
Small & Boutique Hotels in Canakkale City Center
FAQs
We are taking you to the most important city of our independence history, namely Çanakkale. When we think of Çanakkale, the first things that come to our minds are history, sea and freshness. Çanakkale, located in the Marmara Region in the north-western part of our country in terms of settlement, has a coast to both the Marmara Sea and the Aegean Sea. Especially in the last 10 years, we can count the economic activities as well as reaching a qualified standard of living among the reasons for both permanent and temporary migration. Çanakkale is developing economically in every passing period of time and is becoming an exemplary city from its islands to its coasts and inland regions. Of course, the Straits and its historical importance are among the main features that make the city a favorite city. Both the Trojan Wars and the Battle of Çanakkale will continue to make Çanakkale a favorite historical/civilization city both in our country and in many parts of the world. Since the earliest periods of Anatolian history, Çanakkale has always been a settlement center with traces of life and has maintained its charm in all ages. A deep culinary culture, a wide range of natural products, nature tourism and cultural tourism are other prominent features of Çanakkale.In addition, it has been constantly developing in terms of nature and water sports in recent years, and if we add festivals to this situation, you will have a full tour and sightseeing program. With its fertile lands, the long green landscape along the road, a location where nature generously displays all its skills, islands and peninsulas, Çanakkale is waiting for you.
When to Visit Çanakkale City Center?
If you're dreaming of a sunny getaway with both history and sea, Çanakkale City Center is a destination worth planning around. The summer months bring warm, sunny weather—perfect for swimming and beach days, with sea temperatures ideal for a refreshing dip. During this time, most beaches and tourist attractions are fully operational, offering countless opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities.
One of the most meaningful times to visit is around March 18, which marks the anniversary of the Gallipoli Campaign. This period is filled with historical ceremonies and events that reflect Turkey’s proud past, and it's an ideal moment to visit significant landmarks and memorials.
If you're looking for mild weather and fewer crowds, consider the spring and autumn seasons. These times are great for nature walks, cycling, and discovering Çanakkale’s lush landscapes like Gelibolu Peninsula Historical National Park. Weekdays during the summer are typically quieter than weekends—perfect for those who prefer a more peaceful trip.
How to Get to Çanakkale City Center?
Getting to Çanakkale is quite convenient, whether you’re traveling by land or air. If you’re flying, Çanakkale Airport offers regional connections, or you can arrive via Antalya Airport and travel onward by bus or car. If you're coming from major cities like Istanbul, İzmir, or Bursa, intercity buses and car rentals are easily available.
One thing to keep in mind is the wind. Especially in winter and early spring, Çanakkale can get quite breezy, so check the weather before traveling.
Once there, don’t miss the chance to explore the Gallipoli Peninsula, a moving tribute to Turkish and global history. Swim in the crystal waters of Assos, walk through the ruins of Troy, or spend a slow afternoon in Çanakkale’s quaint villages or scenic islands.
For adventure seekers, Çanakkale is also gaining attention for cycling races and scuba diving tours. Dive down to explore WWI shipwrecks off the coast, now home to sea life and stories of the past.
Must-Visit Places in Çanakkale City Center
From calm beaches and lush forests to ancient civilizations and historic landmarks, Çanakkale City Center has something for every kind of traveler. Some of the top places to visit include:
Gelibolu Peninsula National Park – The site of the legendary Gallipoli Campaign
Çanakkale Naval Museum – Featuring historical war artifacts
Çanakkale City Center – For relaxed strolls and local flavor
Aynalı Çarşı – The famous bazaar from the folk song “Çanakkale Türküsü”
Kordon – A seaside promenade full of cafes and sunset views
Troy Ancient City & Troy Statue – Step into the world of Homer’s Iliad
Çanakkale Ceramic Museum – Celebrating the region’s iconic ceramics
Assos Coastline – For a dip in serene, turquoise waters
Adatepe Village – A peaceful Turkish-Greek village
Gökçeada & Bozcaada – The dreamlike islands of the Aegean, perfect for slow travel and unforgettable views
Where to Shop in Çanakkale City Center
Whether you’re looking for handcrafted souvenirs or local delicacies, Çanakkale offers a charming shopping experience:
Traditional Bazaars & Markets: Visit Kaleiçi Bazaar and Saat Kulesi Market for handmade gifts, local textiles, and unique finds. Weekly farmers’ markets also sell fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and more.
