From Istanbul: 2-Day Gallipoli & Troy w/ Boat Tour

Experience the history and legend of Turkey with a 2-day tour from Istanbul that takes you to the Gallipoli battlefields and the ancient city of Troy. For $477 per person, you’ll journey through WWI sites, see the famous Trojan Horse, and enjoy boat trips that reveal landmarks from a unique perspective. This tour is perfect for history buffs, curious travelers, and anyone wanting a deep dive into the stories that shaped this region.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this experience are the guided visits to key WWI sites like Anzac Cove and Lone Pine, which bring the history vividly to life, and the boat excursions that give you a fresh view of the landing beaches and shipwrecks. It’s a rare chance to combine land-based exploration with sea views, making the experience both engaging and scenic.

A possible consideration is the early start and long hours—the first day begins around 6 am, and the entire itinerary is packed with travel and sites, which may be tiring for some. Also, the boat quality might be a bit basic, and towels aren’t provided, so packing your own might be wise.

This tour suits those who enjoy history, archaeology, and scenic boat rides, and who want a well-organized way to explore key sites without the hassle of planning multiple trips. If you’re looking for a balanced mix of education, scenery, and culture, this could be just the tour for you.

Key Points

• In-Depth Historical Visits: Explore WWI battlefields and learn from expert guides.
• Unique Sea Perspectives: See the landing beaches and shipwrecks from the water.
• Ancient Troy: Walk through one of the world’s oldest cities and see the legendary Trojan Horse.
• Full-Day Itinerary: Includes transportation, guided tours, lunch, and boat trips.
• Comfortable Accommodation: One night in a 3-star hotel in Canakkale.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation and pay later options provide peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Breakdown of the 2-Day Tour

Day 1: From Istanbul to Gallipoli’s Battlefields

The adventure begins early, with pick-ups from hotels in Taksim or Sultanahmet. Expect to leave Istanbul around 6-7 am, so setting an alarm and preparing for a long day is wise. The ride to Gallipoli takes about 3 hours, with a refreshment break mid-way—though breakfast and other meals are at your own expense, so packing snacks might keep you going.

Once in Çanakkale, the real history begins. Your guide will take you through famous WWI sites: Anzac Cove, where the Australian troops landed, Lone Pine, the Turkish trenches, and Chunuk Bair. The guides, like Hasan and Borak, are praised for their knowledge and engaging stories, blending military strategies with personal anecdotes that make the sites memorable. As one reviewer shared, Hasan “mixed battle strategies with personal stories,” which added depth to the experience.

You’ll visit key memorials, cemeteries, and trenches, gaining a tangible sense of the sacrifices made. The day ends with check-in at a 3-star hotel in Canakkale. The long day is packed, but meaningful—especially if you’re interested in military history.

Day 2: Troy, Boat Rides, and WWI Shipwrecks

Starting with breakfast at your hotel, you’ll set off to Troy, the legendary city of Homer’s tales. Walking through the ancient ruins, you’ll see the Trojan Horse, 3700-year-old city walls, and remnants from Troy I through Troy IX. This site provides a fascinating glimpse into early urban life and myth.

Post-Troy, you’ll catch a ferry to Eceabat for lunch, which is included in the tour. Afterward, the Kabatepe Simulation Center awaits, where you can watch immersive 3D reconstructions of the Gallipoli campaign—an engaging way to deepen your understanding of the historical events.

The highlight of the sea part of the trip is the boat tour from North Beach. Here, you’ll get a rare view of the landing beaches from the water, including Brighton Beach and Anzac Cove, mirroring the perspective of soldiers in 1915. For an extra thrill, you’ll have the chance to snorkel over WWI shipwrecks, including the steamer Milo, deliberately sunk to create a breakwater. This hands-on experience is quite popular, but keep in mind the boat might be basic, and towels aren’t provided.

The tour wraps up with a return drive to Istanbul late in the evening, bringing a full circle to your immersive experience.

The Value of This Tour

At around $477, this tour offers a comprehensive way to see both historical and archaeological sites with knowledgeable guides and organized logistics. It’s a good value considering the transport, entry fees, guided commentary, and activities included—especially if you value guided experiences that provide context and depth.

The boat trips and snorkel activity are standout features that add a distinctive touch, letting you see the sites from a different perspective. The overnight in a comfortable hotel helps break up the trip and ensures you’re rested enough to appreciate each day’s highlights.

Given the detailed itinerary, expect a busy but rewarding couple of days. It’s ideal for those who want more than just a quick glance at Turkey’s WWI history or ancient ruins. The guides’ knowledge and engaging storytelling make the experience more profound, and the scenic boat rides are a memorable bonus.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Insights

Many travelers note the guides’ expertise as a highlight. One review captures this well: “Everything was on time and the organization was excellent,” and the guides’ ability to weave personal stories with military details makes the history come alive. The stunning views from the boat, combined with the historical sites, create a balanced blend of education and scenery that appeals to a broad range of interests.

The early start may be a drawback for some, but it ensures you maximize your time at each site. The long hours are packed with sightseeing, and while the boat rides are generally safe, the boats themselves are sometimes described as “shabby,” and travelers should bring their own towels and sunscreen. These small considerations can make a big difference in comfort.

Some reviews suggest that more communication about the activity order could help manage expectations, especially for those wanting to plan after-swim cleanup or photo opportunities. However, the overall organization receives praise for punctuality and smooth transitions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history enthusiasts, military history buffs, and adventurous travelers eager to see both land and sea perspectives of Gallipoli. If you’re interested in legendary sites like Troy or want to understand Turkey’s role in WWI, this tour offers a well-rounded package. It’s also ideal if you prefer guided explanations, as the guides are noted for their depth of knowledge.

However, if you’re prone to fatigue or prefer a more relaxed pace, this tour’s early mornings and long hours might be challenging. Also, those wishing for luxury boat rides or more comprehensive amenities might find the boat quality less appealing. Still, for authentic, well-organized, and scenic exploration, this tour delivers.

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FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes all transportation by air-conditioned vehicles, guided visits to Gallipoli and Troy, two restaurant lunches, entrance fees to Troy and Kabatepe Simulation Center, boat trips, and snorkel gear.

Are hotel accommodations included?
Yes, you’ll stay overnight at a 3-star hotel or similar in Canakkale, with double or twin sharing rooms. If you prefer a single room, you’ll need to book separately.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and swimwear. Sunscreen and towels are recommended due to the outdoor activities and snorkeling.

Is transportation comfortable?
Transportation is via A/C ‘no smoking’ vehicles. While the reviews praise their punctuality and organization, some travelers have noted the boats might be a bit basic and uncomfortable.

What are the start times and pick-up locations?
Pick-up in Taksim is between 06:00 – 06:20 am, and in Sultanahmet between 06:30 – 07:00 am. Confirm your exact pick-up time and location beforehand.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

How long is the drive back to Istanbul?
The return trip departs in the late afternoon and arrives in Istanbul around 11 pm.

Is there a focus on physical activity?
Expect some walking at archaeological sites and possibly snorkeling, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for outdoor activities.

In essence, this 2-day tour from Istanbul offers a richly layered experience of Turkey’s historic battlefields and legendary ancient city. It balances guided storytelling with scenic boat excursions, making it a memorable journey for those eager to explore history from multiple angles. Whether you’re a history buff or a curious traveler craving an authentic and organized adventure, it’s a well-priced way to see the sights that define Turkey’s past.