Adana

Adana lies in southern Turkey on the fertile Çukurova plain, straddling the Seyhan River about 35 km north of the Mediterranean coast. With a 2024 metro population of roughly 1.8 million, it is Turkey’s fifth-largest city and the largest in the Mediterranean region. Historically called Antioch on the Sarus (Seleucid era) and simply Adana (from the ancient Anatolian “Attanus”), the city is rooted in the ancient Cilicia region. Its warm Mediterranean climate — very hot, humid summers and mild, rainy winters — and rich soils make Adana “Turkey’s breadbasket,” yielding large shares of the nation’s cotton, corn, citrus and grains. These natural advantages, combined with Adana’s strategic crossroads location (near the Taurus mountain passes into Anatolia and a port at nearby Yumurtalık), have shaped the city’s long story. Today Adana blends rural and modern: endless orange groves and cotton fields ring the city’s edges, while downtown alleys hum with markets, mosques and cafés. Its identity is marked by this blend – a juncture of Anatolian, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences, visible in architecture, cuisine and community life.

Adana occupies a low, flat plain fed by the Seyhan River (ancient Sarus), with the rise of the Taurus Mountains to the north. The city’s geography makes it perennially warm: summers average in the low-to-mid 30’s °C, often exceeding 35 °C, and winters are mild (average lows around 6 °C in January). Snow is rare. Almost all of Adana’s roughly 680 mm of annual rain falls in late autumn through spring; summers are essentially dry. For reference, seasonal climate averages (1991–2020) are:

Season	Avg. High (°C)	Avg. Low (°C)	Avg. Precip (mm)
Winter (Dec–Feb)	16	6	330
Spring (Mar–May)	24	12	195
Summer (Jun–Aug)	33	23	4
Autumn (Sep–Nov)	28	16	164

Seasonal temperature and precipitation (averages). These conditions have earned Adana a reputation for irrigation and year-round harvests – indeed it historically yielded “half of Turkey’s corn and soy beans”, as well as 29% of its oranges and one-third of its peanuts. Adana’s environs also feature wetlands and lake-dammed reservoirs (from the Seyhan Dam, built mid-20th century) that supply power and irrigation. The city center sits at 23 m elevation, only a few meters above the fertile plain; occasional flash floods (historically) and seismic activity (Adana was hit by M6–quakes in 1998 and 2023) remind visitors to exercise caution with weather and building safety.

Adana’s population is predominantly ethnic Turkish, with large Kurdish and Arab minorities and smaller groups of Roma and others. Many Kurds migrated here during the 1990s from the southeast (conflict with the PKK). Arab (Arabic-speaking) families, often of Alawite faith, form an estimated 10–15% of Adana’s population; others are descendants of Ottoman-era immigrants from the Balkans and Caucasus. There is also a noted community of “Crypto-Armenians” – descendants of Anatolian Armenians who converted to Islam but retain some cultural memory. Religiously, Adana is overwhelmingly Muslim. The majority of Turks and Kurds in the city are Sunni, but Adana has one of Turkey’s largest Alevi populations (many Kurdish Alevis settled here after violence in Maraş in 1978). Many of Adana’s Arabs are Nusayri/Alawites (a Shiite sect) and are sometimes locally counted among Alevis. Only tiny minorities remain of the once-thriving Christian and Jewish communities – a few Greek Orthodox families, a small Latin (Catholic) parish (the Bebekli Church), and an estimated handful of Jewish households. (As of the late 20th century, Adana even hosted a U.S. NATO community near Incirlik Air Base, though this has declined.) The city has a distinct secular-leaning character among its Turkish majority (many local families have lived abroad, especially in Germany, and the city has a strong tradition of republican progressivism).

Linguistically, Turkish is universal, with Kurdish and Arabic also spoken by minorities. A remnant of the ancient Çukurovan Arabic dialect survives among older villagers, though it is rapidly fading. Standard education is Turkish; literacy is high, and many locals speak some English after schooling. Hospitality (misafirperverlik) is a core value here – visitors are often invited for tea or sweets by residents, and it is considered polite to accept at least a glass of çay (tea) when offered. In private homes and mosques, removing one’s shoes is standard etiquette.

Table Of Contents

1. History of Adana

1.1. Iron Age and Classical Era (13th century BC – 4th century AD)

1.2. Byzantine and Early Islamic Era (4th – 11th centuries)

1.3. Medieval Era: Seljuks, Crusaders, Armenians and Turkmen (11th – 15th centuries)

1.4. Ottoman Period and Modernization (1517–1918)

1.5. Contemporary Era (1922–present)

2. Geography and Climate

3. Economy and Industry

4. Landmarks and Architecture

5. Culture, Festivals, and Entertainment

6. Cuisine and Gastronomy

7. Practical Travel Information

8. Conclusion: Adana’s Character Today

9. Read Next...

History of Adana

Adana’s history is a tapestry of ancient kingdoms, empires, and cultural crossroads. Its strategic plain attracted settlers since the Bronze Age. Archaeological remains near Adana (e.g. at Uzuncaburç/Magarsus) show Hittite-era and Luwian influence. By the 2nd millennium BC the region was part of the Hittite empire, later contested by Assyrians and Persians. After the Persian defeat, Alexander the Great passed through Cilicia in 333 BC, but his empire quickly fragmented.

