Even those aiming to visit top sights in western Turkey, like Çanakkale, Izmir, Selçuk/Ephesus, and Pamukkale, often start their journey here. This route is a classic western Turkey itinerary, usually covered by road travel, offering mesmerizing scenery along the way. While some drives can be long, overnight stops in between allow for a more flexible and enjoyable trip.
Around 4-5 hours’ drive from Istanbul, Çanakkale is a port city in northwestern Turkey and the gateway to both the ancient city of Troy and the Gallipoli Peninsula. The usual crossing points are Eceabat–Çanakkale or Gelibolu-Lapseki, with a short ferry ride over the Dardanelles Strait. Whichever route you take, expect sea breezes and coastal scenery before starting your sightseeing in Çanakkale (NORWAY TRAVEL GUIDE).
Ancient Troy & The Trojan Horse Statue
Troy is where it all begins in Çanakkale. One of the world’s most famous
archaeological sites, it has a history going back 4,000 years and was uncovered
in the 19th century. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Troy is best known
for its link to the legendary Trojan War. According to Greek mythology, the
story centers on Trojan prince Paris and his abduction of Helen, which led to a
ten-year war.
Troy’s past also includes Balkan invasions, Greek and Roman rule, and time as a
Byzantine town before falling into ruins. A visit here means walking among
ancient walls, seeing excavation areas, and passing the small open-air theater
with tiered seating and a sunken stage.
Within the site stands a reconstructed wooden Trojan Horse, an unmissable symbol of the epic legend, placed along the main visitor route. Many parts of Troy still look much like the depictions in the movie Troy, with several structures preserved from ancient times.
Apart from Troy, Çanakkale has other attractions worth visiting. The Gallipoli Peninsula is famous for its World War I memorials and cemeteries. In the city, Çimenlik Castle stands by the waterfront and houses a small military museum. A bit further away, the ancient city of Assos offers a hilltop Temple of Athena with wide views of the Aegean Sea (FREMANTLE AUSTRALIA THINGS TO DO).
Top Sights in Izmir, Turkey
An essential city for exploring western Turkey, Izmir is located on the Aegean
coast and is Turkey’s third-largest city. It blends modern urban life with
ancient history dating back thousands of years. About 100 km from Izmir lies
Pergamum (Pergamon), a separate archaeological site known for the famous
Acropolis, one of the top tourist destinations in the world.
A well-preserved ancient site completed in the 5th century BC, the Acropolis is perched atop a steep hill in Bergama. It is one of the richest archaeological treasures of Turkey, taking you back to ancient Turkey’s era of glory, power, and war.
There is a long list of things to see in the Acropolis, including the Hellenistic Theater, Trajaneum, Atheneum, Sanctuary of Athena, Royal Palaces, Temple of Demeter, House of Attalus, Lower Agora, and Gate of Eumenes. It can easily take at least two hours to explore the Acropolis. Don’t miss the cable car ride to the hilltop for a sweeping view of Bergama.
Besides the Acropolis, Pergamum has other important sites like the ancient Asclepion, an old medical center with temples and baths. Also, the Red Basilica, which is the large ruins of a Roman temple. Close by, the Bergama Museum shows many artifacts from the area, helping visitors understand its history.
In Izmir, Konak Square is a busy spot known for its famous Clock Tower. Nearby
is Kemeraltı Bazaar, a historic market full of shops and local life. For views
over the city and bay, visit Kadifekale/Velvet Castle, a fortress on a hill.
The Agora of Smyrna is another attraction, with the ruins of an old Roman
marketplace.
Selçuk is a small town in İzmir Province known mainly as a gateway to Ephesus. It has a historic castle called Ayasuluk Castle and several museums. Many travelers pass through Selçuk on their way to visit the House of the Virgin Mary.
House of the Virgin Mary
Perched atop Bulbul Mountain near Kuşadası, the House of the Virgin Mary is
recognized by the Vatican as the place where Mary spent her final days. This
site was established based on detailed visions of the nun Anna Katharina
Emmerich, who described Mary’s arrival in Ephesus with Saint John to spread
Christianity.
At the house, you will see the main rooms, including the kitchen and living area, believed to be where Mary stayed. There are also altars where you can pay homage and say prayers. The walk within the same area will lead to a holy well, known for its healing properties. Please feel free to write a message on paper and pin it to the board among the rest.
Top Sights in Ephesus, Turkey
When you think of Ephesus, you think of one of Turkey’s most famous ancient
cities, known for its vast and well-preserved ruins. Once a major Roman city
and important trade center, Ephesus is famous for its temples, theaters, and
streets that connect to its ancient and legendary history.
Temple of Artemis
Once one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, the Temple of Artemis is
located in the wetland area near Ephesus. Its marble foundations and columns,
some dating back to the 6th century BC, still stand as ruins today. There is
much to see and appreciate in these remains, which have lasted for thousands of
years.
Temple of Hadrian
As you walk through the large Ephesus site, you will come to the Temple of
Hadrian. Built in 128 A.D. by P. Quintilius to honor Emperor Hadrian’s visit,
this temple is a beautiful example of ancient architecture on Curetes Street.
Its impressive arch is supported by tall Corinthian columns and features a
Medusa’s head, believed to protect the city from harm.
Heading to Pamukkale means experiencing its famous thermal pools. These natural mineral baths are known for their healing properties, with hot calcium-rich spring waters flowing over white terraces. The water is naturally hot but cools to a warm, comfortable temperature as it flows into the pools. The waters are believed to benefit the eyes and skin and help with conditions like asthma and rheumatism.
Pamukkale, together with the ancient city of Hierapolis, is listed as a UNESCO
World Heritage Site under the name "Hierapolis-Pamukkale." You can
relax by sitting in the thermal pools if you can handle the heat, or simply dip
your feet or walk through the water. There is also Cleopatra’s Pool, also
called the ancient thermal pool. A special spot where you can swim among sunken
Roman columns. The warm water here is both relaxing and rich in minerals.
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