Çanakkale Travel Guide: 10 Amazing Places You Must Explore
Located in northwestern Turkey, in a unique geography where the Marmara and Aegean seas meet, Çanakkale is a city that every traveller must discover, with its historical riches and natural beauty. Shaped by its legendary past in the shadow of wars, this city boasts a cultural heritage spanning from ancient times to the present day, an untouched natural landscape, and islands that resemble an open-air museum. It holds a special story that touches every visitor.
Whether you are a history buff or looking for a peaceful holiday by the sea, we have compiled a list of 10 unique places of high cultural, tourist and historical value that you should consider when creating your ‘places to visit in Çanakkale’ list. Each stop offers a journey through time, bridging the past and the present.
1. The Ancient City of Troy – Where Legend Meets Reality
The scene of the Trojan War, one of the most famous legends in world history, dates back thousands of years... The Ancient City of Troy not only inspired Homer's epic poem, the Iliad, but is also one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.
Dating back to 3000 BC, this ancient city has nine different settlement layers. This is concrete evidence that Troy was destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout different periods. Among the city's ruins are defensive walls, monumental entrance gates, a Roman theatre, bath structures, and tombs. The Troy Museum, located right next to the ancient city, displays thousands of artefacts from the excavations in a modern way, offering visitors a rich historical context.
When you visit Troy, walking among the ancient stones while Homer's words echo in your ears is a unique experience. This place is a real-time tunnel.
2. Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial and Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park
The Gallipoli Peninsula, which bears the traces of the Çanakkale War that engraved the phrase ‘Çanakkale is impassable’ in history, is one of the turning points in both Turkish and world history. In 1915, these lands witnessed bloody battles between the Ottoman army and the Allied Powers, and today they have become a symbol of peace, resistance and sacrifice.
The Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial, built on Hisarlık Hill in Morto Bay, is a magnificent monument 41.7 metres high, erected in memory of thousands of Turkish soldiers. The martyrdom sites around the monument, such as the 57th Regiment Martyrdom, Conkbayırı, Anzac Cove, Lone Pine Monument and other historical points, allow visitors to feel the traces of the war step by step.
This area is also within the boundaries of the Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park. The national park appeals to both history enthusiasts and nature lovers with its forts, trenches, museums, and natural landscape.
3. Çimenlik Castle (Kale-i Sultanîye) – Guardian of the Strait from the Ottoman Empire to the Present Day
Built by Fatih Sultan Mehmet in 1462, Çimenlik Castle was constructed to control the Dardanelles Strait and support strategic defence. Located on the Anatolian side of the strait, the castle has survived to the present day with its sturdy structure, showcasing Ottoman military architecture.
Today, Çimenlik Castle is open to the public as part of the Çanakkale Maritime Museum. The cannonballs, military uniforms, maps, and documents from the period on display in the castle are of great importance for understanding the naval front of the Çanakkale War. Additionally, the view of the strait from the mosque and walls inside the castle offers visitors a unique experience.
Source: Kültür Portalı
4. Aynalı Çarşı – A Historic Shopping Spot at the Heart of Cultural Memory
Located in the centre of Çanakkale, Aynalı Çarşı attracts attention with both its architecture and history. Built during the reign of Sultan Abdülhamid II, this historic bazaar takes its name from the mirrors used in its shop windows. The phrase ‘Aynalı Çarşı’ in the Çanakkale Turkish folk song reflects the deep place this building holds in the public memory.
Today, the bazaar is a vibrant shopping area filled with souvenir shops, local products, and traditional handicrafts. Here, you can find examples of arts such as ceramics, stonework, and wood carving. Visiting Aynalı Çarşı means witnessing both the history and traditional way of life of Çanakkale.
Source: Kültür Portalı
5. Assos Ancient City – Capital of Philosophy and Aesthetics
Located within the boundaries of Behramkale Village in Ayvacık district, Assos is captivating not only with its history but also with its magnificent views. Founded in the 6th century BC, the city is particularly known for its Temple of Athena. This temple, with its location and the grandeur of its columns, is like a work of art overlooking the Aegean Sea.