Iron Age and Classical Era (13th century BC – 4th century AD)

From Old Anatolian to Ottoman Turkish

After Alexander, the region fell under successive Hellenistic dynasties. Under the Seleucids (3rd–2nd c. BC) Adana came to be known as Antiochia ad Sarum (“Antioch on the Sarus”), reflecting loyalty to the Seleucid kings. The city minted coins showing a river-god of the Sarus, demonstrating the river’s importance. In 66 BC Cilicia, including Adana, was annexed by Rome, becoming part of the Roman province of Cilicia. The Romans expanded the city and infrastructure: for example the famous Taşköprü (Stone Bridge) across the Seyhan was originally built in the 2nd century AD under Emperor Hadrian. This elegant 319-meter-long bridge (today with 14 of its 21 arches intact) symbolized the era. By Roman times Adana was a regional metropolis of 20,000–30,000 people, a hub of agriculture and trade along the road from Antioch to Tarsus. An early Christian presence also grew: Adana may have been the birthplace of St. Anysia, a 3rd-century saint.

Byzantine and Early Islamic Era (4th – 11th centuries)

In the late Roman (Byzantine) period, Adana remained important but faced new challenges. After Christianity became state religion, bishops in the region attended major councils (e.g. the Councils of Ephesus and Chalcedon featured Cypriot and Anatolius of Antioch, and possibly a bishop from Adana). In 325 AD, Saint Antony’s encounter with Adana (the mother of St. Hilarion was from here) suggests a continuing city life, though direct sources are sparse.

In the 7th century Adana entered a period of Byzantine–Arab conflict. Muslim Arabs first raided Cilicia by 638 AD, and a decisive Arab conquest is recorded in 704 AD when Umayyad forces took the city. Adana then became a frontier town (a thughur outpost) of the Islamic Caliphate, changing hands with the Byzantines through the centuries. The local population converted gradually to Islam, though Christian communities survived into the medieval era.

Medieval Era: Seljuks, Crusaders, Armenians and Turkmen (11th – 15th centuries)

In 1082 Adana was captured by the Seljuk Turks, as Anatolia was opened to Turkic settlement. Soon after the First Crusade, in 1097, Crusader forces under Baldwin I briefly occupied Adana. By the mid-12th century the city and surrounding Cilicia became part of the Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia. Adana was often governed by local Armenian lords (the Rubenid kings and then the Hethumids). Some Armenians were still in Adana through the centuries as workers and merchants.

In 1375, Adana came under the control of the Turkmen Ramazanid beylik (an autonomous principality that emerged after the decline of the Seljuks). The Ramazanid dynasty, based in nearby Osmaniye, ruled Adana and the lower Çukurova until 1517. Under them the city grew in regional importance as a trading capital of Cilicia. During this period several mosques and caravanserais were built, and Adana’s Turkish-speaking population increased.

Ottoman Period and Modernization (1517–1918)

In 1517 the Ottoman Sultan Selim I annexed Cilicia; Adana entered four centuries of Ottoman rule. The Ottomans invested in the city: Adana became the capital of a large sanjak, then province. The late 19th century saw dramatic change – global demand for cotton spurred a huge cotton boom, making Adana one of the Ottoman Empire’s wealthiest cities by 1880. Wealthy cotton merchants built fine 19th-century houses (many survive in the Tepebağ quarter) and European-style amenities. The city’s skyline gained symbols like the Büyük Saat (built 1882) and modern markets, and a telegraph and railway connected Adana to wider trade.

This economic prosperity also brought tensions: Adana’s population was diverse (Ottoman census of 1893 records Turks, Arabs, Armenians, Greeks) and disputes over jobs and land erupted into violence. Most tragically, in April 1909 sectarian clashes known as the Adana Massacres resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of Armenians and other Christians in the city and province. (Many survivors fled to Aleppo or elsewhere.) The violence deeply altered Adana’s social fabric on the eve of World War I.

In late 1918, with the Ottoman defeat in WWI, French forces occupied Adana (as part of the brief French mandate over Cilicia). Resistance by Turkish nationalists eventually forced a withdrawal in 1921, and Adana became part of the new Republic of Turkey in January 1922. In the early Republic years, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk visited Adana, and local infrastructure – roads, schools, public buildings – were developed under secular, nationalist policies. The Republican era brought demographic change: many Balkan and Caucasian Muslim immigrants settled here, and in the 1990s Kurdish evacuees from the southeast arrived, transforming the city’s profile.

