From Istanbul to Troy via Çanakkale: A Journey Through History and Coastal Flavors
Alongside Cappadocia, Ephesus, and Pamukkale, the ancient city of Troy (Truva Antik Kenti) is one of Turkey’s most popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Made famous by Homer’s epic The Iliad, Troy is known as the legendary setting of the Trojan War, with the iconic Wooden Horse at its center.
While some call it an “underwhelming ruin,” Troy is best visited with a relaxed mindset. It makes for an ideal weekend trip that combines historical exploration with a taste of Çanakkale, a charming coastal town nearby.
This guide explains how to reach Troy from Istanbul via Çanakkale, and offers helpful sightseeing and food tips for your visit.
How to Get to Troy from Istanbul
Step 1: Travel to Çanakkale by Intercity Bus
- Take a long-distance bus from Istanbul’s Esenler Otogar to Çanakkale (approx. 4–5 hours).
- Upon arrival at the Çanakkale bus terminal, take a local city bus to the city center. The city bus stop is on the opposite side of the terminal exit.
- You can pay with a contactless credit card or buy a ticket from the cafeteria inside the terminal (approx. 30 TL as of May 2025).
Step 2: From Çanakkale to Troy (Approx. 30 km)
Option 1: Minibus (Dolmuş) – Most Popular and Budget-Friendly
- Be sure to check departure times in advance, as buses may run only a few times per day.
- Go to the “Minibus Garaj” under Atatürk Bridge.
- Take a minibus heading to Tevfikiye (ask for “Truva”).
- The ride takes about 40–45 minutes and costs around 100 TL (May 2025).
- Tell the driver “Truva” to get dropped off right in front of the ruins.
Option 2: Taxi – More Comfortable and Time-Saving
- Takes about 30 minutes.
- Costs approx. 1,500 TL one way / 2,500 TL round-trip including wait time (May 2025).
- Since there are no taxis at the ruins, it’s best to negotiate a round-trip fare.
Highlights of the Troy Archaeological Site (Truva Antik Kenti)
Troy is an ancient city with nine layers of ruins dating back to 3000 BC. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998.
At the entrance, a giant replica of the Wooden Horse welcomes visitors. You can even step inside it.
What is Troy?
- The city featured in The Iliad by Homer, famous for the Trojan War.
- Called “Truva” in Turkish, it has over 3,000 years of history.
- Recognized by UNESCO in 1998.
- The iconic Wooden Horse replica serves as a symbol for the site.
Main Attractions
- The Wooden Horse (replica)
- Ancient ruins, including a theater and city walls
- Troy Museum (opened in 2018), featuring excavated artifacts and models
- Museum and ruins are 800m apart, about an 11-minute walk
Visitor Info (As of 2025)
- Opening Hours
- Summer (Apr–Oct): 08:30–20:00
- Winter (Nov–Mar): 08:30–17:00 (Last entry: 1 hour before closing)
- Admission
- Combined ticket for ruins + museum: €27 (Museum Pass accepted)
- Turkish residence permit holders can get a MuseKart for 500 TL on-site
- Recommended Visit Time: 1.5 to 3 hours for both museum and ruins
Summer can be very hot. Bring water, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses. Morning or evening visits are best.
Enjoy Coastal Çanakkale Alongside Troy
Çanakkale is a lovely port town on the Dardanelles Strait. Be sure to stroll through the city while you’re there.
Recommended Restaurants
- Yalova Restaurant: Fresh seafood and great service. The terrace with a sea view is perfect at sunset.
- Şayka: Famous for grilled fish like sea bass and bluefish.
- Sardalye: Casual spot popular with locals for fish sandwiches made with sardines and mackerel.
- Hangover Cafe Bar: A relaxed place for drinks and snacks in the evening.
Sights Around Town
- Trojan Horse Statue (Canakkale Truva Heykeli): A prop used in the Troy movie, now on display by the sea.
- Aynalı Çarşı (Aynalı Bazaar): A small but charming covered market for souvenirs and local crafts.
- Kordon Promenade: A scenic walkway along the Dardanelles with cafes and restaurants.
- Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park: A moving site with WWI memorials surrounded by nature.
Local Specialties & Souvenirs
- Peynir Helvası: A mildly sweet cheese dessert, available in soft and baked versions.
- Ezine Cheese: A white cheese made from sheep and goat milk, perfect for breakfast or meze.
- Tomato Jam (Domates Reçeli): A rare sweet-and-sour preserve, great with bread or yogurt.
Final Thoughts
Troy may not be the grandest ruin, but if you let Homer’s tale guide your imagination, the ancient spirit of the city starts to shine through. Combined with the charm of Çanakkale’s food, history, and coastal scenery, it makes a great weekend getaway.
Some call it “disappointing,” but that makes it all the more enjoyable for those who appreciate subtle, grown-up travel experiences. Why not take a relaxed journey and explore it for yourself?
How to Visit Troy
via Çanakkale from Istanbul
TROY & ÇANAKKALE
Weekend Trip Guide