Things to Do in Carnaxide Near Holiday Inn Express Lisbon - Alfragide

Portugal is the world's largest producer of cork, and it takes that versatile material to a new creative level. At Cork & Co. or Pelcor in central Lisbon, you can pick up cork-based jewellery and accessories, which make for unique souvenirs. There is plenty of scope for upscale shopping on Lisbon's famous Avenida da Liberdade, which is lined with designer stores like Louis Vuitton and Prada.

It's a 20-minute drive or bus ride from the hotel to the National Palace of Sintra, an original Moorish castle where the artistic and architectural heritage of Portugal's former rulers has been preserved since the Middle Ages. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sintra gives you tranquil gardens to stroll in and sweeping views from its surrounding national park.

The parish of Santa Maria de Belém is a fascinating 16th-century mini-city, famous for 500-year-old UNESCO-protected structures like Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery. You can also educate yourself on local history at Belém Cultural Centre, enjoy the breeze along the Tagus River waterfront and admire the Monument to the Discoveries, celebrating Portugal's age of exploration.

If you plan to use the Holiday Inn Express® Lisbon – Alfragide hotel as your base for a holiday or weekend break, it's a good idea to pick up a Lisboa Card. The card grants you free or discounted admission to the city's most popular attractions and also free public transport. You can start with your first bus ride from the Rua do Proletariado bus stop right outside the hotel.