CARWIZ RENT A CAR Çukurova AIRPORT
Çukurova is not a city, but a vast, fertile plain in southern Türkiye that stretches across the provinces of Adana, Mersin, Osmaniye, and parts of Hatay. Known since antiquity as Cilicia, this region has been a cultural and agricultural heartland for millennia, shaped by Hittites, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Today, Çukurova is both an economic powerhouse and a rich cultural mosaic—an ideal destination for travelers seeking something off the beaten path.
WHAT TO DO IN Çukurova?
The landscape of Çukurova is defined by sweeping farmlands, citrus groves, and rivers like the Seyhan and Ceyhan, which nourish the soil and support one of Türkiye’s most important agricultural economies. Visitors during the harvest seasons will witness the fields alive with activity—sunflower, cotton, wheat, and watermelon being gathered under the Mediterranean sun.
Historically, Çukurova was a vital crossroads, and evidence of its past can be seen in numerous archaeological sites scattered across the region. From the ancient city of Tarsus (the birthplace of Saint Paul), to the well-preserved Roman roads and aqueducts, to hidden castles and temples deep in the hills, the region is a treasure trove of forgotten history. Nearby caves, fortresses, and ruins are often accessible with little more than a rental car and a sense of adventure.
Culturally, Çukurova is diverse and dynamic. The cuisine reflects this richness—spicy kebabs, eggplant dishes, bulgur-based salads like kısır, and regional delicacies like çiğ köfte or mumbar (stuffed intestines) tell stories of both nomadic roots and settled traditions. The region is also known for its folk music and storytelling, often celebrated in village festivals and local gatherings.
Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, tasting bold flavors in a rural village, or driving past endless rows of citrus trees, Çukurova offers a deeply authentic and grounded travel experience—one that connects the past to the present, the land to the people.
