Budget Travel to Adana 2024
Welcome To Adana
Adana is a city in southern Turkey with a long and fascinating history. It is near the Seyhan River, the Taurus Mountains, and the Mediterranean Sea. For millennia, this fertile location has been a key trading hub.
Over the years, many civilisations have shaped Adana, like the Hittites, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Many of them have left a mark on the city’s buildings, traditions, and way of life. Today, with over 2.2 million people, Adana is the county´s fifth largest city and the gateway to southeast Turkey.
Adana is a city I know well; I have visited it many times over the years. In my opinion, the city reminds me of a mini Istanbul. It´s full of energy and very busy. I can’t say that it’s the most beautiful city in Turkey, but it’s definitely worth visiting for two or three days, especially to savour the city’s wonderful gastronomy. In my opinion, it´s the ideal place to start off a tour of southeast Turkey.
Key Takeaways
- Adana may not be the most beautiful city in Turkey, but it still has a lot to offer visitors.
- There are several historical and cultural landmarks, including the Ancient Stone Bridge, Adana Clock Tower, and Adana Sabanci Mosque.
- Adana has a lively nightlife and is famous for its delicious local cuisine, including dishes like Adana Kebab.
- There are plenty of nearby natural wonders to see, such as Seyhan Lake, the Taurus Mountains, and the Kapikaya Canyon. So it´s a good idea to start planning your itinerary before arriving.
- With a favourable exchange rate and budget-friendly options, Adana is an ideal destination for those seeking an affordable base to visit other areas of southeast Turkey.
Where is Adana?
Adana is located in the heart of the Mediterranean region. It sits by the Seyhan River, about 85 kilometres from the port city of Mersin and the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. The city is 930 kilometres from Istanbul and just over 600 kilometres from Antalya.
If you are coming from Ankara (500 km) or Cappadocia (270 km), the roads are excellent, and bus travel is definitely a good option, with some beautiful mountain scenery along the way.
Map of Adana
Top Attractions in Adana
Adana is full of history and culture, and there are many attractions that are worth seeing. You can see nearly everything in the city in two or three days. You can extend your stay if you plan to take some day trips to nearby destinations. Here are some of the main attractions that represent the best of Adana.
Taşköprü (Stone Bridge)
Pedestrians can still cross a stone bridge that spans the River Seyhan, dating back to Roman times (385 AD). It is just one example of how the city’s ancient history remains alive. Walking across the bridge, taking in the city views, and taking photos is a fantastic experience. The bridge glows beautifully at night. It is one of the best free attractions in the city.
Sabanci Central Mosque
Turkey’s second-largest mosque, with six minarets, is one of the city’s most famous icons. Despite its recent construction in 1998, the mosque boasts magnificent interior and exterior decorations, making it a highly recommended visit. Entrance is free (try to go in the morning before noon prayer time).
Adana Archaeology Museum
The Adana Archaeology Museum is excellent for history lovers. Many artefacts excavated in this part of Turkey give visitors a wonderful insight into Adana’s past. It opened in 1924 and houses a wide range of historical items from the Hittite to the Ottoman era. The Adana Museum is fascinating and worth a visit. However, if you are a lover of Roman mosaics, perhaps the Zeugma museum in Gaziantep is a better option.
The entrance fee for the Adana museum is around 5 euros, and it will take around an hour or so to see everything without rushing. If you want to buy the Mediterranean Museum E-pass, it will cost you 90 euros for 7 days. This is only a good option if you intend to visit many of the historical sites in this part of Turkey on an intensive trip.
Ethnography Museum
This small museum is housed in a Old Greek Church and adjacent house, this museum teaches you about the local culture and heritage of the city. There are plenty of wax models that are dressed in typical historical clothing as well as fascinating traditional items. It is located on Ziyapaşa Blvd and costs just a couple of euros to entre.
