What to See in Adana? Must-Visit Spots for First-Time Travelers

Ömer Faruk Kino
Content Editor
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Adana is one of the cities in southern Turkey waiting to be discovered, with its historical riches, natural beauty and unique culinary culture. If you are looking for the best places to visit in Adana, this guide provides detailed information on the must-see spots from the city centre to its surroundings. From Taşköprü to Sabancı Central Mosque, from Kapıkaya Canyon to Varda Bridge, this guide is the ideal starting point for those wishing to discover Adana's historical, cultural, and natural heritage. So, what to do in Adana? And what to see in Adana? Let's explore together!

1. Taşköprü — The symbol of Adana

Rising above the Seyhan River, Taşköprü is one of Adana's oldest and most iconic structures. Dating back to the Roman period, the bridge is one of the strongest symbols of the city's historical fabric. Approximately 319 metres long and 11.4 metres wide, the bridge once served both pedestrian and vehicle traffic; today, it is reserved exclusively for pedestrians. Walking across Taşköprü, you can enjoy the cool waters of the river and the surrounding historical buildings. Photographs taken at sunset offer some of the most memorable moments of your trip to Adana. You can take a short break at one of the cafés near the bridge and enjoy the river view.

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Source: Kültür Portalı

2. The Sabancı Central Mosque — The architectural pride of the city

Among the places to see in Adana, the Sabancı Central Mosque is one of the most magnificent structures of the modern era. Completed in 1998, the mosque is known as one of Turkey's largest mosques, with a capacity of 28,500 people. The mosque, which stands out with its six minarets and large dome, is a beautiful example of Neo-Ottoman architecture. The Central Park surrounding the mosque offers an ideal area for both walking and relaxing. Visitors also have the opportunity to examine the detailed stonework and dome decorations inside the mosque.

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3. Grand Clock Tower — Adana's historic centre

Built in the 19th century, the Grand Clock Tower rises in the heart of Adana city centre. Approximately 32 metres high, the tower is designed in the Neo-Baroque style and is one of the symbols of modernisation during the Ottoman period. The surrounding bazaar and historic streets offer visitors both shopping and a taste of local life. The clock tower is a particularly attractive spot for photographers and history buffs during the daytime.

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4. Ulu Mosque (Ramazanoğulları Mosque) — Traces of historical texture

Built in 1541, the Ulu Mosque is one of Adana's oldest and most historic mosques. The mosque stands out with its Seljuk and Mamluk influences, and attracts attention with its stonework and elegant minaret. The details in the courtyard and interior of the mosque offer a unique opportunity to understand the architecture of the period. Visitors can take a short break in the peaceful atmosphere of the mosque and experience the historical texture up close.

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Source: TripAdvisor

5. Kapıkaya Canyon — Immersed in Nature

Located approximately 50 kilometres from the city centre of Adana, Kapıkaya Canyon offers a unique experience for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. The canyon's hiking trails, rock climbing areas and natural pools give visitors a sense of discovery. Especially in spring and autumn, the canyon's natural colours and clean air enchant visitors. The caves located in the depths of the canyon create unique compositions for photographers.

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Source: Kültür Portalı

6. Varda Bridge (German Bridge) — An engineering marvel

Located in the Karaisalı district of Adana, Varda Bridge was built in 1912 for the Hejaz Railway. With a height of approximately 99 metres and its steel lattice masonry technique, the bridge is considered an engineering marvel. The trains passing over the historic bridge and the valley view beneath it offer visitors an unforgettable visual feast. The Varda Bridge is one of the must-see spots on any trip to Adana, especially for nature photographers and history buffs.

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7. Anavarza Ancient City — The depths of history

Located in the Kozan district, Anavarza Ancient City is an important settlement dating back to the Roman period. The city contains ruins such as an amphitheatre, baths, a church, and walls. Anavarza is a perfect discovery route for history and archaeology enthusiasts. You can walk around the vast area of the ancient city, take photos on the old walls, and feel the historical atmosphere of the region.

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Source: Turkish Museum

8. Misis Ancient City and Mosaic Museum — Art and history together

Located approximately 27 kilometres from the city centre of Adana, Misis Ancient City attracts attention with its remains from the Roman and Byzantine periods. The Misis Mosaic Museum, located in the ancient city, brings the artworks of the past to the present day. Visitors can see the colours and details of the mosaics up close and enjoy a pleasant walk among the ruins of the ancient city. Misis is one of Adana's prominent stops in terms of both history and art.

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Source: Klaus-Peter Simon

9. Bebekli Church (St. Paul's Church) — The elegance of Tepebağ

Built in the 1880s, Bebekli Church is located in the Tepebağ neighbourhood of Adana. The church, built in Italian Catholic architectural style, takes its name from the fountain with a baby figure in front of it. The church attracts visitors with both its architecture and the historical texture of its surroundings. It is among the structures that must be seen on history and culture tours. The detailed stone and woodwork inside the church offer a beautiful example of the architecture of the period.

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Source: Kültür Portalı

10. Adana Archaeology Museum — A journey into the past

Established in 1924, the Adana Archaeology Museum is one of the most important museums reflecting the history and culture of the region. The museum's collection includes artefacts dating from the Neolithic Age to the Ottoman period. Visitors can see the historical development of Adana and its surroundings step by step by touring the museum. The museum is one of the city's most comprehensive stops for history and culture enthusiasts.

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Source: Kültür Portalı

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