lake Como

How to get to Italy

For flights, Italy is extremely well-connected, with major international airports located in Rome (FCO), Milan (MXP), Venice (VCE), and Florence (FLR), as well as convenient regional hubs serving destinations such as Bologna, Naples, and Catania in Sicily. Direct flights operate year-round from all major UK airports, with some great deals throughout the year!

Depending on your chosen destination, transfers are typically straightforward, with many golf resorts located within an hour’s drive of the nearest airport, making travel to and from Italy’s top golfing regions quick and hassle-free.

Flight times:

  • Glasgow (GLA) - Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO): 3h 10m
  • Manchester (MAN) - Milan Malpensa (MXP): 2h 10m
  • London Gatwick (LGW) - Venice (VCE): 2h 10m
  • London Heathrow (LHR) - Florence (FLR): 2h 15m

Travel Tips

Golf travel tips:

  • Book tee times early - Italy’s top courses can be popular, especially during spring and autumn. Reserving in advance ensures the best times and smoother planning.
  • Check dress codes - Most clubs follow traditional European standards, requiring collared shirts and tailored shorts or trousers. Some resorts may also require soft spikes only.
  • Stay hydrated - Even outside the summer months, temperatures can climb on coastal and inland courses. Always keep water in your bag.
  • Book buggies ahead - Many Italian courses have limited availability, so booking your buggy in advance is strongly recommended.

Packing essentials:

  • Lightweight, breathable golf clothing suitable for warm days.
  • Extra layers for cooler mornings and evenings, especially in spring and autumn.
  • Sun protection - a hat, sunglasses, and high-factor suncream are must-haves.
  • Comfortable footwear - ideal for exploring towns, vineyards, or coastal promenades off the course.

Cultural tips:

  • Etiquette matters - Italians value courtesy and presentation; punctuality and politeness go a long way, both on and off the course.
  • Dining times - Restaurants often open later in the evening (from around 7:30 pm), so plan meals accordingly.
  • Tipping - Service charges are often included, but small tips for caddies, drivers, or hotel staff are always appreciated.
  • Driving - Roads are generally good, but driving styles can be more assertive than in the UK. Stay alert, especially around major cities.

Useful travel information:

  • Currency: Euro
  • Local time: UTC +1 (Central European Time)
  • Language: Italian (English widely spoken in hotels and tourist areas)
  • Visa information: See the latest information - www.gov.uk

Top golf destinations

Most golf breaks to Italy are centered around its standout regions, from the dramatic Alps of the north to the rolling countryside and coastal beauty of the south and islands. Each offers its own mix of championship courses, luxury resorts, and distinctive Italian character:

  • Lombardy - a golfing heartland offering a mix of lakeside and alpine layouts near Milan and Lake Como. Excellent facilities, stylish resorts, and easy travel connections make Lombardy ideal for a premium golf break.
  • Piedmont - known for its rolling hills and renowned wine regions, Piedmont offers championship golf surrounded by scenic countryside and fine dining. Courses here blend natural beauty with technical challenge.
  • Emilia-Romagna - a region that delivers classic Italian hospitality with top-quality golf. Expect a relaxed pace, great food, and courses nestled between historic towns and the Adriatic coast.
  • Lazio - the region surrounding Rome offers a unique combination of golf and culture. Championship courses, ancient landmarks, and excellent transport links make Lazio perfect for combining sport with sightseeing.
  • Sicilia - sun-drenched golf meets island charm. Sicily’s coastal courses and luxury resorts provide year-round playability with a distinct Mediterranean atmosphere.
  • Sardinia - a paradise for golfers who love sea views. Sardinia’s immaculate coastal courses and 5-star resorts combine dramatic scenery with total relaxation.
  • Toscana - Tuscany’s iconic landscapes and premium golf resorts make it one of Italy’s most sought-after destinations. Play championship courses among vineyards and olive groves, then unwind with world-class food and wine.
  • Umbria - a quieter, authentic alternative to Tuscany, offering rolling hills, traditional towns, and superb golf surrounded by unspoilt countryside. Ideal for those seeking a peaceful, genuine Italian experience.

Lombardy

Located in northern Italy, Lombardy is a region where world-class golf meets style and sophistication. From the vibrant city of Milan, the fashion capital of Europe, to the sparkling waters of Lake Como and Lake Garda, Lombardy combines culture, luxury, and natural beauty in one unforgettable destination.