Seyhan Central Park
Seyhan Central Park, located in the heart of Adana, is a tranquil spot and one of my favourite places in the city. It’s a green space that offers a break from all of the noise and traffic. You’ll find lush, well-maintained gardens with plenty of walking and cycling paths. There are several narrow suspension bridges that allow you to cross the river on foot, or you can even take a gondola ride along the river.
If you’d like to go on a picnic, you can buy some delicious and inexpensive food from a bakery or supermarket and take it there for a cheap and relaxing meal while enjoying the peace and quiet. There are also lots of tea gardens right next to the river, where you can sit and enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee and a piece of baklava dessert.
Atatürk Mansion
This Ottoman mansion is dedicated t the the life of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye and is filled with many of his personal items and artefacts. It is located next to the rive and is worth a quick visit if you are interested in learning more about him and Turkish history. Entrance fee is less than 1 euro.
Great Clock Tower (Büyük Saat)
This 32-metre Ottoman clock tower is the highest in Turkey, and it is considered one of the city’s main icons. It is located on Ali Munif Street in Adana city center. Renovated in 2013, this historical area boasts a nearby bazaar, renowned for its delicious street food stores and excellent shopping opportunities.
Grand Mosque and Bazaar
The 16th-century Grand Mosque is another fantastic mosque to visit and is located not far from the Clock Tower. To avoid prayer time, it is best to visit the mosque in the morning. Entrance is free. The Grand Mosque complex connects to the bazaar, which dates back to the same period. It is a great shopping experience, and you can combine it with a visit to this beautiful mosque.
Ramazanoğlu Mansion
The Ramazanoğlu Mansion is another top spot in Adana and is located quite near the Grand Mosque. It’s an Ottoman-era mansion that takes you back in time. It dates back to 1495 and was originally the family home of Adana’s ruling family. It is now a cultural centre, and you can see its beautiful architecture and learn about local history. The entrance is just a few euros and is open from 9-5 pm.
Lake Seyhan and Dam
Built in 1956, the Seyhan Dam, located 8 kilometres out of town, formed what is now known as Lake Seyhan. These days, people enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming here. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy nature.
There are also beautiful trails that allow you to walk along the lakeside or visit the dam itself. The trails offer excellent views of the lake and city, making them the perfect spot for people looking for a peaceful place away from the city.There are some nice bars and restaurants located around the lake, where you can watch the sunset from balconies while having something to eat or drink. If you want to visit the lake, getting there is not easy, especially if you don´t have a car.
You can get there by taking the orange bus to Çukurova University, which is very near. As it takes 20 minutes to get there from the city, a taxi may be expensive. If you are staying for a few days, a visit to the lake should be part of your trip to Adana.
Day Trips from Adana
Adana is an excellent place to start exploring Southeast Turkey. Adana serves as an excellent starting point for exploring both nearby spots and distant destinations. On a recent trip, I stopped at Adana on my way from Cappadocia to Sanliurfa. It was a wonderful way to break up the long bus journey, do some sightseeing, and, of course, visit some of my favourite Adana kebab restaurants.
Tarsus
Tarsus is an interesting day trip from Adana; it´s close by, just under 50 km. You can see ancient ruins like the Cleopatra Gate and St. Paul’s Well here. It’s where the apostle Paul was baptized. The old town is quite nice, offering a glimpse into the authentic life of a small Turkish town. You only need to stay a few hours in the town to see everything.
Mersin
Mersin is another good day trip. This city is a major port, but it also has some popular beaches. However, you have to travel quite far from the city centre by bus to get to the best beaches. There are some fascinating attractions in Mersin, such as Pompeipolis (Roman ruins). There is also the lively Mersin Marina with its trendy shops and restaurants. You can walk along the seafront promenade for about 6 km, visit the Mersin Archaeology Museum and the nearby Naval Museum, or even go on a boat trip. The city is famous for its local dish called Tantuni (similar to a burrito), and of course there are also plenty of excellent fish restaurants.
The best way to get from Adana to Tarsus and then continue to Mersin is by train. It’s a nice and very affordable journey, just a few euros each way, and they run frequently throughout the day from the Adana Central Train Station.
Karataş Beach
Karataş is the closest beach to Adana, located about 60 km from the city. You can get there by taking a bus from the Adana Central Bus station, which costs just a few euros each way. It can get very busy there during the summer months.
Taurus Mountains
For those visitors who love nature, the Taurus Mountains are also nearby Adana. They have beautiful views, hiking paths, and charming villages. It’s a peaceful break from the city. Renting a car is the best way to see this amazing mountain range. There are many scenic roads that go through rugged areas and green forests.
Kapikaya Canyon & Varda Viaduct
Another wonderful place to visit on a day trip is the Kapikaya Canyon. It is located about 1h.30m from Adana, and again, you will need to hire a car. This is a beautiful spot for hiking, and there are plenty of amazing natural sights to see along the Kapıçay River. From the canyon, you can also see the famous Varda Viaduct, a German Railway Bridge that crosses the canyon.
Anavarza Castle and Yilankale Castle
The ancient castle at Anavarza, located about 80 km from Adana, was a famous city for medicine during the Hellenistic period. It’s a wonderful spot for those who love history and culture, and it is a recognised UNESCO site. However, you will need to get a rental car to get there.
If you are looking for a castle that is nearer, you could always visit the Armenian 13th-century Yilankale (Snake) Castle, which is located in the nearby town of Ceyhan.
Budget Accommodation in Adana
For those on a budget, Adana has many affordable accommodation options, including hotels and hostels and apartment rentals. In general, the city is less expensive than many other larger Turkish cities, and with the weak Turkish lira, it is often possible to find well-priced vacation rentals or hotels.
Where to Stay in Adana
Adana has two main areas of the city, which are popular for accommodation: Seyhan and Çukurova and the surrounding areas. Apart from luxury hotels like the Adana Hiltonsa and the Divan Adana, there are other much cheaper options, such as the Ibis Adana, which sometimes has great offers.
Hostels, Budget Hotels, Guest Houses, and Apartment Rentals
Adana Hostel 1 is one of the cheapest, but it doesn’t have very good reviews and is probably not your best choice.
Unver Hotel is an excellent budget hotel that even has a small pool, which during the summer months will be a blessing.
Another option is Hotel Adana, which is clean and includes breakfast for around the same price.
Another cheap option for solo travellers is to rent a room with a local host on Airbnb. This often works out at about the same price as a good hostel. You can rent an entire apartment if you are more than one person travelling.
When choosing where to stay in Adana, you should check out different options on booking sites, such as booking.com. This way, you can find excellent deals and read reviews. Doing your homework helps you pick a place that’s both comfortable and affordable. For more information on finding affordable housing, check out our budget accommodation guide.
Budget Flights to Adana
Several budget airlines, such as Ajet, Sunexpress, and Pegasus, offer both national and international flights to Adana. Turkish Airlines tend to be more expensive, unless you buy in a sale or well in advance. Most of the European flights go to Germany, although there are also flights to the UK and Belgium. There are also several flights to the Middle East and Cyprus. Check the air travel guide in Turkey for more information.
Istanbul (IST) – Adana 1h.35m Turkish Airways
Istanbul (SAW) – Adana 1h.30m Pegasus
Ankara – Adana 1h.05m Pegasus
Antalya – Adana 1h.05m Pegasus
Berlin – Adana – 3h.20m Eurowings
London Stanstead 4h.35m Sunexpress
Doha – Adana 3h.40m Qatar Airlines
Adana Airport
Adana Şakirpaşa Airport is located about five kilometres from the city and is rather small and shabby.
There are only basic facilities in this airport, and the airport is expected to close sometime in 2024 to allow for the new Çukurova International Airport to take its place.
The new airport, which was supposed to open in 2023. It is located near the city of Tarsus, about half way between Merin and Adana. Perhaps by the time you read this guide it may be already open.
