Adana is a lively Mediterranean city and the heart of the fertile Çukurova plain – home of the world-famous Adana kebabı, the 2nd-century Taşköprü bridge and warm southern hospitality. Here is everything you need for your visit.
Adana lies in the fertile Çukurova plain on the Seyhan river, in Turkey's Mediterranean region. It has been inhabited for thousands of years and is home to Taşköprü, a Roman bridge from the 2nd century AD that is still in use, and the modern Sabancı Merkez Camii, one of the largest mosques in Turkey.
By air: Adana Airport (ADA) has daily domestic flights from Istanbul and Ankara. From the airport, the city centre is a 15-minute drive.
By road: Adana is well connected by motorways and highways. Driving from Ankara takes about 5 hours, from Istanbul about 9 hours, and from Europe it is a long but scenic journey (Berlin → Adana about 3,300 km).
By bus: Intercity buses run from Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir and most major cities.
Taşköprü is a 2nd-century Roman bridge over the Seyhan river and still carries traffic today. Nearby, the six-minaret Sabancı Merkez Camii is one of the largest mosques in Turkey and a city landmark.
The fertile Çukurova plain around Adana supplies much of Turkey's fruit and vegetables. Don't miss the famous Adana kebabı (spicy minced-lamb skewer), şalgam suyu (fermented turnip juice) and bici bici for dessert.
The historic district of Seyhan (Eski Adana) is home to the Great Mosque (Ulu Cami, 13th century), the old caravanserai (Taşhan) and traditional stone houses. It feels like a step back in time – 20 minutes from the city centre.
Built on the Seyhan river just north of the city, the lake is a popular spot for boat trips, picnic areas and sunset views over the water.
A hidden natural gem near Pozantı, about an hour's drive – cool water, green surroundings and a peaceful escape in summer.
The Adana Museum displays finds from the region's ancient sites; the old city market (Kapalı Çarşı) is great for shopping and people-watching. Don't leave without trying Adana kebabı, şalgam and the local desserts.
Adana has a Mediterranean climate: hot, humid summers (up to 40°C in July–August) and mild, rainy winters. The best months to visit are April–June and September–November.
Adana weather forecast (TR)Absolutely – for the Adana kebabı, the 2nd-century Taşköprü, the lively bazaars of Old Adana and the Mediterranean beaches of Karataş and Yumurtalık.
2–3 days is ideal: one day for Old Adana (Seyhan), Taşköprü and the museum, one for the Çukurova countryside or the Seyhan dam lake, and one for the coast or the Varda Viaduct.
April–June and September–November, when temperatures are mild. Summer is hot and humid, while winter is mild and rainy.
Adana kebabı and şalgam suyu, and the 2nd-century Taşköprü bridge. The city is the heart of the fertile Çukurova plain.