Istanbul to Gallipoli, Canakkale and Troy. 2 Day Tour with Hotel

Discover the Highlights of a 2-Day Istanbul to Gallipoli and Troy Tour

This 2-day tour from Istanbul offers a comprehensive exploration of two iconic Turkish sites: the Gallipoli battlefields and the ancient city of Troy. Priced at $372.12 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, guided visits, overnight accommodation with breakfast, and lunch on the first day. The tour is designed for those eager to explore Turkey’s historical layers without the hassle of organizing transport or accommodations themselves.

Starting early, the trip covers key WWI battlegrounds at Gallipoli, including Anzac Cove and Lone Pine Memorial, with admission tickets included. The following day, the focus shifts to Troy, where travelers walk through the ruins of a city that dates back over 3,700 years, and marvel at the Trojan Horse replica. The full guided tours at both sites, combined with comfortable transfers, make this an accessible and enriching experience.

Key Points

• Two UNESCO World Heritage sites explored over two days with a single tour
• Includes hotel in Çanakkale with breakfast and lunch
• Guided visits led by knowledgeable guides offering detailed insights
• Pickup from central Istanbul, with group discounts available
• Admission tickets included for all major stops
• Long travel days but praised for well-paced, informative guides

The Itinerary: From Istanbul to Gallipoli and Troy

This tour departs early from Istanbul at 6:00 am, with pickups from Taksim and Sultanahmet. The journey to Gallipoli National Park takes approximately 3 hours, with a brief refreshment stop en route. The first day is dedicated to a fully guided tour of Gallipoli, where visitors explore Brighton Beach, Anzac Cove, Ariburnu Cemetery, Lone Pine Memorial, and Chunuk Bair, among other significant sites. The guided walk through Turkish and Allied trenches at Johnston’s Jolly stands out, as does the opportunity to pay respects at various memorials.

In the evening, the group checks into a hotel in Eceabat with bed and breakfast. The overnight stay offers some downtime after a full day of history.

The second day begins with a free morning in Canakkale, where optional visits to the Museum of Troy or the Naval Museum are suggested. Around 1:00 pm, the tour continues with a guided visit to Troy, where visitors see the Trojan Horse, city walls, Houses of Troy I, and the Bouleuterium. The excavations and ruins span Troy I through Troy IX, providing a layered look at the city’s long past.

The tour concludes around 11:00 pm back in Istanbul, with a drop-off at your hotel after a full, informative two days.

Exploring Gallipoli: Landmarks of WWI History

The Gallipoli battlegrounds feature some of Turkey’s most poignant memorials. The ANZAC Cove marks the landings of Australian and New Zealand troops, while the Lone Pine Australian Memorial commemorates soldiers from Australia. The Johnston’s Jolly trenches reveal the Turkish and Allied positions, giving visitors a tangible sense of the conflict.

The Beach Cemetery honors fallen soldiers, and the respect statue to Mehmetcik pays homage to Turkish troops. The Nek and Chunuk Bair sites further deepen the historical significance. Guides share stories and context at each stop, making the experience both educational and evocative.

The tour’s 10-hour duration at Gallipoli allows enough time to absorb the site’s gravity, with admission tickets included. The guides are praised for their knowledge and sensitivity, providing a balanced perspective on the battles.

Walking Through Troy’s Ancient Ruins

The Troy visit is a highlight for history enthusiasts. The site’s 3700-year-old city walls and houses from Troy I showcase the city’s long-standing importance. Visitors learn about the legend of the Trojan War and see archaeological excavations still in progress.

The Trojan Horse replica stands as a symbol of myth and history, with guides explaining the story behind it. The Bouleuterium, Odeon, and current excavations reveal layers of civilizations spanning from Troy I to Troy IX. Optional visits to the Museum of Troy provide additional context, though this is not included in all options.

The guided tour lasts about 4.5 hours, finishing in the late afternoon. The site’s outdoor setting allows for a flexible exploration of ruins and artifacts.

Logistics and Transportation: Easy and Organized Transfers

This tour’s group size is limited to 30 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. Pickup is offered from hotels in Istanbul’s old city, including Taksim and Sultanahmet. The transportation is provided by professional drivers, with timely pickups and drop-offs.

The long drives are noted in reviews as well worth the effort due to the rich sights. Some reviews mention traffic delays and unclear communication regarding timing, especially for the second-day departure from Canakkale. However, group coordination and guides’ explanations help maintain the overall flow.

Accommodation and Meals: Comfort with Some Variability

Overnight accommodation in Eceabat features breakfast included, and the stay is generally considered conveniently located. The hotel in Canakkale is described as central in town, with positive comments on its location and service.

Meals are included on the first day: lunch at a local restaurant and breakfast. Some reviews highlight the quality of the food, while others suggest that hotel breakfast may vary in standard. Vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

Tour Guides: Knowledgeable and Engaging

Multiple reviews commend guides such as Charre and Barak for their expertise, storytelling skills, and passion. Guides are praised for balancing facts with engaging narratives, making visits both informative and personal.

The guides’ ability to explain the historical context and provide Turkish perspectives enhances the experience. They also handle sensitive topics with respect, especially at Gallipoli, which adds depth and emotional resonance to the visits.

Pricing and Booking: Clear and Transparent

At $372.12 per person, the price includes all guided tours, admission tickets, meals, and hotel stay. The tour is recommended to be booked around 91 days in advance, reflecting high demand.

The booking process offers mobile tickets, group discounts, and pickup service. Cancelation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility for changing plans.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour suits those interested in military history, archaeology, or Turkey’s ancient past. It appeals to adults comfortable with long travel days and outdoor site visits. The guided approach ensures that visitors gain meaningful insights without needing prior knowledge.

It’s a great option for history buffs who want a comprehensive, organized experience without the hassle of planning logistics. The hotel stay and meals add value for a full-immersion experience.

Final Thoughts on the Gallipoli and Troy 2-Day Tour

This well-organized tour provides an immersive glimpse into Turkey’s historic battlefields and ancient cities. The guides’ expertise and careful planning earn consistent praise, making for a meaningful journey.

While travel days are long, the pace remains manageable, and travelers get to see important monuments with admission and meals included. The hotel in Çanakkale offers convenience, though some reviews mention noisy rooms—a consideration for light sleepers.

This tour offers excellent value for those eager to connect with Turkey’s history in a comfortable and guided setting. It’s particularly suited for history enthusiasts and those seeking a hassle-free way to visit these iconic sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include transportation from Istanbul?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided from hotels in Istanbul’s old city, including Taksim and Sultanahmet.

Are all entrance fees included?
All admission tickets for Gallipoli and Troy are included in the tour price.

Can I visit the Troy Museum?
The standard tour does not include the museum; however, there is an option to visit the Museum of Troy during free time in Canakkale, if you choose the additional visit.

Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, but it’s recommended to advise at the time of booking.

How long are the travel days?
Each day involves approximately 10 hours of activities, including transfers, guided tours, and meals. The trip is long but well-paced, with breaks for refreshments and rest.