Konya, a sprawling city in central Turkey steeped in Seljuk history and known for its deeply spiritual atmosphere, enchants visitors with its mesmerising whirling dervish ceremonies, beautifully preserved mosques and madrasahs, and the striking Mevlana Museum—home to the tomb of Rumi—while offering a fascinating juxtaposition of modern life and ancient tradition, all set against the backdrop of sweeping Anatolian plains.
Turkey: Galipoli – The War Graves
War in the Gallipoli Peninsula
The Gallipoli Campaign, fought between April 1915 and January 1916, was a major military engagement of the First World War, waged on the Gallipoli Peninsula in what was then the Ottoman Empire. Initiated by the Allied Powers, primarily Britain and France, the campaign aimed to secure a sea route to Russia by capturing the Dardanelles Strait. It was hoped that a swift victory would knock the Ottoman Empire out of the war and shift the strategic balance in favour of the Allies. However, the operation was hampered from the outset by inadequate planning, poor intelligence, and underestimation of the Ottoman defence. The initial naval attack failed, leading to a land invasion which quickly became bogged down in trench warfare and harsh environmental conditions.
The Allied forces, including troops from Australia, New Zealand, India, France, and Britain, faced fierce resistance from the Ottoman Army, which was led with considerable skill by commanders such as Mustafa Kemal. The terrain of the peninsula proved especially challenging, with steep ridges and narrow beaches providing little cover for advancing troops. The result was a prolonged and attritional struggle marked by high casualties on both sides. Despite several major offensives, the Allies failed to make significant territorial gains. Eventually, after months of stalemate, the decision was made to evacuate the peninsula in a carefully executed withdrawal that avoided further losses. By the end of the campaign, over 100,000 soldiers from both sides had died, with many more wounded or unaccounted for.
Gallipoli holds lasting historical significance beyond its immediate military consequences. For Australia and New Zealand, the campaign became a formative moment in their national narratives, commemorated annually on Anzac Day. In Turkey, the battle is remembered as a defining event in the emergence of modern national identity, particularly due to the role played by Mustafa Kemal, who would later become the country’s founding president. Although the campaign did not achieve its strategic aims, it is remembered for the bravery of the soldiers and the harsh lessons it imparted about the realities of modern warfare. Today, the Gallipoli Peninsula is a place of remembrance, visited by people from around the world to reflect on a conflict that left a profound mark on the 20th century.
Exploring the War Graves of the Galipoli Penninsula
Our time in Çanakkale gave us a unique opportunity to explore a part of history I’d long wanted to see firsthand — the battlefields and memorials of the Gallipoli campaign. Just across the Dardanelles Strait lies the Gallipoli Peninsula, a place steeped in wartime memory and national identity for Turkey, Australia and New Zealand alike. Given we had no strict plans for the day, it was the perfect moment to make the crossing.
After breakfast, we collected the car and drove the short distance to the ferry terminal in Çanakkale. The Dardanelles Strait, though narrow, is a vital international shipping route. As we waited for the ferry, we watched a steady stream of cargo ships cutting through the water, heading either towards the Sea of Marmara or out to the Aegean Sea. It’s also the site of an annual swim from Eceabat to Çanakkale, recreating a crossing once made by Lord Byron in 1810, which itself was inspired by the Greek myth of Hero and Leander.
ANZAC Cove
The ferry crossing to the small village of Kilitbahir took just 20 minutes. Once on the other side, we began the drive along the coastline towards ANZAC Cove. The route was quiet and scenic, with views of gentle turquoise waves lapping at small sandy coves. The area’s natural beauty has been preserved in part due to the large number of war cemeteries spread across the peninsula — over 80 cemeteries belonging to Commonwealth, French and Turkish forces.