It is believed that Aristotle established a philosophy school here and taught there himself. Structures such as the ancient theatre, agora, and necropolis are still visible today. Especially at sunset, the view from the Temple of Athena makes Assos one of the most romantic and impressive ancient sites in Turkey.
6. Bozcaada and Bozcaada Castle – A Perfect Harmony of History and Nature
One of the fairy-tale islands of the Aegean, Bozcaada (formerly known as Tenedos), is located west of Çanakkale, approximately 30–60 minutes away by ferry. Famous for its clear bays, stone streets, vineyards and wine production, the island welcomes many visitors throughout the year.
Bozcaada Castle is one of the island's most magnificent structures. Although it is believed to have been first built by the Venetians, it was rebuilt during the Ottoman period and restored to its present state. The amphorae and historical artefacts on display in the castle provide visitors with information about the island's past. Bozcaada also attracts attention with its natural beauties such as Ayazma Beach, Aquarium Bay and Polente Lighthouse.
7. Gökçeada and Underwater National Park – Turkey's Most Peaceful and Unspoilt Island
Gökçeada, Turkey's largest island by area, is known for its tranquillity, organic lifestyle and natural beauty. The Gökçeada Underwater National Park here is Turkey's first and only underwater national park. Its rich underwater life, clear waters and coral colonies attract divers and nature lovers.
The villages of Gökçeada are also unique attractions: in the Greek villages of Zeytinli, Tepeköy, and Dereköy, stone houses, traditional coffeehouses, and homemade cinnamon ice cream await you. The island's sustainable lifestyle offers visitors a unique holiday experience.
8. Neandria Ancient City – An Archaeological Treasure Waiting to be Discovered
Located within the borders of Ezine district, Neandria Ancient City is one of Çanakkale's lesser-known but historically valuable sites. Dating back to the 7th century BC, this city was an important settlement throughout the Hellenistic period.
Among the city's ruins, the city walls, towers, temple foundations and agoras stand out. The defensive walls, surrounded by 11 towers, are still standing strong. Neandria is an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet journey through history, away from the crowds.
Source: Cengiz Selçuk
9. Kilitbahir Castle – Silent Witness of the Strait
Located in Kilitbahir Village, Kilitbahir Castle was built in 1463 by Fatih Sultan Mehmet to defend the European side of the strait. Its name, meaning ‘lock of the sea,’ reflects its strategic importance.
The castle, which has a seven-storey triangular tower, attracts attention with both its architectural elegance and military functionality. The castle underwent repairs during the reigns of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and Abdulhamid II. Kilitbahir, which can be reached in a very short time by ferry from the centre of Çanakkale, is one of the rare points where history and scenery meet.
10. Çanakkale Maritime Museum and City Museum – A Journey into the City's Memory
For those who want to understand Çanakkale better, the Maritime Museum and City Museum in the city centre are the main places to visit. The Maritime Museum has a wide collection ranging from warships to military uniforms. A full-scale model of the Nusret Mine Ship can also be seen here.
The City Museum, on the other hand, is a centre that sheds light on the social life of Çanakkale. With old photographs, objects donated by the public and seasonal exhibitions, it reveals the cultural evolution of the city. Thanks to these museums, visitors can capture not only the traces of war but also those of everyday life.
Source: Kalem Gazetesi
Practical Information and Extra Tips for Your Visit
Planning: It is recommended that you set aside at least half a day for places such as the Gallipoli Peninsula and Troy. As temperatures rise in the summer months, it is advisable to start your tour early in the morning.
Transportation: For places such as Assos and Neandria, it is recommended to use a private vehicle or a rental car. For Bozcaada and Gökçeada, ferry services are available from the Geyikli and Kabatepe piers.
Local Delicacies: Seafood, olive oil dishes and the famous Ezine cheese play a leading role in Çanakkale's local cuisine. Bozcaada wines and Gökçeada organic products are also quite popular.
Guided Tours: Guided options such as the Gallipoli Tour and Troy Tour are ideal choices for those who want to learn about the history of these places in depth.
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