Canakkale Travel Guide

Çanakkale, a destination visited by thousands of local and foreign tourists every year, stands out for its historical and natural riches, as well as its unique location connecting Asia and Europe. The city attracts history buffs with the Gallipoli Peninsula, where the Battle of Gallipoli took place, the ancient city of Troy, which has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List for thousands of years, and Assos, the cradle of philosophy. For nature lovers, the Kaz Mountains, home to hundreds of endemic plants, with their clean air and cool plateaus, are waiting to be explored. Among Çanakkale's tourist attractions are the enchanting islands of the Aegean. Bozcaada, whose population increases significantly in the summer months, is a favorite among vacationers with its clear sea, Ayazma Beach, and vineyards. At the western tip of the island, Polente Lighthouse, one of the most beautiful places to watch the sunset, and the windmills around it offer visitors an unforgettable view. Hundreds of people come here in the evenings to watch the magical moment when the sun meets the sea, experiencing the most special moments of their vacation.

How to Get to Çanakkale?

Transportation to Çanakkale is provided by land and air. Those who want to come to Çanakkale from Istanbul by road can reach Çanakkale by following Gelibolu and Eceabat from Tekirdağ direction. If you are coming to Çanakkale from Bursa, you can reach Çanakkale after Biga and Lapseki by following Karacabey and Bandirma.
If you want to come to Çanakkale from Ankara, you can reach Bandırma by following Eskişehir and Bursa roads, and then you can come to Çanakkale via Biga and Lapseki. If you want to come to Çanakkale from Izmir, you can reach Çanakkale by following the direction of Aliağa and Dikili from Menemen and then Ayvalık, Edremit, Akçay, Altınoluk, Ayvacık and Ezine.
Another way of transportation to Çanakkale is by air. It is also possible to reach Çanakkale in a short time with scheduled flights between Çanakkale-Ankara and Çanakkale-Istanbul. In this regard, it is possible to access the schedules of scheduled flights to Çanakkale from the pages of the relevant flight companies.

Places to Visit in Çanakkale

When you arrive in Çanakkale, you can start with a city tour. A walk along the waterfront promenade (kordon) is the perfect way to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while taking in the stunning views of the Dardanelles. Afterwards, you can explore the city’s historic and cultural sites. Begin with the historic Çimenlik Castle, built in 1461–1462 by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror to secure the strait. Here, you can learn more about its history from the guides and then visit the Naval Museum located at the entrance of the castle.

Following your visit, continue along the promenade to see the famous Trojan Horse, which was used in the movie Troy starring Brad Pitt. After being donated to Turkey by Warner Bros with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the wooden horse became one of Çanakkale’s most photographed landmarks. After capturing some memories here, head to the legendary Aynalı Çarşı (Mirrored Bazaar). Built in 1890 by Eliyau Hallio, a prominent member of the Jewish community, the bazaar is a great spot to shop for souvenirs. Not far away, you’ll also find the Çanakkale Ceramic Museum, originally constructed as a Turkish bath in 1905 and later restored into a museum in 2013. To round out the city tour, the Archaeology Museum offers an impressive collection of artifacts unearthed throughout the region.

Among Çanakkale’s most important historical sites are the ancient cities of Troy and Assos. Located 37 km from the city center, Troy can be reached by minibus from Atatürk Bridge or by car in about 20–25 minutes. With a history of over 5,000 years, Troy’s symbolic wooden horse at the entrance is a must-see photo spot.

Assos, on the other hand, is located in the village of Behramkale in Ayvacık district, with origins dating back to the 6th century BC. From Çanakkale bus terminal, you can take a minibus to Ayvacık and then another to Behramkale. The site is open year-round (April 15–October 2: 08:00–20:00; October 3–April 14: 08:00–17:00). Excavations continue during the summer months. Just below the ruins lies the Ancient Harbor, where you’ll find small hotels and seaside restaurants perfect for resting after your visit.

If you’re coming from Istanbul, you can reach the Gallipoli Peninsula by crossing to Eceabat, while those in Çanakkale city center can take a GESTAŞ ferry. The peninsula is best explored with licensed guides, as they provide deep insights into the events of the Gallipoli Campaign. The most significant landmark here is the Çanakkale Martyrs’ Memorial, built in 1960 to honor the 253,000 Turkish soldiers who fell during the battle. Standing 41.7 meters tall, the monument is surrounded by symbolic graves and other memorials spread throughout the peninsula.

During your Gallipoli tour, don’t miss the Çanakkale Epic Promotion Center, opened in 2012 to commemorate the heroism of the battles, and the Ahmet Uslu Private Museum in Seddülbahir, which displays nearly 8,000 original war artifacts collected over many years. On your way back, make sure to stop by Kilitbahir Castle, built in 1452 by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror to guard against Papal naval forces during the Byzantine siege.

No trip to Çanakkale is complete without visiting its beautiful islands, Bozcaada and Gökçeada. Bozcaada, whose population multiplies in the summer, is famous for Ayazma Beach, vineyards, and the wind turbines surrounding Polente Lighthouse, where visitors gather to watch unforgettable sunsets. Gökçeada, the largest island of Turkey, is well known for Aydıncık (Kefaloz) Beach, popular among surfers. You can also explore its charming Greek villages and enjoy traditional dibek coffee in Zeytinli village.

