Golf Courses Italy: Top 10 Fairways Framed by History, Mountains and Wine Country
When most travellers picture Italy, images of Renaissance architecture, vineyards, Roman ruins, and coastal villages come to mind. But for golfers, Italy offers another kind of splendour: a curated selection of world-class golf courses, many situated in some of Europe’s most scenic landscapes. Whether you dream of teeing off under the gaze of the Alps, playing fairways nestled between ancient olive groves, or finishing a round within walking distance of a Roman amphitheatre, Italy’s top courses deliver a rich blend of challenge and charm. Italy is a popular destination for golfers from around the world, attracting thousands each year to its golf courses.
Beyond the fairways, golfers can enjoy Italy’s stunning cities and indulge in good food, making every trip a complete and memorable experience. Cultural excursions are a part of many golf holiday packages, allowing guests to explore Italian heritage while enjoying golf.
In this guide to the Top 10 Golf Courses in Italy, each course is linked directly to mulliganplus for your convenience. Prepare to blend cultural excursions with incredible rounds—and don’t forget to pack your performance polo from MplusGolf.com, the golf clothing brand that lets you travel light and swing freely.
Introduction to Golf in Italy
Italy is a dream come true for anyone passionate about golf. The country boasts a remarkable variety of golf courses, from championship courses designed by legends like Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Kyle Phillips to hidden gems nestled among rolling hills and historic landscapes. With over 400 golf centers and more than 150 golf courses featuring at least 18 holes, Italy is an ideal destination for golf holidays, catering to both seasoned players and those new to the game. Thanks to its mild climate, golfers can enjoy a world-class golfing experience year-round, whether teeing off in the shadow of ancient ruins or amidst the vineyards of Tuscany. Each course is thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly with Italy’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, ensuring that every round is as memorable as the scenery that surrounds it. Italy hosts over 250 golf courses of varying styles, including parkland and links courses.
Golf Courses in Italy Map
A glance at the map of golf courses in Italy reveals a country rich in variety and opportunity for golfers. Northern Italy stands out as a hotspot, with clusters of renowned courses around Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, and Lake Garda—each offering breathtaking views and unique challenges. From the lush parkland courses of Lombardy to the dramatic mountain layouts in the Alps, golfers can experience a diverse range of playing environments. Further south, the rolling fairways of Tuscany, the historic courses near Rome, and the coastal gems of Sicily and Sardinia invite exploration. Whether you’re planning a golf holiday to discover new courses or seeking your next favorite spot, Italy’s golf landscape promises adventure, beauty, and unforgettable rounds in every region.
1. Circolo Golf Villa d’Este – Lake Como
One of Italy’s oldest and most prestigious golf clubs, Circolo Golf Villa d’Este is located just 15 minutes from Lake Como. Founded in 1926, the course winds through chestnut, birch, and pine forests. The tight fairways and small, elevated greens demand precision and reward strategic play. You’ll also enjoy the refined elegance of the clubhouse, which mirrors the luxurious lifestyle of Como itself.
2. Verdura Resort – Sicily
Located along the stunning Sicilian coastline on Sicily’s sun-drenched southern coast, Verdura Resort offers two Kyle Phillips-designed championship courses that roll along the Mediterranean Sea. The resort features two championship courses, providing guests with a variety of premium golf experiences. It’s Italy’s premier destination for golf holidays. With wide fairways, breezy conditions, and coastal links-style design, Verdura delivers both beauty and challenge. Verdura Golf Resort in Sicily also features a 9-hole par-3 layout, designed by Kyle Phillips.
Guests can also enjoy a swimming pool and a range of water sports, making Verdura Resort an ideal choice for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
3. Golf Club Biella Le Betulle – Piedmont
Set in the foothills of the Alps, Golf Club Biella offers cooler temperatures and a woodland parkland layout with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards. This is one of Italy’s most challenging golf courses, consistently rated among the best golf courses in Italy. Rolling fairways, tight doglegs, and firm greens make this course a test of skill. Bonus: you’re in wine country—don’t miss a Barolo after your round. The club also features a well-stocked pro shop for all your equipment and apparel needs.
4. Golf Club Castelconturbia – Piedmont
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., Castelconturbia is home to three 9-hole loops and was twice ranked best course in Italy. With a mix of wide open holes, water hazards, water features and pine-lined fairways, it remains a championship challenge in the shadow of the Alps. It’s also just an hour from Milan. Golf carts are available for added convenience during your round.
5. Marco Simone Golf & Country Club – Rome
Host of the 2023 Ryder Cup, Marco Simone is Italy’s newest global golf star. Located just 10 miles from central Rome, the course combines modern championship features with historic views of the Eternal City. Elevated tees offer panoramas over Roman aqueducts and distant cityscapes, while strategic bunkering ensures every shot counts.
For practice, the club offers a dedicated putting green and a specialized pitching green, providing golfers with excellent facilities to refine their short game skills.
Marco Simone is also a PGA licensed golf facility, ensuring professional standards and top-quality amenities.
6. Golf Club Torino – La Mandria
Torino’s club, located in north west Italy, features two 18-hole courses set inside the La Mandria regional park. The Blue Course, host to the Italian Open, is known for its tree-lined fairways and subtle elevation changes. This club offers classic parkland golf with alpine views. It is situated near Royal Park, and its Blue Course is recognized as a championship course, attracting golfers seeking top-level play.
7. Argentario Golf Club – Tuscany
Just two hours from Rome, this modern resort course sits on the Monte Argentario peninsula. Designed with eco-sustainability in mind, its panoramic holes blend seamlessly with the Mediterranean scrubland, bordered by cypress and olive trees. With sea breezes and excellent greens, it’s ideal for a golf holiday in Tuscany. The course features large undulating greens that provide both a scenic and challenging experience for golfers. The largest golf course in Tuscany is Toscana Resort Castelfalfi, featuring a championship 27-hole layout.