Transport from the Airport to Adana
After landing at Adana Airport, there are several ways to get into the city centre. Taxis are waiting outside, but if you walk to the main road, just a few minutes away, you will also find buses and Dolmuş minibuses, to take you to the centre of town. For a quick 5-kilometre ride to the city centre, taking a taxi is a good choice, and it will cost you about 5-7 euros to get there.
If you are planning to go to Tarsus or Mersin, there is a fantastic shuttle bus service called the Havaş that will take you there directly for around 9 euros. These comfortable buses run about every 45-60 minutes, and it takes 1h.30m to Mersin Forum Shopping Centre. You can pay cash or with a bank card. The bus stop is located on the far side of the car park. The first bus leaves at about 7 a.m.
Trains to Adana
TCDD, the Turkish National Railway company, provides train services to and from Adana. You can purchase tickets online through the website or at the station itself. It’s a good idea to book your tickets early. Some trains let you book up to 30 days before you go. Check the budget train guide for Turkey for more tips. From 2024, the train lines between Adana and Ankara and Konya are closed in preparation for the high-speed train service. However, trains to Tarsus and Mersin are still available.
Adana – Tarsus – 55m
Adana – Mersin, 1h.20m
Buses to Adana
Taking the bus is a great way to get to Adana on a budget. Many places in Turkey have connections to the city. This makes it simple to get there from different places. Buses are comfortable and cheap, making them a favourite for locals and visitors.
FlixBus (also known as Kamil Koç) and Pamukkale Buses are top choices for travelling to Adana.
On the bus, you’ll find free Wi-Fi, big seats, power outlets, and restrooms. Each ticket lets you bring one big bag and one small bag. You can pay for your tickets online, on an app, or at the bus station itself. For more information, refer to the budget bus travel guide in Turkey.
Adana – Ankara – 6 hours
Adana – Antalya – 12h.30
Adana – Istanbul – 13 hours
Adana – Gaziantep – 3h 15m
Adana – Sanliurfa – 5h.55m
Adana – Mardin – 9 hours
Adana Bus Station (Otogar)
The central bus station is located just a few kilometres from the city centre. The central bus station is a bustling location with numerous platforms. There are shops, places to eat, and the usual facilities, it´s not a particularly nice bus station, but it serves its purpose. Taxis can take you to the centre for about 5 euros, there are also very cheap buses. You can book buy your tickets at the bus station, but I prefer to buy them on an app or website, such as busbud because it is so much easier.
Transport around the city
You can explore the city using its great transportation system. You can choose from taxis, dolmuş (minibuses), or public transport, including its bus and metro network. However, many of the top sights are within easy walking distance, and I always like to explore Adana on foot whenever possible.
Once you arrive in Adana, if you plan to stay for a few days, you should probably buy a “Kent Kard.” This is a pre-paid smart card that you top up with money and use as you go. If you are only staying for a day or two, you can pay for most public transport using your contactless bank card, but the price per ride is slightly more expensive than using a Kent Kard.
Besides buses, the city has a more comfortable 13-station metro system that runs north-south. The metro is a wonderful way to avoid the traffic on the city´s busy streets. It runs from 6 a.m. to 23.30. Vilayet is the nearest metro station to the Adana Central Train station.
Adana as a Starting point to get to Southeast Turkey
If you want to explore the natural tourist areas around the city, then renting a car is your best option. Most car rental companies are located by the airport, except for Arenda which is located in the city near the river. Prices start at approximately 1500 TL per day.
Adana is also a good place for getting to other fascinating and historical cities in southeast Turkey, such as Gaziantep, Sanlifurfa, and Mardin. However, I would recommend you go to these cities by intercity buses, as they are so easy, comfortable, and inexpensive.
Shopping in Adana Budget
Adana offers a range of places for budget-friendly shopping. There are numerous markets and bazaars where you can find cheap deals on unique gifts and souvenirs.
