How to Visit Gallipoli Battlefields?

The Gallipoli Peninsula is one of the most meaningful destinations in Turkey. It is located in Canakkale province. Gallipoli became the stage for one of World War I’s most defining battles in 1915. The Battle of Gallipoli changed the destiny of nations. It became a symbol of courage and unity for Turks. For Australians and New Zealanders it marked the birth of national identity. Walking through Gallipoli is is an emotional experience that connects visitors with stories of bravery, loss and hope.

Where Is Gallipoli Located?

Gallipoli is in the province of Canakkale in the district of Eceabat. Gallipoli is about 300 kms southwest of Istanbul. The car travel time is about five hours. Gallipoli is set among the Aegean Sea and the Strait of the Dardanelles. The area was wooded with olive and pine trees.

Most people stay in Canakkale or Eceabat. You can find local restaurants, ferry links and hotels. The countryside is rural, green with rolling vineyard-covered slopes. There are peaceful, stunning views over the sea.

Why Is Gallipoli Important?

The Allied troops in 1915 attempted to take over the Dardanelles Strait and Istanbul. The Ottoman Army under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk defended the nation and stopped the invasion. Gallipoli victory was an emblem of resistance, sacrifice and unison by the Turks.

Gallipoli was more than a battle for the Turks. It was the beginning of something new as far as identity was concerned. The bravery that was shown by the young soldiers was the birthplace of the Republic of Turkey. March 18 is Canakkale Victory and Martyrs' Day. Turkey commemorates the memory of soldiers who engaged in battle and died in these territories annually.

What Is the Most Popular Activity?

The Gallipoli Peninsula has no end of emotional and historical attractions that tell the tale of the 1915 campaign. Depending on where your interests are, you can plan your visit around beaches where landings were, battlefields, cemeteries or lookouts.

For the First-Timers

If time permits, start with the absolute must-see attractions that all tourists inevitably end up at:

• Anzac Cove. Australian and New Zealand forces' primary touchdown location on April 25, 1915. By standing at this location, you can visualize the initial moments of the campaign.
• Ari Burnu (First Anzac Landing Site). The place where the first troops landed in the morning on the peninsula.
• Chunuk Bair (New Zealand Memorial) and Chunuk Bair (New Zealand Memorial).
• Turkey Memorial. A majestic monument in remembrance of the Ottoman soldiers who protected their motherland.

They are suitable for first-time tourists who would like to discover the heart of Gallipoli.

For History and War Enthusiasts

If you enjoy your history, these sites recall the 1915 events in vibrant detail:

• Johnston’s Jolly (Anzac Trenches). A preserved piece of trenches where the front lines were very close.
• The Nek and Walker's Ridge. The site of one of the campaign’s most tragic charges, surrounded by panoramic views.
• Shrapnel Valley. It was a trade route, it's a serene walking path nowadays, perfect for reflection.

These sites give you the human face of the struggle and allow you to experience the magnitude of the struggle.

For Culture and Education Experiences

If text-based learning and storytelling is your thing, these sites are ideal:

• Canakkale Epic Promotion Centre. It is a contemporary museum which employs films, models, and exhibits to tell the Gallipoli tale.
• Beach Cemetery. The grave of the "man with the donkey," John Simpson, the man who was the very embodiment of mercy in the trenches.

These combined sites form the Gallipoli Battlefields, an evocative open air museum of remembrance and peace.

How Do I Get to Gallipoli?

Gallipoli can either be toured by a guided tour or by a self-driven tour.

Guided tours:

If convenience and expert commentary is your preference, then guided tours are the way to go. The Full-Day Private Gallipoli Tour from Istanbul offers round-trip travel, lunch and professional commentary. You can see all the major sites, Anzac Cove, Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair, in the span of a very organized day.

If there's time available, the Istanbul Tour Gallipoli & Troy Experience can take in the legendary old city of Troy. Guided tours are the best for tourists who would like to learn the history in-depth without having to bother with the practical logistical arrangements.

Self-Drive

From Istanbul:

• By Car: From Tekirdag and Keşan to Eceabat (about five hours).
• By Bus: There are daily trips by various companies to Canakkale or Eceabat (six to seven hours).

From Canakkale

Ferry across the Dardanelles to Eceabat. It takes approximately 20 minutes. The battle sites at Eceabat are easily accessible in an extremely short 10-15-minute car ride.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Gallipoli?

The prime months are April to November. Spring provides favorable weather and the ANZAC Day observances in April 25. Summer provides clear skies and long days. Autumn provides peaceful, cool weather that is best suited to walking and photographs. Light apparel, good walking shoes and sunblock and water are recommended, as most of the monuments are outside.

Why Visit Gallipoli in 2025?

Visiting Gallipoli in 2025 is a way of connecting with the past in a very real way. The stillness of the hills, the roar of the waves at Anzac Cove and the wind at Chunuk Bair make the past seem close at hand.

If ready to discover this historical destination, make a reservation for your Gallipoli Tour from Istanbul today. Contact us to plan a tour and discover one of Turkey's most influential and poignant regions historically.