Things To Do
in Çanakkale
Çanakkale, located on the western coast of Turkey, is a historic city with a rich past dating back thousands of years. It is famous for its significance in the Gallipoli Campaign during World War I, with several poignant memorials and cemeteries dedicated to fallen soldiers. The city is also known for its picturesque waterfront promenade offering stunning views of the Dardanelles Strait.
Visitors can explore ancient ruins, visit museums and enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine in Çanakkale.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning by visiting the famous ancient city of Troy, where you can explore the ruins and learn about its rich history. Don’t forget to snap a photo by the iconic wooden horse.
In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxed lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the Dardanelles. Afterward, visit the Troya Museum for in-depth exhibits on the archaeological findings.
For the evening, head to a seaside cafe for dinner with a view of the sunset. Savor fresh seafood and local dishes while reflecting on the day's adventures.
Visit the Gallipoli Peninsula to pay respects at the various memorials dedicated to World War I heroes. Begin at ANZAC Cove, where you can appreciate the significance of this historic site.
Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the serene surroundings of the Gallipoli battlefield. Continue your exploration by visiting the Lone Pine Cemetery and other memorial sites in the area.
Return to Çanakkale and unwind at a local tavern. Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine while discussing the poignant history you've witnessed throughout the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance, especially related to World War I and the Gallipoli Campaign.
- Beautiful coastal scenery along the Dardanelles Strait.
- Vibrant culture with numerous festivals and events.
- Delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Turkish dishes.
- Friendly and hospitable locals.
- Tourism can lead to overcrowding, especially during peak seasons.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in larger cities.
- Limited nightlife options compared to bigger urban areas.
- Economic reliance on tourism can make the local economy vulnerable to fluctuations.
- Some areas may experience seasonal weather extremes, impacting travel.
Best Activities in Çanakkale
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the ancient ruins and learn about the history of the legendary city of Troy.
Take a boat trip to visit the historic battlefields and memorials of the Gallipoli Campaign during World War I.
Enjoy the natural beauty of Kaz Mountains with its hiking trails, forests, and scenic viewpoints.
Relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches along the coastline of Çanakkale province.
Tours
Uncover the best of Çanakkale with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Çanakkale
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea, vineyards, and historic architecture perfect for photography.
Provides panoramic views of the Dardanelles Strait and the surrounding landscape, ideal for capturing memorable photos.
Features scenic overlooks of the Gallipoli battlefields and memorials, offering poignant and historically significant photo opportunities.
Food in Çanakkale
Çanakkale Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Start your culinary journey with a variety of mezes, such as haydari (yogurt dip with garlic and herbs), dolma (stuffed grape leaves), and ezme (spicy tomato and pepper salsa), commonly found in traditional meyhane (taverns) like Cunda Alacati Meyhanesi.
Must-Try!
Indulge in the flavorful local meatballs made with a unique blend of spices, often served with bulgur pilaf and fresh vegetables. Try them at Köfteci Arnavut.
A popular street snack, midye dolma features mussels stuffed with seasoned rice and herbs. Look for street vendors along the waterfront or at the Friday Market.
These savory pastries, filled with cheese, herbs, and topped with sesame seeds, can be savored at local bakeries like Pando Köşk.
Being in an olive-growing region, don't miss the opportunity to try olive oil-based dishes like zeytinyağlı enginar (artichokes in olive oil) at the charming Kordon Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Çanakkale better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant Friday Market where local producers offer an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, olives, cheeses, and other regional specialties. It's also an excellent spot to sample street food such as midye dolma and gözleme (filled flatbread).
Take a stroll along the picturesque Kordon and delight in the street food stalls offering a variety of treats, including fresh seafood, simit (Turkish sesame bread rings), and stuffed baked potatoes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Çanakkale, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to people, especially when having conversations. Maintaining a comfortable distance is considered polite.
When greeting someone in Çanakkale, it is common to shake hands and maintain eye contact. It is also customary to use titles such as 'Bay' (Mr.) or 'Bayan' (Mrs.) followed by the person's surname, unless invited to use their first name.
Respecting elders is an integral part of Turkish culture, including in Çanakkale. It is important to show deference and use formal language when addressing older individuals, and to offer them seats or assistance when needed.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Çanakkale with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Çanakkale
Ensure a smooth experience
In Çanakkale, it is customary to leave a 5-10% tip at restaurants if a service charge is not included. Additionally, it is common to round up the fare and leave a small amount as a tip for taxi drivers.
Most businesses in Çanakkale, including restaurants, hotels, and shops, accept credit and debit cards. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments or in more remote areas. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Çanakkale.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Çanakkale, when the weather is mild and the wildflowers are in bloom. It's a great time to explore the historic sites and enjoy outdoor activities.
Summer is peak tourist season in Çanakkale, with warm weather perfect for beach-going and outdoor excursions. The city comes alive with events and festivals, making it an exciting time to visit.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a good time to visit if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere. The fall foliage in the surrounding countryside is also beautiful.
Winter is the quietest time in Çanakkale, with chilly weather and the possibility of occasional rain. It's a good time for budget-conscious travelers and those interested in the city's indoor attractions.
Çanakkale at Night
Hiking in Çanakkale
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park known for its lush forests, unique flora and fauna, and stunning hiking trails. It offers various trails suitable for all skill levels.
Famous for its mythological significance and natural beauty, Mount Ida offers several hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
A historical village located near Mount Ida, it provides access to scenic hiking trails that lead you through olive groves and stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
An ancient site with beautiful coastal hiking trails that offer views of the sea and historical ruins, perfect for those interested in both nature and history.
The site of ancient Troy has some hiking paths around the archaeological area, where you can explore the historical significance while enjoying a walk in nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Çanakkale through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Çanakkale by plane.
One of the largest international airports in the world, located in Istanbul, approximately 350 km from Çanakkale.
Another major airport in Istanbul, located approximately 350 km from Çanakkale, serving various international flights.
Located in Izmir, approximately 300 km from Çanakkale, this airport connects to various international destinations.
Located near Bodrum, approximately 400 km from Çanakkale, serving both domestic and international flights.
Located in Dalaman, approximately 450 km from Çanakkale, catering to many international tourists.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Çanakkale, comprising a significant portion of the population.
A notable minority group in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity of Çanakkale.
Historically present in the region, though their numbers have decreased in modern times.
A smaller minority, with historical roots in the area, contributing to the cultural fabric of Çanakkale.
Includes various smaller groups that may reside in the area but are not as prominent.
The Soul of Çanakkale
Discover the essence of Çanakkale through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Çanakkale, with many local clubs and a strong following among residents.
Basketball enjoys a significant following in Çanakkale, including youth leagues and community games.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and clubs, with both beach and indoor formats being popular.
Athletics events, including running and track and field, are encouraged in local schools and sports clubs.
Due to Çanakkale's coastal location, water sports such as swimming, sailing, and windsurfing are popular among locals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Çanakkale.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Çanakkale offer delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes, including mezes, salads, and vegetable-based casseroles. Notable places for these options include Asma Yaprağı and Cafe Zoumero.
While traditional Turkish cuisine heavily features bread and wheat-based products, some restaurants in Çanakkale, such as Mirpasa and Lezizz, cater to gluten-free diets with dishes like rice pilaf, grilled meats, and seafood.