Cilician Plains Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and visually stunning Cilician Plains in Turkey. Plan your trip with our guide and explore its natural and historical attractions.


Introduction to Cilician Plains

Situated in the Mediterranean region of Turkey, the Cilician Plains offer a unique blend of rugged landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture. This region, also known as Cukurova, has been inhabited for thousands of years and boasts a rich and complicated history.

The rugged Taurus Mountains make up the eastern boundary of the region, while the flat Cilician Plains stretch west towards the Mediterranean Sea. From ancient ruins to natural wonders, Cilician Plains have it all, making it a perfect travel destination for all types of travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Cilician Plains

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Adana Museum of Archaeology: The museum boasts an immense collection of artifacts from the Paleolithic to Ottoman eras.
  • Tarsus Gözlükule Archaeological Site: This ancient Hittite city was rediscovered in the 1930s and is now a popular attraction.
  • Ceyhan Stone Bridge: The 1,900-year-old Roman bridge spans the Ceyhan River and is one of the longest-lasting Roman civil engineering works in Turkey.

Natural Attractions of Cilician Plains: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Karaisali Altinoluk Waterfall: A stunning waterfall surrounded by lush flora, perfect for a family outing.
  • Kapikaya Canyon: A picturesque natural canyon, spans around 24 km long, attracting countless adventurers and nature lovers.
  • Cukurova Delta: One of the largest deltas in the country, the area is the perfect spot to observe hundreds of different bird species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cilician Plains

  • Arslanli Canyon Trail: A 14 km-long trail in the Taurus Mountains with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Karatas Beach Hiking Trail: A short hike up to the top of the hill above Karatas beach offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the area.
  • Andirin, Yumurtalik Nature Trail: A 15 km walking trail through the olive groves, forests, gardens, and villages of the area.

Best Things to Do in Cilician Plains: Activities and Tours

  • Take a boat trip down the Ceyhan River, exploring the pristine delta and the wetlands of the Adana province.
  • Visit the Adana Merkez Park for a family picnic, ride on the train or watch colorful water fountains.
  • Check out one of the many local festivals, including the Adana Golden Boll Film Festival, the Aladağlar National Park Festival, and the Tarsus Camel Wrestling Festival.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cilician Plains

Day 1: Visit Adana and explore the historic city center.

Day 2: Visit Ceyhan Stone Bridge, followed by a boat trip along the Ceyhan River, visiting the bird-watching areas.

Day 3: Go on the Andirin, Yumurtalik Nature Trail, explore nearby villages and eat local cuisine.

Day 4: Explore ancient ruins of Tarsus, visit Tarsus Grand Mosque and St. Paul’s Church, and check out Tarsus Waterfall.

Day 5: Visit the Gözlükule Archaeological Site, followed by swimming at Silifke Beach and then exploring Kapikaya Canyon.

Day 6: Visit the Karaisali Altinoluk Waterfall, followed by camping at the campsite next to the waterfall.

Day 7: Relax in Adana Merkez Park, visit the Adana Museum of Archaeology, and enjoy the local culture.

Food and Drink Scene of Cilician Plains

Must-Try Dishes

  • Adana Kebap: A local specialty, a spicy meat dish served with flatbread and sumac onions.
  • Icli Kofte: Burghul-crust meatballs with a spiced filling of ground beef, onions, and walnuts.
  • Yaprak Sarma: Grape leaves stuffed with lentils, rice, and herbs.

Local Beverages

  • Şalgam juice: Fermented turnip juice, often served with Adana Kebap.
  • Rakı: Traditional Turkish drink that is usually served with seafood and salad.

Where to Stay in Cilician Plains: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Divan Adana: Luxury hotel located in the heart of Adana.
  • Adana Hiltonsa: Another luxury hotel with stunning views of the Seyhan River.
  • Hotel Senbayrak: A budget-friendly option located in Tarsus.

What to Buy in Cilician Plains: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Kilim rugs: Hand-woven rugs with geometric patterns used for decorative purposes.
  • Tantuni spices: A blend of spices used in the popular Tantuni dish.
  • Pistachios: The region is known for its delicious pistachios which are the perfect snack and souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Cilician Plains

The Cilician Plains have a rich history, dating back to ancient times. The region has been influenced by various cultures and civilizations throughout history, evidenced by the many ruins and landmarks scattered throughout the area. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by Arab, Armenian and Greek cuisine, providing a unique blend of flavors.

Best Time to Visit Cilician Plains

The best time to visit the Cilician Plains is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons when the temperature is mild, and the crowds are fewer. Summer months can be hot, humid, and crowded, while winters can be chilly and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cilician Plains

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions while exploring the area.
  • Try local cuisine and experience different flavors.
  • Take necessary precautions before exploring natural attractions or hiking trails.

Don’t:

  • Don’t make inappropriate comments or gestures towards locals or their culture.
  • Don’t litter or damage historical sites or natural parks.
  • Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and water for outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cilician Plains

The Cilician Plains are a safe place for tourists, but as with any travel destination, it is essential to take necessary precautions. Stay vigilant in crowded areas and always lock your doors and windows when staying in hotels.

Health in Cilician Plains

It is recommended to get vaccinated against Hepatitis A and B before traveling to Turkey, especially if you plan to indulge in street food. Use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth, especially in rural areas.

Getting to Cilician Plains: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cilician Plains

  • Adana Şakirpaşa Airport - located 4 km away from Adana city center, it is well connected with major Turkish cities.

Bus Stations Near Cilician Plains

  • Adana Central Bus Station - located in the heart of Adana city. Regular bus services are available from major Turkish cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Bursa.

Other Options

  • Private Taxis: Private cabs and taxis are available for intercity travel and are ideal for exploring remote areas.

How to Get Around in Cilician Plains

Bus services are available between major towns and cities in the region. However, hiring a car or taxi is the best option to explore the area independently.

Where to Go Next from Cilician Plains: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Aladaglar National Park: Famous among hikers, Aladaglar is a mountain range located north of the Cilician Plains, and it is known for its high peaks, stunning lakes, and unique flora and fauna.
  • Kizkalesi: A coastal town with picturesque beaches, It is located in the South of the Cilician Plains.
  • Antioch: Once a powerful ancient city, Antioch is now a UNESCO Heritage Site boasting stunning Roman ruins and impressive mosaics.

Conclusion

The Cilician Plains offer an authentic Turkish experience, giving travelers a glimpse of the country’s rich past, rugged landscapes, and vibrant culture. From natural wonders to ancient ruins, the Cilician Plains have something for everyone. Plan your trip, follow our guide, and explore this stunning corner of Turkey!

A tent belonging to one of the last ''Yörük'' nomads of Turkey, above the tree line in the Anti-Taurus (''Aladağ'') Mountains A tent belonging to one of the last ''Yörük'' nomads of Turkey, above the tree line in the Anti-Taurus (''Aladağ'') Mountains Varda Viaduct, spanning over a ravine in the Taurus Mountains, was built in 1912 as part of the Berlin–Baghdad railway project. It still conveys freighter and passenger traffic between Central Anatolia Varda Viaduct, spanning over a ravine in the Taurus Mountains, was built in 1912 as part of the Berlin–Baghdad railway project. It still conveys freighter and passenger traffic between Central Anatolia


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