Ali has been a great host. In the months leading up to our arrival he was always quick to respond to my many questions about Istanbul and the apartment. On arrival he was warm and welcome and recommended a local place for dinner which was good. The apartment is on the top floor but there is a lift to the 4th floor and a short stairwell to the apartment. The view from the terrace is great and Galata is a really cool neighborhood with loads of modern interior design stores, cafes and antique stores for those interested. The location is fantastic as it's not from the Tunel Funicular station and a 15min walk down a steep hill to the Tophane tram station. I would definitely stay again and the apartment is well priced considering it has a large terrace overlooking Galata and the old city.