We are looking for a small hotel (or "urban" bed and breakfast) for three nights mid-September. Prefer Sultanahmet area and walking distance to metro/tram and quiet, if possible. Small if fine. Just need clean, hospitable, English-speaking. Any recommendations?

The Empress Zoe, located in Sultanahmet, oozes charm. Have stayed there and love it.

www.emzoe.com

We loved the Hotel Dersaadet. Great location and very welcoming.

www.dersaadethotel.com

LOVED loved the Neorion - it is number one on Tripadvisor but not overly pretentious or expensive. Wonderful rooftop terrace where you can sip a drink and look out over the Bosphorous. Every day they put out a mezze buffet in the afternoon - free! Staff is super helpful - location great - haman on site plus indoor pool and sauna. I loved Istanbul and want to return if for no other reason to go back to this hotel.

We are staying at Hotel Amira in September. Got amazing reviews and is also a Fodor's favorite. The staff has already given us great advise and has made some reservations for us for. Also has a lovely rooftop terrace with great views and we hear the breakfasts are excellent. Can't wait to find out for ourselves!!

Jakaranda may meet your requirements. It's clean, comfortable, cheap and nice location.
http://jakarandahotel.com/hotel-in-t...otel-istanbul/

We stayed at the Tan, which meets your criteria.

I second the Empress Zoe! Loved it. Perfect location, in the area you want, lovely, traditionally decorated room, nice breakfast, on-site cats, friendly personnel, great rooftop deck, everything I wanted.

Oh, except for the crazy steep winding staircase. That is definitely worth noting when you have your bags with you.

Sirkeci Mansion

They were lovely. The balcony room was VERY nice, but I'm not convinced it was worth the money. They had a roof top area that was just as good as your own balcony.