The city of Çanakkale is 320 km from Istanbul. It is located on the south side of the Dardanelles. Its rich historical heritage, the mix of cultures and the rhythms of modern life attracts tourists from all parts of the world.
It is a beautiful Turkish town, a beautiful promenade, numerous restaurants and street food, interesting excursions to the world of Troy, clean streets, old buildings and museums.
Landmarks
The city's calling card is considered its waterfront. On it is a statue of the Trojan Horse, which was brought here from Hollywood. This horse was filmed in the movie "Troy" with Brad Pitt, and now graces the port of Canakkale.
In the evening, the display is beautifully illuminated and the entire waterfront is lit up with lights. From the waterfront you can book a boat ride, visit the naval museum and a beautiful park with a castle built in 1461.
Naval Museum is located in the fortress Cimenlik. History lovers can see an exhibition of the Battle of the Dardanelles. On the big screen shows a sequence of all the military actions of 1915. Here is installed an exact replica of the famous ship, exhibited historical photographs and memorabilia.
At 30 km from the city there is a place from the works of Homer, an ancient landmark - Troy. It is striking in its grandeur and beauty. The way takes no more than half an hour and you find yourself in a city steeped in legends and myths. The ancient ruins keep the spirit of antiquity. You can climb another statue of a horse, sit on the steps of the amphitheater, visit the museum of excavations and learn how the city looked like in different periods of life.
At 20 km from the center there is a small ancient town Assos. It is surrounded by mountain ranges and century-old pine forests. Assos attracts tourists with the ruins of the Acropolis and the temple of Athena, which majestically rise above the sea. You can also see the ancient Ottoman mosque.
On the other side of the Dardanelles is the narrow peninsula of Gallipoli. It is famous for its battlefields, brave exploits of the ancestors and picturesque landscapes.
Restaurants and local food
Çanakkale is a coastal city, so it is famous for fresh seafood and fish. The most popular dish is considered sardines in grape leaves. Try the Turkish kavurmalı (toast with stew), shakshuka (Turkish ratatouille with beans and vegetables) and cheese halva.
Be sure to visit Mori Bistro on the waterfront. Nice staff, cozy atmosphere with live music, views of the Bosphorus, very tasty food and reasonable prices. Order the cheese board, lemon chicken or steak with mushroom sauce, and for dessert traditional Turkish sweets with homemade jam and coffee.
Not far from the port there is a wonderful restaurant called Sardalye, which serves delicious mackerel and mussels in a bun. Always fresh salads, tender seafood, and great takeout.
When is the best time to visit Çanakkale
The tourist season lasts from May to October. This is the perfect time to visit all the sights and walk around the city. For the beach season, July and August are more suitable, when the sea is warm enough.
