Best golf courses in Portugal

Location: Comporta | Par: 71 | Architect: David McLay-Kidd | Founded: 2023 | Type: Links

A newbie to Portugal's golf scene and already overtaking the biggest names in Europe. This is THE new course and is set to be a bucket list destination. Opened in October 2023, the Dunas Course is a masterpiece by renowned architect David McLay-Kidd.

This par-71 links-style course spans 7,268 yards and is set amidst 84 hectares of natural, sandy terrain near the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve. Celebrated for its sustainable design and exceptional playability, it was honored as the 'World's Best Golf Course' and 'Europe’s Best Golf Course' at the 2024 World Golf Awards.

Travel tips Just 90 minutes south of Lisbon, it’s perfect for a golf escape that blends tranquillity with world-class golf. A hire car is recommended to explore the surrounding region, from charming Comporta village to the wild beaches of Carvalhal.

Key features

• Ranked the no.1 golf course in Portugal by Top 100 Golf Courses
• It's setting provides a unique links-style experience, with rolling fairways and native vegetation enhancing the course's aesthetic and playability.
• Designed with environmental consciousness, the course integrates seamlessly with its surroundings.

Location: Tavira | Par: 72 | Architect: Jack Nicklaus | Founded: 2007 | Type: Parkland

Jack Nicklaus was definitely aiming for perfection when designing this course, but the service and precise attention to detail is what makes the entire experience at Monte Rei a truly memorable one. Be prepared for your round; a hazardous selection of water and bunkers will make the shot choice difficult with delicate approaches and aggressive risk-and-reward tee shots. This course has been leading the way in the top 100 since 2007 and, with plans to expand, deserves its place in our best golf courses in Portugal list.

Travel tips With views over the Serra do Caldeirão mountains and a Jack Nicklaus Signature design, Monte Rei is a bucket-list course. If you're staying longer, consider combining it with a round at nearby Quinta da Ria or venturing into Spain for a cross-border golf day.

Key features

• Ranked the no.2 golf course in Portugal by Top 100 Golf Courses
• The first Jack Nicklaus 'Signature' courses to reach Portugal
• Beware of the large, deep bunkers - especially the 'circle of defiance' surrounding the 9th hole

Location: Cascais | Par: 71 | Architect: Arthur Hills | Founded: 2001 | Type: Links

Inaugurated in 2001, Oitavos Dunes bears a delightful mix of links and woodland-type holes that are settled seamlessly into the landscape of Sintra-Cascais National Park. The par 71 Course was built at the most westerly point of mainland Europe and has astonishing views of the Atlantic Ocean, clearly no mistake when Arthur Hills decided on the idyllic location. A multiple-time host to the European Tour's Portuguese Open and GolfSixes, why not try your hand at tackling this incredible championship spec course?

Travel tips Getting to Oitavos Dunes couldn’t be easier. Located just 40 minutes from Lisbon Airport, the course sits within the beautiful Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, just outside the charming seaside town of Cascais. You’ll want to hire a car or arrange a transfer to make the most of the area, especially if you're combining your golf with a few days exploring the Lisbon coast.

Key features

• Ranked the no.5 golf course in Portugal by Top 100 Golf Courses
• Host to four Portuguese Opens
• Prepare for strong winds that can impact play significantly

Location: Troia Peninsula | Par: 72 | Architect: Robert Trent Jones Sr | Founded: 1980 | Type: Links

Sandwiched between Sado Estuary and Arrabida mountain, the Troia par 72 course has some of the best golf in Portugal, with the incredible 3rd hole regarded as one of Robert Trent Jones Senior’s finest creations. Kick off the experience with a ferry across the Peninsula of Troia and prepare yourself for sand aplenty and tough pine-lined doglegged fairways. We hope you bring your A-game as a strategic and technical approach is needed here for a good score.

Top tips Getting to Troia Golf is a little different - but well worth the effort. From Lisbon Airport, it’s about an hour’s drive followed by a short car ferry across the Sado Estuary from Setúbal to the Tróia Peninsula. The ferry runs regularly and adds a unique, scenic start to your golf trip.

