I would highly recommend this apartment and a host. We had a late flight to Istanbul and for Volkan that wasn't a problem. He waited us and showed us some cool bars the same night. Apartment is very close to Istiklal (the street where everything is happening), but yet it is very quiet an clean (pictures don't lie). There is no need to use public transportation, you can reach the main historical buildings on foot. Also if you need anything ask Volkan, he knows everything about Istanbul and he is willing to tell you.