Self check in was explained well and easy. Fortunately we had perfect weather, and we enjoyed the patio for breakfasts (there is a grocery store a few minutes from the apartment). It's about 10 minutes to walk to the train station, where you can find the buses that take you to the different castles, and also many restaurants for dinner (reservations are recommended for the highly rated). We found parking on the small street corner of the apartment gate, which was very convenient - we just left it there while exploring Sintra by walking. Sofia doesn't always get the messages immediately, but she answered when she could.