With excellent amenities, refined cuisine, and superb golf resorts, it’s a true playground for golfers seeking quality and variety.

Lake Como

Where to stay in Lombardy

  • Garda Hotel San Vigilio Golf - five-star resort overlooking the stunning shores of Lake Garda, offering refined rooms and suites with direct access to the 27-hole San Vigilio Golf course. Guests can enjoy a full-service spa, outdoor pools, fine dining, and panoramic lake views, all just a short drive from Verona and Brescia.
  • QC Termegarda Spa & Golf Resort - a luxury wellness retreat combining championship golf with exceptional spa facilities. Located near Lake Garda, the resort features elegant rooms, thermal pools, gourmet dining, and serene surroundings.
  • Hotel Como - a stylish four-star base in the heart of Como, ideal for golfers playing nearby courses and exploring the lake region. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool and bar, and easy access to Lake Como’s waterfront, restaurants, and nightlife.

QC Termegarda Spa & Golf Resort

Where to play in Lombardy

  • Le Robinie Golf Course - the only Jack Nicklaus Signature course in Italy, located just outside Milan. Cleverly contoured fairways, deep bunkering, and perfectly manicured greens make this a rewarding test for golfers of all levels.
  • Golf Club Castelconturbia - a Robert Trent Jones Sr. masterpiece featuring 27 championship holes set among ancient woodland and lakes. Regularly ranked among Italy’s top courses, it has twice hosted the Italian Open and offers a perfectly balanced blend of challenge and beauty.
  • Garda Golf & Country Club - a prestigious 27-hole course overlooking Lake Garda, designed by Cotton, Pennink, Steel & Partners. Its rolling fairways, mature trees, and panoramic views make it a true championship experience in a spectacular setting.
  • Arzaga Golf Club – a top-class venue near Lake Garda with two courses designed by legends: Jack Nicklaus II and Gary Player. The layouts combine strategic bunkering, generous greens, and open vistas, making Arzaga a must-play for those seeking variety and quality.

Arzaga Golf Club

What to do in Lombarby When you’re not on the course, Lombardy offers plenty to fill your downtime with quality experiences.

Milan Italy’s fashion and financial capital is a city of energy and elegance. Explore designer boutiques along Via Montenapoleone, visit the iconic Duomo di Milano, or tour San Siro Stadium, home to AC Milan and Inter Milan. Unwind with an aperitivo in the city’s buzzing bars or classic steakhouses.

The Lakes From Lake Como to Lake Garda, Lombardy’s lakes are perfect for relaxing between rounds. Take a private boat trip, enjoy lakeside dining in Bellagio or Sirmione, or simply sit back with a drink as the sun sets over the water.

Motorsports The Monza Circuit is one of Formula 1’s most famous tracks. Take a tour or time your visit with a race weekend for a true bucket-list experience. The nearby Franciacorta region also offers track days, luxury car rentals, and off-road experiences.

Taste of Lombardy Lombardy’s cuisine is hearty and authentic, think osso buco, risotto alla Milanese, and local cured meats. Pair your meal with a glass of Franciacorta, Italy’s finest sparkling wine, or unwind with a Negroni in a lakeside bar after a day on the course.

Explore the Outdoors For a change of pace, head north toward the Alps for hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the mountain air. The region’s mix of lakes, hills, and alpine scenery offers countless ways to make the most of Italy’s great outdoors.

Milan

Piedmont

Bordering France and Switzerland in Italy’s northwest corner, Piedmont is famed for its Alpine scenery, fine wines, and exceptional golf. While best known for skiing in winter, the region transforms in summer into a golfer’s paradise, with world-class courses framed by the foothills of the Alps and easy access to the lively city of Turin.

Turin

Where to stay in Piedmont

  • Le Betulle Golf Hotel - an intimate stay in the woodlands outside Turin, with just 16 rooms overlooking its championship course. Guests can enjoy watersports on Lake Viverone or wine tasting at Roppolo Castle, making it a great base for a relaxing golf escape.
  • Hotel NH Piazza Carlina - located in central Turin and combines history with modern comfort. This stylish property features elegant rooms, a rooftop bar, and easy access to the city’s top restaurants and nightlife.
  • Bogogno Golf Resort - set in the rolling countryside of Piedmont, this four-star modern resort offers contemporary rooms and direct access to two top-tier championship courses. The resort also features a restaurant, pool, and terrace bar, with Lake Maggiore and Milan within easy reach.

