Things To Do
in Çanakkale

Çanakkale is a historic city located on the northwest coast of Turkey, known for its proximity to the ancient site of Troy and its pivotal role during the Gallipoli Campaign in World War I. The city boasts a beautiful waterfront along the Dardanelles Strait, making it a picturesque destination for tourists. With a mix of rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes, Çanakkale attracts visitors from around the globe.

Its vibrant atmosphere is complemented by local markets, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring History and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the ancient ruins of Troy, where you can explore the archaeological site and see the famous Trojan Horse.

afternoon
:

Head to the Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial to learn about the significance of the Gallipoli Campaign, followed by a stroll through the nearby beautiful gardens.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant on the waterfront, savoring the fresh catch while watching the sunset over the Dardanelles.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a leisurely morning walk along the Çanakkale waterfront and enjoy breakfast at a café overlooking the sea.

afternoon
:

Visit the military museum to dive deeper into the city’s history, then relax at one of the local parks, such as Güzelyalı Park.

evening
:

Explore local shops for souvenirs, then enjoy a traditional Turkish meal at a popular restaurant in the city center.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍕Pizza$8
🚌Bus ticket$1
🏨Hotel night (budget)$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful coastal scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine and friendly locals.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent outside city center.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Çanakkale

Visit one of these nice places.

Çanakkale Waterfront

The picturesque waterfront offers stunning views of the Dardanelles, perfect for sunset photography.

Troy Ruins

The ancient site offers remarkable historical structures, ideal for capturing the essence of ancient civilization.

Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial

A significant landmark commemorating the Gallipoli Campaign, providing a solemn backdrop for photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Çanakkale

Çanakkale is a culinary delight, offering a rich array of local dishes that reflect its coastal heritage and cultural influences.

Çanakkale Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kuzu Tandir

Slow-cooked lamb, often served with rice and vegetables, showcasing the region's traditional cooking methods.

Must-Try!

Balık Ekmek

A popular fish sandwich made with freshly caught fish, often enjoyed at street stalls along the waterfront.

Zeytinyağlı Enginar

Artichokes cooked in olive oil, a staple of Aegean cuisine, often served as a meze.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Çanakkale Market

A bustling market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, olives, and artisanal products, perfect for food lovers.

Street Vendors

Various vendors selling simit (sesame bread), roasted chestnuts, and traditional Turkish ice cream throughout the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

Çanakkale has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter averages around 8°C (46°F). Spring and autumn are pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and occasional rain. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and suitable for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is the common form of greeting; it's polite to greet everyone in a group.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin; it's customary to share dishes.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, to show respect for local customs.

Safety Guide

Safety

Çanakkale is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it’s always wise to take usual precautions, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's recommended to have travel insurance for added security.

Tipping in Çanakkale

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping in Restaurants

It is customary to leave a tip of about 5-10% of the bill in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists to the beaches and outdoor cafes, but be prepared for crowds.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create a picturesque setting for exploring the city.

Winter

Cold and sometimes rainy, winter can be quiet but offers a peaceful experience for those who enjoy off-season travel.

Nightlife Guide

Çanakkale at Night

Çanakkale's nightlife is vibrant, featuring a mix of bars, cafes, and clubs. The waterfront area comes alive in the evenings, with many venues offering live music and dancing. Popular spots include rooftop bars with stunning views of the Dardanelles and local pubs where you can enjoy traditional Turkish drinks like raki. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to socialize with locals and other travelers alike.

Hiking in Çanakkale

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kazdağı National Park

Known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity, this national park offers several trails for varying skill levels.

Assos Hiking Trails

Located near the ancient city of Assos, these trails provide scenic views of the coastline and the Aegean Sea.

Airports

How to reach Çanakkale by plane.

Çanakkale Airport

Located about 2 km from the city center, Çanakkale Airport offers domestic flights and is a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Çanakkale is a walkable city, with many of its attractions located within a short distance from one another. The waterfront promenade is especially pleasant for walking, with numerous cafes and shops lining the path. Side streets and pedestrian zones make exploring the city on foot an enjoyable experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Adults

A vibrant population of university students and young professionals contributes to the lively atmosphere.

Tourists

Visitors from both domestic and international locations flock to Çanakkale for its historical significance and natural beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is immensely popular in Çanakkale, with local teams participating in regional leagues.

Water Sports

The nearby coast provides opportunities for various water sports, including sailing, windsurfing, and fishing.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Çanakkale is generally manageable, with roads being less congested than larger cities. Public transportation includes buses and minibusses that connect different parts of the city. Walking and cycling are also encouraged due to the compact nature of the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Çanakkale.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's recommended to ask about meat stock in soups.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are limited; it's advisable to check with restaurants for specific needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Çanakkale are generally good, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Public hospitals provide care at low costs, while private hospitals offer quicker services for a fee. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while visiting.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide