Casino Figueira occupies a remodelled 19th-century building in Bairro Novo, the historic core of Figueira da Foz, a few minutes from Praia da Claridade. Originally known as Casino Peninsular, the venue began as a concert hall and social club during the city's belle-époque period as a fashionable seaside resort.
Its gaming licence, issued in 1927, is the oldest still in active operation on the Iberian Peninsula — a fact the house carries as its identity. The concession was briefly rescinded by the Portuguese state in 1937 after the concessionnaire failed to build the contractually required hotel; the licence was reissued in 1948 to Sociedade Figueira Praia, which still operates the casino today and inaugurated the Grande Hotel da Figueira in 1953 to fulfil the original obligation.
The exterior was recently modernised, replacing much of the original marble façade with a glass envelope inspired by the sea, particularly striking when illuminated at night. Inside, the casino offers more than 300 slot machines — many with 3D screens — alongside classic tables for blackjack, roulette, French banque and poker.
The historic Salão Caffé serves as the casino's main stage for concerts, comedy, magic and dance, while the Royal Bar & Emotions hosts more intimate performances with an open-air terrace. A fine-dining restaurant operates from 19:30. Entry is free, age 18 or over, with a smart-casual dress code.
Highlights
- The oldest gaming licence in active operation on the Iberian Peninsula (1927)
- Remodelled 19th-century building with a glass façade inspired by the sea
- 300+ slot machines plus blackjack, roulette, French banque and poker
- Historic Salão Caffé and Royal Bar host concerts, comedy and live shows year-round
- Open every day of the year, including holidays, until 03:00 or 04:00
History & context
The casino's origins trace back to Figueira da Foz's emergence as one of Portugal's premier belle-époque seaside resorts. Operating initially as the Casino Peninsular alongside the now-defunct Casino Oceano, it was a centre of social life during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when the city attracted holidaymakers from across the Iberian Peninsula. The 1927 gaming licence formalised an activity that had been informally present in the venue for decades. After the 1937 rescission and a decade-long hiatus, the licence was reissued in 1948 to Sociedade Figueira Praia — the same concessionaire that operates the casino today, nearly eighty years later, in one of the longest continuous gaming concessions in southern Europe.
🗓️ Best time to visit
Evening, especially Friday and Saturday for live shows; year-round operation
⏱️ Duration
2–4 hours for gaming and dinner; longer for show nights
♿ Accessibility
Step-free entrance and lifts to all floors; accessible facilities throughout
Frequently asked questions
How old is Casino Figueira?
The building dates from the 19th century, when it operated as the Casino Peninsular. Its current gaming licence was issued in 1927, making it the oldest casino licence still in active operation on the Iberian Peninsula.
What are the opening hours?
Sunday to Thursday, 15:00 to 03:00. Friday, Saturday and the eve of public holidays, 16:00 to 04:00. From 16 July to 31 August, opening shifts to 16:00 every day. Open year-round, including holidays.
Is there an entry fee?
No. Entry is free for visitors aged 18 and over. A valid ID is required at the door, and a smart-casual dress code applies.
What games are available?
More than 300 slot machines — including 3D and video roulette terminals — plus classic table games: blackjack, roulette, French banque and poker.
Is there dining inside the casino?
Yes. The main restaurant opens at 19:30 daily. The Royal Bar & Emotions offers a more casual setting with an outdoor terrace and live music.