ANZAC Cove is a small, pebbled beach, no more than 300 metres long. It was here, in the early hours of 25 April 1915, that around 20,000 troops from Australia and New Zealand landed as part of the Entente campaign to seize control of the Dardanelles. The surrounding terrain is steep and unforgiving, and many soldiers never made it off the beach. On that first day alone, 2,000 troops from each side were killed. Today, the beach is marked by memorial panels and a solemn atmosphere. As we stood there, a small group of Australian visitors walked quietly nearby, paying their respects.
Canterbury Cemetery
A short drive away, we found the Canterbury Cemetery, the resting place of 27 New Zealand soldiers. The cemetery is modest in size, with most of the grave markers serving as memorials rather than actual burial sites, as many bodies were never recovered. Karen finds visits to war graves particularly emotional due to her personal family connection, and we spent a few quiet minutes in reflection.
Lone Pine Cemetery
Next, we made our way to the Lone Pine Cemetery and Memorial, the main site commemorating Australian forces. The memorial lists the names of more than 3,200 Australians and over 450 New Zealanders with no known grave, as well as others buried at sea. The site is named after a single pine tree that once stood here, and which became a landmark during the campaign. That tree was destroyed in the fighting, but today a descendant of the original — grown from a seed brought back to Australia — stands in its place. The area was the site of fierce hand-to-hand combat in early August 1915, and many of the original Turkish trenches still lie beneath the cemetery, some now serving as mass graves. When we visited, we were the only ones there, which made the experience even more poignant.
Chunuk Bair
We then stopped briefly at a nearby Turkish cemetery to pay our respects before continuing on to Chunuk Bair, a key strategic high point in the campaign. The New Zealand forces managed to capture it after a bloody assault, but the success was short-lived. Led by Mustapha Kemal Pasha — later Atatürk — Turkish forces launched a swift and brutal bayonet charge, recapturing the summit. Today, Chunuk Bair is home to another large New Zealand memorial and preserved trenches. The site also features a towering statue of Atatürk, a powerful symbol of his role in the battle and Turkish history.
Cape Helles
Our next destination was Cape Helles, at the southern tip of the peninsula. This was the main landing point for British and French forces in April 1915. Backed by naval firepower, the British 29th Division was tasked with advancing north and seizing key high ground. But the plan was poorly executed, and the attack became a chaotic and costly failure. At the tip of the cape stands the Helles Memorial, a massive stone obelisk inscribed with the names of over 20,000 British Empire soldiers with no known grave, including many from India and Nepal. The scale of the losses was sobering.
‘W’ Beach
Nearby, we visited the lighthouse at what was once ‘W’ Beach. The original lighthouse was destroyed during the campaign, but the current structure is still operational. Inside a small outbuilding was an exhibit on the underwater wrecks of Gallipoli — 14 British and French ships that were sunk during the campaign. The display detailed the ongoing work by marine archaeologists to explore and document these wrecks, including HMS Majestic and HMS Triumph. It added another layer to our understanding of the campaign, one that extended beneath the sea.
Çanakkale Martyrs’ Memorial
Our final visit of the day was to the Çanakkale Martyrs’ Memorial. This huge monument honours the 253,000 Turkish soldiers who lost their lives in the Gallipoli campaign. After parking, we walked through a peaceful park filled with transparent grave markers laid flat in the grass, each etched with a soldier’s name. It was deeply moving. At the end of the path stood the main memorial structure: four giant pillars supporting a roof, towering 41.7 metres high. Across from it was a bas-relief wall and a statue of Atatürk. The entire complex was designed to be both monumental and human — a fitting tribute to the scale of loss and national importance.
