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Acre, ישראל - Things to Do in Acre

Things to Do in Acre

Acre, ישראל - Complete Travel Guide

Acre (Akko) is a mesmerizing ancient port city on Israel's Mediterranean coast, where 4,000 years of history unfold within remarkably preserved Crusader walls. This UNESCO World Heritage site seamlessly blends Ottoman, Crusader, and modern Israeli influences, creating one of the most atmospheric destinations in the Middle East. The old city's labyrinthine streets lead to underground Crusader halls, bustling Arab markets, and seaside fortifications that have witnessed the rise and fall of empires. Today's Acre offers visitors an authentic glimpse into the Levantine past, with its mixed Arab-Jewish population maintaining centuries-old traditions alongside modern Israeli life. The city's compact size makes it perfect for exploration on foot, while its proximity to Haifa and other northern attractions makes it an ideal base for discovering the Galilee region. From the legendary Templars' Tunnel to the vibrant Khan al-Umdan market, Acre provides an immersive historical experience unlike anywhere else in Israel.

Top Things to Do in Acre

Explore the Underground Crusader City

Descend into the remarkably preserved 12th-century Crusader halls beneath Acre's Ottoman-era buildings. These massive stone chambers once served as the headquarters of the Knights Hospitaller and showcase medieval architecture at its finest. The underground complex includes the impressive Crypt, the Knights' Halls, and archaeological exhibits that bring Crusader-era life to vivid detail.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around 27 NIS for adults with discounts for students and seniors. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat. Audio guides are included and highly recommended for understanding the complex's historical significance.

Walk Through the Templars' Tunnel

Journey through the mysterious 350-meter underground tunnel that once connected the Templars' fortress to the port. This engineering marvel, carved through solid rock in the 12th century, remained hidden for centuries before its rediscovery in 1994. The tunnel walk offers a unique perspective on medieval military architecture and strategic planning.

Booking Tip: Combined tickets with the Crusader City cost around 40 NIS and offer better value. The tunnel can be cool and damp, so bring a light jacket. Photography is allowed but lighting is dim, so adjust camera settings accordingly.

Discover Khan al-Umdan and the Markets

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Acre's Ottoman-era caravanserai and surrounding souks. Khan al-Umdan, with its distinctive clocktower, serves as the heart of the old city's commercial district where spice merchants, artisans, and local vendors continue centuries-old trading traditions. The narrow market streets offer everything from traditional handicrafts to aromatic Middle Eastern delicacies.

Booking Tip: Markets are free to explore and most active during morning hours. Bargaining is expected for souvenirs and crafts. Many vendors close during midday prayers, so plan visits for early morning or late afternoon.

Visit Al-Jazzar Mosque

Admire the largest mosque in Israel outside of Jerusalem, built in 1781 by the Ottoman governor Ahmad Pasha al-Jazzar. This stunning example of Ottoman architecture features beautiful Islamic calligraphy, intricate tile work, and peaceful courtyards. The mosque's fountain is said to contain a hair from the Prophet Muhammad's beard, making it a significant pilgrimage site.

Booking Tip: Entry is free but dress modestly with covered shoulders and long pants. Remove shoes before entering and avoid visiting during prayer times. The mosque is closed to tourists on Fridays during congregational prayers.

Stroll Along the Sea Walls and Ramparts

Walk atop Acre's impressive 18th-century fortifications for panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city's historic skyline. These Ottoman-era walls, built upon Crusader foundations, offer insight into the city's strategic maritime importance. The ramparts provide excellent photo opportunities and a refreshing sea breeze, especially beautiful at sunset.

Booking Tip: Access to the walls is free and available during daylight hours. Wear comfortable walking shoes as some sections can be uneven. The best views and photos are from the northern section facing the bay, particularly during golden hour.

Getting There

Acre is easily accessible by public transportation from major Israeli cities, located about 23 kilometers north of Haifa. Regular trains run from Tel Aviv (1.5 hours), Haifa (30 minutes), and Nahariya (15 minutes), arriving at Acre's central train station just outside the old city. Egged buses also connect Acre to destinations throughout northern Israel, with bus lines 271 and 272 providing frequent service from Haifa. For those driving, Acre is accessible via Highway 4 and Highway 85, with several parking areas available near the old city walls, though spaces can be limited during peak tourist seasons.

Getting Around

Acre's compact old city is best explored on foot, with most major attractions within a 10-15 minute walk of each other. The narrow, winding streets of the old city are largely pedestrian-only, making walking the most practical option for sightseeing. Local buses connect the train station to the old city entrance, and taxis are readily available for longer distances or when carrying luggage. For exploring the surrounding region, rental cars provide the most flexibility, while organized tours offer convenient access to nearby attractions like Rosh Hanikra or the Baha'i Gardens in Haifa.

Where to Stay

Old City Historic Quarter
Modern Acre Near Train Station
Nahariya Beach Resort Area
Haifa German Colony
Western Galilee Kibbutz Hotels
Akko Marina District

Food & Dining

Acre's culinary scene reflects its diverse cultural heritage, offering exceptional Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and traditional Arab cuisine. The old city's restaurants specialize in fresh seafood, with many establishments along the harbor serving grilled fish caught daily from the Mediterranean. Local favorites include hummus at Abu Christo, renowned for its creamy texture and authentic preparation, and Said Hummus, a local institution. The Khan al-Umdan area features traditional coffee houses and sweet shops serving Turkish coffee, baklava, and knafeh. For fine dining, Uri Buri is internationally acclaimed for its innovative seafood preparations, while Doniana offers upscale Arab cuisine in a beautiful Ottoman-era setting.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Israel

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Pastory Eilat

4.6 /5
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Amore Mio

4.5 /5
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Eataliano Dalla Costa

4.5 /5
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Vivino

4.7 /5
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Cicchetti

4.5 /5
(4096 reviews) 3

Roberta Vinci

4.5 /5
(3682 reviews) 2

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When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Acre is during spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are pleasant for walking and exploring the old city's outdoor attractions. Summer months can be hot and humid, though the sea breeze provides some relief, and this is peak season for beach activities. Winter (December-February) brings mild temperatures and occasional rain, making it perfect for indoor attractions like the Crusader halls, though some outdoor sites may have reduced hours. Avoid major Jewish and Muslim holidays when attractions may be closed or extremely crowded, and consider visiting during weekdays for a more peaceful experience of the historic sites.

Insider Tips

Purchase the combined ticket for multiple attractions to save money and skip individual entry lines at each site
Visit the Turkish Bath (Hammam al-Basha) for a unique cultural experience and beautiful Ottoman architecture often missed by tourists
Time your visit to coincide with the weekly market days (Tuesday and Friday) when the old city comes alive with local vendors and authentic atmosphere

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