2-Day Gallipoli and Troy Tour from Istanbul and return

Exploring Turkey’s past becomes vividly tangible with this 2-Day Gallipoli and Troy Tour from Istanbul. Priced at $950 per person, the tour offers an immersive journey through both World War I battlefields and the legendary ruins of ancient Troy. It features hotel pickup, guided tours in English, and includes lunch, accommodation, and museum entrance fees. With a strong rating of 5.0 based on 17 reviews, this experience is highly recommended—often booked 197 days in advance, indicating its popularity.

Travelers looking for a well-organized, comprehensive exploration of Turkey’s 20th-century and ancient history find this tour particularly valuable. The trip spans two days, with a carefully crafted itinerary that balances historical immersion, sightseeing, and relaxed leisure time. Given the inclusion of hotel stay in Canakkale and a detailed battlefield tour, this package suits those eager for a meaningful, guided experience outside Istanbul.

Key Points

• Two-day guided tour from Istanbul visiting Gallipoli and Troy
• Price of $950 per person, including lunch, hotel, and museum entrance
• Pickups from both New City and Old City Istanbul
• Visit key Gallipoli sites such as ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Memorial, and Johnston’s Jolly
• Tour Troy’s archaeological ruins, including the Trojan Horse and Helen of Troy
• Overnight in Canakkale at a 4-5 star hotel, with free time to explore

Starting Your Journey: Hotel Pickup and Departure Times

The tour begins early with pickups at 6:30 am from Istanbul hotels in both the New City and Old City districts. The journey to Gallipoli departs promptly at 6:30 am, with an en-route breakfast option at your own expense. The group travels in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the approximate 12-hour first day.

This early start maximizes your time at key sites, and the pickup service adds convenience for travelers staying in central Istanbul. The group size is limited to 14 people, maintaining a more personal and engaging guiding experience.

Gallipoli Battlefield: Key Sites and What They Reveal

Arriving in Eceabat around 12:00 pm, the day’s battlefield tour encompasses some of the most significant WWI sites on the Gallipoli Peninsula. The full-guided tour includes stops at Kabatepe War Museum, Brighton Beach, Beach Cemetery, and ANZAC Cove.

You will see the Ariburnu Cemetery, the ANZAC Commemoration Site, and the Lone Pine Australian Memorial. Johnston’s Jolly reveals trenches and tunnels used during the conflict, giving a sense of the intense combat here. The 57th Regiment Turkish Memorial and The Nek further deepen understanding of the military history. The day concludes with a visit to the Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial.

Tour guides lead you through these poignant locations, explaining their significance and stories behind the monuments. The admission ticket for the Gallipoli Museum is included, offering additional context and exhibits.

Lunch at Maydos Restaurant: Enjoying Seaside Flavors

Around noon, the group heads to Maydos Restaurant for a lunch break. The meal is included, providing a chance to relax and take in the seaside atmosphere of the Gallipoli Peninsula. While specific menu details are not provided, this meal is part of the tour package, offering local flavors and a convenient refreshment before a busy afternoon.

Canakkale: Comfortable Accommodation for the Night

After a full day of battlefield exploration, the tour concludes with check-in at a 4- or 5-star hotel in Canakkale. Staying overnight allows for some leisure time to explore the city’s attractions, such as its museums or waterfront promenade, at your own pace. The hotel stay is part of the package, ensuring a restful night before the next day’s adventure.

Exploring Troy: Mythology and Archaeology

The second day begins with breakfast at the hotel before heading to Troy at 8:30 am. The guided tour of this legendary ancient city covers its most famous features, including the Trojan Horse, Hellen of Troy, and the Trojan Wars. The guide narrates the stories behind Achilles and Paris, bringing mythology to life.

Visitors see the 3700-year-old city walls and the remains of houses from Troy I (3000–2500 B.C.). The Bouleterium (Senate Building) and Odeon (Concert Hall) are notable excavations, alongside ongoing archaeological digs. The tour touches on the different layers of Troy (Troy I through Troy IX), illustrating the city’s long history.

The visit lasts about an hour and a half, giving enough time to appreciate the archaeological significance and legendary stories. Afterwards, there’s free time in Canakkale to visit local museums, which are recommended for further exploration.

Return to Istanbul: Evening Departure

The journey back to Istanbul begins at 17:45, with an en-route dinner at your own expense. The group arrives in Istanbul between 11:00 pm and midnight, with hotel drop-offs available to complete the experience. The return timing allows for a full day of sightseeing and travel without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers all major elements, including lunch, hotel accommodation in Canakkale, guided tours, museum entrance fees, and transportation. Drinks are not included, so travelers should plan for additional beverages.

The guiding service is conducted in English, and the air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during transfers. The hotel pickup and drop-off service simplifies logistics, especially for those staying centrally in Istanbul.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This 2-day tour is ideal for travelers interested in history and archaeology, eager to see WWI battlefields and explore ancient Troy. The guided format and inclusion of meals and accommodation make it suitable for those seeking a hassle-free experience.

While the pace is busy, the limited group size and well-planned itinerary cater to those who appreciate a structured yet immersive trip. The tour’s high ratings and positive reviews highlight its engaging guides and thoughtfully curated stops.

Final Thoughts on the Gallipoli and Troy Experience

This tour offers a comprehensive look at Turkey’s significant historical sites, seamlessly combining military history with legendary archaeology. The hotel stay in Canakkale adds comfort, and the guided visits ensure meaningful insights.

While the schedule is tight, the balance between battlefield visits and leisure in Canakkale allows for a fulfilling experience. Travelers with an interest in history and storytelling will find this tour both informative and engaging.

The $950 price point reflects the inclusion of meals, hotel, entrance fees, and guided service, making it a valuable option for those wanting an organized, in-depth exploration of Gallipoli and Troy from Istanbul.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, as the tour involves walking around historical sites and some physical activity, but it is generally suitable for ages comfortable with sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
The price includes lunch, hotel accommodation in Canakkale, entrance fees to museums, guiding service, and transportation. Drinks are not included.

How early do I need to book?
The tour is popular and is most often booked about 197 days in advance, so early reservation is advisable to secure a spot.

What should I bring for the battlefield visits?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and water. The sites are outdoor, and some walking on uneven ground may be required.

Are there any optional activities?
Additional visits, such as to local museums in Canakkale, are recommended but not included in the package.

Can I cancel or change the tour?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed. Cancellations due to bad weather will be offered a different date or full refund, depending on circumstances.