Local Products: Don’t leave without trying Çanakkale’s famous olive oils, jams, honey, and cheeses. Many shops specialize in organic and artisanal items, making them great gifts or mementos.
Handicrafts & Antiques: Explore small shops filled with vintage coins, ceramics, woven rugs, and traditional crafts in the city’s historic neighborhoods.
Shopping Malls: Modern options like Çanakkaleden, Liman AVM, and NovaPark AVM provide a wide selection of clothing, electronics, cosmetics, and more.
Souvenir Shops: Along Anzac Street and the waterfront, find shops selling magnets, books, and memorabilia dedicated to Çanakkale’s rich history and culture.
Entertainment Suggestions in Çanakkale Merkez
Exploring Historical Sites: Çanakkale Merkez is a city famous for its historical and cultural heritage. You can visit significant sites such as the Gallipoli Historical Area, Kilitbahir Castle, Nusret Mine Ship, Clock Tower, and the Seyit Onbaşı Monument.
Enjoying the Sea: Being close to the Dardanelles (Çanakkale Strait), you can enjoy the sea in Çanakkale Merkez. You can take a walk along the coast, relax at seaside cafes, or join boat tours to explore the strait.
Museum Visits: Explore the city's history and culture by visiting museums such as the Troy Museum, Çanakkale Naval Museum, Trojan Horse Monument, and the ANZAC Museum.
Culinary Experiences: Try regional dishes at local restaurants in Çanakkale Merkez. Enjoy seafood, olive oil-based dishes, traditional keşkek, olives, and more. Fresh seafood restaurants by the sea are especially popular.
History of Çanakkale Merkez
Çanakkale and its surroundings have been significant settlements since ancient times.
Troy (Troia) Ancient City is one of its most famous sites, known as the setting of the Trojan War in Homer’s Iliad.
During the Persian Empire and Macedonian Kingdom, the area had strategic importance and later came under Hellenistic and Roman influence.
Under Byzantine rule, it served as a key trade port.
The Ottoman Empire included the city as an important military base.
World War I’s Gallipoli Campaign (1915) took place here, marking a significant chapter in Turkish history and earning global recognition for the heroism of Turkish soldiers.
What is Çanakkale Merkez Famous For?
Gallipoli Historical Site & Battles of Çanakkale: One of the most important Turkish victories of WWI.
Troy Ancient City: UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for the legendary Trojan War.
Çanakkale Strait (Dardanelles): A strategic waterway connecting Europe and Asia, noted for its natural beauty.
ANZAC Commemorations: Gallipoli is known for the ANZAC landings and related memorials.
Natural Beauty: Offers beautiful beaches, coasts, and green areas along the Aegean Sea.
Where to Swim in Çanakkale Merkez
Kordonboyu Beach: A central and popular promenade area where you can walk, swim, or relax at cafés.
Mecidiye Beach: Close to the city, with clean water and sand, popular in summer.
Barış Beach: Favored for its wide beach and recreational options, near the city center.
Kordon Coastline: Ideal for walking, running, cycling, and swimming.
Dardanelles Shore: You can swim in certain spots like Kilitbahir and Çimenlik beaches.
Top Things to Do in Çanakkale Merkez
You can fit many activities into your trip, but be aware of strong winds, especially in winter and during seasonal changes.
Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park is a must-visit.
Enjoy the sea at Assos, expand your cultural understanding at Troy Ancient City, and explore the coasts, islands, and villages of Çanakkale.
Experience bicycle races and scuba diving, including exploring WWI shipwrecks.
Local festivals can also enhance your travel experience.
Food & Dining Recommendations in Çanakkale Merkez
As a typical Marmara/Aegean city, Çanakkale has a rich culinary heritage, thanks to its agricultural diversity. Local specialties include:
Soups: Ovmaç, Scorpionfish, Spinach soup
Traditional dishes: Çırpma, Turpi, Melki dish, Egg with thistle, Metez, Cowpea meatballs
Main dishes: Lüfer Pilaf (Bluefish rice), Eggplant Casserole, Papaz Stew
Desserts: Famous Cheese Halva and Basma Halva
Notable places to eat:
- Sardal-ye: (Seafood and sardines)
- Hayati Chef
- Şirvan Döner
- Özel Çorba Salonu (Soup specialty restaurant)
- Napoli Pizza
- Kadir Usta: (Famous for Cheese Halva)
- Hasan Tevfik Lokantası