Best things to do in Akko
Find out more about those top places in Akko
Akko (Acre): Where Crusader Ghosts Still Roam (and the Hummus is Divine!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide to This Ancient Mediterranean Marvel!
Ahoy, history buffs and lovers of cities with more layers than a perfectly made shawarma! Welcome to Akko, historically known as Acre, a true heavyweight champion of the Eastern Mediterranean's historical scene. So significant, in fact, that it earned a coveted spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list way back in 2001. This isn't just an old city; it's practically mummified in vast, awe-inspiring Crusader-era city walls that look like they could still fend off a medieval siege (though hopefully, things are a bit more peaceful these days!).
Step inside these formidable fortifications, and you'll discover the colonnaded Knight’s Hall, a seriously impressive glimpse into the history of the Hospitallers, those brave (or perhaps slightly misguided?) knights who were all about crusading in the Holy Land. Walking through these ancient halls, you can almost hear the clanking of armor and the echoes of medieval machinations.
Here's the truly mind-blowing part: Akko has changed remarkably little since the Middle Ages. Seriously, wandering through its warren of ramshackle streets, bustling bazaars overflowing with spices and treasures, and aromatic coffee houses, you could almost imagine Marco Polo himself strolling by on his way to China some 800 years ago, probably haggling for a good price on a silk scarf. It's like stepping into a time machine, but with better coffee (we hope!).
This city is undoubtedly one of the Levant’s best-kept secrets, a true hidden gem that's all too often bypassed by travelers who are understandably drawn to Israel’s more famous top attractions further to the south. But that just means more authentic experiences and fewer selfie sticks in your historical snapshots! Akko offers a unique blend of ancient history, vibrant Arab culture, and delicious Middle Eastern flavors that will tantalize all your senses.
Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exciting things to do in this captivating ancient port city. Get ready for some truly unforgettable sightseeing, from exploring Crusader fortresses and bustling bazaars to soaking in the Mediterranean atmosphere and indulging in incredible cuisine, all while uncovering the top attractions that make Akko a truly special and hilariously historic (and delicious!) destination.
Top Attractions: Crusader Grandeur, Ancient Walls, and Market Magic!
Akko is a treasure trove of historical and cultural wonders:
The Crusader City Walls: A Medieval Masterpiece
Explore the vast and impressive Crusader-era city walls, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a tangible link to the city's medieval past. Walk along the ramparts for stunning views of the sea and the old city. A must-see for your Akko sightseeing.
The Knight's Hall (Crusader Fortress): Echoes of Medieval Knights
Step into the colonnaded Knight’s Hall, a remarkably preserved section of the Crusader fortress. Imagine the Hospitallers going about their knightly business centuries ago. A key place to visit for history buffs.
The Old City's Bazaars: A Sensory Feast
Wander through the labyrinthine bazaars of Akko's old city, a vibrant mix of sights, sounds, and smells. Haggle for spices, local crafts, and delicious sweets. A top thing to do for an authentic Akko experience.
The Al-Jazzar Mosque: Ottoman Elegance
Admire the beautiful Al-Jazzar Mosque, an impressive Ottoman-era mosque with stunning architecture and historical significance. A significant place to visit for cultural sightseeing.
The Templars Tunnel: Underground History
Descend into the mysterious Templars Tunnel, an underground passage built by the Crusader Templar order. Walking through this ancient tunnel offers a unique glimpse into the city's past. A fascinating attraction.
Things to Do Beyond the Iconic Landmarks: Harbor Views, Culinary Delights, and Cultural Immersion!
Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Akko vibe:
- Stroll Along the Old Harbor: Enjoy the picturesque views of Akko's ancient harbor, still bustling with fishing boats and local life.
- Indulge in Fresh Seafood: Akko's location on the Mediterranean means fresh and delicious seafood is readily available. Sample local specialties at waterfront restaurants.
- Visit the Ethnographic Museum: Learn about the traditional Arab culture of the region at this interesting museum.
- Explore the Okashi Museum (Treasures in the Walls Museum): Discover artifacts and stories hidden within the city walls themselves.
- Take a Boat Trip Along the Coast: Enjoy a different perspective of Akko's impressive fortifications from the sea.
So, if you're looking for places to visit in Israel that offer a captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and delicious food, Akko (Acre) is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an unforgettable journey filled with incredible sightseeing and exciting things to do. Just be prepared to be charmed by its ancient streets and the warm hospitality of its people. Yalla, let's go explore!
-
City Walls
Akko’s gigantic city walls are only rivaled by that of Dubrovnik in the Mediterranean world and are rightly listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built by Muslims, refortified by crusaders and strengthened by the Ottoman Empire, they have a storied history that is best explored on walking tours of their circumference.
-
Knight’s Halls
Besides the city’s imposing city walls, Akko’s premier attraction is the Knight’s Halls, which were built nearly 1000 years ago as the living quarters for the Hospitallers, a monastic military order. The cavernous chambers give you an unrivaled insight into the day-to-day lives of the men who traveled all the way from Europe to conquer the Holy Land and also include 13th century tombs that are a popular point for pilgrimages.
-
Al Jazzar Mosque
Constructed in the classical Ottoman style in the 18th century, the Al Jazzar Mosque is one of Israel’s most important Muslim places of worship. Its striking minaret towers over Akko’s old town while the interior is bedecked in ornate Islamic calligraphy and has been impeccably restored in recent years with the minbar and mihrab of particular note. Make sure to dress modestly to gain entry.
-
Souq Al Abiad
Best explored as part of a guided walking tour, the Souq Al Abiad is Akko’s original Ottoman era marketplace. Teeming with stalls selling fragrant spices and traditional street food, such as kanafeh (a syrupy cake made of noodles or semolina), the souq is an unforgettable experience.
-
Templar Tunne
Discovered accidentally in the 1990s, the Templar Tunnel is today one of Akko’s biggest draws. Running from what once would have been the Knights Templar’s imposing fortress to the harbor, the tunnel was built during the era of the Crusades. Today, you can explore it as part of a guided tour that will reveal the area’s turbulent history and the tunnel’s crucial role.
-
Hammam Al Pasha
For visitors interested in Akko’s rich Ottoman era history look no further than the Hammam Al Pasha, a former Turkish bathhouse that has been transformed into an excellently curated museum. Detailing the day-to-day goings-on of the bathhouse, which played an important social function in the Ottoman Empire, the museum is one of Akko’s most rewarding experiences.
-
Underground Prisoners Museum
Akko’s harrowing Underground Prisoners Museum details the Jewish resistance fighters who fought against British rule during the early 20th century. Housed in an imposing Ottoman era prison that was subsequently utilized by the British, the museum tells the life stories of individual fighters. Beyond this, the museum is also home to a cell once occupied by Baha’ullah, the founder of the Baha’i religion.
-
Sinan Pasha Mosque
Dating from the 1600s, Sinan Pasha Mosque is thought to be the oldest in Akko. While it is closed to casual visitors, it is worth admiring from the outside, as its turquoise dome and picture-perfect seaside location are one of the most iconic images of the city.
