MileHacker Logo
Things to Do in Adana

Things to Do in Adana

Adana Turkey Travel Guide

Nature Activities in Adana

Adana's diverse landscapes offer lots of activities for outdoor lovers.

Hiking & Trekking

Kapıkaya Canyon

Accessible hiking trails along the Çakıt Stream, suitable for from easy to intermediate walks. For experienced trekkers, more challenging routes go into the chasm.

Aladağlar National Park

Part of the Taurus Mountains, this park features multi-day treks, high-altitude climbing, and alpine routes (difficult, need guides/gear). Shorter, easier walks are possible in lower sections.

Seyhan Dam Lake Perimeter

Gives easy, flat walking and cycling paths, fine for a relaxed outdoor experience within the city surroundings.

Water & Adventure Sports

  • Seyhan Dam Lake: Boating, kayaking, and fishing are popular activities. Some private clubs may have waterskiing or wakeboarding.
  • Mediterranean Coast (Karataş, Yumurtalık): About an hour's drive south, these coastal the towns have swimming, sunbathing, and simple beach activities.
  • Rafting: Depending on water levels, rafting is at times possible on the Çakıt Stream in Kapıkaya Canyon, giving an exhilarating experience.
  • Paragliding: Some spots in the surrounding mountains may have paragliding opportunities, typically organized by local clubs, with stunning views.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Birdwatching: Seyhan Dam Lake and Akyatan Lagoon are important bird areas.
  • Aladağlar National Park: Experienced hikers may spot diverse mountain wildlife.
  • Especially good during migration seasons.
  • Includes wild goats and many bird species.

Cycling Routes

  • Seyhan River Promenades: Extensive paths for leisurely cycling within the city.
  • Kapıkaya Canyon: Mountain biking trails for all skill levels on rugged terrain.
  • Street Biking: Routes through the flat Çukurova Plain or in the direction of the Taurus foothills.
  • Appreciate beautiful rides.

Explore with Guides

  • For challenging treks or adventure sports, consider experienced local guides.
  • GetYourGuide offers tours and activities. Find activities here.
  • Safety and local knowledge are important.
  • Maximize your adventure.

Safety Warning

Always check weather conditions and inform someone of your route for outdoor activities, especially hiking and adventure sports.

Cultural Immersion: Dive into Adana's Heritage

Engage directly with Adana's rich culture through workshops, performances, and local interactions.

Workshops & Learning

  • Traditional Crafts: Local cultural centers or private workshops may have courses in carpet weaving, pottery, or calligraphy. Inquire locally.
  • Kebab Cooking Classes: Some restaurants or culinary schools may have hands-on Adana Kebab making experiences.
  • Language Learning: Turkish language schools or private tutors may have short-term courses for travelers.
  • Community-Based Tourism: Not as common in city, more in rural towns for understanding agricultural life.

Cultural Performances & Events

Concerts & Theater

The Çukurova State Symphony Orchestra performs orchestral performances regularly. The Adana State Theater hosts regular plays.

Traditional Shows

Some cultural centers might host occasional Whirling Dervish (Sema) performances, presenting a a soulful experience.

Annual Festivals

Adana International Film Festival (Altın Koza Film Festivali) during The month of september. Adana Lezzet Festivali (Adana Taste Festival) in autumn.

Relaxation & Wellness

Many mid-range to luxury hotels have spa facilities (hammam, saunas, massage). Private wellness centers exist. Hammam is a traditional cleansing and relaxation experience.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Adana's evenings present live music venues (restaurants, cafes, bars), theater, and cultural performances. Limited nightclubs, mostly in Çukurova. Many eateries stay open late.

Shopping & Markets

Explore Kazancılar Çarşısı (historic market) for local crafts, spices, and traditional goods. Primary retail malls for brands. Souvenirs: pepper flakes, şalgam suyu, cezerye.

Shopping & Markets: Souvenirs and Local Goods

Explore Adana's markets and shops for one-of-a-kind keepsakes, local crafts, plus fresh market goods.