The Adana Optimum AVM shopping centre is a popular place for shopping. It has many stores, from big brands to small, local shops. There is a larger and slightly cheaper shopping centre called M1, but it is about 15 minutes out of town. For a real shopping experience, check out the city’s traditional bazaars. Places like the Büyük Saat area show Adana’s history and culture. You can buy handmade crafts, jewellery, and textiles here.
What and where to eat in Adana
Southern Turkey is known for its amazing food, and Adana is no exception. It’s famous for the Adana kebab, a tasty ground meat dish. You can find this dish in many places, from restaurants to street food stalls. I´ve tried it in many parts of Turkey, but it was never as good as in Adana.
Of course, there are many types of kebabs to try in Turkey; for more information, check out the guide to Turkish kebabs.
Grilled liver chunks cooked on a skewer and then placed in wrap is a popular and inexpensive breakfast dish and worth trying at least once.
For a real taste of Adana, try the İçli Köfte (similar to Arabic Kibbhe), Yüksük Çorbası (Dumpling and chickpea soup) and Acılı Ekmek, a spicy bread. These are homemade dishes that show the city’s food traditions. Check out the guide to inexpensive Turkish meals for more tips.
When you order anything in a restaurant, you will fist be give several dishes that you haven´t asked for, including salad and a tomato and pepper sauce and Turkish bread. Most restaurant include this in the bill, but generally it costs very little and is very delicious and filling. You should be careful not to order too much food for your main course, as you might not be able to eat it all.
Don’t forget to try Şalgam, a sour black carrot or turnip juice, which is fermented over 10 days. This local drink is quite awful the first time you drink it, but surprisingly it becomes better each time you try it and they say it is good for your health.
For dessert, you can enjoy the Cezerye, a sweet local candy made with sweetened carrots and pistachios, or the Taş Kadayıfı, a syrupy dessert.
Istah Kebab is a low-cost, clean restaurant that serves delicious Adana kebabs. For somewhere a bit more upmarket and a little more expensive, you can try the very popular Birbiçer Kebab Restaurant. Kazanciler Restaurant is one of the most popular in the city and a great choice for an Adana kebab. Get there early to make sure you get a table.
If you are looking for street food, then you should take a look around the street vendors selling kebabs in the bazaar area. If you see plenty of locals queuing up to eat at a store, you know it will be good and well-priced.
Cafes and nightlife in Adana
Adana’s culture is more than just food. It also has a lively café and nightlife scene. You can enjoy a Turkish coffee or a glass of tea in a cosy café. People are generally very friendly and open towards foreign tourists.
Adana is a big university city, so there is plenty of nightlife. A popular nightlife area are Şinasi Efendi Street, Ziapasa Street and Turgut Ozil Boulevard, which are filled with bars and other entertainment venues. Keep in mind that alcohol is heavily taxed in Turkey, making it just as expensive, if not more, than in Western Europe.
If you are looking for something more fancy, why not check out the Adana State Theatre? It has concerts and dance shows. It’s a great way to see Adana’s arts and culture.
Best Time to Visit Adana
Adana has a Mediterranean climate; spring and autumn are perfect with nice weather and fewer people. Hotel prices tend to be more or less the same throughout the year, unlike in most coastal resorts.
Summers are too hot for comfort, and I would suggest you go there in July or August. In September, the weather begins to cool down, just in time for the International Adana Golden Boll Film Festival.
If you visit between November and February, bring warm clothes because winters are mild during the day but cold at night.
Enjoy Your Trip!
Adana isn´t a particularly pretty place; in many ways, it is a typical commercial city where people are busy going about their daily lives. However, if you look a little deeper, you will realise that the city is full of hidden gems that make it worth a short visit.
If you choose to travel to other cities in the southeast of Turkey, then Adana is also a good starting point. For food lovers, the local cuisine in Adana, and the entire southeast region, is a real bonus and another good reason for visiting this part of Turkey.