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Leyla Huysal

Leyla Huysal

Contributor, Istanbul

Leyla Huysal is a contributing writer for Time Out Istanbul’s English edition, based in London. Born and bred in Istanbul, her cure for homesickness is writing about her beloved city which she knows inside out. With a background in performance, Leyla joined Time Out as a film and TV journalist, interviewing some of the best names in the industry like Andy Serkis and Chiwetel Ejiofor, through which she’s mastered the art of passive fangirling. These days, she reports on the very best things that Türkiye has to offer from music and nightlife to food and culture.

Articles (4)

The 10 best things to do in Antalya

The 10 best things to do in Antalya

Antalya… The perfect spot for a relaxing holiday where you can bask in the warm sunshine and bathe in the rejuvenating waters of the Mediterranean. Check scuba diving off your bucket list in Kaş, or go river rafting in Köprüçay for an exhilarating aquatic adventure. While Antalya is famous for its sun-soaked beaches and magnificent natural world, it would be an injustice to limit the city to just that. Stroll down the quaint, stone-paved streets of the old town of Kaleiçi where you’ll find Roman era structures and ancient mosques. If all you history buffs out there can’t get enough, the Antalya Museum is a must-visit. Foodies, don’t worry, the regional cuisine does not disappoint. Check out our top 10 things to do in Antalya for an unforgettable trip. RECOMMENDED: The best attractions in Antalya                                                                  RECOMMENDED: The best Airbnbs in Kaş

The 34 best things to do in Istanbul

The 34 best things to do in Istanbul

Navigating a city as dense with interest as Istanbul may seem daunting, but don’t fret, we’ve got you sorted. Let this guide be your companion on your quest to exploring this magnificent city. We’ve rounded up a list of the most unmissable things to see and do in Istanbul, covering everything from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Plan a rejuvenating visit to the hamam, go treasure hunting around antique markets, feast on incredible food and much much more during your sojourn in this vibrant metropolis. Our carefully curated list is every bit as varied and exciting as the city itself, and trust us when we say there is something here for everyone. But don’t just take our word for it, scroll away and start planning your next adventure. RECOMMENDED: The best attractions in Istanbul                                                              RECOMMENDED: The best hotels in Istanbul                                                                      RECOMMENDED: The best Airbnbs in Istanbul

Historical Peninsula guide

Historical Peninsula guide

A trip to Istanbul's historical peninsula, an area brimming with must-see historical sights and the city's most famous museums and landmarks, is non-negotiable for any first-time visitor. While there are numerous tourist traps to steer clear of, particularly when it comes to restaurants, there are also a variety of hidden gems beloved by locals and tourists alike that rank among Istanbul's best eats. We've got you covered whatever your craving, whether you're after a kick of caffeine with a glorious cup of Turkish coffee, looking to snack on some scrumptious artisanal Turkish candy, or just longing for the ultimate meyhane sit-down to feast on an assortment of delicious mezes. In addition to the old city's most important attractions, our list also includes some lesser-known historical spots that are just as enchanting as their more popular counterparts, along with some of the best hotels and hamams in the area. 

The 11 best things to do in Bodrum

The 11 best things to do in Bodrum

Nestled on the southernmost tip of the Aegean coast, Bodrum is undoubtedly the crown jewel of Turkey’s coastal destinations. Once a quiet fishing village, the city has evolved significantly in recent decades, transforming into a popular summer resort beloved by locals and tourists alike. But there's much more to Bodrum than lavish beach clubs, bustling marinas and seaside tavernas alone. Want to squeeze in two countries for the price of one? Take a short ferry ride to one of the neighbouring Greek Islands for a taste of a different culture. If you'd rather stick to exploring one country at a time, Bodrum's staggering natural world, captivating historical sites and quaint local villages are enough to garner your full attention.  Like many other enchanting cities around the world, Bodrum has been quite the muse for artists over the years, inspiring one of the greatest Turkish ballads ever written in MFÖ’s “Bodrum” amongst countless others. Although we don’t feel too comfortable in our song-writing abilities, we’d be happy to sing the praises of this marvelous city by typing down our top choices for the best things to see and do. RECOMMENDED: The best attractions in BodrumRECOMMENDED: The best hotels in Bodrum