NH Collection Piazza Carlina

Where to play in Piedmont

  • Bonora & Del Conte Course - two Robert von Hagge-designed championship layouts at the Bogogno Golf Resort in Piedmont. The Bonora Course offers a natural, parkland feel through rolling countryside, while the Del Conte Course delivers open fairways and strategic water features, both combining challenge with outstanding views of Monte Rosa.
  • Royal Park Golf Club Roveri - located on Turin’s outskirts and offers two outstanding 18-hole layouts and ranked as number one in Italy by top 100 courses. The Allianz Course, a true championship test designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., and the Allianz Bank Course by Hurdzan-Fry, a more forgiving but equally scenic round.
  • Circolo Golf Torino – La Mandria is another must-play venue, boasting two beautifully maintained courses set within a former royal hunting estate. A multiple host of the Italian Open, Torino combines tradition, technical challenge, and a serene parkland setting that epitomises top-level Italian golf.
  • Le Betulle Golf Club - consistently ranked among the country’s best, features a classic woodland design with immaculate conditioning, perfect for golfers who appreciate precision and strategy.

Le Betulle Golf Club

What to do in Piedmont Piedmont offers a perfect mix of culture, fine dining, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re exploring Turin’s elegant streets, sipping wine in the countryside, or heading into the Alps, there’s no shortage of memorable experiences waiting off the fairways.

Explore Turin Piedmont’s capital, Turin, is a city full of grand architecture, elegant squares, and classic Italian energy. Visit the Royal Palace, stroll beneath its historic arcades, and stop for an espresso at one of the city’s famous cafés. Don’t miss the Mole Antonelliana, home to the National Museum of Cinema and one of Italy’s most recognisable landmarks.

Food & Wine Experiences This is Italy’s gastronomic heartland, home of Barolo, Barbaresco, and the world-famous white truffle. Enjoy local dishes like tajarin pasta or vitello tonnato at a countryside trattoria, or take a guided wine-tasting tour through the vineyards of Langhe or Monferrato.

Lakes & Countryside Unwind at Lake Viverone, where you can enjoy water sports, lakeside dining, or a peaceful stroll with panoramic views. The nearby Roppolo Castle offers tastings and tours, while the rolling countryside surrounding it provides some of Italy’s best scenic drives.

Historic & Cultural Landmarks Beyond Turin, explore medieval towns like Asti and Alba, known for their markets and regional produce. History lovers can visit La Mandria Park, a former royal hunting estate beside Circolo Golf Torino, or take a tour of the region’s palaces and vineyards steeped in Savoy heritage.

Outdoor Adventures For those looking to explore beyond the greens, Piedmont’s Alpine foothills are ideal for hiking, cycling, and mountain drives. In summer, you’ll find stunning trails and crisp air, and in winter, world-class ski resorts just a short trip from Turin.

Emilia-Romagna

Known as one of Italy’s most indulgent regions, Emilia-Romagna combines world-class food, fast cars, and fantastic golf. It’s home to iconic cities like Bologna, Parma, Modena, and Ferrara, each brimming with culture, history, and Italian flair.

From the home of Ferrari to the birthplace of Bolognese, this region serves up the perfect blend of luxury, leisure, and sport.

Emilia-Romagna

Where to stay in Emilia-Romagna

  • Hotel Metropolitan - an excellent choice for those wanting to mix city life with time on the fairways. Combining traditional Italian charm with modern comfort, it’s the ideal base for exploring the city’s famous food scene and nearby golf courses.
  • Riviera Golf Resort - set in the peaceful countryside, it offers stylish rooms, a superb spa, and elegant dining, making it a great spot to unwind after a round. The resort’s Tee Restaurant serves gourmet cuisine prepared by some of the region’s top chefs.
  • Palazzo di Varignana Resort - this resort delivers the ultimate in relaxation and sophistication. Surrounded by rolling hills east of Bologna, it features luxurious rooms, expansive spa facilities, fine dining, and direct access to championship golf.