Contemporary Era (1922–present)

Post-1922 Adana steadily modernized. Cotton remained king into the mid-20th century, but afterwards agriculture and labor markets diversified. A big irrigation project – the Seyhan Dam (1966) – controlled floods and provided electricity, fueling growth of chemical and food-processing industries. Adana’s population expanded rapidly, from about 100,000 in 1955 to nearly 2 million in the 2000s, as migrants from the countryside and rural workers from eastern Turkey settled in. New neighborhoods grew to the north and east, and the city’s footprint spread. However, like much of Anatolia, Adana’s economy faced periodic downturns; urban planning struggled to keep pace with growth.

Today Adana is a hybrid of eras: remnants of Roman walls and Ottoman bazaars stand beside modern shopping malls and factories. Its continued relevance stems from its role as a major agricultural and industrial hub (often called the “Chicago of Turkey” in reference to its grain trade), a gateway to the Mediterranean, and a living museum of Anatolian culture.

Geography and Climate

Adana’s cityscape and daily life are defined by its geography. The city lies at 37°N latitude, set in the broad Çukurova plain (ancient Cilicia Pedias). This plain is one of the world’s most fertile alluvial deltas, irrigated by the Seyhan and Ceyhan rivers. To the north loom the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, which catch winter rainfall and feed springs. To the south the plain opens into subtropical lowlands near the sea. Within the city, the Seyhan River splits districts – yet it is heavily canalized and lined with parks (Merkez Park on one bank) in the urban core.

The climate is officially “hot-summer Mediterranean” (Köppen Csa). Winters (Dec–Feb) are mild: daytime highs around 15–16 °C, nights near 5–7 °C. Frost is rare on the plain, though occasional dips below 0 °C occur in cold snaps (record low –8.1 °C in 1964). Summers (Jun–Aug) are very hot and humid. July and August afternoons often exceed 35 °C and can reach 45 °C (a record high of 45.7 °C was observed in August 2023). Nights only cool to the mid-20s°C on average. Rainfall is strongly seasonal: about 80% falls October–April, often as heavy winter thunderstorms or frontal rains. Summers are virtually rainless, with July–August totals under 5 mm.

The practical effect is that Adana is green nearly year-round but requires irrigation for summer crops. Citrus groves and sugarcane fields thrive thanks to the river canals. Snow is a novelty (a few snow-days per decade) and freezes are so rare that outdoor cafes stay open in January. One hazard is dust and heatwaves: visitors in August should carry water and sun protection, and visitors after wet winters should remember that warm weather is coming. Earthquake risk is non-negligible; Adana has a history of quakes, including damaging ones in 1998 (M6.2) and Feb 2023 (M6.4 in Kozan, Adana Province, injuring dozens). The city’s building code is stricter today, but common sense precaution is wise.

Surrounding Adana’s urban area are extensive agricultural zones. Cotton fields stretch north and west, bright green and flooded in spring. To the south lie sunflower and grain fields, while orchards of citrus and pomegranate cluster in the fertile river valleys. The climate and landscape invite day trips: for example, 75 km south are the beaches of Yumurtalık, and the Citrus plateau is known for its spring orange blossoms (hence the city’s annual Orange Blossom Festival).

Economy and Industry

Adana remains an economic powerhouse of Turkey’s southern region, blending agriculture with industry and services. The region’s nickname – “the breadbasket of Turkey” – reflects its enormous agricultural output. The city itself serves as the marketing and logistics hub for Çukurova. Crops include cotton (historically the most important), wheat, barley, corn, soybeans, grapes, tobacco, and citrus fruits. In fact, Adana’s farmers produce half of Turkey’s corn and soy, and very large shares of its peanuts (34%) and oranges (29%). Massive grain silos and cotton gins on the city outskirts attest to this legacy. Every October the large Çukurova Agriculture Fair draws farmers from across the nation, featuring crops, livestock, and equipment.

Beyond raw agriculture, Adana has significant agribusiness and manufacturing. Food processing (olive oil, margarine, dairy, canned foods) is a leading industry – the city is home to Turkey’s largest margarine factory (Marsan-Adana). Textile and cotton-processing plants (textiles, yarn, fabrics) also trace back to the Ottoman mill boom. More recently, light engineering and automotive parts have expanded. The largest local company is Temsa, a bus manufacturer with ~2,500 employees making ~4,000 vehicles a year. Chemical fibers are key too: Advansa SASA (a polyester firm) is Europe’s largest such plant. Other metalworking, plastics, furniture and construction-material plants are numerous. Despite this, Adana’s industry has lagged behind Istanbul/Ankara: as of 2008 it housed only a handful of Turkey’s top 500 firms. The late 20th century “brain drain” (young people moving to Istanbul for tech jobs) also impacted Adana, though the city attracts domestic investment via special industrial zones to the south (e.g. Yumurtalık/Aliağa Energy Zone) and growing petrochemical imports by pipeline.

