10 Best European Golf Destinations

France offers a diverse golfing experience, from the challenging links of Normandy to the sun-drenched courses of the Côte d'Azur. The country boasts over 600 courses, including prestigious venues like Le Golf National, host of the 2018 Ryder Cup. French courses are known for their excellent design and maintenance, often set against stunning backdrops of mountains, vineyards, or the Mediterranean coast.

Combine your golf trip to France with the country's renowned culinary scene and rich cultural heritage. Enjoy world-class wines, visit historic châteaux, or explore charming villages between rounds. The excellent transportation network makes it easy to combine golf with breaks in Paris or other major cities.

The best time for golf in France is in spring, from April to June, and autumn, from September to October. These times offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

England boasts a rich golfing heritage and is home to some of the world's oldest and most prestigious courses, from the links of Royal Birkdale and Royal St George's to the parkland beauty of The Belfry. The country has hosted numerous Open Championships and Ryder Cups, adding to its golfing pedigree.

After a round, explore historic cities, visit world-class museums like the National Gallery or Yorkshire Air Museum, or enjoy traditional afternoon tea. The compact nature of the country allows you to experience a variety of courses and landscapes, from coastal links to inland heathland, often within short distances of each other.

The best time for golf in England is from May to September, when late spring to early autumn weather conditions are most favorable. June and September offer a good balance of pleasant weather and smaller crowds. Many courses remain open year-round, but winter golf can be challenging due to shorter days and wetter conditions.

Sweden may not be the first country that comes to mind for golf, but it offers a unique and rewarding experience. With over 450 courses, many set amid stunning natural beauty, Sweden provides excellent golfing opportunities. The long summer days allow for extended play, with some courses north of the Arctic Circle offering the chance to golf under the midnight sun.

Beyond golf, Sweden offers clean cities, innovative design, and a strong connection to nature. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking, visit world-class museums like the Museum of Medieval Stockholm, or experience a traditional Swedish sauna. The country's commitment to sustainability is often reflected in its eco-friendly golf courses.

The prime golfing season in Sweden is from June to August, when temperatures are warmest and daylight is longest. May and September can also offer good golfing conditions with fewer crowds. While many courses close during the winter, some remain open year-round, particularly in the milder southern regions.

Italy combines its rich history and stunning landscapes with a growing golf scene. From alpine courses in the north to Mediterranean layouts in the south, Italy's diverse geography provides a variety of golfing challenges. Courses like Circolo Golf Roma Acquasanta, the country's oldest, blend golfing tradition and history, with the course featuring thermal baths constructed by Pope Paul V in the 15th century and a spring at which the Romans worshiped.

An Italian golf trip pairs well with the country's renowned cuisine, world-class wines, and cultural treasures. Explore ancient ruins like the Baths of Caracalla in Rome, visit art museums, or relax on beautiful beaches between rounds. The country's passion for design is often reflected in its golfing venues, many of which feature stylish clubhouses and top-notch facilities.

The best time for golf in Italy is during spring, from April to June, and autumn, from September to October, when temperatures are pleasant and tourist crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot, especially in the south, but many courses in the cooler north remain comfortable. Some courses in milder regions stay open year-round, offering winter golfing opportunities.

Scotland is an unrivaled playground for golf devotees. Boasting over 550 courses, including the Old Course at St Andrews and Royal Troon on the coast of Ayrshire, Scotland offers a seamless fusion of historic links and demanding inland layouts. The untamed coastal vistas and undulating terrain forge a captivating setting for play to immerse you in the game's storied past.

Scotland will captivate you with its deep-rooted culture, ancient fortresses, and genuine warmth. Whisky distillery excursions provide an ideal post-round activity, inviting you to savor the nation's renowned spirit. The dynamic urban centers of Edinburgh and Glasgow boast rich cultural offerings and exceptional culinary scenes.

For optimal golfing conditions in Scotland, plan your visit between May and September, when the climate is more temperate and daylight persists longer. July and August mark the peak tourist influx, so consider May, June, or September for a harmonious blend of favorable weather and reduced crowds.

Germany's golf scene has grown significantly, with the country now hosting over 700 courses. From parkland layouts near major cities to courses set in Bavaria's alpine landscapes, Germany offers diverse golfing experiences on well-maintained courses, ensuring a high-quality experience.