Palazzo Di Varignana Resort

Where to play in Emilia Romagna

  • Riviera Golf Club – located near Cattolica, this USGA-standard course is known for its pristine conditioning and elegant design. The layout weaves through rolling countryside and lakes, offering a peaceful yet challenging round supported by excellent practice facilities and a luxury resort on-site.
  • Bologna Golf Club – one of Italy’s most historic courses, founded in 1959, set in the scenic hills just south of Bologna. The course features tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, providing a classic and rewarding test for all golfers.
  • Modena Golf & Country Club – a championship venue designed by Bernhard Langer, boasting wide fairways, large greens, and a layout that has hosted the Italian Open. The club combines technical challenge with first-class amenities, making it a must-play for serious golfers visiting the region.
  • Le Fonti Golf Club – situated in the spa town of Castel San Pietro Terme, this friendly and welcoming course features wide fairways, gentle slopes, and beautiful valley views. It’s perfect for golfers of all levels and pairs perfectly with the area’s renowned wellness facilities.

Modena Golf & Country Club

What to do in Emilia-Romagna Between rounds, Emilia-Romagna delivers everything Italy is famous for - superb food, rich culture, and a dash of motor-powered excitement. From Bologna’s lively streets to Modena’s supercar heritage, this region is all about indulgence and adventure.

Discover Bologna Known as “La Grassa” (The Fat One) for its culinary excellence, Bologna is bursting with life. Wander through its medieval arcades, visit Piazza Maggiore and the Two Towers, then refuel with fresh pasta at a local trattoria. The city’s mix of history, energy, and cuisine makes it a must-visit between rounds.

Motors & Supercars For car lovers, this region is paradise. Visit the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, the Lamborghini Factory in Sant’Agata Bolognese, or the Ducati Museum in Bologna for an up-close look at Italy’s most iconic machines. Many tours even offer the chance to test drive a Ferrari on local roads.

Food & Wine Experiences Emilia-Romagna is the birthplace of Parmigiano-Reggiano, prosciutto di Parma, and balsamic vinegar of Modena. Take a guided tasting tour or visit family-run producers to experience Italy’s most authentic flavours - perfect after a morning on the course.

Cultural Heritage Beyond the fairways, explore the Renaissance beauty of Ferrara, the Roman mosaics of Ravenna, or the elegant streets of Parma. Each city offers world-class dining, historic landmarks, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Relaxation & Wellness After a day on the course, unwind in one of the region’s famous spa towns like Castel San Pietro Terme or indulge in the wellness facilities at Palazzo di Varignana Resort. With thermal waters, gourmet restaurants, and panoramic views, it’s the perfect way to recover and recharge.

Bologna

Lazio

Located in western Italy, Lazio blends golf, history, and culture like few other regions can. Centred around Rome, it’s a destination where ancient landmarks meet modern luxury, offering world-class golf, excellent cuisine, and unforgettable sightseeing.

From the Eternal City’s historic streets to the tranquil countryside beyond, Lazio provides the perfect setting for a golf break that combines golf with exploration.

Rome

Where to stay in Lazio

  • Sheraton Parco de’ Medici Rome Hotel – a stylish golf resort just 12km from central Rome, featuring 27 holes onsite. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, lakeside views, and a relaxed clubhouse atmosphere, making it ideal for both groups and city explorers.
  • NH Roma Villa Carpegna – located near Villa Doria Pamphili Park, this elegant hotel offers a peaceful escape from the city’s energy while staying close to the action. It’s perfectly positioned for golfers wanting to play Marco Simone or Castelgandolfo, while enjoying Rome’s dining and nightlife.
  • Radisson Blu GHR Hotel Rome – a refined five-star hotel in the elegant Parioli district, close to Rome’s historic centre and top restaurants. Featuring modern rooms, a rooftop bar, and easy access to the city’s golf courses, it’s a superb base for travellers seeking comfort and sophistication after a day on the fairways.

Sheraton Golf Parco De Medici Hotel & Resort

Where to play in Lazio

  • Marco Simone Golf & Country Club – host of the 2023 Ryder Cup, this world-class venue sits just 30 minutes from Rome. The layout features rolling fairways, lakes, and views of St. Peter’s Basilica, offering a true championship experience for every golfer.
  • Parco de’ Medici Golf Club – part of the Sheraton resort, this 27-hole complex features three 9-hole loops that can be combined for variety - the White Course, Blue Course and Red Course. The courses wind through lakes and mature trees, with excellent facilities, a driving range, and friendly Italian hospitality.
  • Olgiata Golf Club – a prestigious course north of Rome that has twice hosted the Italian Open and the Ladies Italian Open and is often ranked in Italy's top 5 courses by top 100. The championship course is long, tree-lined, and immaculately maintained, offering a challenging test for skilled golfers in a peaceful, exclusive setting.