Our visit to Çanakkale offered a poignant and unforgettable glimpse into the legacy of the Gallipoli campaign, a chapter of history I had long hoped to explore in person. With no fixed plans for the day, we crossed the Dardanelles Strait by ferry to the village of Kilitbahir, watching cargo ships navigate this narrow but vital waterway. From there, we followed the scenic coastline to ANZAC Cove, where turquoise waters now lap gently against a beach that once witnessed unimaginable loss. The quiet reverence of sites like Canterbury Cemetery, Lone Pine, and Chunuk Bair revealed the scale of sacrifice made by Australian, New Zealand, Turkish and other forces, their stories etched into memorials and marked by the haunting presence of preserved trenches. Each site, from the solemn Helles Memorial to the Çanakkale Martyrs’ Memorial, stood as a powerful testament to lives lost and histories entwined. Whether standing before the lone pine or walking among transparent Turkish grave markers, the experience was a moving reminder of the human cost of war and the shared memory it leaves behind.
Getting to and around Çannakale
🚗 How to Get to Çanakkale, Turkey
✈️ By Air – Nearest Airports
Çanakkale has a small local airport (Çanakkale Airport), but flights are limited. The most common way is to fly into a bigger airport nearby and continue overland.
Istanbul Airport (IST) – Major international hub
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) – Budget-friendly option in Istanbul
Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) – Good for western Turkey
🛬 Tip: From Istanbul, you can reach Çanakkale by bus, car, or ferry.
🚌 By Bus – Easy and Affordable
There are many coach companies offering trips to Çanakkale from major cities.
🕒 Istanbul to Çanakkale: ~6–7 hours
🕒 Izmir to Çanakkale: ~5–6 hours
🧳 Luggage included and often includes Wi-Fi and snacks
🚌 Tip: Buses arrive at the Çanakkale bus station, a short taxi ride from the city centre.
🚗 By Car – Flexible Option
Driving is a good way to see more of the region. Roads are in good condition, and the scenery is pleasant.
🛣️ Take the E87 or D550 routes from Izmir or Istanbul
🚢 You may take a car ferry across the Dardanelles if coming via Eceabat
🚗 Tip: Renting a car gives you more freedom to explore places like Troy and the Gallipoli Peninsula.
⛴️ By Ferry – Scenic Route
From the European side (Eceabat or Kilitbahir), you can take a short ferry ride across the Dardanelles Strait to reach Çanakkale.
⏱️ Ferry takes about 15–20 minutes
⛴️ Runs frequently, including cars and passengers
🚶 Getting Around Çanakkale, Turkey
🏙️ In the City Centre – Easy on Foot
The centre of Çanakkale is small and easy to explore on foot. Most places like shops, cafés, the waterfront, and ferry terminals are close to each other. Signs are in both Turkish and English in tourist areas, making it simple to navigate.
👍 Best for: Sightseeing, relaxing walks, local markets
🗺️ Tip: Wear comfortable shoes – the streets near the old town can be uneven.
🚌 Local Transport – Minibuses and Buses
Minibuses (called dolmuş) and city buses run to neighbourhoods and nearby towns. They’re cheap and frequent, but can be crowded during peak hours. Drivers often take cash only, so carry small change.
🕓 Runs: From early morning to late evening
💰 Cost: Budget-friendly – usually less than £1 per ride
🚗 Car Hire – Good for Day Trips
If you want to visit places like Troy or the Gallipoli Peninsula, hiring a car can be a good option. Roads are well-marked, and traffic is light outside the city. Just note that parking in the centre can be limited.
👍 Best for: Flexibility, rural sights, historical sites
⚠️ Tip: Drive on the right, and watch for speed limits in villages.
⛴️ Ferries – Across the Dardanelles
Ferries cross between Çanakkale (on the Asian side) and Eceabat or Kilitbahir (on the European side). They run often and are used by both pedestrians and cars. The ride is short and gives great views of the sea and coastline.
🕒 Duration: Around 20 minutes
💡 Note: Tickets are sold at the dock – no need to book in advance
🚖 Taxis – Available but Not Always Needed
Taxis are easy to find but usually not necessary unless you’re travelling late or with luggage. Fares are metered, and drivers are usually fair. If unsure, ask your hotel to call one for you.
