Things To Do
in Adana

Adana is a vibrant city located in southern Turkey, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. It is the fifth largest city in the country and serves as a significant agricultural and industrial hub. Adana boasts a unique blend of modernity and tradition, with its bustling markets and historical sites.

The city is particularly famous for its delicious cuisine, especially the iconic Adana kebab.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Adana
morning
:

Start your day at the Sabancı Central Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Turkey, and enjoy the architecture and surrounding park.

afternoon
:

Visit the Adana Archaeological Museum to learn about the region's ancient history, followed by a stroll along the Seyhan River.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant specializing in Adana kebab and explore the lively streets of the city center for some evening shopping.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the historic Taşköprü (Stone Bridge), then head to the Atatürk Park for a relaxing morning in nature.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the ancient ruins of Tarsus, just a short drive from Adana.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city, followed by drinks at a local bar to experience the nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍕Fast food meal$5
🚌Local bus fare$0.50
🛒Grocery shopping (per week)$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich culinary heritage and delicious local cuisine.
  • A mix of cultural history and modern amenities.
  • Warm and hospitable locals.
  • Hot summers may be uncomfortable for some.
  • Limited English speakers in some areas.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Can you help me?
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Adana

Visit one of these nice places.

Sabancı Central Mosque

An architectural marvel, this mosque's grand design and beautiful gardens provide stunning backdrops for photography.

Taşköprü (Stone Bridge)

The ancient bridge offers picturesque views of the Seyhan River and surrounding areas, perfect for sunset photography.

Adana Merkez Park

A large city park featuring lush greenery, fountains, and pathways, ideal for capturing leisurely moments.

Culinary Guide

Food in Adana

Adana is a food lover's paradise, famed for its rich culinary traditions and vibrant street food culture.

Adana Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Adana Kebab

A spicy minced meat kebab made from lamb or beef, grilled on skewers, and usually served with flatbread and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Şalgam

A traditional fermented beverage made from turnips, often enjoyed with kebabs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Adana Central Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies, perfect for tasting the local food scene.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls throughout the city offer snacks like dürüm (wraps), börek (savory pastries), and fresh pomegranate juice.

Climate Guide

Weather

Adana has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 35°C (95°F), while winter averages range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making these seasons ideal for visitors.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

When visiting religious sites, it's respectful to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is important in Turkish culture; use polite language and greetings.

Hospitality

Turks are known for their hospitality; it's common to be offered tea or food when visiting someone's home.

Safety Guide

Safety

Adana is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. It's advisable to avoid walking alone late at night and to be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas. Keep valuables secure and use reputable transportation options.

Tipping in Adana

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants, but it's not mandatory; rounding up is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, though credit and debit cards are also used in most restaurants and shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring (March to May) offers mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a pleasant time to explore outdoor attractions.

Summer

Summer (June to August) can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F); early morning and evening outings are recommended.

Autumn

Autumn (September to November) features cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, ideal for enjoying local festivals and food.

Winter

Winter (December to February) is mild compared to other regions, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), making it suitable for sightseeing.

Nightlife Guide

Adana at Night

Adana's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, featuring a mix of traditional Turkish bars, modern lounges, and dance clubs. The city comes alive after dark, with many venues offering live music and entertainment. Popular areas include the city center and the riverside, where locals and visitors gather to socialize and enjoy the local drink, rakı.

Hiking in Adana

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Aladağlar National Park

Located about 100 km from Adana, this national park offers stunning mountainous landscapes and various hiking trails suitable for all levels.

Kozan Canyon

A beautiful hiking area featuring dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, perfect for nature enthusiasts looking for a scenic adventure.

Airports

How to reach Adana by plane.

Adana Sakirpasa Airport (ADA)

Located about 5 km from the city center, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, offering convenient access to and from Adana.

Getting Around

Walkability

Adana is quite walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions are located close to each other. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian-friendly areas like parks and markets make it easy to explore on foot. However, be cautious of traffic, especially in busier areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Turkish

The majority of the population is Turkish, representing a rich cultural heritage with a blend of various ethnic influences.

Kurdish

A significant Kurdish community exists in Adana, contributing to the cultural diversity and vibrancy of the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Adana, with local teams like Adanaspor and Adana Demirspor having strong followings.

Wrestling

Traditional Turkish wrestling, known as yağlı güreş, is celebrated in Adana, with events held throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Adana can be congested, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses and dolmuş (shared taxis), which are affordable and widely used. Taxis are also available, but it's advisable to agree on a fare beforehand if the meter isn't used.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Adana.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is predominant, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes such as stuffed peppers and vegetable mezze.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free diets can be accommodated, especially with dishes like grilled meats and salads.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Adana is accessible, with both public and private hospitals available. Turkish healthcare is of a high standard, and many doctors speak English. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide