Elif's family guesthouse is a real find for anyone visiting Istanbul. Minutes (honestly!) away from the magnificent Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia, you can't fault this guest house for location! With a handful of small but comfortable en suite rooms, generous breakfasts and friendly, helpful staff, the Marmara is a pleasant and comfortable place top stay in the city, and the decor has a rustic, Arabic feel that is charming. Had we stayed longer we would have bought a bottle of wine to enjoy on the terrace one evening, but we had a short & sweet 2 day trip so didn't have time for this. The only downside is accessibility for anyone in a wheelchair/trouble walking stairs - there isn't a lift so better for couples, individuals and young families.
A lovely place I will certainly keep in mind for future trips to Istanbul.