The resort also boasts an excellent restaurant, offering high-quality dining to enhance your stay.
8. Is Molas Golf Club – Sardinia
Sardinia’s premier golf destination, Is Molas offers coastal golf with links-style characteristics, mountain backdrops, and fairways bordered by native Mediterranean scrub. The course was designed in consultation with Gary Player and offers fast greens, gentle undulations, and warm hospitality. Is Molas has also hosted championship golf courses and prestigious events, making it a top choice for golf holidays in Italy.
9. Golf Nazionale – Rome Countryside
Just 40 minutes north of Rome, Golf Nazionale is recognized as one of Italy’s most challenging golf courses, loved by serious players for its technical, hilly layout. Built to host elite competitions, it features sharp elevation shifts, long par 4s and firm greens. It’s not the most forgiving, but certainly one of the most rewarding.
Golf carts are available for player convenience, making it easier to navigate the course.
10. Acquasanta Golf Club – Rome
Italy’s oldest golf club (established 1903), Acquasanta combines history and classic design with spectacular Roman views. The course lies beside the ancient Appian Way and overlooks Roman aqueduct ruins. It’s a timeless experience—and one of Europe’s most atmospheric rounds. The club is also located near a charming medieval village, adding to its historic appeal and offering visitors a unique blend of tradition and luxury.
Golf Academy and Lessons
For those looking to elevate their game, Italy’s top golf resorts and clubs offer exceptional golf academies and professional instruction. Many of the best golf courses in Italy feature state-of-the-art practice facilities, including expansive putting greens, dedicated pitching areas, and well-stocked pro shops. PGA-licensed golf facilities provide expert coaching for all levels, from beginners taking their first swing to advanced players refining their technique. Whether you’re interested in private lessons, group clinics, or junior programs, you’ll find tailored options to suit your needs. Playing golf in Italy isn’t just about the courses—it’s about continuous improvement and enjoying the journey, all set against some of Europe’s most inspiring backdrops. Guests at Toscana Resort Castelfalfi can enjoy wine tastings and cooking classes.
Country Club and Membership
Italy’s country clubs offer more than just access to world class golf—they provide a lifestyle of luxury, relaxation, and community. Membership at a premier golf club often includes exclusive amenities such as swimming pools, wellness centers, and fine dining at excellent restaurants. Many golf resorts feature private villas and elegant clubhouses, creating the perfect setting for social events, tournaments, and family gatherings. Whether you’re seeking a luxury golf retreat or a welcoming community of fellow enthusiasts, Italy’s country clubs deliver an unparalleled experience both on and off the course. Enjoy the camaraderie, indulge in local cuisine, and make the most of your golf holiday with all the comforts and privileges of membership.
Where to Stay, Dine and Explore
Hotels & Resorts
- Verdura Resort, Sicily – Ultra-luxury accommodation and beachfront golf.
- Palazzo Parigi Hotel, Milan – Elegant city stay perfect for golfers playing Biella or Castelconturbia.
- Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria – Five-star retreat with views of the Vatican and proximity to Marco Simone.
- Hotel Villa d’Este, Lake Como – Lavish lakeside luxury near Circolo Golf Villa d’Este.
- Argentario Golf Resort & Spa, Tuscany – Sustainable golf resort with panoramic views.
- La Bagnaia Golf Resort, Tuscany – Set in the scenic Tuscan countryside, this resort blends historic charm, unique architecture, and luxury accommodations with a championship golf course.
- Bogogno Golf Resort, Piedmont – Premier destination in Northern Italy featuring two championship courses, wellness amenities, and a dedicated pitching green for short game practice.
- Antognolla Golf, Umbria – Highly scenic and strategic course within an exclusive resort, where the clever layout makes Antognolla a standout for golfers of all abilities. The resort also offers a well-maintained pitching green and access to a range of outdoor activities.
- PGA National Golf, Italy – Prestigious, licensed golf course known for its challenging design and scenic views.
Italian golf resorts often offer a variety of outdoor activities, such as cycling, tennis, and wine tastings, to complement your stay.
Restaurants & Bars
- Il Pagliaccio (Rome) – Two Michelin stars; creative Italian cuisine.
- La Pergola (Rome) – Iconic fine dining with a rooftop view.
- Osteria Francescana (Modena) – Consistently ranked among the world’s best.
- Da Vittorio (Brusaporto, Lombardy) – Gourmet tasting menus near Milan.
- Antica Osteria del Ponte (Cassinetta di Lugagnano) – Riverside fine dining near Castelconturbia.
Must-See Attractions
- Colosseum & Roman Forum, Rome – Historic core of the Eternal City.
- Lake Como boat tours – Scenic lakeside villas and mountain reflections.
- Uffizi Gallery, Florence – Renaissance art at its finest.
- Etna volcano excursions, Sicily – Combine golf with a guided trek and enjoy the dramatic views of Mount Etna.
- Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel – A Rome must-do, especially post-round.
- Lake Trasimeno, Umbria – Recommended excursion near golf resorts, offering natural beauty and cultural experiences close to Antognolla Golf.
Conclusion
With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and world class courses, Italy stands out as one of the best golf holiday destinations in Europe. From the championship fairways of the north to the sun-kissed greens of the south, every golf trip here promises a unique blend of challenge, beauty, and culture. Whether you’re planning a quick golf break or an extended golf holiday, Italy offers unforgettable experiences for every golfer. So pack your clubs, embrace the Italian way of life, and discover why playing golf in Italy is truly a favourite sport for travellers from around the globe.
