A coastal city in central Portugal known for its wide sandy beach and casino. Popular summer destination with a lively promenade and nearby Serra da Boa Viagem mountain.
Figueira da Foz, a coastal city in central Portugal, is known for its wide golden beaches and active waterfront. You can stroll through Art Nouveau buildings in Bairro Novo, play at the oldest casino on the Iberian Peninsula, or surf at Buarcos beach. From the city, you can easily visit the Montemor-o-Velho Castle or hike in the Serra da Boa Viagem hills.
Figueira's Beaches
Figueira da Foz has some of the widest urban beaches in Europe. The main beach, Praia da Claridade, extends for kilometers along the coast. You can rent colorful striped tents for shade or walk along the wooden boardwalks. For a quieter day, visit Praia da Murtinheira, a more secluded beach surrounded by dunes.
Surf Spots
Surfers come to Figueira da Foz for its excellent waves. Buarcos beach has one of Europe's longest right-hand point breaks. The jetty at Cabedelo beach creates fast, hollow waves suitable for more experienced surfers. If you're a beginner, you'll find surf schools offering lessons and equipment rental along the coast.
Historical Sites
While in Figueira da Foz, visit Casa do Paço, a 17th-century building with over 8,000 Dutch tiles covering its interior walls. Another interesting site is the Sotto Mayor Palace, a neo-Renaissance mansion. You can tour its ornate rooms and walk through the well-maintained gardens surrounding the palace.
Museums and Culture
The Dr. Santos Rocha Municipal Museum houses a diverse collection of artifacts, including archaeological finds, African and Oriental ethnography, and local art. The Salt Museum, located in the salt pans along the Mondego River, shows you the traditional salt production methods used in the region for centuries.
Nearby Places to Visit
A short drive from Figueira da Foz takes you to the Montemor-o-Velho Castle, a 12th-century fortress on a hill. From the castle, you can see the surrounding countryside and the Mondego River valley. You can also explore Serra da Boa Viagem, a small forested mountain range overlooking the Atlantic. Hike to the Capela de Santo Amaro for extensive coastal views stretching north and south.
Local Cuisine
Figueira da Foz's coastal location means fresh seafood is a staple of local cuisine. Try the caldeirada, a flavorful fish stew that varies from restaurant to restaurant. Many eateries along the waterfront serve the catch of the day. You can even watch the morning fish auction at the port to see the variety of seafood available.
Travel Information
You can reach Figueira da Foz by train from Coimbra or Lisbon, with the journey from Coimbra taking about 40 minutes. If you're driving, the A14 highway connects the city to major routes. In Figueira da Foz, local buses run between the city center and nearby beaches and sites. You can also rent a bike to explore the flat coastal areas and the extensive promenade along the beach.
