Daily Troy Tour from Istanbul

If you’re looking for an exciting day trips from Istanbul to some near place, a visit to Troy is one of the most fascinating options that will captivate your imagination. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel between 6:30 and 7:00 AM, and you’ll begin your scenic drive to Canakkale, the city where the ancient city of Troy is located.

Why visit Troy? Let’s dive into the legend.

Troy is best known for its place in Homer’s epics, The Iliad and The Odyssey, which are considered the first great works of European literature. Homer’s stories about the Trojan War and the legendary Trojan Horse have been passed down through centuries, shaping Greek and the Western mythology.

What Homer’s epics say about Troy and the Trojan War?

In The Iliad, the focus is on the conflict between Agamemnon, the Mycenaean King, and Achilles, the greatest warrior, during the final years of the Trojan War. The Odyssey follows Odysseus, the King of Ithaca, on his epic ten-year journey home after the fall of Troy. Both epics delve into themes of heroism, revenge, and divine intervention.

What is the Trojan Horse legend?

The Trojan Horse legend is one of the most iconic tales from ancient history. According to the myth, the Greeks built a giant wooden horse, secretly filled with soldiers, and left it at the gates of Troy as a supposed gift. The Trojans brought the horse into the city, believing they had won the war. That night, the Greek soldiers emerged, opening the gates to the waiting Greek army, leading to the fall of Troy. While historians debate the actual existence of the horse, its story remains a powerful symbol of cunning and deceit.

The Discovery of Troy

The ancient city of Troy was rediscovered in 1871 by Heinrich Schliemann, a German amateur archaeologist, and excavation has been ongoing ever since. Located near the Dardanelles Strait in northwest Turkey, the site reveals multiple layers of cities built upon each other over thousands of years. The archaeological findings have provided valuable insights into the true history behind the city and Homer’s legends.

Is this really Troy?

Experts believe that Troy VI or Troy VII (as marked by evidence of a strong defense infrastructure) aligns with the city described in The Iliad. The strategic location near the bay made Troy a thriving trade hub, and its fortified walls were built to protect against invaders.

During the tour, you’ll visit the Troy archaeological site, where your experienced guide will explain the history of the city, the Trojan War, and the significance of the ruins. You’ll also visit the Troy Museum, home to a vast collection of artifacts such as pottery, jewelry, and tools unearthed during excavations.

What Else Will You See During the Tour?

1. Troy Museum: Located near the ancient ruins, this museum showcases an impressive array of artifacts from Troy, offering a deeper understanding of the city’s past.
2. Lunch in Tevfikiye Village: Enjoy a delicious local lunch in the nearby village, where you’ll have a taste of traditional Turkish cuisine.
3. Replica of the Trojan Horse: In the city of Canakkale, you’ll see a full-size replica of the Trojan Horse, a gift from the producers of the Hollywood film Troy, starring Brad Pitt as Achilles.
4. Beyond the ancient legends, Troy also holds historical importance due to its proximity to the Gallipoli Peninsula, the site of major World War I battles. The area played a crucial role during the Allied invasion of the Dardanelles, a key event in modern Turkish history.
5. After a full day of exploring the ancient city, the museum, and the legendary Trojan Horse, you’ll make your way back to Istanbul, with your guide providing further insights into the rich history of Troy.

Tour Highlights:

• Visit the Troy archaeological site and explore its ancient ruins.
• Discover artifacts at the Troy Museum
• See the famous Trojan Horse replica in Canakkale
• Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch in Tevfikiye village
• Learn about the historical and mythical significance of Troy from your knowledgeable guide
• This full-day Troy trip offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of one of the world’s most famous ancient cities and its legendary past