We had a wonderful stay in Nahide's apartment in October. For the location and view alone I am calling this a 5-star (though for the overall experience, my husband and I would say it was less). We were just steps from a market and restaurants, and down just one more very short block we were at the Blue Mosque and its surroundings. I enjoyed several peaceful mornings watching the sun rise over the local mosque and the sea, taking many photos as the light changed and trying to catch the local seagulls in the photo.

There were a few drawbacks, most of which the host can't help--the stairs and surroundings areas in the complex were somewhat dirty and there was a lot of construction going on next door. It was also very hard for us to operate the heavy, seemingly antiquated lock-key systems on the upper and lower outer gates. There were a couple times I didn't want to leave the apartment for a quick trip b/c I just didn't want to hassle with working the key over and over trying to get in and out.

However, for what you have to work with in the Sultanahmet region I think the apartment was well worth it for the great location and views. Nahide was also VERY kind. We were late in getting in, having a delayed flight and then having some problems mailing an urgent letter at the airport, and Nahide was waiting for us with her young daughter, who was getting tired and 'antsy'. However, Nahide was still very gracious and still offered to take us around the neighborhood (which we declined, so she could leave). The added travel books and metro transit card in the apartment were also a very nice touch.

As other reviewers have noted, the apartment stairs are also rather steep and narrow. We didn't mind at all, but be aware of that if you find narrow, circular stairs to be an issue.

Overall, other than the problems that we had with the keys (which no other reviewers mentioned, so maybe the problem was just for us), I wouldn't hesitate to return.