Things To Do
in Adana
Adana, Turkey, is a vibrant city located in the country's southern region, nestled on the Seyhan River and known for its historic landmarks, including the ancient Roman bridge, Tasköprü, and the Ulu Cami mosque. It boasts a rich culinary heritage, famous for its spicy kebab and other special dishes that are a feast for food lovers.
With its warm Mediterranean climate, lush agricultural lands, and the scenic Seyhan Dam Lake providing a stunning backdrop, Adana offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and cultural richness.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at a local breakfast spot enjoying traditional Turkish breakfast with fresh bread, olives, and menemen. Explore the vibrant markets nearby for local ingredients and spices.
Visit a charming restaurant to try Adana's famous kebabs and spices. Don't miss the chance to learn about the local culinary heritage through a cooking class.
Relax at a riverside café with a stunning view of the Seyhan River. Enjoy a traditional dessert like künefe to end your culinary adventure.
Visit the ancient ruins of Tarsus and learn about its rich history, including the birthplace of St. Paul. Discover the Tarsus Waterfall and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Head to the stunning Adana Archaeological Museum to see artifacts from the region. The museum showcases the historical journey of this vibrant city.
Stroll through the historical streets of Adana and visit the Sabancı Central Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Turkey. Capture beautiful sunset photos as the city lights up.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich culinary culture, famous for delicious dishes like Adana kebab.
- Pleasant Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.
- Historical significance with numerous ancient sites and a rich cultural heritage.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other Turkish cities.
- Vibrant local markets and friendly communities.
- High summer temperatures can be uncomfortable for some.
- Limited public transportation options, making a car necessary.
- Air quality issues, especially during peak summer months.
- Economic challenges and a lack of job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Traffic congestion can be problematic in urban areas.
Best Activities in Adana
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the scenic Seyhan River, lined with cafes and restaurants.
Explore the lush greenery, ponds, and walking paths in the expansive Merkez Park, ideal for picnics and outdoor relaxation.
Admire the stunning architecture of the Adana Sabancı Merkez Mosque and its surrounding gardens.
Spend time in the Atatürk Park, known for its beautiful landscapes, open spaces, and recreational facilities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Adana with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Adana
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the city and the Seyhan River.
Known for its impressive architecture and panoramic views of the city.
A historical landmark with scenic views of the Seyhan River and the city.
An urban park with beautiful landscapes and great photo spots.
Food in Adana
Adana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish, Adana Kebab is made from minced meat mixed with spices, shaped onto skewers, and grilled to perfection. It is best enjoyed at traditional kebab houses such as Zakkum Kebap or Ciğerci Mahmut.
Must-Try!
This local specialty consists of a delicious mixture of bulgur, minced meat, and various spices wrapped in chard leaves. You can savor this dish at the historic Taşköprü Restaurant.
Şırdan, a popular offal dish, is made from stuffed and grilled sheep intestines. For an authentic experience, head to the bustling Taşpınar Döner.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Adana better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Adana Central Market is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide array of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Explore the vibrant stalls and savor authentic street food like Tantuni and Islama at this bustling market.
Wander through the narrow alleyways of Küçük Dükkanlar to discover an assortment of street food vendors selling everything from simit (Turkish bread) to lahmacun and dürüm (wraps).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Adana, it is important to show respect towards elders by greeting them with a handshake or a nod, and using formal titles such as 'abi' for older men and 'abla' for older women.
When visiting religious sites or interacting with locals, it is respectful to dress modestly, particularly for women who should cover their shoulders and knees.
Certain hand gestures that may be acceptable in other cultures could be considered offensive in Adana, thus it's important to be mindful of gestures and their interpretations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Adana with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Adana
Ensure a smooth experience
In Adana, Turkey, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. It is common to leave a tip of around 5-10% at restaurants and for taxi rides. However, tipping may not be expected in all situations, so it's best to use discretion based on the level of service received.
In Adana, Turkey, cash is widely used for transactions, especially in smaller establishments. However, major credit and debit cards are also accepted in many places, particularly in tourist areas and larger businesses. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or when visiting local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Adana.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Adana, Turkey is during the spring when the weather is mild and pleasant. The city is adorned with colorful flowers and the famous Adana Orange Blossom Carnival takes place in April.
The summer in Adana is hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). It's a great time to enjoy the beautiful beaches along the Mediterranean coast and indulge in water activities.
Autumn in Adana brings cooler temperatures and is a good time for outdoor activities such as hiking in the Taurus Mountains. The Adana International Film Festival also takes place in September, attracting film enthusiasts from around the world.
Winter is mild in Adana, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C (50°F). It's a quieter time to visit, and a perfect opportunity to explore the historical sites and indulge in traditional Turkish cuisine without the crowds.
Adana at Night
Hiking in Adana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning natural park known for its beautiful gorge and rich biodiversity, offering various hiking trails along the river.
A unique geological formation with hiking opportunities that provide stunning views and interesting rock formations.
Home to numerous hiking trails, the park features impressive mountain landscapes, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.
A mountain range that provides several hiking routes with breathtaking panoramic views and a chance to explore the local wildlife.
A picturesque location for hiking with trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls and scenic spots perfect for relaxation.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Adana through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Adana by plane.
The main international airport serving Adana, Turkey.
An international airport in Antalya, located approximately 190 km from Adana.
An international airport located about 200 km northeast of Adana.
A planned international airport in Mersin, about 120 km from Adana.
Another reference to Adana Sakirpasa Airport, emphasizing its international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in Adana, making up the majority of the population.
A significant minority group, primarily found in the eastern parts of Adana.
Another prominent minority in Adana, particularly in areas closer to the Syrian border.
A smaller ethnic group with a distinct culture, present in various neighborhoods.
Includes smaller groups such as Circassians, Armenians, and immigrants from various regions.
The Soul of Adana
Discover the essence of Adana through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is incredibly popular in Adana, with local clubs and a strong fan base. The city is home to several teams that compete in various leagues.
Basketball has a significant following in Adana, with local teams participating in national competitions and youth programs promoting the sport.
Volleyball is widely played and enjoyed in Adana, with many amateur leagues and local clubs fostering talent in both men’s and women’s categories.
Athletics, including track and field events, is popular with many schools and clubs promoting training and competitions among youth.
Traditional wrestling, especially oil wrestling, holds cultural significance in the region and is practiced both competitively and recreationally.
With several pools and access to the Mediterranean coast, swimming is a favored activity among residents of Adana.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Adana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Adana's food scene caters well to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering delectable plant-based dishes like stuffed vegetables, various mezes, and lentil soups. Saklıköy and Zeytinoğlu Restaurant are great choices for vegetarian and vegan-friendly fare.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can still indulge in Adana's culinary delights. Dishes like grilled meats, fresh salads, and rice-based meals are gluten-free options readily available at most restaurants. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs to the chefs for a seamless dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Adana with these cultural adventures.
