Most visitors don't come to Figueira to look at museums, but the Casa do Paço, Largo Prof. Vítor Guerra 4 (tel. 23/340-13-20) is exceptional. It contains one of the world's greatest collections of Delft tiles, numbering almost 7,000; most depict warriors with gaudy plumage. The casa was once the palace of Conde Bispo de Coimbra, Dom João de Melo, who came here in the 19th century when royalty frequented Figueira. It's at the head office of the Associação Comerciale e Industriale, a minute's walk from the main esplanade that runs along the beach. The museum is open Monday to Friday 9:30am to 12:30pm and 2 to 5pm. Admission is free.
The casino owns one of the sightseeing oddities of the resort, Palácio Sotto Mayor, Rua Joaquim Sotto Mayor (tel. 23/342-21-21), which was once one of the grandest private manors in town, for decades owned by one of Portugal's most prominent families. Local rumors claim the property was seized by the casino to pay off a massive gambling debt. Today a visit here will give you a rare look into a luxurious private villa filled with antiques and paintings. Admission is 1€ ($1.30). It is open Tuesday to Sunday 2 to 6pm. You don't have to pay an admission for the slot machine area.
About 3km (2 miles) north of Figueira da Foz, bypassed by new construction and sitting placidly on a ridge near the sea, is Buarcos, a fishing village far removed from casinos and overpopulated beaches. From its central square to its stone seawalls, it remains unspoiled. Take Avenida do Brasil north from Figueira da Foz to get to Buarcos.