Olgiata Golf Club

Things to do in Lazio Between rounds, Lazio offers an unbeatable mix of sightseeing, history, and local flavour, from the icons of Rome to peaceful lakeside escapes.

Explore the Eternal City Step into history with visits to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon, or tour Vatican City to see St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. As the sun sets, head to Trastevere for lively streets, alfresco dining, and a glass of Italian wine.

Historic Landmarks & Day Trips Just outside Rome, explore Tivoli’s Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites known for their gardens and architecture. The region’s countryside is filled with castles, ancient ruins, and scenic villages once favoured by popes and emperors.

Food & Wine Lazio’s cuisine is hearty and authentic - try classics like spaghetti carbonara, cacio e pepe, and saltimbocca alla romana, paired with crisp Frascati white wine from nearby vineyards. For a relaxed evening, enjoy an aperitivo in a Roman piazza before dinner.

Nature & Countryside Escapes Head beyond the city to discover Lake Bracciano and Lake Albano, where you can enjoy peaceful walks, watersports, and lakeside restaurants. For a scenic drive, explore the rolling hills of the Castelli Romani, dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and hilltop towns.

Trevi Fountain, Rome

Sicilia

Head to Sicilia (better known as Sicily) for perfect weather, luxurious resorts, and exceptional golf. Italy’s southernmost region combines year-round sunshine, Mediterranean charm, and world-class hospitality - making it one of Europe’s most desirable golf destinations.

Sicily

Where to stay in Sicilia

  • Verdura Golf & Spa Resort - a five-star luxury retreat on Sicily’s southern coast, set across 230 acres of olive groves and countryside. The resort offers elegant rooms, a private beach, award-winning dining, and two championship golf courses overlooking the Mediterranean.
  • Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa - nestled on the slopes of Mount Etna, this boutique resort combines authentic Sicilian style with modern comfort. Surrounded by vineyards and volcanic scenery, it features a full spa, gourmet restaurant, and direct access to one of Italy’s most unique golf courses.

Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton

Where to play in Sicilia

  • Verdura Golf Club – home to two 18-hole championship courses and a 9-hole par-3 layout, designed by Kyle Phillips, with both courses ranking within Italy's top 10 courses. The courses offer wide fairways, coastal breezes, and dramatic sea views, providing a true resort golf experience in spectacular surroundings.
  • Il Picciolo Golf Club – the first course built in Sicily, this distinctive layout winds through lava flows and lush greenery on the slopes of Mount Etna. Known for its natural beauty and strategic challenge, it features undulating fairways, doglegs, and stunning views of the volcano.

The Vendura Shore course at Verdura Golf & Spa Resort

What to do in Sicilia Between rounds, Sicily offers the perfect mix of relaxation, exploration, and an authentic Italian lifestyle.

Explore Coastal Sicily From Sciacca to Cefalù, Sicily’s coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches, fishing villages, and seaside restaurants. Take a boat trip along the coast or enjoy a leisurely evening by the water with a glass of Sicilian wine.

Mount Etna Adventures Experience the island’s natural wonder with a guided hike or cable car ride up Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano. The area also offers off-road tours, vineyard visits, and panoramic viewpoints that make for unforgettable day trips.

Culture & History Discover Sicily’s ancient past at the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento or the Greek Theatre of Taormina, both offering incredible archaeological sites with sweeping island views. The island’s blend of Greek, Roman, and Norman influences gives every city a distinct charm.

Food & Wine Sicilian cuisine is legendary — from arancini and pasta alla Norma to freshly caught seafood and cannoli. Pair your meals with the island’s rich wines like Nero d’Avola or Etna Rosso, and enjoy authentic dining experiences that celebrate Sicily’s vibrant flavours.

Relaxation & Wellness After a day on the course, unwind at Verdura Spa, one of Italy’s best wellness centres, offering thalassotherapy pools, treatments, and ocean views. Alternatively, enjoy a slower pace at countryside wineries or local spas set within traditional Sicilian estates.

Mount Etna in Sicily

Sardegna

Sardegna (more commonly known as Sardinia) is Italy’s largest island, famed for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and year-round sunshine. With world-class golf, luxury resorts, and spectacular coastal scenery, it’s the perfect destination for a relaxing and rewarding golf escape.

