· IL

‘Akko

`Akko, Northern, Israel

Step Back in Time in Akko, Israel: A Coastal Gem of History and Culture Perched on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea, Akko (Acre) is a captivating city where ancient history seamlessly blends with modern life. Wander th…

#Historic city#Coastal#Cultural diversity#Religious sites#Mediterranean cuisine

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into ‘Akko.

Top Hotels in ‘Akko

Top Flights to ‘Akko

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in ‘Akko.

Tours

Akko Old City Tour

Explore the ancient and historical sites of Akko's Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring well-preserved structures from the Crusader period.

Shopping

Akko Market Shopping

Discover a variety of local products, from spices and sweets to locally made crafts in Akko's vibrant markets.

Outdoor

Akko Beach Experience

Enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean coastline with various beach-related activities.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in ‘Akko.

Currency

₪ | ILS | New Israeli Shekel

Population

Not Available

Languages

Hebrew, Arabic, English

Average weather

‘Akko

Jan

17°9°

Feb

18°9°

Mar

20°11°

Apr

24°14°

May

27°17°

Jun

30°20°

Jul

32°23°

Aug

32°23°

Sep

30°22°

Oct

28°19°

Nov

24°15°

Dec

19°11°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on ‘Akko.

What people love

Traveling to Akko, located in Northern Israel, has several pros:

Historical significance: Akko is a city with a rich history, dating back thousands of years. It has been inhabited by various civilizations and empires, leaving behind a tapestry of historical sites to explore.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Old City of Akko is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved Crusader-era architecture, Ottoman buildings, and ancient fortifications. Visitors can wander through narrow streets, visit historic mosques and synagogues, and explore the impressive citadel.
Cultural diversity: Akko is a melting pot of cultures, with Jewish, Muslim, and Christian communities living side by side. This diversity is reflected in the city's architecture, cuisine, and traditions, making it a fascinating destination for cultural exploration.
Culinary delights: Akko is renowned for its vibrant food scene, offering a mix of traditional Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. Visitors can sample fresh seafood, fragrant spices, and mouthwatering street food in the city's markets and restaurants.
Beautiful waterfront: Akko is situated on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, offering stunning views and a relaxed coastal atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront promenade, watch the sunset over the sea, or even take a boat ride to explore the coastline.

Overall, traveling to Akko in Northern Israel is a rewarding experience for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and food lovers alike.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to ‘Akko in Northern Israel include:

Safety concerns: While ‘Akko is generally considered safe for tourists, it is important to stay informed about the current political situation in the region and take necessary precautions.
Crowds: ‘Akko is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons. This can lead to crowded streets, attractions, and restaurants, which may impact your overall experience.
Language barrier: Hebrew and Arabic are the primary languages spoken in ‘Akko, so communicating with locals may be challenging if you do not speak these languages. However, many people in the tourism industry speak English.
Limited accommodation options: While there are hotels and guesthouses in ‘Akko, the options may be limited compared to larger cities in Israel. It is advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during busy times.
High cost of living: Israel, in general, has a relatively high cost of living compared to other countries. This can make dining out, shopping, and transportation more expensive for travelers on a budget.

Please note that these are general considerations and your experience may vary. It is always a good idea to research further and consult up-to-date travel advisories before visiting ‘Akko or any other destination.

‘Akko, also known as Acre, is a city located in the Northern District of Israel. It has a rich and diverse history, having been a significant site for various civilizations over thousands of years.

Ancient Times:

Bronze Age: ‘Akko's history dates back to the Bronze Age around 3000 BCE. It is mentioned in Egyptian texts from the 19th century BCE as a city-state.
Biblical References: In the Hebrew Bible, ‘Akko is referred to in the context of the Tribe of Asher (Judges 1:31), but it was never fully conquered by the Israelites.

Classical Antiquity:

Persian and Hellenistic Periods: Following the Persian conquest, ‘Akko was part of the Persian Empire. During the Hellenistic period, it was known as Ptolemais, named after the Ptolemaic rulers of Egypt.
Roman Rule: The city became part of the Roman Empire and continued to be an important port and trade center.

Middle Ages:

Crusader Period: ‘Akko gained prominence during the Crusades. It was captured by the Crusaders in 1104 and became the capital of the Kingdom of Jerusalem after the fall of Jerusalem in 1187. The city was a major hub for the Crusaders and was known for its fortifications and administrative buildings.
Mamluk Conquest: In 1291, the Mamluks captured and destroyed ‘Akko, marking the end of Crusader rule in the Holy Land.

Ottoman Period:

Rebuilding and Growth: During the Ottoman era, the city was rebuilt and fortified. It became a major center of commerce and administration.
Ahmed al-Jazzar: In the late 18th century, the Ottoman governor Ahmed al-Jazzar rebuilt the city walls and successfully defended ‘Akko against Napoleon's siege in 1799, a notable historical event.

Modern Era:

British Mandate: After World War I, ‘Akko became part of the British Mandate of Palestine.
1948 Arab-Israeli War: During the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, ‘Akko was captured by Israeli forces and became part of the modern state of Israel.

Landmarks:

Old City of Acre: The Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring well-preserved Crusader buildings, Ottoman mosques, and a lively bazaar.
Citadel of Acre: Once a Crusader fortress, it was later used as a prison during the British Mandate.
Al-Jazzar Mosque: Built by Ahmed al-Jazzar, it is one of the largest mosques in Israel.
Templar Tunnels: An underground passage built by the Knights Templar.
Acre Aqueduct: Built during the Ottoman period to supply water to the city.

Cultural Significance:

‘Akko is a city with a diverse cultural and religious population, including Jews, Muslims, Christians, and Baha'is. The Baha'i Gardens in ‘Akko are of particular significance to the Baha'i Faith.

Overall, ‘Akko's strategic location on the Mediterranean coast has made it a pivotal city throughout history, serving as a crossroads for various cultures and empires.