Places to Visit and See in Adana: Famous Spots and Dishes

Adana, located in the south of Turkey, is a city renowned for its historical and cultural richness. Known especially for its cuisine, historical structures, and natural beauty, Adana offers numerous attractions for travelers to explore. In this article, we will extensively cover places to visit in Adana, its famous dishes, and unique aspects of the city.

Places to Visit in Adana: A Blend of History and Nature

Adana’s history dates back to ancient times, and this historical richness is evident in the city’s buildings and monuments. For nature lovers, Adana also offers exceptional beauty with its various travel routes.

1. Taşköprü (Stone Bridge)

One of Adana’s most iconic structures is the Taşköprü (Stone Bridge), located over the Seyhan River. Built during the Roman era, this bridge is one of the oldest bridges still in use in the world. It is an ideal spot to enjoy the peaceful view of the Seyhan River.

2. Adana Ulu Camii (Great Mosque)

For those who appreciate historical and religious architecture, Adana Ulu Camii is an important stop. Built in the 16th century during the Ramazanoğlu Principality, this mosque showcases beautiful examples of Islamic art. With its courtyard and architecture, the Great Mosque reflects the soul of the city and is one of the most visited places.

3. Adana Archaeological Museum

For those who want to learn more about Adana’s history, Adana Archaeological Museum is a must-see. Covering a broad timeline from the Paleolithic period to the Ottoman Empire, this museum exhibits the historical wealth of the region.

4. Atatürk Park

For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Adana, Atatürk Park is a green oasis located in the heart of the city. You can take a walk among the trees and find peace by the pond. The park is also an essential part of the city’s social life.

5. Seyhan Dam Lake

For nature lovers, Seyhan Dam Lake offers one of the city’s most beautiful views. You can take a walk along the lake, organize bicycle tours, or dine at the restaurants surrounding the lake. Water sports activities on the lake also provide visitors with a unique experience.

6. Varda Bridge (German Bridge)

For those who want to see both historical and natural beauty, Varda Bridge is located in Adana’s Karaisalı district. This bridge, built by German engineers during the Ottoman period, is a popular spot, especially for train trips and nature photographers.

Famous Dishes of Adana: Culinary Culture

Adana is a city renowned for its cuisine both in Turkey and around the world. Especially known for its meat dishes, Adana has a rich culinary tradition.

1. Adana Kebab

When thinking of Adana, the first dish that comes to mind is Adana Kebab. Finely ground lamb is mixed with special spices, placed on skewers, and cooked over charcoal. It is served with sumac onions, greens, and roasted peppers. Adana Kebab leaves an unforgettable taste on the palate.

2. Şalgam (Turnip Juice)

One of the best drinks to accompany Adana Kebab is şalgam. This fermented drink made from black carrots pairs perfectly with kebabs and other meat dishes. Şalgam is an indispensable part of Adana’s culinary culture.

3. Bici Bici

A summer must-have in Adana, Bici Bici is a refreshing dessert. Made with crushed ice topped with starch and syrup, this cooling dessert is commonly consumed on Adana’s hot summer days.

4. Analı Kızlı

Another famous dish from Adana is Analı Kızlı, made from bulgur meatballs cooked in meat broth. It contains both large meatballs (mothers) and small meatballs (daughters). It is both filling and incredibly delicious.

5. Liver (Ciğer)

Eating liver for breakfast is one of Adana’s most unique customs. Liver skewers, served with lavash, onion, sumac, and greens, bring a distinctive flavor to breakfast, making it a must-try in Adana.

6. Karakuş Dessert

In Adana’s dessert section, Karakuş Dessert holds a special place. Made by filling thinly rolled pastry with walnuts and frying it before drenching it in syrup, this dessert is commonly prepared during holidays and special occasions.

Activities to Do in Adana

In Adana, besides sightseeing and eating, you can also participate in the city’s activities.

• Orange Blossom Carnival: Held in April, the Orange Blossom Carnival is one of the most colorful events in Adana. Attracting both local and international tourists, this carnival includes various concerts, street events, and exhibitions.
• Nature Walks and Bicycle Tours: The nature trails and bicycle routes surrounding Adana are must-see opportunities for nature lovers. Especially the Karaisalı district offers walking trails that allow for an immersive experience with nature.
• Boat Tour on the Seyhan River: Flowing through the heart of Adana, the Seyhan River offers a boat tour experience within the city. You can enjoy the view from the surrounding restaurants or take a short tour along the river.