We were warmly welcomed by Akif, who met us at the Galata Tower. This was just as well, as you would never find the apartment otherwise, as it is accessed through a small group of shops off the main street and up 3 flights of stairs. Food in fridge, beds made, lights on and clean when we arrived. All good. The terrace is shared for the block and is up another 3 flights of stairs. Great views when you get there!

The upsides are location and spaciousness. Comfy beds. Terrace.

The less upsides include thinness of walls (with infants in tow we worried about our neighbours) and some maintenance issues (flaky paint, large hole in the bathroom ceiling).

But all said and done, this is a good value offering and Akif is a friendly, helpful and available host.