Six stars!!! Do not be put off by the first impressions of the neighbourhood which looks a little run down. Nellys guest house is an oasis. Rooms were immaculately clean, spacious and air con was a blessing in the steamy summers of Istanbul. Necla was the most hospitable host I could ever hope for. Was only too eager to help and let me transfer to the top floor as I to nd the ground floor apartment a bit noisy (though it is bigger) . ask to see the photos of the place before renovations u will jot believe how Neecla and her husband transformed this email not such a great place.

Do not stay in the touristy Sultanhammet (which you can reach in 20 mins by bus). Taksim is where it at. Not that when u arrive at Taksim many cab drivers will try and scam you (and say that is 5km away). But when u find an honest one and demand they use the meter it is only 5 lira. Really can't say enough good things about my stay here :)