Gallipoli
First World War battlefields, memorials and stories of courage.
About Gallipoli
The Gallipoli peninsula (Gelibolu) is one of the most moving places in Türkiye. Here, between April 1915 and January 1916, one of the bloodiest battles of the First World War was fought: the Dardanelles Campaign, in which the forces of the Ottoman Empire, led by Mustafa Kemal (the future Atatürk), repelled the Allied invasion.
More than 500,000 soldiers on both sides were killed or wounded in the campaign. Today the peninsula is a Peace Park dotted with cemeteries, memorials and trenches that tell stories of courage and sacrifice. The ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand) cemeteries are especially moving.
For the Turks, Gallipoli is the birthplace of their nation: it was here that Mustafa Kemal gave his famous order, 'I do not order you to attack, I order you to die', and forged the leadership that would make him the founder of the Republic of Türkiye. Every 25 April, thousands of Australians and New Zealanders travel to Anzac Cove for the Dawn Service.
What to See in Gallipoli
Anzac Cove and Arıburnu
The beach where Australian and New Zealand troops landed on 25 April 1915. A deeply emotional place with the ANZAC memorial and Atatürk's words to the mothers of the fallen soldiers, one of the most moving speeches in history.
Lone Pine (Kanlısırt)
An Australian memorial and cemetery commemorating one of the fiercest battles of the campaign. More than 4,000 soldiers died here in three days. The lone pine that gives the site its name was replanted from seeds that an Australian soldier sent home.
Chunuk Bair
The highest point reached by the Allied forces. Here you'll find the New Zealand memorial and the statue of Atatürk, who was wounded in the fighting. From the summit you can understand the strategy of the battle and enjoy views over the whole peninsula and the Dardanelles.
Gallipoli Museum in Çanakkale
An interactive museum that recreates conditions in the trenches with life-size figures, sound effects and a collection of the soldiers' personal belongings. It is one of the most powerful museum experiences in Türkiye.
Must-See Places
Food in Gallipoli
Food in the Dardanelles region is all about fresh fish: grilled sardines, sea bass and sea bream are the star dishes. In Eceabat and Çanakkale, the waterfront restaurants serve octopus meze, seaweed salad and stuffed mussels.
Cheese from nearby Ezine is one of the best in Türkiye, perfect with local olives and freshly baked bread. Cherries from the Gelibolu area are famous throughout the country.
Practical Tips
- A guide is essential at Gallipoli: without the historical context, the fields and cemeteries can all look the same.
- Allow at least a full half-day to cover the main sites without rushing.
- 25 April (Anzac Day) is the busiest date of the year: there are dawn ceremonies, but also large crowds.
- Combine Gallipoli in the morning with Troy in the afternoon, crossing by ferry from Eceabat to Çanakkale (25 minutes).
- Bring water and something to eat: options inside the park are limited.
Getting There
Gallipoli is usually visited from Çanakkale, crossing the strait by ferry from Çanakkale to Eceabat (25 min, ferries every hour). From Istanbul there are direct buses to Eceabat (4–5 hours).
The Peace Park is large and the sites are spread out, so you need to visit by car or on an organised tour. It combines easily with Troy on the same day.
Frequently Asked Questions about Gallipoli
How many days do I need to visit Gallipoli?
I recommend spending at least 1 day in Gallipoli so you can see the main sights at a relaxed pace. If you have more time, you can combine it with nearby destinations to make the most of your trip.
When is the best time to visit Gallipoli?
The best time to visit Gallipoli is April to June, September to November. That said, every season has its charm, and Türkiye is a destination you can enjoy all year round.
Can I visit Gallipoli with an English-speaking guide?
Yes. As a licensed, English-speaking tour guide in Türkiye, I organise private tours and day tours in Gallipoli. Every itinerary can be tailored to your interests.
How do I get to Gallipoli from Istanbul?
Depending on the destination, you can get there by domestic flight (1–1.5 h), by coach or by private car. On the tours I organise, transport is included and planned to make the most of your sightseeing time.
Can I include Gallipoli in a longer tour of Türkiye?
Of course. Gallipoli combines easily with other destinations in Türkiye. I design tailor-made itineraries of 7, 10, 12 or 15 days that include this and other fascinating places.
Want to visit Gallipoli with a licensed, English-speaking guide? Book your private guide in Türkiye and we'll plan the itinerary together.
Read More about Gallipoli
Guides, tips and stories to help you plan your visit.
Gallipoli: Visiting the Trenches That Forged Two Nations
In 1915 the fate of the Ottoman Empire was decided at Gallipoli, and the legends of the Anzacs and of Atatürk were born.
Troy: What to See, History and How to Get There from Istanbul
A complete guide to Troy in Türkiye: what to see in the ruins, the story behind the Trojan War, the famous wooden horse
Travelling to Türkiye from New Zealand: Flights, Visa and Tips
Planning a trip to Türkiye from New Zealand? Visa-free entry, flights via Dubai, Doha or Singapore, the time difference,
Other Destinations in Türkiye
Discover more fascinating places to visit in Türkiye with an English-speaking guide.