Combine it with a round at the nearby Dunas Course in Comporta, one of Europe’s most talked-about new layouts, and you’ve got two exceptional courses in one unforgettable trip. Plus, Comporta’s stylish, laid-back vibe makes for a perfect post-round escape.

Key features

• Ranked the no.2 golf course in the Lisbon & centre area of Portugal by Top 100 Golf Courses
• Hosted Portuguese Open in 1983
• Pick your tee shots carefully with narrow fairways and bunkers throughout

Location: Quinta do Lago | Par: 72 | Architect: Joseph Lee, Rocky Roquemore | Founded: 1988

Perfect Bermuda grass fairways and an undulating woodland topography make this incredible course a firm Faro favorite. This beacon of class and allure was the brainchild of American architect Joe Lee who has done a dazzling job, creating a course that feels like three courses in one. No matter what your handicap, the cocktail of 18 holes will need a high level of concentration on the San Lorenzo Golf Course.

Travel tips San Lorenzo is located in the heart of the Quinta do Lago estate, just 20 minutes from Faro Airport, making it one of the most accessible and sought-after courses in the Algarve. A short taxi or private transfer will get you there in no time, though car hire is ideal if you plan to explore the area or play at other nearby courses.

Key features

• Ranked the no.9 golf course in Portugal by Top 100 Golf Courses
• Stunning views of the beach and sea beyond
• The course runs alongside the Ria Formosa Estuary and Nature Reserve which offers a challenge

Location: Vilamoura | Par: 72 | Architect: Arnold Palmer | Founded: 1999 | Type: Parkland

Mostly known for its continuous connection with the Portugal Masters since 2007, the Dom Pedro Victoria Course has been a staple of quality and consistency in the world of golf. Do not be deceived by this relatively flat course as threatening bunkers and ominous water hazards will catch you off guard and your scorecard will pay the price.

Mammoth undulating greens will leave you fighting for par, as three-putting here is nothing to be ashamed of under the intense Vilamoura sunshine.

Travel tips When you're not on the course, Vilamoura’s marina is a lively spot for post-round dining, with everything from seafood restaurants to relaxed bars. If you're staying for a few days, it’s easy to pair Victoria with other local favorites like Old Course, Millennium, or Pinhal.

Key features

• Ranked the no.15 golf course in Portugal by Top 100 Golf Courses
• Host to the Portugal Masters
• Explore the extensive practice facilities, including a 2,500m² putting green, driving range, and short game area

Location: Quinta do Lago | Par: 72 | Architect: William Mitchell | Founded: 1974 | Type: Parkland

With a number of holes overlooking the Ria Formosa Natural Park, William Mitchell’s brainchild is well up in the top class of courses not only in Portugal but Europe. Being a Quinta do Lago championship course and host to the Portuguese Open no less than eight times, this course should still not scare off players of any handicap. There is a real sense of fluidity that snakes through the fairways scattered with Japanese umbrella pine that make the South course a real work of art.

Travel tips We recommend playing early or late in the day during summer to avoid the midday heat. Buggies are available for hire and come in handy, especially for tackling the back nine’s undulating terrain. The resort also offers superb practice facilities, including a TaylorMade Performance Center and short-game areas, ideal if you want to sharpen up before your round.

Key Features

• Ranked the no.6 golf course in Portugal by Top 100 Golf Courses
• Hosted the Portuguese Open eight times
• The course is set among umbrella pines, lakes and wildflowers

Location: Obidos | Par: 72 | Architect: Cabell B.Robinson | Founded 1997 | Type: Parkland / Links

While trying to battle the gusts from the lively Atlantic Ocean, the breathtaking Praia D'El Rey course will throw all it can at you to disrupt your game. Devilish rough and ominous deep bunkers encase the greens requiring a high level of concentration and patience to prevent any damage to the scorecard. Regardless, take a step back, relax, and take in the most incredible scenic views of the resort that accompany you throughout the round.

Travel tips We recommend teeing off in the morning to enjoy calmer winds and the freshest conditions. The course is a tale of two nines: the front nine winds through pines and parkland, while the back nine opens up to reveal sweeping ocean vistas, especially around the signature holes on the 12th and 14th. It’s scenic, strategic, and extremely photogenic.

