Adana

Nestled on the banks of Turkey’s Seyhan River, Adana is a beautiful city steeped in history and culture. With lots to see and do, Adana is a city that has been charming its visitors and residents for over 8,000 years. 

You can fly direct from Stansted to southern Turkey with Pegasus Airlines who operate year-round flights, or SunExpress who run seasonal schedules. During the warmer months between March and October, the number of flights available also increases. You’ll arrive at the ultra-modern Çukurova International Airport (COV). This replaced the old city-centre airport, ADA, so it’s worth noting if you’ve flown this route before. The average flight duration from Stansted to Adana is around 4 hours 30 minutes. 

Perfect for nature lovers, Adana has long been known for its sprawling fruit orchards, particularly its pomegranate tree. Take a trip to one of these beautiful locations to learn all about the fruit’s significance within the city and how they’re tended to, grown, and used by the farmers and residents. Freshly squeezed pomegranate juice is a must-try staple of the region. 

In the city itself, immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of daily life with visits to winding marketplaces filled with artisanal goods and delicious local delicacies like the iconic Adana kebab grilled over open coals. Consisting of minced lamb hand-kneaded with tail fat and hot chilli, be sure to eat it alongside Şalgam (a sharp, spicy fermented purple carrot and turnip juice) and fresh flatbreads for the ultimate Turkish experience. 

Don’t forget to make time to visit some of Adana’s cultural landmarks such as the Sabanci Central Mosque, the second-largest mosque in all of Turkey, a marvel of architecture and Islamic artistry. Other must-sees include the historical sites and ruins along the Silk Road, an ancient network of trade routes. 

With its vibrant blend of new and old, Adana is a fantastic choice for holidaymakers seeking an authentic Turkish experience filled with fun, food, history, and culture.