Sardegna

Where to stay in Sardegna

  • Is Arenas Golf Resort – a luxurious five-star hotel on the island’s west coast, offering elegant rooms, fine dining, and exceptional service. Set just 450 yards from the sea, the resort combines comfort with natural beauty, making it ideal for golfers looking to unwind in style.

Mira Hotel – Resort Is Arenas

What to do in Sardegna Sardinia offers more than great golf; it’s a playground of beaches, culture, and adventure, all wrapped in Mediterranean charm.

Explore the Coastline Discover Sardinia’s famous Costa Smeralda, with its crystal-clear waters, luxury marinas, and golden beaches. Take a boat trip to La Maddalena Archipelago, or relax at seaside towns like Alghero and Villasimius for the perfect balance of sun and sophistication.

Food & Wine Sardinian cuisine is rich, rustic, and full of flavour. Try porceddu (slow-roasted suckling pig), fresh seafood pasta, or traditional pane carasau bread. Pair your meals with local wines such as Vermentino di Gallura or Cannonau, known for their Mediterranean character.

Culture & History Explore Sardinia’s unique heritage through its ancient Nuraghe stone towers, or wander the charming old towns of Cagliari and Bosa. The island’s mix of history and laid-back atmosphere makes it as culturally fascinating as it is relaxing.

Outdoor Adventures For something more active, enjoy hiking in the Gennargentu Mountains, cycling along the coast, or snorkeling in secluded coves. The island’s diverse landscapes make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

A beach in Sardegna

Toscana

Toscana (more commonly known as Tuscany) is Italy at its most timeless, with rolling countryside, medieval towns, and the artistic beauty of Florence. Home to world-class golf resorts, fine wines, and exceptional hospitality, Tuscany offers the ideal blend of relaxation, culture, and sport.

Toscana

Where to stay in Toscana

  • La Bagnaia Golf & Spa Resort - a luxurious retreat surrounded by panoramic hills just outside Siena. Set within a restored medieval village, the resort combines traditional Tuscan charm with modern comfort, offering gourmet dining, a tranquil spa, and sweeping countryside views.
  • Argentario Golf Resort & Spa – one of Tuscany’s most exclusive golf destinations, this five-star resort near Porto Ercole features contemporary design, a full wellness centre, and outstanding dining. The property is eco-conscious, using local and organic products to create an authentic Tuscan experience.
  • Toscana Resort Castelfalfi – nestled in the Florentine countryside, this five-star resort delivers a perfect mix of luxury and authenticity. Guests enjoy elegant rooms, top-tier restaurants, a serene spa, and two on-site golf courses — all set within a beautifully restored medieval estate.
  • Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf Resort – a five-star retreat built around Tuscany’s natural hot springs, offering a unique combination of wellness and golf. The resort features thermal pools, holistic spa treatments, and elegant accommodation surrounded by nature — the perfect escape for golfers seeking rest and rejuvenation.

La Bagnaia Golf Resort

Where to play in Toscana

  • Royal Golf La Bagnaia – designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., this inland links-style course winds through the Siena valley with strategic bunkering and water hazards. Offering 18 holes of scenic yet challenging play, it’s as beautiful as it is rewarding.
  • Argentario Golf Club – the PGA National Italy course offers a championship-standard layout surrounded by Mediterranean forest and sea views. With tight fairways and quick greens, it’s a visually striking and enjoyable test for golfers of all levels.
  • Golf Club Castelfalfi – a 27-hole complex featuring the Mountain Course and Lake Course, both designed to blend seamlessly with the Tuscan landscape. The Mountain Course is particularly challenging, with elevation changes and spectacular views across olive groves and vineyards.
  • Terme di Saturnia Golf Course – a stunning 18-hole course adjacent to the resort’s famous hot springs. Designed by Ron Kirby, it combines natural beauty with thoughtful design, weaving through gently rolling terrain and offering breathtaking views of southern Tuscany’s Maremma countryside.

Golf Club Castelfalfi

What to do in Toscana Between rounds, Tuscany offers everything from wine tasting and art to slow-paced countryside living, it is the perfect complement to its world-class golf.

Explore Florence & Siena Discover Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Visit the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio, or simply enjoy a gelato as you stroll its historic streets. In Siena, admire the stunning Piazza del Campo and climb the Torre del Mangia for sweeping city views.