Key features

• Ranked the no.8 golf course in Portugal by Top 100 Golf Courses
• Many of the holes run along the Atlantic Ocean, which provides fantastic sea views
• A challenging mix of parkland and links golf

Location: Lagos | Par: 72 | Architect: Robert Trent Jones Jnr | Founded: 2010 | Type: Parkland / Links

Robert Trent Jones Jnr has once again pulled out all the stops with a magical 27-hole course overlooking the beautiful Bay of Lagos. A mixture of 3 loops of 9 provides a number of different scenarios from large sand dunes with links-style holes to woodland and tree-lined fairways. Dramatic elevation changes and depth of challenging environments earn the ‘jewel in the crown of the Algarve’ its place in our list of top golf courses in Portugal.

Travel tips When you're not on the course, take a stroll through Lagos Old Town, visit nearby Praia do Camilo, or enjoy a sunset drink on the Marina de Lagos - the perfect end to a day of golf in one of Portugal’s most scenic settings.

Key features

• Ranked the no.4 golf course in Portugal by Top 100 Golf Courses
• Described as the 'jewel of the Algarve' by golfers
• Enjoy stunning views of the coastline in the Bay of Lagos

Location: Obidos | Par: 72 | Architect: Cynthia Dye | Founded: 2012 | Type: Links

One of the latest addition to golf in Portugal, West Cliffs Golf Links was introduced in 2017 by Cynthia Dye, Pete Dye’s niece, and has received critical acclaim ever since. The layout is simply stunning, with views of the Atlantic Ocean and/or the Obidos Lagoon on every hole.

Despite being a new design, West Cliffs has a classic links feel, with natural, undulating terrain, expansive bunkers, large sand dunes, and a strong sea breeze on a windy day. This is truly a modern great, and when twinned with its older sibling, Praia d’el Rey, provides a world-class golf vacation.

Travel tips West Cliffs is one of Portugal’s most spectacular courses and sits proudly along the Silver Coast, just an hour north of Lisbon Airport. The most convenient way to get there is by hiring a car, especially if you’re planning to explore the coast or play neighbouring courses like Praia D’El Rey and Royal Óbidos.

Key features

• Ranked the no.3 golf course in Portugal by Top 100 Golf Courses
• The Atlantic is visible from every hole
• The championship links course is paired with a fantastic clubhouse

Location: Vilamoura | Par: 73 | Architect: Frank Pennick | Founded: 1969 | Type: Parkland

Over the years, the beautiful coastal town of Vilamoura has become synonymous with golf vacationers for its easily accessible location and buzzing town center. There are a selection of fantastic golf courses in a small area and The Old Course is perhaps top of the pile.

As the name suggests, The Old Course is the second oldest layout in the Algarve, dating back to 1969. This matured gem makes full use of its natural land, with gently undulating terrain and beautiful pine trees throughout. Although it may look like a straightforward course, the small, sloping greens, strategically placed fairway bunkers and gentle doglegs make for a tough but worthwhile challenge.

Travel tips We recommend morning tee times, especially in the summer, when the course is quieter and the temperatures more comfortable. Buggies are available to hire, but the course is pleasantly walkable in the cooler months.

Key features

• Ranked the no.7 golf course in Portgual by Top 100 Golf Courses
• The original and eldest course in Vilamoura
• The superb clubhouse is ideally located overlooking the 9th and 18th holes

Location: Quinta do Lago | Par: 72 | Architect: William Mitchell, Rocky Roquemore | Founded: 1971

The second Quinta do Lago course to be included on this list, like the South Course, the North Course plays through beautiful and mature Japanese umbrella pines throughout. The course is consistently in pristine condition, with lightning-fast greens, large bunkers, and tree-lined fairways. There is also plenty of water, so precise shot-making is the key to scoring well.

Following a 2014 refurbishment by Beau Welling and Paul McGinley, the North Course has become one of Portugal’s premier layouts and a must-play when visiting the Algarve.

Travel tips Located within the exclusive Quinta do Lago resort, the North Course is just 20 minutes from Faro Airport, making it one of the most convenient courses in the Algarve. Whether you're staying at the resort or nearby in Vale do Lobo or Almancil, getting to the first tee is quick and easy by car or private transfer.

