Çanakkale, Turkiye

Çanakkale, Turkiye

Çanakkale was supposed to be a one or two-night stopover between Ayvalik and Istanbul. Due to our housing issues in Ayvalik, we spent 6 nights in Çanakkale. It worked out well as we could take a break from the 6+ weeks of travel and enjoy a more relaxed area.  The extended time allowed us to explore museums and the area’s historical significance. Çanakkale, Turkiye is located on the coast of the Dardanelles Strait, which connects the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara. It’s a place rich in history and cultural significance, known for its proximity to the ancient city of Troy and the site of the Gallipoli Campaign during World War I.

The Dardanelles Strait is one of the most important waterways in the world and is heavily protected by Turkiye. It is the path used by over 100 ships a day to access the Black Sea and Aegean Sea. Turkiye has full control over the waterway and it is significant to Turkish national security. We were told by a local restaurant owner that foreigners are not allowed to own property in the area as it could potentially cause issues with national security.

Çanakkale has a lot to Offer

Troy

The ancient city of Troy is associated with Homer’s epic poems, and is just a short drive from Çanakkale. The archaeological site is a fascinating place to explore, with its ruins telling stories of ancient civilizations. The museum is full of artifacts from the site and many are close enough to touch. Imagine touching a piece of history that is 4000+ years old. It is worth visiting the site and museum, but give yourself 4+ hours to take it all in. Also, don’t forget to take your ticket with you as it is your access to both the museum and the site and they have separate entrances.

Gallipoli Peninsula

The Gallipoli Peninsula, where the Gallipoli Campaign took place during World War I, is a significant site for both Turkish and Allied history. The area is home to numerous memorials and cemeteries commemorating the soldiers who fought there. We visited some of the Anzac cemeteries and the memorial to the fallen Anzac soldiers. There are several museums and memorials in downtown Çanakkale that cover the history of Gallipoli and its strategic importance.

Çimenlik Castle

This historic castle, located in the city was built to protect the Dardanelles Strait and has played a strategic role throughout history. The site offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and the strait. It is now a naval museum and is part of a Turkish Naval Base. You are not allowed to take cameras into the complex. However, phones are ok which is strange considering most phones have cameras and can record great video and pictures. Therefore, I had to check my normal vlogging camera with security at the gate.

The Dardanelles Strait

This strategic waterway has been of immense historical importance and is a beautiful place to visit, with its scenic views and maritime traffic. Until recently, you could only cross the Dardanelles between Asia and Europe via ferry. The 1915 Çanakkale bridge added an efficient way of crossing the strait. It is the longest suspension bridge in the world and one of only six fixed crossings between the Aegean Sea and the Black Sea. The remaining 5 are in the Istanbul area on the Bosphorus.

Dardanelles Strait and 1915 Çanakkale bridge

Çanakkale Boardwalk looking across the Dardanelles Strait

Local Culture

Çanakkale is also known for its vibrant cultural life, with various festivals and events. The city has a mix of modern amenities and historical charm, it was one of our favorite stops on this trip to Turkiye. Across the street from our apartment, there was an eclectic little bistro (Biblio). The couple that owned it were from Belgium and Azerbaijan, they spoke 8 languages fluently between them.  It had a great vibe and a lot of international students from the university would come to learn and practice different languages with each other and the owners. The food was excellent as was the service and hospitality.

Çanakkale Dining Biblo Bistro

Çanakkale Dining Biblo Bistro

Whoops, I did it Again

As I mentioned in my post about Bodrum. When we were leaving the apartment in Çanakkale I was loaded up like a pack mule carrying my 65L backpack on my back, a laptop bag on my front, and a large plastic bag in my hand. My wife said “Don’t fall” three times as I walked down a flight of stairs.  I think saying it three times was maybe a curse or casting a spell.

Somehow I missed the last 2 stairs and stuck another perfect 10 landing on my belly. Luckily, I only over-extended my bad knee a little bit and could get up without looking like a turtle stuck on its back. There was some initial concern as both of my legs were shaking and I had a hard time standing. Most likely, it was adrenaline, but was concerning since I was about to drive 4+ hours to Istanbul. Fortunately, I was wearing my knee brace as my knee hit the marble floor hard.

To be honest, I was very lucky, another 6 inches and I would have hit my head on the door. That door was the only way out of the apartment. Therefore, I would have blocked any rescue efforts. Thankfully, my new laptop bag (was wearing on my front) protected all of my camera gear, laptop, travel monitor, and probably my new crowns. It also provided a softer landing on the hard marble.

We were able to finish loading up the car and started the drive towards Istanbul after a few minutes of making sure I was ok.

Conclusion

Çanakkale is well worth visiting if you need a more relaxed location, want to take in the history, or both. I would highly recommend spending 4+ days there and exploring everything Çanakkale has to offer. You will probably need a car if you only have a short time and want to see as much as possible.