💳 Payment: Mostly cash, some may accept card
📱 Tip: Google Maps works well for directions and locations
The best time to visit Çannakale
🌸 Spring (March to May) – Best Overall
Spring is a great time to visit Çanakkale. The weather is mild, the flowers are blooming, and it’s not too busy with tourists. It’s ideal for walking around the city, exploring the Gallipoli battlefields, or visiting Troy without the summer heat.
👍 Why go: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, good for sightseeing
🌡️ Average temperature: 12–20°C
☀️ Summer (June to August) – Good for Beaches
Summer is warm and sunny, making it a good time for enjoying the coast or taking a ferry trip. But it can get hot in the middle of the day, and some areas may feel crowded, especially in late July and August.
👍 Why go: Great for the sea, outdoor cafés, and festivals
👎 Watch out for: Heat and more tourists
🌡️ Average temperature: 25–33°C
🍂 Autumn (September to November) – Peaceful and Mild
Autumn is another great season, with cooler days and fewer visitors. It’s a good time for walking tours and boat rides, and prices for hotels are often lower than in summer.
👍 Why go: Comfortable weather, fewer people, better prices
🌡️ Average temperature: 15–25°C
❄️ Winter (December to February) – Quietest Time
Winter is quiet and can be rainy or cold. Many tourist sites stay open, but some smaller places may close or reduce hours. It’s good if you want a peaceful trip and don’t mind wrapping up warm.
👍 Why go: Very quiet, good for reflection and history visits
👎 Watch out for: Cold weather, limited services
🌡️ Average temperature: 5–12°C
Where to stay in Çannakale
1. Mid Range: Çanakkale Bosphorus Port Aspen Hotel
The Çanakkale Bosphorus Port Aspen Hotel, located in the heart of Çanakkale, is a charming and modern hotel offering both comfort and convenience to visitors. Situated by the vibrant port, it provides guests with beautiful views of the Dardanelles Strait, a major waterway that has played a crucial role in history. The hotel is known for its contemporary design, with stylish and well-appointed rooms that cater to both business and leisure travellers. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay. The hotel’s prime location allows easy access to the city’s many attractions, including the nearby historical sites such as the famous Gallipoli Peninsula, the ancient city of Troy, and the Çanakkale Martyrs’ Memorial. Guests can enjoy a variety of services, including a restaurant offering delicious local and international cuisine, as well as meeting rooms for those visiting on business
2. Luxury – Kolin Hotel Spa
Kolin Hotel Spa in Çanakkale is a well-known and highly regarded destination for those seeking both luxury and tranquillity. Located on the picturesque Aegean coast, the hotel offers guests stunning panoramic views of the sea, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. The spa facilities are extensive, featuring a wide range of treatments designed to help guests unwind and revitalise. From soothing massages to revitalising facials, the spa is a sanctuary where visitors can escape from the stresses of everyday life. The hotel itself combines modern luxury with comfort, offering spacious, elegantly furnished rooms that are equipped with all the amenities you might need for a comfortable stay. There is also an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a variety of dining options, ensuring that guests can enjoy both active pursuits and leisurely meals.
3. Budget – Hotel Limani
Hotel Limani, nestled in the heart of Çanakkale along the scenic Dardanelles Strait, offers a charming and comfortable stay that captures both the historical richness and maritime charm of the city. Housed in a tastefully restored building that exudes character, the hotel combines modern amenities with traditional aesthetics, providing guests with an inviting atmosphere. Its location is particularly advantageous for those wishing to explore the region’s landmarks, including the nearby ancient city of Troy and the poignant Gallipoli battlefields. Many of the rooms boast splendid sea views, allowing visitors to gaze out across the bustling port and tranquil waters. The on-site restaurant serves a delightful mix of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine, often featuring fresh seafood caught just metres away. Hotel Limani is well-regarded not only for its enviable position but also for its warm, attentive staff, who consistently go out of their way to ensure guests have a pleasant and memorable experience.
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