Key features

• Ranked the no.11 golf course in Portgual by Top 100 Golf Courses
• Formerly called the Ria Formosa, named after the Nature Reserve
• Access to top facilities including the Paul McGinley Golf Academy

Location: Alcantarilha | Par: 72 | Architect: Nick Faldo | Founded: 2007 | Type: Parkland

Situated just outside of Albufeira, Amendoeira is a first-class golf resort with two exceptional on-site courses in the O’Connor and Faldo. The latter is undoubtedly the more popular of the two and won Portugal’s Best Golf Course at the World Golf Awards in 2016. The course calls for strategic play through rocky terrain, desert bunkers, water hazards, and olive trees. It’s a great addition to any Algarve golf itinerary and offers a great contrast to the other courses in the area.

Travel tips When you're not on the course, take time to explore the nearby coastal town of Armação de Pêra or unwind with a sundowner at the clubhouse terrace, which overlooks the dramatic finishing hole.

Key features

• Ranked the no.13 golf course in Portugal by Top 100 Golf Courses
• Features cacti, wild herbs, holm oaks, olive trees and desert scrub bunkers
• The course is complemented with a 9-hole par three which is flodlit for evening use

Location: Cascais | Par: 72 | Architect: Robert Trent Jones Jnr | Founded: 1992 | Type: Parkland

The Atlantic Championship Course has managed to maintain an elegant charm amongst the lush vegetation and wonderful surroundings of the Penha Longa Resort. The secluded feel will pose an intimate and engaging course experience on this Trent Jones masterpiece.

With exciting and challenging shots throughout the round lookout for the par-3 15th as wrong club selection could be the difference between making par and swimming with the fish. With views overlooking the neighboring coastal towns of Cascais and Estoril, this is a truly breath-taking golf course.

Travel tips Don’t miss the chance to explore nearby Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage town full of palaces, gardens, and pastel-coloured mansions. It’s also just a short drive to the coast if you fancy lunch with a sea view or a sunset walk along the cliffs at Cabo da Roca.

Key features

• Ranked the no.12 golf course in Portugal by Top 100 Golf Courses
• Host to the Portugeuse Open in 1994
• On a windy day, the course becomes a real test

Best Time to Visit: Late Spring through early Autumn (May to October) is the ideal time to play golf in Portugal. The Algarve, Lisbon Coast, and Silver Coast offer optimal playing conditions with long sunny days, warm temperatures, and beautifully maintained courses. June to September sees the best weather, though it's also the busiest and priciest period.

For those looking to avoid peak crowds and secure better value, consider traveling in May, late September, or October. The weather is still pleasantly warm, and many top courses remain in excellent condition. Coastal breezes provide added comfort during play, especially in Southern regions like the Algarve.

Nearby Airports:

• Faro Airport (FAO) – Closest to the Algarve region; ideal for courses in Vilamoura, Albufeira, Quinta do Lago, and Vale do Lobo.
• Lisbon Airport (LIS) – Best for golf near the Lisbon Coast, including Cascais, Estoril, and Sintra.
• Porto Airport (OPO) – Suitable for Northern Portugal and the emerging golf scene near the Douro Valley and Oporto.

Q: Is Portugal good for golf? A: Yes, Portugal is one of Europe’s top golf destinations, known for its award-winning courses, sunny climate, and excellent value for money.

Q: When is the best time to play golf in Portugal? A: The best time to play is from March to June and September to November, when temperatures are warm, conditions are ideal, and the courses are in great shape.

Q: Where is the best place to play golf in Portugal? A: Golf vacations in the Algarve are very popular among golfers, withs over 31 courses, many of which are located along the beautiful Portuguese coastline, this region offers golden beaches and incredible hospitality. Lisbon is also a great option, with more links-style courses situated in one of the world’s leading cities.

Q: How far in advance should I book a Portugal golf trip? A: To secure tee times at top courses, it’s best to book 9 to 12 months in advance, especially during peak season. More flexible or lesser-known itineraries can be booked with shorter notice, although we do recommend planning ahead for the best availability.

Q: Do I need a handicap to play golf in Portugal? A: Most courses don’t require a handicap certificate, but higher-end or busier clubs may request one. It's always best to check with your Golf Travel Expert before booking.