While the Algarve remains Portugal’s most established golfing region, Lisbon offers something slightly different. Visitors can spend the morning on a course surrounded by pine trees, head to the beach in the afternoon and still return to the city for dinner, a concert or an evening in one of its historic neighbourhoods.
It is this combination that has helped Lisbon grow into one of Europe’s most appealing destinations for a golf holiday.
A recent travel feature published by The Scottish Sun highlighted the capital as a place where visitors can combine golf, sightseeing and time by the sea within a single trip. Unlike more traditional golf resorts, a stay in the Lisbon region does not need to revolve entirely around the sport.
Across the Tagus River
Across the Tagus River, around 20 kilometres from central Lisbon, Aroeira has become one of the best-known golfing areas near the capital. Its two courses are set among pine woodland, close to the long Atlantic beaches of the Costa da Caparica.
PGA Aroeira 1 is one of the region’s most historic courses. Opened in 1972, it previously hosted the Portuguese Open in 1996 and 1997 and has undergone an extensive renovation ahead of its return to professional competition. The course will host the Open de Portugal from 17 to 20 September 2026 as part of the HotelPlanner Tour.
Its neighbouring course, Aroeira 2, offers a different challenge, with several lakes, bunkers and more varied greens. Together, the two courses make it possible for golfers to play more than one round without travelling far from their accommodation.
However, Aroeira is only one part of the Lisbon region’s golf offering. Courses can also be found around Cascais, Sintra, Estoril and Setúbal, giving visitors several options depending on whether they prefer to stay close to the city, the coast or the countryside.
Lisbon’s attraction
What makes Lisbon particularly attractive is everything available after the final hole.
The coastline is known for its extensive sandy beaches, surf schools and relaxed beachfront restaurants, offering an easy change of pace after a morning on the course.
Lisbon has also collected several major travel awards in recent years, including Europe’s Leading City Destination in 2023 and 2024, followed by Europe’s Leading City Break Destination in 2025. The recognition reflects what many visitors already know: Lisbon offers far more than a quick stop before heading to the beach.
The climate adds to its appeal. Although the hottest summer afternoons may not suit every golfer, the mild temperatures during spring and autumn make these seasons particularly attractive for a golf break. Travelling outside July and August can also mean quieter courses, more comfortable sightseeing and fewer crowds in central Lisbon.
For couples or groups where not everyone plays golf, Lisbon is also an easy compromise. Golfers can spend part of the day on the course while others explore the city, visit the beaches or travel to nearby destinations such as Cascais and Sintra.
This versatility is where Lisbon stands apart. It may not have the same concentration of courses as the Algarve, but it offers a holiday where golf becomes one part of a much wider experience.
For travellers who want quality courses without giving up culture, food, nightlife or the beach, Lisbon is proving that Portugal’s golfing appeal extends far beyond the south.