In commerce and services, Adana is a regional trade center. Weekly markets (pazars) for vegetables, livestock and consumer goods serve a wide area. A notable modern feature is the Adana Trade Fair Complex (TÜYAP) which hosts national expos. The city also has a longstanding export business: Çukurova cotton and flour are exported via the nearby Ceyhan Mediterranean ports. The presence of NATO’s Incirlik Air Base (outside Adana) has even created a niche economy in defense and international schooling over decades.

An interesting cultural footnote: the Adana Chamber of Commerce officially protects the name “Adana Kebab.” According to the Chamber, only sellers who pass a stringent inspection can claim to serve the “real” Adana kebab. (This underscores how central that dish is to the city’s brand.) In sum, Adana’s economy remains a hybrid: rooted in traditional agriculture and small industry, but increasingly diversified into services and modern manufacturing. It is one of the few Turkish cities with both large factory output and major farming within its metropolitan remit.

Landmarks and Architecture

Adana’s attractions range from ancient ruins to modern monuments, reflecting its layered heritage. A walk in the old city (historic Seyhan district) reveals Ottoman mosques, a Roman bridge, and 19th-century architecture, whereas newer districts (Çukurova, Yüreğir) feature parks and mid-20th-century buildings. Key landmarks include:

Taşköprü (Stone Bridge): This Roman-era arch bridge spans the Seyhan River and is one of the oldest functioning stone bridges in the world. Built under Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD and later repaired by Justinian, it originally had 21 arches (14 remain today) and stretches 319 m. Walking across Taşköprü provides a scenic view of the river and city; it is celebrated as a symbol of Adana’s antiquity.
Büyük Saat (Great Clock Tower): Standing 32 m tall, this Ottoman-era clock tower (completed in 1882) is the tallest clock tower in Turkey. Built of dressed stone with four clock faces (mechanism imported from Germany), it sits in the historic downtown (Ali Münif Street). The tower’s hourly chimes once regulated city life; today its limestone structure and surrounding restored marketplace give Old Adana its distinctive look.
Grand Mosque of Adana (Ulu Cami): The Ulu Camii is Adana’s venerable old mosque. Founded around 1500 AD (with later 17th-century enlargements), it is built of cut limestone and brick and originally featured a single minaret (a second was added later). Its courtyard and prayer hall exemplify Ottoman mosque architecture. The Ulu Camii complex also includes the Atatürk Museum, set in a former girls’ high school where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk once visited; today the museum houses Atatürk’s office and personal effects.
Sabancı Merkez Camii (Central Mosque): Dominating a hilltop on the river’s southern bank, this modern mosque was constructed 1988–1998 with funding from the Sabancı Foundation. It’s Turkey’s second-largest mosque (after Camlica in Istanbul), with six minarets (each 99 m tall) and a central dome reaching 54 m. The design echoes classical Ottoman mosques (it resembles Edirne’s Selimiye Mosque), and interior mosaics and carpets are lavish. The mosque can hold about 28,500 worshippers. Surrounding the mosque are large landscaped courtyards; it has become both a religious center and a city icon.
Tepebağ Houses: In the historic tepe (hill) quarter near Ulu Camii lie well-preserved Ottoman wooden courtyard houses (konaklar). Built mostly in the 19th century from the fortunes of cotton, these wood-and-stucco homes feature carved lattice windows and walled gardens. Tepebağ was one of the world’s first tell settlements, occupied for ~8,000 years; its modern houses stand atop the ancient mound (Höyük). Today these romantic shophouses (many now cafés or museums) give a sense of old Adana’s ambience. Archaeologists even excavated a 4,000-year-old statue from this site (now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art).
Archaeology Museum: Adana’s Archaeology Museum (Çukurova Museum) is a must-visit. Its collection spans from Neolithic through Hittite, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman eras. Highlights include a rare Hittite limestone statue of the storm god Tarhunt inscribed “I am the God of Adana” (dating to 7th century BC), Roman mosaics (from Misis), Cilician reliefs, and artifacts from Anavarza. The museum’s eight halls let visitors trace the city’s entire history in one place. Adjoining it, the Ethnography Museum (in an old Ottoman house) shows rural life, crafts and costumes of the Çukurova region.
St. Paul’s Church (Bebekli Kilise): A symbol of Adana’s Christian minority, this 1870 Armenian Catholic church is known for its statue of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus (hence “Church with the Baby”). Built by Catholic missionaries on the site of an earlier Armenian church, it survived into the Republican era. The exterior is Italianate, while the interior holds relics of early missionaries. Today it remains a rare example of 19th-century Christian architecture in an otherwise Islamic city.
Tepebağ Dam: Although not ancient, Adana’s heritage includes its historic dam. A 500-year-old stone weir (built under the Dulkadirid beys) was recently refurbished as a scenic spot where locals gather in summer. The adjacent Merkez (Central) Park spans 33 hectares along the Seyhan – it was an orange grove until 2004, when it was transformed into Turkey’s largest urban park. Merkez Park features miles of walking paths, ponds and playgrounds; two pedestrian suspension bridges, a mini Venetian gondola, and an open-air amphitheatre (capacity 3,000). The amphitheatre regularly hosts the city’s cultural festivals (see below). Merkez Park’s continuous planting of 400,000 plants and 67 varieties of trees turns a wide swath of the old city green.
Bridges: Besides Taşköprü, the Misis Bridge is another notable arch. Located in the Yakapınar (Misis) neighborhood, it crosses the Seyhan 25 km west of central Adana. Commissioned by Roman Emperor Constantius II in the 4th century and restored by Justinian in the 6th, it has nine arches and still stands in use today (after post-1998 quake repairs). It once connected the city to ancient Mopsuestia (modern Yakapınar) and is Turkey’s oldest stone road bridge. Modern Adana has also built new bridges (road and pedestrian) over the Seyhan and Ceyhan rivers, improving connectivity, but these are simple steel spans rather than historic sites.

Other attractions include the restored Ramazanoğlu Mansion (the 16th-century beylik palace with stone courtyards and Turkish bath), the Women’s Museum (Hannibal Hamdi Bey House, dedicated to the role of women in Çukurova history), and the Inflatable Ethnography Museum (inflatable plastic museum structure by artist Sevan Bıçakçı). There is also a small military museum in the Kurtuluş Army Museum (former station of Turkish War of Independence). The city’s modern skyline is relatively low (no skyscrapers), so these mid-rise landmarks – clock tower, minarets, mansions – shape the city’s visual character. Adana’s Cinema Museum (in a historic building near the old station) celebrates Turkey’s film tradition (Adana hosts one of the country’s premier film festivals).

Visitors should note that most of these landmarks cluster on two hills – one on each side of the Seyhan. The older city (Seyhan district) is on the west bank, with narrow streets, Tepebağ, and the Great Mosque. The newer central district (Çukurova) sprawls on the east bank, hosting Sabancı Mosque, museums, and newer hotels. The riverbanks and Merkez Park now tie these quarters together for pedestrians.

Culture, Festivals, and Entertainment

Adana’s culture is as hearty and lively as its cuisine. Key cultural institutions include theaters, festivals, and markets:

Altın Koza (Golden Boll) Film Festival: Adana hosts Turkey’s long-running national film festival, named after the local cotton boll. Founded in 1969 (held sporadically) and revived in 2005, it is usually held in early fall. The festival features competition films (national and short films, and an international Mediterranean category) and red-carpet premieres. Screenings and panels are held in Adana’s cultural centers (including the Amfi Tiyatro in Merkez Park) and cinemas. Over decades the Golden Boll has awarded many Turkish filmmakers, making Adana a respected city of film.
Orange Blossom Carnival: Every April, when the citrus trees bloom, Adana erupts in a street carnival celebrating spring and the local orange harvest. The festivities (Nisan’da Adana’da – “In April in Adana”) include colorful parades with dancers and floats, concerts, and traditional folk performances along a main boulevard near the river. Launched in 2013, the carnival has rapidly grown; by 2015 it drew over 90,000 attendees. It is now one of Turkey’s largest local festivals. The fragrance of orange blossoms (narenciye) permeates the air, and cafés serve orange sherbet. (Note: Nisan’da Adana’da is the festival’s slogan, and it was one of Turkey’s first city-themed carnivals.)
Sabancı International Theater Festival: Held in autumn, this festival brings theater, dance, and music performances to Adana. Many events are staged in the Merkez Park amphitheatre (capacity ~3,000). It is sponsored by the Sabancı Foundation and typically lasts 10–12 days, featuring local and international troupes.
Spring and Summer Events: In addition to annual festivals, Adana’s calendar includes May Day marches (labor day celebrations), Ramadan nights with markets and entertainment along the river, and regional folk dances at cultural centers. Adana’s older music halls (like the century-old Gazipaşa Theater) occasionally present Turkish classical music concerts. The city is known as a socially lively place; locals might spend evenings in riverside meyhanes (traditional taverns) in summer, where live folk music (arabesk) and folk singing abound.
Markets and Bazaars: Culturally, Adana’s bustling market life is emblematic. The city’s Covered Bazaar (Büyük Bedesten) dates to the 16th century and still functions with shops selling textiles, spices, and leather. Next to it is the “Girls’ High School” (one of the first Ottoman-era high schools for girls, now a museum). Outside the historical core, weekly open-air markets (pazar) spring up on different days: one of the largest is the Saturday market near Çakmak metro stop (fresh produce, clothes, household goods). The local culture places importance on lively square life, so these markets are community events. The main fish market (balık pazarı) under the old railway station is also a social hub: in the late afternoon, locals gather at seafood restaurants to eat grilled fish and rakı.
Museums of Art and History: The new Atatürk Museum in Yeşiloba Park (near the city center) displays personal effects and documents related to Atatürk’s 1923 visit to Adana. The Culture and Congress Center (AKKM) by the river (opened 2014) is a modern venue for concerts and exhibitions, symbolizing Adana’s cultural modernization. The Ethnography Museum (in Ulu Camii’s historic courtyard) shows local costumes, rugs, and domestic objects from the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Adana’s evening entertainment also features lively meyhane culture. Traditional taverns and restaurants often have live fasıl (ensemble singing folk or arabesque songs). The city has a reputation for not being very strict on nightlife: alcohol is openly served in the downtown pubs, and youth dance venues are numerous. Cinemas here also show the latest international films, although the Golden Boll festival focuses more on art cinema.

Cuisine and Gastronomy

No discussion of Adana is complete without its food – the city is internationally famous for its cuisine. In fact, Adana is a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy (since 2015), reflecting this heritage. The region’s cooking is robust, spicy, and centered on meat and bread. Highlights include:

Adana Kebap: By far the most iconic dish. This is minced lamb (sometimes mixed with beef), spiced with red pepper flakes (but not overly hot), and hand-moulded on a wide flat skewer before grilling over charcoal. Unlike the shish kebap or döner of other regions, Adana kebap is known for its aromatic fat content and coarser grind. It is typically served on a long plate with rice or bulgur pilaf and grilled tomatoes/peppers on the side, accompanied by chopped parsley and onion salad. A restaurant tag—“Adana kebabı” on the menu—is treated almost like a trademark in town; in fact, the local Chamber of Commerce certifies which chefs can claim to grill the “real” Adana kebap.
Ciğer Kebap (Liver Kebab): Another local specialty, often found at lunchtime. Thin slices of lamb or calf liver are marinated with oil and grilled on skewers, served on individual plates with rice, onions, and parsley. Many families go out for liver kebap on weekends; in fact, part of the old Kazancılar Bazaar is nicknamed “Ciğerci Sokak” (Street of the Liver Sellers).
Içli Köfte: Although known across Turkey, Adana prides itself on its içli köfte (stuffed meatballs). These are bulgur-and-meat shells stuffed with spiced ground beef, pine nuts and onion, then boiled. A delicacy often prepared for special occasions, the best versions are said to be in Adana.
Acılı Ekmek (Spicy Bread): A long, flatbread topped with a paste of onion, red pepper, tomato and spices, somewhat like a thin lahmacun but larger. It is crisp at the edges and chewy in the middle, and has a distinct tangy heat. Adana’s vendors make this in huge batches; it is a staple lunch or snack. Acılı ekmek here is often eaten bare (no toppings) or with a squeeze of lemon.
Fellah Köftesi: Named for the Fellahin (Arab peasant) communities of the Çukurova, this dish consists of small, soft bulgur dumplings in a garlicky yogurt and tomato sauce. It is comforting and mild, a counterpoint to the grilled meats.
Şırdan (Sheep Stomach): For the adventurous eater, şırdan is a famously pungent street food. It is literally a cleaned and stuffed lamb stomach, filled with rice, offal bits and spices, then sealed and boiled or grilled. Eaten hot and fatty, it has a strong taste and aroma. Eating şırdan is a rite of passage for many young locals; it is often accompanied by cognac or brandy to help digestion. (NB: Şırdan should only be eaten at specialized vendors, not at regular kebap restaurants.)
Halka Tatlısı: This sweet treat is like a deep-fried donut, twisted into a ring (“halka”) and soaked in sugar syrup. Similar to tulumba or lokma, it is soft and sticky. It’s usually served with Turkish coffee or tea. There are many sweets and pastries too: ciğer tatlısı (liver-shaped fried pastries) and kazandibi (milk pudding with caramelized bottom).
Cezerye: A uniquely Adana confection, cezerye is a chewy nougat made with carrots, pistachios or walnuts, and shredded coconut. Often formed into small bars, it has a bright orange color. It reflects the region’s carrot and nut produce; vendors sell it in sweet shops around the city center.
Şalgam: The quintessential local drink with kebab is şalgam suyu (turnip juice). This neon-purple fermented drink (made from purple carrots, turnips and bulgur) is sour and salty, often served in frosty glasses with your kebab to quench the heat. It is a staple at kebab houses. Other common drinks include ayran (yogurt drink) and tea in small tulip-shaped glasses (served all day in cafés and shops).

Adana’s restaurants range from casual kebap houses (ocakbaşı style, where you sit around the grill) to elegant lokantas. Famous old venues include Kazancılar Kebap (est. 1868, in the old bazaar) which claims to be Adana’s first kebap shop. For liver kebap, the winding Ciğer Street in Seyhan is a cluster of family-run liver joints. All over town one finds meyhane (tavern) style eateries; many feature mezes (hummus, cacık, eggplant salad) and serve raki (anise spirit) at night. Street food vendors and açık büfe dürüm shops are common near universities and markets. Visitors should be prepared for generous hospitality: it’s not unusual for a kebap meal to end with a free shot of Turkish delight or tea.

