Adana, Turkiye Travel Guide

Discover Adana: A vibrant blend of history, culture, and cuisine in Southern Turkey, offering everything from ancient ruins to bustling bazaars and stunning natural landscapes.

Adana, the fifth largest city in Turkey, offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Located on the Seyhan River, this vibrant city is a fascinating destination for tourists seeking both modern comforts and ancient wonders. The city's history spans over 3,000 years, making it a treasure trove of archaeological sites and historical landmarks. Start your journey at the iconic Sabancı Central Mosque, one of the largest in the Middle East, with its intricate architecture and serene surroundings. For history enthusiasts, the ancient city of Anavarza and the Roman bridge of Taşköprü are must-visit sites that provide a glimpse into Adana's storied past. The Adana Archaeology Museum also offers an extensive collection of artifacts that narrate the region's rich history. Food lovers will relish Adana's culinary scene, famous for its spicy Adana kebabs and delectable local dishes. The city's bustling bazaars and markets, such as the Kazancılar Çarşısı, are perfect for sampling local flavors and shopping for unique souvenirs. Don't miss out on trying the local dessert, bici bici, a refreshing treat especially popular during the hot summer months. Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the beautiful parks and green spaces that dot the city. The Seyhan Dam and Lake provide opportunities for boating and picnicking, while the nearby Taurus Mountains offer hiking trails with stunning views. Adana's vibrant festivals, such as the International Orange Blossom Carnival, add a festive flair to any visit, making it a city that truly has something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Adana.

Visit during spring or autumn to enjoy milder weather and local festivals.
Try the local delicacies at small, family-run restaurants for an authentic taste.
Carry cash as many local markets and smaller establishments may not accept credit cards.
Use public transportation or taxis to get around; the city is well-connected.
Learn a few basic Turkish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.

Explore Adana: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Adana

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Stone Bridge

Explore the historical Stone Bridge in Adana, a stunning architectural marvel bridging both history and contemporary charm.

4.6

Seyhan Merkez Park

Discover the serene beauty of Seyhan Merkez Park in Adana, where lush landscapes and tranquil waters create a perfect escape for tourists and nature lovers alike.

4.4

Ataturk Park

Discover the beauty of Ataturk Park in Adana, a perfect blend of nature, culture, and leisure in the heart of the city.

4.4

Sabanci Central Mosque

Explore the breathtaking beauty and cultural significance of the Sabanci Central Mosque in Adana, a marvel of Islamic architecture and a serene retreat.

4.8

Best landmarks in Adana

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Best Landmarks

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Stone Bridge

Discover the Stone Bridge in Adana, a historic marvel connecting the past and present with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.

4.6

Seyhan Merkez Park

Discover the lush landscapes and cultural charm of Seyhan Merkez Park, a tranquil escape in Adana's urban heart.

4.4

Ataturk Park

Discover the beauty of Ataturk Park in Seyhan, Adana—an urban oasis perfect for relaxation, leisure activities, and cultural experiences.

4.4

Great Clock Tower

Discover the Great Clock Tower, a historical landmark in Adana, where culture, architecture, and tradition meet in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.6

Best restaurants in Adana

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Kazım Büfe

Discover Kazım Büfe in Seyhan: A delightful soft drinks shop offering tasty fast food and local flavors at moderate prices.

4.5

Kaburgacı Yaşar Usta

Discover authentic Turkish kebabs at Kaburgacı Yaşar Usta - where flavor meets tradition in Adana's vibrant dining scene.

4.1

Sirdanci Bedo

Discover Sirdanci Bedo in Adana – where authentic Turkish flavors meet a vibrant dining atmosphere.

4.3

Ciğerci Ulaş

Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Ciğerci Ulaş in Adana - where every kebab tells a story.

4.2

Best bars in Adana

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La Noche Gastro Pub

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Adana at La Noche Gastro Pub, where gourmet cuisine meets lively entertainment in a unique setting.

4.3

Paddy's Irish Pub

Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Paddy's Irish Pub in Seyhan, Adana, where tradition meets vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine.

4.3

Newport İrİsh Bar

Discover Newport Irish Bar in Seyhan for an authentic Irish pub experience, featuring a cozy atmosphere, delicious drinks, and lively entertainment.

