Adana to Izmir: Discovering Anatolia in 7 Days

This seven-day route stretching from the south of Turkey to the Aegean is designed for those who want to explore the rich history and natural beauties of Anatolia. A different atmosphere, a different heritage awaits you in each city. On this journey, you will follow deep traces from Ancient Rome to Seljuk, from Ottoman to Byzantine, and enjoy diverse geographies.

Bahri Pasha Fountain

When you step into Adana, your first stop is the Bahri Pasha Fountain, right next to Atatürk Park. This Ottoman monumental fountain, built in 1901 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Abdülhamit II's ascension to the throne, offers a historical touch in the city center. Then, move on to Yılankale, built on a steep hill overlooking the Ceyhan River. This medieval castle is also associated with the legend of Şahmeran and offers breathtaking views of the Ceyhan River and the Çukurova Plain. After Yılankale, head to the Anavarza Ancient City, one of the important centers of the Roman Empire in Cilicia. With its massive area of approximately 1,300 hectares, standing walls, and castle, Anavarza is one of the most impressive open-air museums in Çukurova.

Tomb of Prophet Daniel (Makam-ı Danyal Mosque)

The Tomb of Prophet Daniel in Tarsus, Mersin, is a revered site in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions. The mosque, built in 1857, is one of Anatolia's spiritually significant pilgrimage sites. Right next to it, the Tomb and Masjid of Bilal-i Habeshi is built on the spot where it is believed that Bilal-i Habeshi, the muezzin of Prophet Muhammad, recited the adhan in the 7th century. End your day at Tarsus Waterfall. This waterfall on the Berdan River offers a pleasant break with its cool air and breakfast areas with waterfall views.

Antioch Greek Orthodox Church

The Antioch Greek Orthodox Church in Hatay is one of the oldest Eastern Orthodox churches in the world after Jerusalem. This structure, bearing the early traces of Christian history, is one of the fundamental elements of the city's multicultural fabric. Right next to it, the Antioch Catholic Church also serves as an active place of worship. You can also visit the Habib-i Neccar Mosque, known as the first mosque in Anatolia. This historical building, restored after the 2023 earthquake, was built on an ancient pagan temple. To get to know Hatay's rich history more closely, visit the Hatay City Museum. The museum exhibits the cultural identity and local life from the Hellenistic period to the Ottoman era.

Kayseri Clock Tower

In Kayseri, the Clock Tower in Cumhuriyet Square is a cut-stone structure built in 1906. Together with the Muvakkithane next to it, it is a beautiful example of Ottoman urban architecture. The Sahabiye Madrasah, located directly opposite, was built in the Seljuk period in 1267-68 and stands out with its stone craftsmanship on the crown gate. You should also visit the Kurşunlu Mosque, the only work of Mimar Sinan in Kayseri that has survived to the present day. Completed in 1585, the mosque is known for its lead-covered dome. Finally, see the Döner Kümbet on Talas Street. This cylindrical tomb, built in 1276 for Şah Cihan Hatun, is one of the unique examples of Seljuk stone craftsmanship with its floral and geometric reliefs.

Aksaray Museum

When you arrive in Aksaray, start with the Aksaray Museum on Konya Street. This museum, housing over 15,000 artifacts from the Neolithic period to the Ottoman era, stands out with its architecture inspired by Seljuk kümbets and Cappadocia fairy chimneys. Then, move on to Acemhöyük, 18 km northwest of Aksaray. An Early Bronze Age settlement dating back to 3000 BC, the mound is one of the largest mounds in Central Anatolia with its palace ruins and ivory artifacts. Complete your day at Çanlı Kilise (Bell Church). This Byzantine-era rock-cut structure, rising on Monasteries Hill within the borders of Akhisar village, holds historical importance with the mummies found inside and its layered architecture.

Mevlana Museum

In Konya, located in the heart of the city, the Mevlana Museum houses the tomb of the 13th-century mystic Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi and the Mevlevi lodge. This free museum, a symbol of the city with its green tiled dome, offers a spiritual journey. Then, visit the Şems-i Tebrizi Mosque and Tomb, the close friend of Mevlana. The tomb, bearing the simple traces of Seljuk architecture, stands silently amidst the peaceful greenery of Şems Park. You should also see the Alaeddin Mosque, one of the earliest architectural structures in Konya. Located on Alaeddin Hill, this mosque was started in 1116 and completed in 1221. Finally, stop by the Sırçalı Madrasah. This Seljuk madrasah, built in 1242, takes its name from the tile coverings used in its decorations.

Izmir Bird Paradise

Izmir Bird Paradise, in the Gediz Delta in the Çiğli district, is a large nature conservation area home to 289 bird species. Here you can observe flamingos and crested pelicans and cycle on the 22 km bike path. Then, move on to Görece-Boncukköy in the Menderes district. This village, founded by glass masters who came from Arabia about 200 years ago, is known for its traditional evil eye bead production. Your last stop is Bornova. With its 19th-century Levantine mansions, the ancient traces of Yeşilova Höyüğü, and the breakfast culture in the mansion gardens, Bornova represents a different face of Izmir. Here you can both explore history and take a pleasant break.

Throughout this seven-day route, don't forget to taste the unique flavors of each city and chat with the local people. For intercity travel, you can consider public transport options such as buses or trains. Choosing central hotels in each city for accommodation will make it easier to explore the city in the evenings. Have a good trip!

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