A golf trip to Germany can include exploration of historic cities and visits to world-renowned beer gardens or scenic regions like the Black Forest. The country's excellent infrastructure makes it easy to travel between different golfing regions, allowing you to experience a variety of courses and landscapes.

The main golfing season in Germany runs from April to October. Late spring, from May to June, and early autumn in September offer the best combination of pleasant weather and quieter courses. While many close during the winter, some remain open year-round, particularly in milder regions.

Turkey has emerged as a popular golf destination, particularly in the Belek region near Antalya. Many courses are designed by renowned architects and integrated into luxury resorts. They often feature pine- and eucalyptus-lined fairways with views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Taurus Mountains.

After a round, take in Turkey’s blend of Eastern and Western cultures, historic sites, and beautiful beaches. Explore ancient ruins, relax in traditional Turkish baths, or enjoy the country's delectable cuisine. The all-inclusive nature of many golf resorts in Belek makes for a convenient and luxurious golfing holiday.

The best time to play golf in Turkey is during spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November. At these times, temperatures are pleasant and courses are less crowded. The Belek region's mild Mediterranean climate allows for year-round golf, making it a popular winter destination for European golfers seeking to escape colder climates.

Wales offers a mix of links and parkland courses, often set against dramatic coastal scenery or rolling hills. With over 200 courses spread across a compact country, you can experience a diverse range of challenges and landscapes. Notable courses include Royal Porthcawl and the Twenty Ten Course at Celtic Manor.

Enrich your trip with scenic walks along the Wales Coast Path or exhilarating water sports in places like the Gower Peninsula. History enthusiasts can explore Wales' rich heritage through its numerous castles, such as Caernarfon or Conwy, which form part of the country's UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The best time for golf in Wales is from May to September. This period offers the mildest temperatures and longest daylight hours. July and August can be busier, so consider May, June, or September for a quieter experience. Some courses remain open year-round, but winter golf can be challenging due to weather conditions.

Switzerland's golf courses are known for their breathtaking alpine scenery and immaculate conditions. With over 90 venues scattered throughout the country, you can enjoy a range of settings, from lakeside fairways to mountain meadows. Notable courses include Golf Club Crans-sur-Sierre, home to the European Masters, and Engadine Golf Club, one of Europe's highest altitude courses.

A golfing trip to Switzerland offers numerous opportunities for complementary activities and experiences. Indulge in the country's world-famous chocolate and cheese, perhaps taking a tour of a traditional chocolatier or visiting an alpine dairy. Switzerland's efficient train system makes it easy to explore picturesque towns like Zermatt or Lucerne, or take scenic rail journeys. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Swiss Alps provide endless hiking and mountain biking trails with stunning vistas.

The prime golfing season in Switzerland is from May to October. June to August offers the warmest temperatures, but can be busy. May and September often provide a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Some lower-altitude courses may open earlier in spring and close later in autumn, while high-altitude courses have a shorter season due to snow.

Many Netherlands courses are built on sandy soil, creating excellent drainage and links-style play. With over 250 across the country, you can enjoy a variety of landscapes, from coastal dunes to woodland settings. Notable courses include The Dutch and Kennemer Golf & Country Club, one of the country's oldest and most prestigious venues.

The Netherlands also offers a wealth of experiences to enhance your golfing trip. In spring, witness the spectacular tulip fields in full bloom, particularly at the famous Keukenhof Gardens. The country's rich art history is on display in world-class museums like the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, where a canal tour provides a different perspective on Dutch urban life. For those interested in history, sites like Anne Frank House offer poignant insights into the past.

The best time for golf in the Netherlands is from April to October. July and August are the warmest months, but can be busier. May, June, and September often offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Many courses remain open year-round, but winter golf can be cold and wet.

Europe's golfing destinations offer an unparalleled blend of challenging courses, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. From the historic links of Scotland to the alpine fairways of Switzerland, each location provides a unique golfing adventure. These top 10 destinations represent the cream of the crop, offering world-class facilities and unforgettable experiences on and off the course.

For more travel inspiration and detailed guides on these destinations and others, be sure to explore our comprehensive Europe travel guide or our Europe tours and vacations.