4.4

Sir Winston Pub

Discover the lively ambiance and diverse drink selection at Sir Winston Pub, a local favorite in the heart of Kurtuluş, Adana.

3.8

Best nightclubs in Adana

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Hayal Kahvesi Adana

Experience the best of Adana's nightlife at Hayal Kahvesi, where live music meets delicious dining in a lively atmosphere.

4.0

La Noche Gastro Pub

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Çukurova at La Noche Gastro Pub, where live music, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere await you.

4.3

Paddy's Irish Pub

Discover the vibrant Irish spirit at Paddy's Irish Pub in Seyhan, a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and entertainment for every traveler.

4.3

Newport İrİsh Bar

Discover the charm of Newport Irish Bar, where authentic Irish flavors and vibrant atmosphere meet in the heart of Seyhan, Adana.

4.4

Best shops in Adana

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Adana Optimum AVM

Discover Adana Optimum AVM: A vibrant shopping mall offering a unique blend of retail, dining, and entertainment experiences in the heart of Adana.

4.2

M1 Adana Shopping Center

Explore M1 Adana Shopping Center - your ultimate shopping and entertainment destination in Seyhan, Adana, blending local culture with modern retail experiences.

4.4

Cakmak Plaza Alisveris Merkezi

Discover Cakmak Plaza in Adana - a vibrant shopping mall with diverse stores, dining options, and a family-friendly atmosphere for all.

3.6

Grand Bazaar

Discover the Grand Bazaar in Seyhan, a vibrant shopping mall showcasing local crafts, spices, and traditional Turkish hospitality in Adana.

4.2

Explore Adana on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Adana, mapped for you.

Adana Essentials

Adana is well-connected by air, road, and rail. The main gateway is Adana Şakirpaşa Airport (ADA), which offers both domestic and international flights. From the airport, the city center is just a short taxi or shuttle ride away. Adana is also accessible by train, with services from major Turkish cities like Istanbul and Ankara. For those traveling by road, Adana is connected via major highways and intercity bus services.
Public transportation in Adana includes buses, minibuses (dolmuş), and trams. The Adana Metro is a convenient and efficient way to navigate through the city. Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. For a more local experience, consider renting a bicycle or walking, particularly in the central areas where many attractions are located. Car rentals are also available for those looking to explore the surrounding regions.
The official currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Adana. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or in more remote areas. ATMs are plentiful and can be found throughout the city, including at the airport and major shopping centers.
Adana is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any urban area, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. Areas like Seyhan and some parts of Yüreğir have higher crime rates and should be visited with caution. Always stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for medical assistance, 155 for police, and 110 for fire services. Adana has several hospitals and clinics that provide emergency medical care. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies (eczane) are widely available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting mosques, remove your shoes and cover your head if you are a woman. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight nod of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Adana like a local, visit the vibrant markets such as the Büyük Saat and Kazancılar Bazaar, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss trying Adana kebab, a local culinary delight. For a unique experience, take a stroll along the Seyhan River and visit the historical Taşköprü (Stone Bridge).

When is the best time to visit Adana?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Adana

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Adana. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloMerhaba
  [Mer-ha-ba]
- GoodbyeHoşçakal
  [Hosh-cha-kal]
- YesEvet
  [Eh-vet]
- NoHayır
  [Ha-yuhr]
- Please/You're welcomeLütfen
  [Loot-fen]
- Thank youTeşekkür ederim
  [Teh-sheh-koor eh-deh-reem]
- Excuse me/SorryÖzür dilerim
  [O-zoor dee-leh-reem]
- How are you?Nasılsınız?
  [Nah-suhl-suh-nuhz]
- Fine. And you?İyiyim. Siz?
  [Ee-yee-eem. Sehz]
- Do you speak English?İngilizce konuşuyor musunuz?
  [Een-gee-leez-cheh ko-noo-shu-yor moo-soo-nooz]
- I don't understandAnlamıyorum
  [Ahn-lah-muh-yor-um]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenüyü görmek istiyorum, lütfen
  [Meh-noo-yu gur-mek is-tee-yo-room, loot-fen]
- I don't eat meatEt yemem
  [Eht ye-mem]
- Cheers!Şerefe!
  [Sheh-reh-feh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseÖdemek istiyorum, lütfen
  [Uh-deh-mek is-tee-yo-room, loot-fen]
- Help!Yardım edin!
  [Yar-duhm eh-deen]
- Go away!Uzaklaş!
  [Oo-zahk-lahsh]
- Call the Police!Polisi arayın!
  [Poh-lee-see ah-rah-yuhn]
- Call a doctor!Doktor çağırın!
  [Dohk-tor chah-yuh-ruhn]
- I'm lostKayboldum
  [Kah-yohl-doom]
- I'm illHastayım
  [Hah-stah-yuhm]
- I'd like to buy...Almak istiyorum...
  [Al-mak is-tee-yo-room]
- I'm just lookingSadece bakıyorum
  [Sah-deh-je bah-kuh-yo-room]
- How much is it?Kaç lira?
  [Kach lee-rah]
- That's too expensiveBu çok pahalı
  [Boo choak pah-ha-luh]
- Can you lower the price?Fiyatı indirebilir misiniz?
  [Fee-ya-tuh in-deh-reh-bee-leer mee-see-neez]
- What time is it?Saat kaç?
  [Sa-at kach]
- It's one o'clockSaat bir
  [Sa-at beer]
- Half past (10)On buçuk
  [On boo-chook]
- MorningSabah
  [Sah-bah]
- AfternoonÖğleden sonra
  [O-leh-den ah-sor-ah]
- EveningAkşam
  [Ahk-shahm]
- YesterdayDün
  [Doon]
- TodayBugün
  [Boo-goon]
- TomorrowYarın
  [Yah-ruhn]
- 1Bir
  [Beer]
- 2İki
  [Ee-kee]
- 3Üç
  [Ooch]
- 4Dört
  [Dohrt]
- 5Beş
  [Behsh]
- 6Altı
  [Ahl-tuh]
- 7Yedi
  [Yeh-dee]
- 8Sekiz
  [Seh-keez]
- 9Dokuz
  [Doh-kooz]
- 10On
  [Oon]
- Where's a/the...?... nerede?
  [Neh-reh-deh]
- What's the address?Adres nedir?
  [Ad-rehs neh-deer]
- Can you show me (on the map)?(Haritada) gösterebilir misiniz?
  [(Ha-ree-tah-da) gur-steh-reh-bee-leer mee-see-neez]
- When's the next (bus)?Bir sonraki (otobüs) ne zaman?
  [Beer son-rah-kuh (oh-toh-booos) neh zah-mahn]
- A ticket (to ....)Bir bilet (....'ya)
  [Beer bee-let (....'yah)]

History of Adana

Adana's history dates back to the Neolithic age, with archaeological evidence suggesting human settlements as early as 6000 BC. During the Hittite era, Adana was an important city within the Hittite Empire. Known as Uru Adaniya, it played a significant role in the region's political and economic landscape.
Adana flourished under Roman rule, becoming a vital city in the province of Cilicia. The construction of the Taşköprü (Stone Bridge) over the Seyhan River in the 2nd century AD is a testament to Roman engineering prowess. During the Byzantine period, Adana continued to be a significant administrative and military center.
In the 7th century, Adana fell under Arab control following the Muslim conquests. The city became part of the Umayyad and later the Abbasid Caliphates. In the 11th century, the Seljuks conquered Adana, introducing Turkish influence to the region. The city's strategic importance was evident throughout these periods.
From the 12th to the 14th centuries, Adana was part of the Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia. The city prospered as a trade and cultural hub, benefiting from its position on the trade routes between Europe and the Middle East. The Armenians left a lasting cultural imprint on the region.
Adana was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in 1517. Under Ottoman rule, the city saw significant development, including the construction of mosques, baths, and other infrastructure. The Great Mosque, built in the 16th century, is a notable example of Ottoman architecture in Adana.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Adana became a major center for the cotton industry, earning the nickname 'Cotton Capital of Turkey.' The city played a crucial role during the Turkish War of Independence. In recent decades, Adana has grown into a modern metropolis, balancing its rich historical heritage with economic growth.
Adana is renowned for its vibrant culture, including the annual Adana Film Festival and the International Sabancı Theater Festival. The city's culinary heritage, particularly its famous Adana kebab, reflects a rich blend of influences from different eras and cultures. Traditional crafts, music, and dance also play a pivotal role in Adana's cultural landscape.