Welcome to Adana, a vibrant and dynamic city nestled in the heart of the fertile Çukurova plain in southern Turkey!

Renowned worldwide for its bold and flavorful cuisine, particularly the iconic Adana Kebab, this city is a true paradise for food enthusiasts. But Adana is much more than its culinary delights; it's one of Turkey's oldest continuously inhabited settlements, boasting a rich tapestry of history that stretches back thousands of years, evident in its ancient bridges, historic mosques, and bustling traditional markets. With its warm Mediterranean climate and famously hospitable locals, Adana offers a unique and spirited Turkish experience.

Discover a City of Legendary Flavors and Ancient Roots

Get ready to explore a city where history is served with a side of spice.

Getting to Adana: Flights

Adana is served by Adana Şakirpaşa Airport (ADA), conveniently located just a few kilometers from the city center. It handles frequent domestic flights from major Turkish cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and İzmir, as well as a number of international flights, particularly from Europe and the Middle East.

Where to Stay: Finding Your Adana Accommodation

Adana offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.

• City Center (Seyhan/Yüreğir near the river): Staying in central areas provides easy access to most attractions, business districts, shopping areas, and, importantly, many renowned restaurants. You'll find a range of modern hotels here.
• Historic Areas: For a more atmospheric stay, look for smaller hotels or guesthouses closer to the older parts of the city and traditional bazaars.

Must-See Attractions & Things to Do in Adana

Adana offers a compelling mix of historical sites and modern city life.

• Taşköprü (Stone Bridge): An iconic symbol of Adana, this Roman-era bridge spanning the Seyhan River is one of the oldest bridges in the world still in use by pedestrians and vehicles. A walk across offers lovely views.
• Sabancı Merkez Camii (Sabancı Central Mosque): One of the largest mosques in Turkey and the Middle East, its grand architecture with six minarets and impressive domes dominates the city skyline. Its interior İznik tile work is stunning.
• Adana Archeology Museum: Houses an important collection of artifacts from various periods, including Hittite, Roman, and Byzantine eras, found in and around the Çukurova region.
• Adana Ethnography Museum: Showcases the traditional lifestyle, crafts, and cultural heritage of the Adana region and the Yörük (nomadic) communities.
• Great Clock Tower (Büyük Saat Kulesi) & Kazancılar Çarşısı: Located in the old city center, the historic clock tower stands tall near the vibrant Kazancılar Çarşısı (Coppersmiths' Bazaar), where you can explore traditional crafts and soak in the bustling atmosphere.
• Seyhan Dam and Lake: A popular recreational area just north of the city, offering walking paths, tea gardens, and a pleasant escape with views of the lake.
• Old Adana Houses: Wander through the older neighborhoods to see examples of traditional Adana architecture, with their distinctive courtyards and stonework.
• Varda Viaduct (Alman Köprüsü / German Bridge): Located outside Adana (requires a day trip towards Karaisalı), this impressive railway viaduct, also known as the "James Bond Bridge," is an engineering marvel set in a stunning natural landscape.

The Irresistible Cuisine of Adana: A Fiery Feast

Adana's culinary scene is a national treasure, famous for its spicy and hearty dishes.

• Adana Kebabı: The star of the show – a spicy, hand-minced lamb kebab grilled on wide skewers, traditionally served with grilled tomatoes, peppers, and lavash bread.
• Traditional Offal Dishes: For the adventurous palate, Adana offers unique specialties like şırdan (stuffed abomasum), mumbar (stuffed intestines), and kelle paça (head and trotter soup).
• Bici Bici: A uniquely Adanese dessert, especially popular in summer, made with jellied starch, rose water, and powdered ice, often colored with food dye.
• Sıkma: A savory pastry made with thin dough, often filled with cheese or potatoes.
• Şalgam Suyu (Turnip Juice): A traditional fermented beverage, often spicy, commonly served alongside kebabs.
• Ciğer Kebabı (Liver Kebab): Another popular grilled specialty.
• Citrus Fruits: The Çukurova region is famous for its citrus production, so enjoy fresh oranges, lemons, and grapefruits.

Getting Around Adana

• Public Transport: Adana has a metro line and an extensive network of public buses that cover most parts of the city.
• Taxis: Widely available and a convenient way to get around, especially for shorter distances or when public transport routes are less direct.
• Walking: Many of the central historical sites and bazaar areas are best explored on foot.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather. Summers in Adana are known to be very hot and humid.
• Embrace the Spice: Adana cuisine is known for its heat. If you're not used to spicy food, you can always ask for a milder version ("az acılı").
• Local Festivals: If your visit coincides, check out local events like the Adana Lezzet Festivali (Adana Taste Festival) to experience the city's culinary richness at its peak.

Adana is a city that will greet you with warm hospitality, ignite your taste buds with unforgettable flavors, and offer a fascinating glimpse into a region steeped in history and vibrant contemporary life.