For nature lovers, Kazdağları (Mount Ida) is a must-see. Known as Çanakkale’s “oxygen reservoir,” the mountain is home to Ayazma National Park, located near Bayramiç. Even on hot days, this area offers cool air, refreshing waterfalls, and hiking opportunities. On your way back, don’t miss the chance to taste fresh trout at the local restaurants near Evciler village.

In Gelibolu town, you’ll find the world’s largest Mevlevihane (Dervish Lodge), where the Şeb-i Aruz ceremonies are held annually. The historic lodge is also open to visitors year-round. You can also explore local shrines such as Bayraklı Baba. Adventure seekers may head to Kömür Harbor, located in Saros Bay near Fındıklı village, a hotspot for scuba diving. The area attracts diving schools from across Turkey, especially on weekends. Visitors can camp by the sea or stay at hotels and pensions in Gelibolu.

Çanakkale Food and Drink Recommendations

1. Basma Helva at Kadir Usta: One of the desserts that comes to mind when you think of Çanakkale is basma helva. You can find this special dessert at Kadir Usta. Known not only for its basma helva but also for its other dessert varieties, this place is a delightful stop for dessert lovers. While waiting in line, don't forget to try another Çanakkale classic, peynir helvası (cheese halva).
2. Seafood at Yalova Restaurant: Located on the coast, Çanakkale is famous for its fresh fish and seafood. Yalova Restaurant is one of the leading establishments in this regard. Here, you can try special flavors such as clam soup and herb-stuffed sea bass.
3. Traditional Flavors at Sardunya Home Cooking: Known for its home-cooked meals, Sardunya is an affordable and welcoming place. It's the ideal spot to enjoy Çanakkale's beloved flavors in a homey atmosphere.
4. Fish Sandwiches at Sardalye: If you're looking for a quick but tasty break during your trip, Sardalye is just the place for you. Fish sandwiches made with sardines or whiting, depending on the season, are very popular.
5. Ezine Cheese at Yükseloğulları: Ezine cheese, one of the symbols of Çanakkale, is a must-try delicacy here. Yükseloğulları is one of the most popular places for this cheese.
6. Cheese Halva at the Historic Victory Cheese Halva Shop: Located in Gelibolu, the Historic Victory Cheese Halva Shop is one of the best places to try the famous cheese halva. It tastes even better when served warm with a cup of tea.
7. Döner Delight at Şirvan Döner: Known for its fast service and delicious döner in the city center, Şirvan Döner is a good option for a quick break.
8. Soup at Özel Çorba Salonu: Located in the center, Özel Çorba Salonu is especially known for its soups. Here you can find Çanakkale's local soups and recharge your energy with a warm, delicious meal.
9. Kebabs at Kale Müptela Ocakbaşı: A great place for kebab lovers in the center of Çanakkale. Kale Müptela Ocakbaşı, which stands out for its meatballs and kebabs, is a great choice for a delicious dinner.
10. Famous Assos Ice Cream at Yahya Usta: Famous in Bozcaada for its honey almond ice cream, Yahya Usta is a favorite among dessert lovers with its wide variety of ice creams.
11. Biga Meatballs at Tarzan Biga Köfte: One of Çanakkale's most famous delicacies, these meatballs can only be found in Biga with their authentic taste. If you find yourself here, don't leave without trying them.
12. Pide Delight at Gülen Pide: Known for its pide, lahmacun, and döner varieties, Gülen Pide stands out as a warm and welcoming place.
13. Çamlıbağ Wines / Wine in Yunatçılar: Famous for its Bozcaada wines. You can visit Yunatçılar to taste the wine or learn about its history.
14. Tumbi at Cevahir Home Cooking: Tumbi, one of Çanakkale's unique dishes, is prepared with cracked wheat, eggplant, tomatoes, and parsley. You can try this delicacy at Cevahir Home Cooking.
15. Waffles at Berliner Donut: A great place to visit in the city center for those with a sweet tooth. In addition to waffles, it also offers a variety of donuts.
16. Octopus Salad at Hasan Tefik Restaurant: One of Bozcaada's beloved establishments, Hasan Tefik Restaurant stands out for its octopus salad. It's the right choice for seafood in an island atmosphere.

Çanakkale Accommodation Recommendations

Çanakkale is a city that caters to different vacation preferences with its history, nature, and peaceful atmosphere. Accommodation options here are also quite extensive; from Bozcaada's vineyard houses to Assos's seaside hotels, from comfortable hotels in the city center to stone houses integrated with nature in Kazdağları, you can find alternatives to suit every taste. Whether you are planning a vacation immersed in history or a relaxing getaway by the sea, Çanakkale has many places that will make you feel at home.

8 Rooms Hotel: Located in Gelibolu, 8 Rooms Hotel offers free bicycles, a garden, a shared lounge, and a terrace. Facilities at this property include a restaurant, room service, a 24-hour front desk, and free WiFi access in all areas.

Bağbadem Holiday Home: Bağbadem Holiday Home is a welcoming establishment nestled among vineyards in the peaceful atmosphere of Bozcaada. It offers a unique lodging experience that reflects the spirit of the island with its simple rooms, pleasant garden, and homemade delicacies.

You can find different hotels in Çanakkale according to your budget. Click for Çanakkale hotels.