From Istanbul: 2-Day Tour to Gallipoli & Troy

A 2-day journey from Istanbul to the Gallipoli Battlefields and the ancient city of Troy offers an engaging way to explore Turkey’s profound history. This tour, operated by Crowded House Tours, provides a detailed exploration with expert guides, comfortable transportation, and meaningful stops at significant sites. The tour departs early from hotels in the Taksim and Sultanahmet areas, with pickups scheduled between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM, ensuring an efficient start to the day.

Priced with flexibility—reserve now and pay later—and rated 4.9 out of 5 based on 96 reviews, this experience stands out for its well-organized itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and immersive stops. While the overnight accommodation at a 3-star hotel in Canakkale is highly praised, some reviews note that the return trip to Istanbul can be long and crowded, which is something to keep in mind. This tour suits history enthusiasts, those interested in military history, and travelers eager for a comprehensive two-day experience.

Key Points

• Two full days exploring Gallipoli and Troy with expert guides.
• Includes transportation, hotel stays, and entrance fees.
• Significant Gallipoli sites: Anzac Cove, Lone Pine Memorial, Chunuk Bair.
• Highlights of Troy: Trojan Horse, city walls, ancient ruins up to Troy IX.
• Comfortable travel with pickups from Istanbul hotels.
• Rated 4.9/5 by 96 satisfied travelers, many praising the guides and organization.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Guided Tour of Gallipoli Battlefields with Historian Guides

This tour begins early in the morning, with pickups from hotels in the Taksim and Sultanahmet areas of Istanbul. The journey to Eceabat takes roughly 3 hours, followed by a fully guided Gallipoli tour. The guide leads visitors through key sites like Brighton Beach, Beach Cemetery, and ANZAC Cove, providing insightful commentary on the Dardanelles campaign.

Other stops include Ariburnu Cemetery, the Respect to Mehmetcik Statue, and the Lone Pine Australian Memorial. The tour also covers Johnston’s Jolly, which features Turkish and Allied trenches and tunnels, and the Chunuk Bair Memorial dedicated to New Zealand soldiers. The day concludes around 6:00 PM with the return to the hotel. Visitors appreciate the deep and respectful explanation of the battles, making this part of the tour very moving and educational.

Exploring Troy’s Ancient Ruins and Legendary History

On the second day, the tour departs the hotel at 1:30 PM for the archaeological site of Troy. Visitors see the Trojan Horse, Sacrificial Altars, and the 3700-year-old city walls. The guide takes you through Houses of Troy I, dating back to 3000 BC – 2500 BC, as well as the Bouleuterion (Senate Building) and the Odeon (Concert Hall).

The tour continues through the ruins of various Troy layers, from Troy I to Troy IX, offering a vivid look at the site’s extensive history. This part of the tour is especially valued for how guides explain the layers of occupation and archaeological significance. The visit wraps up around 4:45 PM, with a return journey to Canakkale, where travelers board the bus back to Istanbul.

Comfortable Transport and Hotel Accommodation

Transportation throughout the tour takes place in modern, non-smoking air-conditioned minibuses, designed for comfort during the long drives. The hotel in Canakkale is rated as excellent, with many reviews highlighting clean, comfortable rooms and beautiful sunset views from the balcony.

The overnight stay in a 3-star hotel provides a restful pause between two full days of sightseeing. Some reviews mention that the hotel is better than expected, making the experience even more enjoyable. The hotel’s central location in Canakkale also allows some free time for exploring the local area.

Guides who Bring History to Life

The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling. Guide Hassan at Gallipoli is noted for his extensive knowledge and respectful approach, adding a personal touch to the battlefield visits. During the Troy tour, guides like Charlie and Cindy are recognized for their friendly and informative manner.

Many reviews highlight that the guides explain complex history clearly, making the stories accessible and memorable. Their ability to balance facts with personal insights helps visitors connect emotionally to the sites, especially at Gallipoli, where the memories are deeply moving.

More Great Tours Nearby

Pacing and Duration Considerations

The tour maintains a steady pace, with enough time allocated for walks at each site and photo opportunities. The long drive back to Istanbul on the second evening is a common point of feedback, with some travelers finding the bus crowded and lengthy. The trip’s timing is designed to maximize sightseeing, but participants should be prepared for about 11 hours of travel on the second day.

The tour also involves some walking, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended. Vegetarian options are available, and travelers are encouraged to bring essentials like passport, sunglasses, and sun hat.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

This tour distinguishes itself through comprehensive site visits and highly rated guides. The inclusion of both Gallipoli and Troy in a two-day package offers great value, with many reviews emphasizing the knowledgeable guides’ ability to tell stories from both sides of history. The hotel accommodation in Canakkale is another highlight, providing comfort and a good base for exploring local sights.

The flexible booking options, with full refunds up to 24 hours in advance, and pay later arrangements, make this tour accessible and low-pressure to book.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour is praised for its organization, some reviews point out the length of the return trip and crowded minibuses as potential downsides. Travelers should be prepared for long hours on the road, especially on the second evening. The hotel, although highly rated, might have noisy environments close to bars or busy streets, which could affect some guests’ sleep.

Plus, pickup service is only available from hotels in Taksim and Sultanahmet, and no service is offered from the Asian side of Istanbul. It’s important to confirm pickup times and locations before departure.

Final Thoughts on the 2-Day Gallipoli & Troy Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded and educational experience for those interested in Turkey’s military history and ancient civilizations. The combination of site visits, expert guides, and comfortable logistics makes it a solid choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive two-day adventure.

While the duration of travel and bus comfort may concern some, the overall quality of guides, sites, and organization receives consistent praise. The overnight stay in Canakkale adds convenience and depth, allowing for a less rushed exploration.

This experience is especially suitable for history buffs, students of archaeology, and anyone eager to learn more about Turkey’s historic battles and legendary cities. With its high ratings and positive reviews, it remains a reliable option for a meaningful two-day trip from Istanbul.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes transportation, hotel accommodation in Canakkale, guided visits at Gallipoli and Troy, and entrance fees to sites.

How long is the drive from Istanbul to Eceabat?
The journey to Eceabat takes around 3 hours by non-smoking air-conditioned minibus.

Are meals included?
Lunch on Day 1 is provided at a restaurant, while breakfast and dinner are not included but can be arranged or purchased separately. Vegetarian options are available if advised during booking.

What should I bring for the tour?
Travelers are advised to bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and sun hat.

Is the hotel in Canakkale comfortable?
Yes, the hotel receives high praise for cleanliness, comfort, and beautiful sunset views from the balcony.

Are guides knowledgeable and engaging?
Absolutely. Guides like Hassan, Baruk, Charlie, and Cindy are praised for their extensive knowledge and friendly presentation.

What is the pacing of the tour?
The tour maintains a steady pace, with allocated times at each site, but the return trip to Istanbul can be long and crowded.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
There is some walking involved; travelers should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a moderate amount of walking.

Can I customize the booking or request special arrangements?
Booking allows reserve now, pay later, and you should confirm pickup times and locations beforehand. Vegetarian meals can be arranged.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, for its high ratings, expert guides, and comprehensive itinerary, especially if you want an educational and emotionally impactful experience visiting Gallipoli and Troy.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby