Akko Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and tips for traveling to Akko in Western Galilee, Israel.


Introduction to Akko

Akko, also known as Acre, is a historic port city on the Mediterranean Coast in Western Galilee, Israel. The city is located 23 kilometers north of the city of Haifa and is known for its well-preserved Old City, vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and bustling marketplaces.

With a rich history dating back thousands of years, Akko is a must-visit destination in Israel for both locals and tourists. Whether you are interested in cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, or just soaking up the atmosphere of a bustling seaside city, Akko has plenty to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Akko

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Old City: Akko’s Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with narrow alleys and historic buildings that have been beautifully restored. Some highlights include the Templar Tunnel, the Hospitaller Fortress, and the Al-Jazzar Mosque.
  • The Bahá’í Gardens in Akko: This stunning terraced garden is a holy site for the Bahá’í faith and offers breathtaking views of the sea and city.
  • The Citadel of Acre: This historic citadel is one of the largest and best-preserved examples of medieval fortification in the country.
  • Turkish Bath Museum: A restored bathhouse that offers visitors an insight into the traditional Turkish hammam culture.

Natural Attractions of Akko: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Palm Beach: This tranquil beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and taking a leisurely stroll.
  • Nahariya Promenade: This scenic seaside promenade offers stunning views of the Mediterranean, and is particularly beautiful at sunset.
  • Rosh Hanikra: This natural grotto is located in the northernmost tip of Israel, and is a must-visit destination for its breathtaking views and underwater tunnels.
  • The Ein Afek Nature Reserve: This wetland nature reserve is home to a wide variety of bird species, and offers hiking trails and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Akko

  • The Akko Trail: This 18km circuit takes hikers through Akko’s countryside, along the sea, and through historic sites such as the Akko Old City and the famous Hospitaller Fortress.
  • The Ancient Tzippori Mosaic Trail: This 2km trail in Tzippori National Park combines nature and history, leading visitors through ancient Roman ruins and stunning mosaics.
  • The Haifa - Akko Trail: A 15km trail that connects Haifa and Akko, taking hikers through both urban landscapes and nature reserves.

Best Things to Do in Akko: Activities and Tours

  • Discover the Old City: Take a guided tour of the Akko Old City, learning about the city’s history, exploring the winding alleys and ancient architecture.
  • Take a stroll on the Akko Promenade: Head to the Akko seaside promenade for a relaxing walk along the water, admiring the stunning views.
  • Explore the Marketplaces: Head to one of Akko’s bustling marketplaces, such as the Bazaar Market, to pick up locally made souvenirs and taste traditional Middle Eastern food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Akko

Day Activity
1 Visit the Old City, including sights such as the Templar Tunnel and Hospitaller Fortress
2 Spend the day at Palm Beach or Nahariya Promenade
3 Take a guided tour of Rosh Hanikra and explore the grotto
4 Hike the Akko Trail
5 Visit the Turkish Bath Museum and the Bahá’í Gardens in Akko
6 Take a day trip to Haifa to explore the city, including the famous Bahá’í Gardens
7 Explore the marketplaces, such as the Bazaar Market, and sample local Middle Eastern food.

Food and Drink Scene of Akko

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hummus: A staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, hummus is a must-try dish in Akko.
  • Shakshuka: This classic egg dish, made with tomatoes and spices, is a popular breakfast option.
  • Falafel: Fried balls made from chickpeas or fava beans, served in a pita with salad and tahini sauce.
  • Baba Ghanoush: A dip made from grilled eggplant, tahini, and lemon juice, served with bread.

Local Beverages

  • Arak: A traditional Middle Eastern liquor made from anise.
  • Mint Tea: A refreshing tea made from fresh mint leaves and served sweetened.

Where to Stay in Akko: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Efendi Hotel: A boutique hotel located in the heart of the Old City.
  • Akko Knights Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel located just outside the Old City.
  • The Ottoman Mansion: A beautiful guesthouse located in a historic Ottoman building.

What to Buy in Akko: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Olive Oil: Akko is surrounded by olive groves, and the local olive oil is considered some of the best in the country.
  • Spices and Herbs: The marketplaces of Akko offer a wide variety of local herbs and spices, such as za’atar and sumac.
  • Pottery and Ceramics: The city is known for its beautiful handmade pottery and ceramics.

Local Culture and Customs of Akko

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or the Old City.
  • Respect the local customs and practices of the city, such as keeping Shabbat.
  • Friday and Saturday are weekends in Israel, and many businesses may be closed during these times.

Best Time to Visit Akko

The best time to visit Akko is in the spring (March to June) or fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer months (July and August) can be hot and crowded with tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Akko

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or the Old City.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Visit during the summer months, which can be crowded and hot.
  • Be disrespectful to the local culture or people.
  • Ignore the local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Akko

Akko is generally a safe city to travel to, with a low crime rate. However, as with any city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Akko

For travelers, there are no major health risks associated with visiting Akko. It’s always a good idea to pack any necessary medications and check with a doctor before traveling.

Getting to Akko: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Akko

Ben Gurion International Airport is the main airport in Israel, located about 130km south of Akko. From the airport, visitors can either rent a car, take a train, or catch a bus to Akko.

Bus Stations Near Akko

The central bus station in Akko is located a short distance from the Old City and serves as a regional transport hub, with regular buses to Haifa and other nearby cities.

Other Options

Taxis and private transfers are also available to and from Akko.

How to Get Around in Akko

The best way to explore Akko is on foot. The Old City is a pedestrian-only area, so visitors can enjoy the winding alleys and historic architecture without worrying about traffic.

Where to Go Next from Akko: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Haifa: Just a short journey from Akko, the bustling city of Haifa is known for its beautiful Bahá’í Gardens and the Mount Carmel National Park.
  • Nazareth: Located about 50km east of Akko, Nazareth is renowned as the birthplace of Jesus Christ and boasts a wealth of religious and cultural attractions.
  • Sea of Galilee: Located about an hour’s drive from Akko, the Sea of Galilee is a beautiful freshwater lake and is a popular spot for water sports and scenic cruises.

Conclusion

Akko is a fascinating and vibrant city with a rich history and culture. From exploring the old city to hiking in the beautiful countryside, there is plenty to do and see in Akko. With a variety of accommodation options, local cuisine to sample, and easy access to nearby destinations, this is an excellent destination for travelers to Israel.

Akko walls and church Akko walls and church