Canakkale Travel Guide

The history of this city dates back to ancient times. It is known to have been inhabited since the Old Bronze Age. Hellespontos and Dardanel were names given in history. Since previous years, the Dardanelles strait has established a connection between Anatolia, Europe and the Mediterranean Sea to the Black Sea. Communities living in this region have had military and economic superiority due to the geography of Canakkale. Studies suggest it was revealed that the oldest settlement in the region, none other than indigenous people during the Chalcolithic period. Some of the traces of settlements in Canakkale are the Lydian Kingdom, Persians, Romans and Byzantines. The region was also of great importance during the war of liberation. A martyrdom was made for people who lost their lives in battles of freedom in Canakkale.

Mirrored Bazaar

It has undergone renovation at the end of the 18'th century and taken its current form. It is called Mirrored Bazaar because of the mirrors at the entry to the bazaar.

Canakkale Maritime Museum

The most interesting product of Maritime museum is the Nusret Mine Ship. The ship once belongs to the Ottoman Navy. At the entrance, items used onboard and used during construction are exhibited. Apart from ships, you can also find Cimenlik Castle. This castle is known as the symbol of Canakkale. There is also a section of painting and photo exhibitions. You may also buy gifts for your loved ones from the gift shop here.

Trojan horse

The legend of the Trojan horse says that Sparta's wife, Helen, was kidnapped by the Trojan Paris. As a result, two cities entered a war that would last for years. The Spartans send a wooden horse to Troy as a gift of peace. The Trojans accept this horse, but it was full of Spartan soldiers, and when everyone slept at night, soldiers attacked Troy. Unfortunately, the horse exhibited at the museum is not the real one, but it gives a good idea of what it looked like back then.

The Museum of Ceramics

This place used to be used as a bath. In the museum, Canakkale ceramics are exhibited. Also, there is a ceramic workshop current the museum where you can make ceramics.

Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park

The park was established in 1973. There are martyrs and monuments in memory of those who died in the war. Also, there are items left from the war. The National Park is built on such a large area that it will take more than one day to see the whole area. If you believe it might be too much, we advise you to visit with a guide.

The Ancient City of Troy

This is one of the most important ancient cities in history. The history is said to be over 5,000 years old. Thanks to its geographical features, it was probably used for ships to port. Therefore, it became a point of exchange between different civilizations. The city has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1998.

Baba castle

This castle known as baba castle is so big that it has become a village. The most famous thing about the village is handmade knives. Also, if you have the opportunity to visit, make sure to eat fish before leaving.

When to Visit

Canakkale is under the influence of the Mediterranean and Northern climates. It has a mild general atmosphere. From time to time in winter, the cold air coming from the Balkans. April, May, June, July, August and September are the best times to visit the city to avoid being affected by cold weather.

Where to Stay

Compared to other cities, it may be a little more challenging to find a rental house in Canakkale. However, in terms of price performance, you can stay in many hotels which are quite good. Since the city is small, it does not matter if your accommodation is close to the centre. Among the most preferred hotels are Caravanserai Hotel, Rumelia Residence, Cat Kapi Hotel and Kolin Hotel in Canakkale.

What to Eat

Cheese halva and sardine fish are among foods you should taste in Canakkale. You may go to Kadir Yasar halva store for eating cheese halva. You can try hunting yourself for sardine fish, or to Hasan Tevfik Restaurant. On your way home, don't forget to buy Ezine cheese.

How to Get Around

You can easily reach any destination by busses in the city, or you can use a taxi. If you prefer to go from one place in the area to another, we recommend you to walk. Especially the streets in the centre are worth seeing.

How to go to Canakkale

By Plane

There is an airport 5 km away from the city. However, since it is a small airport, there are no international flights. For this reason, you may need to buy a transfer ticket.

By bus

From almost every city in Turkey, you can find buses that can bring you here.

By Train

From Ankara, Istanbul or Izmir, you can take a train to come here.

By Car

It takes about four and a half hour between İstanbul to Canakkale, and about 4 hours from Izmir to Canakkale.