On the edge of the more busy tourist area stay in a authentic neighbourhood and immerse yourself in the local culture,yet still have easy access by foot, or a 10 minute ride on local transportation to Aya Sofia, The Blue Mosque, Topkapi palace, the Grand Bazaar, Beyoglu Taxsim etc, and all of Istanbul's major attractions.
On hilly cobbled streets, the twin neighbourhoods of Balat Fener were once the home of Istanbul's minorities. Here you'll see old Greek, Jewish, and Armenian homes, and some of the cities oldest Synagogues and Churches.
The area, because of so many national treasures, was recently declared a world heritage sight by UNESCO and has a mixture of older more conservative residents and more modern new comers living in their restored houses.
The area is loved by photographers and film makers so don't be surprised to come across film crews as you wander around. The street were you will stay was featured in the last Bond movie 'Sky fall'.