For beginners, try a mixed Adana kebap plate at a reputable restaurant (ask your guide or hotel staff for recommendations); pair it with piyaz (bean salad) and a glass of şalgam. For dessert, buy fresh halka tatlısı or cezerye from pastry shops. Market stalls often sell kabak tatlısı (pumpkin dessert) in autumn, and işkembeciler (tripe soup vendors) pop up in the afternoon for late-night revelers. Food tours and cooking classes are increasingly available, teaching how to grill kebab or make baklava. Overall, eating in Adana is vibrant and communal – expect to spend long evenings at dinner with generous portions and local conversation.

Practical Travel Information

Adana is a major city with full services for travelers.

Arrival: The city’s airport (Şakirpaşa, now renamed Çukurova International Airport) is just 2–3 km west of town. It has regular flights to Istanbul (especially Atatürk and Sabiha Gökçen airports), Ankara, Izmir and seasonal charters from Europe and the Middle East. In Turkey’s domestic network it is busy; from abroad one often flies to Istanbul then connects. Taxis and shuttle minibuses link the airport to the city center in 15–20 minutes. Some budget flights also serve Adana from regional hubs like Riyadh or Doha.

If arriving by road, Adana sits on the main Adana–Mersin (west) and Adana–Gaziantep (east) highways (D400 route), and is well-connected by bus. The intercity bus terminal (otogar) northeast of town dispatches buses to all Turkish cities. By rail, Adana is on the Southern railway line: daily trains run from Ankara and Istanbul (though schedules change often), and a frequent regional train goes east to Adıyaman or south to Mersin–İzmir. The old Adana Railway Station downtown now houses the Cinema Museum; current trains use a modern station in Yüreğir.

Getting Around: Adana’s attractions are fairly compact. The historic core (Ulu Camii, Clock Tower, Bazaar) and Merkez Park are walkable from one another. Taxis are inexpensive and plentiful; negotiate or use an official metered cab. The city introduced a metro in 2009 (line to Yüreğir) and an electric tram (North-South line connecting the airport, central train station and downtown) – these can be handy for avoiding traffic. Public buses and minibuses (dolmuş) crisscross all districts (Seyhan, Çukurova, Yüreğir, Sarıçam). They are cheap but often crowded; ask your hotel to explain the route numbers. Car rental is available and roads are generally good, but central traffic can be congested at rush hour. Scooter taxis (becak) are rare compared to other cities.

Accommodation: Hotels in Adana range from grand international chains to boutique inns. The Seyhan district (historic west bank) is traditional – here you’ll find Sheraton Grand Adana and Divan Adana near Merkez Park, along with several small family-owned hotels (e.g. Hotel Seyhan). The Çukurova district (north-central, spanning both sides of the river) has several upscale options: Adana HiltonSA (formerly Hilton), and brand-names like Ramada Plaza or Sheraton Adana (this Sheraton differs from the one in Seyhan; one is on the east bank, one west). Yüreğir (east bank near the new stadium and hospitals) offers more mid-range and business hotels (some named “Adana HiltonSA,” confusingly, plus Park Inn and Uyum). Sarıçam (south-east) is farther out with fewer hotels, mainly catering to the university and conference visitors. Below is a summary of neighborhoods and sample hotels:

Area / District	Characteristics	Sample Hotels
Seyhan (Old City)	Historic core: Clock Tower, Ulu Camii, bazaars, old town vibe. Best for sightseeing.	Sheraton Grand Adana, Divan Adana, Hilton Adana
Çukurova (New Center)	Modern north central: business, universities, shopping malls. Site of Atatürk Museum and Merkez Park.	Adana HiltonSA, Sheraton Grand Adana (Çukurova side), Ramada Plaza Adana
Yüreğir	East bank across river: mainly residential/industrial. Near Adana Şakirpaşa Airport and Yakapınar bridge.	TasKopru Hotel, Uyum Hotel, Amara Airport Hotel
Sarıçam	South-east suburb: Çukurova University, parks (Gençlik Park). Farther from center.	Park Plaza Adana, Anemon Adana

Table: Principal lodging districts in Adana and examples of hotels. (Sheraton Adana has properties in both Seyhan and Çukurova; check location.)

Local etiquette: Turks in Adana are warm and direct. Basic courtesies go a long way. Dress is generally casual but modest; women should cover shoulders and knees in mosques. Always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a mosque. When invited for tea or a meal, it’s polite to accept one glass (declining too readily can be taken as rude). In restaurants, a 5–10% tip is appreciated but not mandatory. Bargaining is expected in the bazaars and with street vendors. Address elders with “abi” (older brother) or “abla” (older sister) to show respect. Public displays of affection should be discreet. Turkish hospitality is legendary – do as the locals do and enjoy a glass of çay or şalgam at a café by the river, and you’ll learn much about this city’s culture.

