The Pousadas are very comfortable, special hotels generally located in historical sites and in many cases they are totally restored monuments, Castles or Palaces. Advanced booking is highly recommended. There are many camping areas throughout the country that allow for an inexpensive holiday and the opportunity for a close contact with nature. Thermal springs offering excellent accommodation can be found almost everywhere, providing for many different treatments. Be careful not to swim in areas where are flags warning.
Green flags mean there is no danger at all.
Check for local holidays too. TIME Portugal is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time, except for, Madeira and Azores which are one and two hours behind Portugal respectively. Monday to Friday, closing on public holidays. From 10.00am to 12.30pm and from 2.00pm to 5.00pm Closed on Mondays. Fine glassware is made round Marinha Grande, while Aveiro and Caldas da Rainha are noted for their pottery.