Many others have already commented on Eyup as an important part of the package. He met us at the apartment, even though we arrived at 1am. He helped us with our bags up the stairs, and he took time to explain things and answer questions. Excellent AC, bed, and washer for long-journey travelers. Yes, it’s five floors up, but if you are coming to Istanbul and not expecting vertical climbs almost everywhere you go, you’ll need to rely on public transport to get around. And Galata is a hill, so you’ll be getting a great workout. The view of the tower is no joke, and the street life is bubbling but not cacophonous. There is a mosque nearby so you will hear the calls to prayer, some of the most beautiful singing I have heard, and there are echoes of refrains from all over the city. Incredible. I asked my wife if she wanted to have stayed across the bridge in Sultanahmet. She said “no way,” and I have to agree. Get lost on the winding cobblestone streets, sit for a coffee or fresh pomegranate juice. Be sure to check out Istaklal street, which is a grand, wide street at the top of the hill that runs flat for over a mile. It has thousands of people on it but it never feels crowded.
Highly recommended!