Safety: Adana is generally safer than many large cities at night, with relatively low street crime. However, petty theft (especially of wallets or phones) can occur in crowded areas. Keep an eye on belongings in markets and on public transport. Politically, Adana has seen occasional protests (for example over labor issues or regional developments); avoid any unannounced demonstrations, and always follow local news. Turkey as a whole has a Level 2 travel advisory (exercise increased caution) due to general concerns (some terrorism risk, etc.). Adana itself is far from conflict zones, but one should still remain alert in transportation hubs and tourist sites. In daily terms, street life is safe; public areas are well-policed. Women traveling alone should be aware that male attention (positive or otherwise) can be noticeable; dressing modestly and staying in public groups after dark reduces any issue. As always when traveling, carry a copy of your passport, keep emergency numbers handy, and consider enrolling in your government’s traveler notification program.

Health: Tap water in Adana is chlorinated and generally safe to drink, though many prefer bottled water (widely sold). Turkish cuisine uses fresh vegetables and good meat, but street food should be eaten at clean stalls. The sunny climate means sunburn is easy: use high SPF sunscreen in summer. Air pollution can occur in winter inversions (from coal heating), but is usually mild. Hospitals in Adana are modern (Adana Şehir Hospital and Acıbadem Adana are large medical centers). Pharmacies (“eczane”) are common; most run 9am–7pm (one in each neighborhood is on duty at night).

Getting Around Town: The best way to see Adana’s sights is on foot in the old city. Seyhan and Merkez Park areas are pedestrian-friendly, with shaded boulevards. Taxis are cheap; a typical ride inside the city costs a few dollars. For longer visits (e.g. to theaters or stadiums), a short taxi ride is fine. The city’s Otogar (bus station) is north of downtown, but most visitors won’t need it unless traveling to other Turkish cities. The train station (new station in Yüreğir) handles intercity rail to Ankara and beyond – a scenic but slow way to see more of Anatolia. For short hops, the tram (north–south light rail) is convenient and safe, especially after dark. Ask your hotel about an Istanbulkart (transport pass) if you plan to use buses or metro frequently; it’s required for public transit.

Day Trips: Adana is an excellent base for exploring eastern Mediterranean Turkey. Notable excursions include:

Misis (Yakapınar) – about 25 km west, visit the medieval stone Misis Bridge (a picturesque Roman relic) and an old Kolping Christian community center. Nearby is the ruins of ancient Mopsuestia (Ceyhan).
Tarsus – 45 km west in Mersin Province, an ancient city with Cleopatra’s Gate, St. Paul’s well and church, and Roman baths.
Mersin – 70 km west, a coastal city with a large harbor; attractions include the castle of Kızkalesi and the Museum of Mersin.
Anavarza (Anazarbus) – ~80 km north. This vast archaeological site is a spectacular Roman/Byzantine city and castle overlooking the basin. It was once the capital of Cilicia Secunda and has a well-preserved Byzantine basilica built by King Toros I in 1111. The castle walls (1.5 km long) tower above the fields, offering a sense of ancient grandeur.
Yılankale (Snake Castle) – 60 km east in Adana Province. A 12th–13th century Armenian hilltop fortress built by King Levon I of Cilicia. Its name (literally “Snake Castle”) comes from local folklore. This is one of the most complete medieval castles in the region, with intact gatehouses and walls.
Kapıkaya Canyon – 90 km northeast, a dramatic canyon on the Zamanti River, popular for rafting and scenic photos.
Tourgovit Cave – near Kozan, with Byzantine-era frescoes.

In short, Adana is well-situated to see both coast and mountains, ancient ruins and modern Turkey. Organized day tours and rental cars can easily cover these.

Conclusion: Adana’s Character Today

Adana today is a study in contrasts and continuities. It remains deeply tied to the rich agricultural hinterland that earned its nickname “leaf of green” (Çukurova); even as skyscrapers rise in Istanbul, here you can eat breakfast among citrus groves. Yet it is also modernizing fast, with universities, industries and a youthful population shaping its future. The city’s many layers – Roman bridge next to an Ottoman mosque, or a contemporary café serving şalgam beside a 19th-century mansion – testify to its enduring human story. Festivals like the Orange Blossom Carnival and Golden Boll film festival ensure Adana stays lively and visible on Turkey’s cultural map.

Travelers find that Adana’s appeal is both practical and soulful. Its lively bazaars, warm people, and generous meals are welcoming, while its museums and ruins invite deeper exploration. After dusk, the city lights reflect on the Seyhan River, and the scent of kebab (and orange blossoms in spring) drifts through the evening air. In Adana one can experience the full sweep of Anatolian history and the pulsating life of a modern Turkish metropolis. For all these reasons – plus its genuine warmth – Adana remains relevant and fascinating to locals and visitors alike. It is a city where past and present meet on bustling streets, and it invites anyone to discover its layers of culture.