The location of this apartment is superb. It is in close proximity to the city’s iconic tiled buildings, museums, restaurants and metro.
Getting to the apartment from the airport took about 20 minutes by taxi (just under €15). By the end of our stay we have familiarized ourselves with the metro system - you can get to the airport from Rossio metro station with one transfer in about 40 minutes for €1.50.
The check-in process was relatively straightforward. Prior to our arrival we have received several template emails from the host company, so I was a little unsure how everything will go without any direct contact with any specific person. I emailed the company asking about an early check-in as our flight was getting in 4 hours before the 3pm check-in, but never received a response. Upon arrival, while still at the airport, I called the number provided in one of the emails and was told to call again once I am in front of the building (all communication was in English). At that point I was told I could check in early, if the apartment was ready, or leave my luggage, if the cleaning crew was still there. Once at the building, I called again and was given the code number to unlock the main entrance to the building. The apartment is on the 4th floor (look for the elevator behind the staircase). Once at the door, I called for the 3rd time and the host opened the apartment remotely. There is the key inside the apartment that we were using after that, and the same code to unlock the main building. I had no more communication with the host company after that point. If I had one suggestion for the host - perhaps emailing the code to the main door 24 hours prior to the arrival could be considered, for a smoother process?
The apartment itself was as pictured. Very clean. Quiet most of the time, although you can hear the upstairs tenant walking around. Comfortable beds. Good water pressure.
The nearest more-or-less full size store is Pingo Doce, about a 5-minute walk from the apartment. Before we discovered it, we managed with numerous tiny mini-marts sprinklered around the neighborhood.
For breakfast we ended up going to Fabrica de Nata just 3 buildings down from the apartment, after trying out a couple of other places. Great coffee, delicious grilled sandwiches and of course, pasteis de Nata. This place opens at 8 am. For all other meals - there are hundreds of restaurants to chose from.
Overall, we hope to be back!