City · Turkey

Canakkale

Canakkale, Canakkale, Turkey

Step Back in Time and Embrace the Aegean Spirit in Çanakkale Nestled on the southern shores of the Dardanelles Strait, where Europe meets Asia…

#Historical sites#Gallipoli#Dardanelles#Turkish War of Independence#Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial
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Top Flights to Çanakkale

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Highlights

Things to do in Canakkale

What travellers talk about most.

Tours

Troy Historical National Park

Explore the ruins of the ancient city of Troy, an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial

A tribute to the soldiers who died during the Gallipoli campaign of World War I.

Shopping

Çanakkale Waterfront Bazaar

A lively market offering local crafts, foods, and unique souvenirs.

Outdoor

Bozcaada Vineyard Tours

Discover the unique wines of the Bozcaada region through guided vineyard tours.

See it for yourself

Location videos

Reels and longer watches.

Featured for Canakkale

Traveller clips picked out for this place.

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Good to know

Practical info

Weather, costs and getting around.

Canakkale, Canakkale, Turkey Open in Google Maps
When to go

Scored from each month’s typical high and its usual conditions.

GoodMixedAvoid
Best monthsMar – Jun, Sep – Oct
Worth avoidingNov – Feb
October · cloudHigh 21°C Low 13°C
Good

Çanakkale experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. During the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration. In contrast, the winter months see temperatures drop to around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), with increased rainfall. Spring and autumn are pleasant, with moderate temperatures and less rain, making them great times for sightseeing and enjoying the outdoors. Overall, Çanakkale offers a favorable climate for travel year-round, with the best conditions typically found in the spring and early autumn.

All 12 monthshighs, lows and conditions
Jan
rain
9°3°
Feb
rain
10°3°
Mar
cloud
13°5°
Apr
cloud
18°9°
May
sun
23°13°
Jun
sun
28°17°
Jul
hot
31°20°
Aug
hot
31°20°
Sep
sun
27°17°
Oct
cloud
21°13°
Nov
rain
15°8°
Dec
rain
11°5°
Currency
₺ | TRY | Turkish Lira
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Canakkale, Canakkale, Turkey is around '0.2 million'.
Density
193 / km²
Local time
Languages
Turkish mainly
Budget / day
₺80 - ₺150
Also known as
Chanak Kale, Hellespont, Dardanelles, Chanak, Kilitbahir

Know before you go

Local guide

A deeper read on Canakkale.

What people love

Çanakkale, located in the Çanakkale province of Turkey, is a historically rich and culturally significant destination with several advantages for travelers:

  1. Historical Significance: Çanakkale is home to the Gallipoli Peninsula, where one of the most significant battles of World War I took place. Visitors can explore various memorials, cemeteries, and museums dedicated to this historic event.

  2. Troy Ancient City: Çanakkale is close to the ancient city of Troy, known for the legendary Trojan War. Travelers can visit the archaeological site of Troy and see the famous Trojan Horse replica.

  3. Beautiful Natural Scenery: The region around Çanakkale offers stunning natural landscapes, including beaches, forests, and mountains. The Aegean Sea coastline is picturesque and ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities.

  4. Cultural Heritage: Çanakkale has a rich cultural heritage with influences from various civilizations throughout history. Visitors can explore traditional Turkish architecture, taste local cuisine, and engage with the warm hospitality of the locals.

  5. Strategic Location: Çanakkale serves as a gateway to the Aegean region of Turkey, making it a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions such as Assos, Bozcaada (Tenedos), and more.

Overall, traveling to Çanakkale offers a unique blend of history, culture, nature, and relaxation, making it a compelling destination for a memorable trip.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Çanakkale, Turkey, may include:

  1. Remote Location: Çanakkale is not as easily accessible as some other tourist destinations in Turkey. It may require a longer journey by car or bus from major cities like Istanbul or Izmir.

  2. Limited Accommodation Options: While there are hotels and guesthouses in Çanakkale, the range of options may be more limited compared to larger tourist cities.

  3. Language Barrier: English may not be as widely spoken in Çanakkale compared to more popular tourist destinations, which could make communication challenging for some travelers.

  4. Crowds During Peak Season: Like many tourist destinations, Çanakkale can get crowded during peak travel seasons, which may affect the overall experience for some visitors.

  5. Limited Nightlife and Entertainment: Çanakkale is a smaller city compared to places like Istanbul, so the nightlife and entertainment options may be more limited.

Overall, while Çanakkale offers a rich history and beautiful landscapes, some travelers may find the above factors to be potential drawbacks when considering a visit to the area.

Çanakkale is a city located in northwestern Turkey, on the southern coast of the Dardanelles Strait. It has a rich history, marked by its strategic importance as a gateway between Asia and Europe. Here's a detailed history of Çanakkale, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Ancient History

  • Trojan War: Çanakkale is near the site of ancient Troy, famously depicted in Homer's "Iliad." The archaeological site of Troy, located in the Çanakkale Province, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city of Troy was a significant center during the Bronze Age and has been the subject of numerous archaeological excavations.
  • Greek Colonization: The area around Çanakkale was colonized by Greeks in antiquity. The ancient city of Abydos was located here, known for its strategic position on the Dardanelles.

Byzantine and Ottoman Periods

  • Byzantine Era: During the Byzantine period, the region was part of the Empire and played a role in the defense of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul).
  • Ottoman Conquest: The Ottomans conquered the region in the 14th century. Çanakkale became an important naval base and fortress guarding the Dardanelles Strait.

The Gallipoli Campaign (World War I)

  • Gallipoli Campaign: One of the most significant events in Çanakkale's history is the Gallipoli Campaign of 1915-1916 during World War I. The campaign was an attempt by the Allied Powers to control the sea route from Europe to Russia. The Turkish forces, led by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, successfully defended the peninsula, marking a crucial victory for the Ottoman Empire and a defining moment in Turkish history. This event is commemorated annually in Turkey and by the countries involved, particularly Australia and New Zealand (ANZAC Day).

Modern History

  • Republic of Turkey: After the fall of the Ottoman Empire, Çanakkale became part of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. It has developed as a significant cultural and economic center in the region.

Important Landmarks

  • Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial: This monument commemorates the soldiers who died during the Gallipoli Campaign. It is located on the Gallipoli Peninsula.
  • Troy Archaeological Site: A key historical site, representing multiple layers of settlement over centuries. Visitors can explore the remains of the ancient city.
  • Çimenlik Castle: Built by the Ottomans in 1452, this fortress is located in Çanakkale city and now houses a military museum.
  • Kilitbahir Castle: Another Ottoman castle located on the European side of the Dardanelles, built to protect the strait.

Notable Figures

  • Mustafa Kemal Atatürk: As a young military officer, Atatürk played a pivotal role in the defense of Gallipoli, which later propelled him to national leadership and the founding of modern Turkey.
  • Heinrich Schliemann: The archaeologist who famously excavated the site of Troy in the 19th century, revealing its historical significance.

Çanakkale remains a city of historical importance, reflecting a rich tapestry of ancient and modern history tied to its strategic location bridging continents.