I LOVE CANAKKALE! I really did not expect it to be so vibrant, full of life, and so relaxing. I had done quite a bit of research about all the places we were visiting on our 12-day long trip - even TROY but i didn't even glance at anything about Canakkale.
I think it was a blessing in disguise anyway coz if i did, the surprise would have been totally ruined.
Canakkale is the regional capital on the southern shore of the Dardanelles Stait close to the Troy ruins and the Gallipoli WW1 sites.
Both are a major draw for both international and Turkish tourists resulting in a city with a big supply of accommodation and restaurants. It has a population of 100 thousand permanent residents and 30 thousand university students during term. The mild coastal climate and laid back town facilities have attracted more than the usual share of wealthier Turkish retirees. One of the nicest things about the town is the waterfront promenade both sides of the ferry arrival point - with a big array of restaurants and bars to spend some relaxed time watching the passing paraded of ships, yachts and ferries.