we really enjoyed our stay and would definitely stay again. Yes, there are 81 steps up so be ready for that and the interior stair case is quite steep, - if you are unsteady on your feet thisis not the place for you. There is no air-conditioning so in a heat wave it would be tough, however, while we there it was 90 degrees F outside in the day, but it cooled down at night and the place gets great breezes. So no problems. Very charming and simple - worked well for a family of 4. One great thing: the RER from CDG stops at St Michel/Notre Dame and the elevator exit is about 20 meters from the door. Wonderful if you are arriving or leaving Paris. It is on a very touristy street, but very convenient also as a result. We got off the street right away. No noise problems.