Troy (Truva)
Kalafat, Çanakkale, Aegean Coast, 17100
Troy is one of the world’s most famous ancient cities, renowned for being the site of the Trojan War, as described by Homer inThe Iliad. Today’s Troy—a UNESCO World Heritage-listed area of ruins and archaeological excavations—contains the remains of multiple settlements, some dating back 5,000 years.
The Basics
The archaeological sites at Troy include remains from at least nine different periods of settlement and were found in many layers of excavation. Get a sense of the area’s rich history by walking around the remains of city walls, temples, theaters, bathhouses, and homes. You can also climb inside a replica of the infamous Trojan horse (which stands near the entrance) to enjoy elevated views of the ruins.
To fully understand the importance of the site’s archeological finds, read up on Troy before your trip, or to visit with an expert guide. You can join a day tour from Istanbul or opt for a multi-day tour, which may also include nearby attractions like Canakkale, the WWI battlefields of Gallipoli, Pergamum, or Ephesus.
Things to Know Before You Go
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water; there’s very little shade at the site.
Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes; the path can be rocky and slippery at points.
Roman gladiator costumes and a chariot are available for visitors who feel like dressing up and having photos taken.
Day trips from Istanbul can last upwards of 14 hours.
How to Get There
Troy is located in northwestern Turkey (officially the Republic of Türkiye), about 19 miles (30 kilometers) south of Canakkale and 220 miles (354 kilometers) southwest of Istanbul. You can reach the site from Canakkale via taxi or minibus or come from Istanbul on a guided tour.
When to Get There
Troy is open to visitors all year round. The site is very popular and can get busy on weekends and holidays. For smaller crowds, visit on a weekday or in winter.
The Troy Museum
The Troy Museum opened in 2018 and is located at the entrance to the Troy archaeological site. The striking red building houses over 2,000 ancient artifacts that have been excavated from the site, including a sarcophagus, statues, jewelry, tools, and pottery. Descriptive panels, dioramas, and interactive displays help bring the story of Troy to life. Visitors can also enjoy views of the ruins from the building’s rooftop terrace.
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