Best Tennis in Italy

Tennis runs deep in Italian culture — clay courts are everywhere and the Italian Open is one of the sport's great events. Here's where visitors can play.

Foro Italico, Rome

Iconic
Public + eventCourts
ClaySurface
Year-roundBest season

The home of the Italian Open — the Stadio Nicola Pietrangeli is one of tennis's most atmospheric venues. Public clay courts are available when no events are running. Play where the legends play, then stroll the Fascist-era architecture.

Forte Village, Sardinia

Luxury
12Courts
Clay + hardSurface
May–OctBest season

The tennis academy at Forte Village resort in southern Sardinia — 12 courts, professional coaching, and programmes for all levels. Combine beach holiday with serious tennis improvement. Many Italian pros train here.

San Domenico Tennis, Puglia

Luxury
4 clayCourts
Red claySurface
Apr–OctBest season

The San Domenico resort near Fasano offers clay courts overlooking olive groves and the Adriatic. Hire a coach for private lessons on authentic Italian terra rossa. After play, the beach and spa await.

Municipal Courts Across Italy

Budget
VariesCourts
Clay/hardSurface
€10–25/hourCost

Every Italian town has a circolo tennis (tennis club) that welcomes visitors for hourly court rental. Ask at your hotel or search "circolo tennis" + town name. Courts are usually clay, well-maintained, and very affordable.

Bordighera Tennis Club, Liguria

Hidden Gem
6Courts
ClaySurface
Year-roundBest season

A historic Riviera club with clay courts terraced above the Mediterranean. Play in the mild winter climate that attracted English visitors in the 1800s. Welcoming to visitors with advance booking.

💡 Pro tip: Most Italian tennis clubs require "proper tennis attire" — no football shorts or running shoes. Bring dedicated tennis shoes for clay.

Our pick

Book a week at Forte Village for the tennis holiday experience. For a quick hit, ask your hotel to book a local circolo — playing clay under Italian sun is magic.

Tennis resortsSport experiences

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