Lisbon vs. Algarve: Where Should You Go for Your Golf Holiday in Portugal?

Portugal has been a great golf destination in the world. The nation has great courses in breathtaking landscapes, a pleasant climate throughout the year, and a well-known hospitality. The combination has seen Portugal capture the title of the World Golf Awards as the Best Golf Destination in Europe on several occasions. The country boasts over ninety golf courses and has something to offer all types of golfers.

Key Reasons To Choose A Golf Holiday In Portugal:

• World-class status – six years as Europe’s best golf destination, several times as the best in the world.
• Variety of courses – more than 90 courses in different regions, most of which were developed by famous architects.
• All-year-round golfing – the weather is mild, so you can play all year long.
• Diverse experiences – coast connections to parkland designs, it is all to taste.
• Value of money – in comparison with Scotland or Ireland, Portugal can be a relative bargain with convenient flights and excellent food.

If you’re planning golf holidays in Portugal, the most popular choices are the Algarve and the Lisbon region. Below, we compare them so you can pick the perfect destination.

Golf Holidays In Portugal: What Makes The Algarve A Top Choice?

The Algarve is regarded as the best golf playground in Europe. This southern coast was soon turned into a golfer’s heaven as soon as the development of resorts started in the 1960s.

Why The Algarve Stands Out:

• Simple diversity – the region has more than 40 courses, some of which are ranked as the best in Europe.
• Mediterranean location – the courses are surrounded by golden beaches, cliffs, and pine forests, which create a warm holiday atmosphere.
• Guaranteed sunshine – the Algarve has more sunshine than Southern California, and it is comfortable to play all year round.
• Resort convenience – Luxury Algarve golf resorts in Quinta do Lago, Vilamoura and Vale do Lobo combine the best courses with hotels, spas and nightlife.
• Accessibility – Faro Airport is accessible to the majority of resorts.

Golf Holidays In Portugal: Top Algarve Golf Resorts And Experiences

When choosing a resort, look for one that combines quality golf with excellent amenities and convenient tee times. The most popular Algarve golf resorts are:

• Quinta do Lago – three championship courses (South, North and Laranjal) with luxurious villas and easy access to beaches.
• Dom Pedro Vilamoura – a hub of courses including the famed Old Course, Victoria (host of the Portugal Masters) and Pinhal.
• Vale do Lobo – home to the Ocean and Royal courses, with dramatic cliff‑top holes and a lively resort village.
• Monte Rei – set in the eastern Algarve, this Jack Nicklaus‑designed course offers five‑star service and secluded villa accommodation.

Most Algarve golf resorts offer tailor‑made packages that bundle accommodation, green fees and extras, making it easy to plan your golf holidays in Portugal.

The Appeal Of Lisbon Golf Courses

A different type of golf holiday is available in the Lisbon region, which extends northward of the capital along the well-known Silver Coast. Here you have an opportunity to mix up championship courses with culture, history, and city life.

Key Reasons To Choose Lisbon Golf Courses:

• World‑class layouts 
• Culture meets fairways 
• Convenience 
• Mild climate 
• Affordability 

Golf holidays in the Lisbon region of Portugal are ideal for players who wish to combine quality golf with travelling, nightlife and a city break.

Best Golf Destinations In Portugal: Beyond Lisbon & Algarve

While the Algarve and Lisbon are the most famous, Portugal’s other regions also offer memorable golf experiences.

• Porto & the North – the birthplace of Portuguese golf, with historical courses like Espinho.
• Madeira – mountainous courses with breathtaking ocean views.
• Azores – rustic golf in volcanic landscapes, ideal for adventurous travellers.
• Silver Coast – north of Lisbon, courses like Royal Óbidos and Praia D’El Rey combine dunes and pine forests.

Golf Holidays In Portugal 2025: What To Expect From Portugal Golf Packages

When you are planning Portugal golf packages 2025, operators will have personalised offers that will include accommodation, green fees and extras. Early booking can help to get the best tee time and price as demand increases.

Tips For Portugal Golf Packages 2025 Bookings:

• Book in advance – the Algarve golf resorts and golf courses in Lisbon are popular and they book fast, especially during spring and autumn.
• Look for inclusive packages – with flights, transfers, car hire or club rental.
• Consider shoulder seasons – April–May and September–October offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Ask about tuition – some packages include coaching, perfect for improving your game.
• Check for flexible terms – select operators allow date changes if travel plans shift.

By researching well, you’ll find Portugal golf packages 2025 that suit your budget and golfing wish‑list.

Lisbon vs. Algarve: Which Golf Holiday Is Right For You?

Choosing between Lisbon and the Algarve depends on your priorities. Use the factors below to decide.

Factor	Algarve	Lisbon
Course Variety	The Algarve boasts over 40 courses and multiple resorts	Lisbon offers fewer but world‑ranked courses, such as Oitavos Dunes
Atmosphere	The Algarve delivers a resort‑style holiday with beaches, pools and nightlife	Lisbon provides a mix of golf and city culture
Ease Of Travel	Faro Airport serves the Algarve	Lisbon Airport is the hub for the central region
Cost	Packages in the Algarve range from budget to luxury	Lisbon can be slightly cheaper with great value
Time Of Year	The Algarve’s Mediterranean climate offers more sun	Lisbon’s Atlantic breezes keep summer temperatures cooler

Ultimately, both regions deliver unforgettable golf holidays in Portugal. If time allows, consider combining them for the ultimate experience.

Plan Your Golf Holidays In Portugal With The Golf Travel People

If you want expert help planning your trip, The Golf Travel People can assist. With years of experience arranging bespoke golf holidays in Portugal, they’ll tailor packages for couples, groups, and societies, ensure financial protection, and handle the details, leaving you free to focus on your swing. Check out their latest Portugal golf packages for 2025 and let them craft the perfect itinerary for your next adventure.