Wine & Gastronomy Tuscany is synonymous with fine wine and food. Explore the Chianti region for tastings of world-famous reds, and enjoy rustic Tuscan dishes like bistecca alla Fiorentina and pici pasta with local olive oil. Many resorts offer private vineyard tours and cooking classes for guests.

Countryside & Villages Venture into the countryside to discover charming hilltop towns such as San Gimignano, Montepulciano, and Volterra. Winding roads, stone villas, and golden landscapes create the quintessential Italian driving experience.

Relaxation & Wellness After a day on the fairways, unwind at your resort’s spa or visit the thermal baths of Saturnia, famed for their natural hot springs and tranquil surroundings. Tuscany’s laid-back pace makes it the ideal place to recharge and soak in la dolce vita.

Florence

Umbria

Located in the heart of Italy, Umbria is often called the country’s “green heart” as it is a land of rolling hills, medieval towns, and authentic Italian traditions. Bordering Tuscany, Lazio, and Le Marche, this region offers peaceful countryside golf paired with deep history, fine cuisine, and breathtaking views.

Umbria

Where to stay in Umbria

  • Sangallo Palace Hotel - a modern four-star hotel located in the heart of Perugia, just a short walk from the city’s historic centre. Offering comfortable rooms, a wellness area, and an indoor pool, it’s the perfect base for golfers looking to explore Umbria’s capital while staying close to top courses.

Sangallo Palace Hotel

Where to play in Umbria

  • Antognolla Golf Club – designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., this 18-hole championship course is set around a restored medieval castle and among dramatic valleys. The layout combines technical precision with stunning scenery, offering elevated tees, water features, and views of the castle at every turn.

Antognolla Golf Course

What to do in Umbria With its slower pace and timeless beauty, Umbria is perfect for golfers who want to experience authentic Italy away from the crowds.

Explore Historic Towns Visit Perugia, the region’s lively capital, home to Renaissance architecture, cobbled streets, and vibrant cafés. Then head to Assisi, birthplace of St. Francis, to explore its UNESCO-listed basilica and medieval charm.

Countryside & Villages Discover the hilltop towns of Orvieto, Spello, and Gubbio, each offering panoramic views, historic buildings, and a true taste of rural Italy. Driving through Umbria’s winding country roads is an experience in itself.

Food & Wine Umbria’s cuisine celebrates simplicity and local ingredients - from black truffles and porchetta to hearty pasta dishes and rich olive oil. Pair these with wines like Sagrantino di Montefalco or Orvieto Classico for a true Umbrian experience.

Culture & Relaxation After a round, unwind at your resort’s spa or explore local artisan shops and wineries. Visit during autumn for truffle festivals or spring for olive harvest season, when the countryside is at its most vibrant.

Perugia

Italy Golf Holidays FAQs

Q: When is the best time to play golf in Italy? A: The best time to play golf in Italy is during spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October). These months offer warm, dry weather and ideal playing conditions.

Q: Are there golf courses near major cities like Rome, Florence, or Milan? A: Yes, Italy’s top golf regions are easily accessible from major cities:

  • Rome (Lazio): Play at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club, Olgiata, or Parco de’ Medici, all within 30–45 minutes.
  • Florence (Tuscany): Courses like Royal Golf La Bagnaia and Castelfalfi are a short drive away.
  • Milan (Lombardy): Enjoy premier clubs like Le Robinie, Garda Golf, and Circolo Golf Villa d'Este.

Q: Are golf holidays in Italy suitable for beginners? A: Absolutely. Many Italian resorts cater to all levels of golfers. Courses such as Le Fonti in Emilia-Romagna or Castelfalfi’s Lake Course are ideal for improving your game while enjoying beautiful scenery.

Q: What else can I do on an Italian golf holiday? A: Golf in Italy is as much about lifestyle as it is about sport. Between rounds, you can explore historic cities, vineyards, beaches, and UNESCO sites, or enjoy spa treatments and gourmet dining. Whether it’s sightseeing in Rome, wine tasting in Chianti, or relaxing on Lake Garda, there’s plenty to enjoy off the course too.

Feeling inspired?
Italy is one of Europe’s most sought-after golf destinations, where historic cities and timeless landscapes meet luxury resorts, world-class cuisine, and championship courses for an unforgettable escape.

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Ben Robinson avatar
Ben Robinson

Product Manager Europe

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