Canakkale is a stylish seaport set on the Dardanelles Strait, where you can stroll along the waterfront promenade, visit ancient ruins and discover a buzzing nightlife. Canakkale is also a jumping point to the Gallipoli Peninsula’s pristine beaches, clifftop cemeteries and war memorials.
Things to do in Çanakkale
Explore Canakkale's cobblestoned Old Town and breezy waterfront promenade, where you’ll stumble across landmarks like the Ottoman Clock Tower, which has been watching over the harbour since 1897. Enjoy sunset drinks at Café du Port, a sleek glass-fronted restaurant overlooking the water.
Venture out of town and you'll find a variety of ancient sites and attractions. Don't miss a day trip to the ancient city of Troy, where you can wander around 3,700-year-old city walls and climb up a replica of the infamous Trojan Horse.
Now protected as a national historic site, the Gallipoli Peninsula is incredibly moving. Spend the day exploring sweeping sandy beaches, wandering through lush pine forests and paying your respects at poignant clifftop cemeteries. You can learn more about the ANZAC campaign at the Dardanelles Straits Naval Command Museum, which displays cannons, guns and military artefacts.
From seafood restaurants to hip bars, Canakkale treats visitors to a fantastic social scene. Yali Hani is a local favourite, serving Turkish tea and local wine in a flower-strewn courtyard. It also hosts a colourful lineup of performances, film festivals and art exhibitions.
Getting around Çanakkale
Canakkale is best explored on foot, especially if you stick to the Old Town and waterfront district. The city is well-connected by public transport, with local buses running to Troy in around 45 minutes. Flights arrive at Canakkale Airport, a 10-minute drive away.