Traditional Markets & Crafts

  • Kazancılar Çarşısı (Kazancılar Bazaar): Historic market for local crafts, spices, traditional goods, and food.
  • Büyük Saat Çarşısı (Great A Tower with a clock Bazaar): Around the clock tower, it comprises clothing and household items.
  • Semt Pazarı (Neighborhood Markets): Open on specific days in diverse areas, containing fresh produce, textiles, and household goods.
  • Artisan Workshops: Find coppersmiths and tinsmiths at work in Kazancılar Çarşısı for handcrafted metal items.

Souvenir Ideas & Ethical Shopping

Top Souvenirs

Spices (especially red pepper flakes / pul biber), local honey, Şalgam Suyu concentrate, Cezerye (carrot-based Turkish delight), local textiles, copperware, Evil Eye charms.

Ethical Guidelines

Support local artisans directly at bazaars. Bargain respectfully. Be mindful of the origin of animal products like leather.

Luxury & Boutique

Major shopping malls like Optimum Outlet & Shopping Center and Adana Park AVM have international and Turkish brands.

Shipping & Customs Information

Shipping Large Items

Major international courier services (DHL, FedEx, UPS) are available in Adana. Turkish Post (PTT) offers an inexpensive alternative for smaller packages.

Customs Awareness

Be aware of duty-free allowances and restrictions for your home country on items like tobacco, alcohol, and certain goods to avoid issues upon re-entry.

Check Regulations

Always confirm specific customs regulations for items you plan to purchase and ship.

Planning Your Cultural & Shopping Itinerary

Integrate cultural experiences and shopping excursions into your Adana visit.

Cultural Engagement Highlights

  • Explore artisan workshops in Kazancılar Çarşısı.
  • Take a kebab cooking class for a hands-on experience.
  • Be present at the Adana Taste Festival if visiting in autumn.
  • Indulge in a traditional Hammam (Turkish bath) for relaxation.

Shopping Excursion Ideas

Morning Bazaar Trip

Visit Kazancılar Çarşısı early for locally made crafts and spices when it is less crowded.

Afternoon Mall Exploration

Head to Optimum Outlet or Adana Park AVM for modern labels and entertainment.

Evening Souvenir Hunt

Browse shops near the Great A Tower with a clock for distinctive souvenirs and local delights.

Art Galleries & Exhibitions

Adana State Fine Arts Gallery hosts diverse exhibitions. Check local listings for private gallery shows for contemporary Turkish art.

Live Music & Performance

Enjoy traditional Turkish music (Fasıl) at local restaurants. The Çukurova State Symphony Orchestra performs classical concerts regularly.

Late-Night Cafes & Bars

  • Many Adana restaurants and cafes stay open late for meals and drinks.
  • Explore bars near Atatürk Caddesi or in Çukurova for evening entertainment.
  • Patisseries offer a more tranquil, sweet ending to the day.
  • Enjoy a leisurely Adana evening.
  • Shopping Tips & Advice

    Bargaining in Bazaars
    • Bargaining is expected in traditional markets (bazaars).
    • Always do so politely and with a smile.
    • It's part of the cultural experience, enjoy the interaction.
    Supporting Local
    • Purchase items directly from artisans.
    • This helps support their craft and the local economy.
    • Look for unique, handmade items that reflect Adana's heritage.

    Important Shopping Note

    When purchasing local products, especially groceries or textiles, inquire about their origin and preparation methods to get a appreciation for the local culture.

    Activity Planning Summary

    Outdoor Exploration

    • Take a long walk or trek in Kapıkaya Canyon.
    • Enjoy boating or kayaking on Seyhan Dam Lake.
    • Go birding at Akyatan Lagoon.
    • Pedal along the scenic Seyhan River promenades.

    Cultural Engagement

    • Take a traditional crafts workshop.
    • Experience an Adana Kebab cooking class.
    • Attend the Adana Taste Festival (seasonal).
    • Relax in a traditional Anatolian Hammam.