A Perfect Day in Akko

Akko (also known as Acre in English and Akka in Arabic) is somehow overlooked by many tourists coming to Israel. It's one of the most historic and scenic towns in the whole country. The city embodies a melange of Arab and Jewish culture that is unique to Northern Israel. And the hummus is some of the best in the country. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Akko dates back almost 5,000 years prior as a Phoenician city on the coast. Today, Akko's character is most known as the predominatant stronghold of the Crusaders between 1100 and 1300. The city was briefly reconquered by Salah ad-Din (aka Saladin) before the Crusaders regained control during the Third Crusade - a control that lasted until 1291 when Akko was the last city to be conquered by the Muslim rulers. In later years, Akko served as a major port city. Napoleon attempted to conquer the city but failed miserably (this happening after his forces barely took control of Jaffa further south). In the 1890's, Akko became the home of Baha'u'llah, an imprisoned missionary who founded the Bahai faith. He spent his last days in Akko until his death; he is buried outside of the city (not open to the public) and the town remains a key pilgrimage site for those of the Bahai faith. Since the foundation of Israel (or the Nakba by Palestinian views) the town of Akko has become one of the most mixed cities in Israel, with 32 percent of the town being Arab (mostly in the old city). Much of your visit will allow you to see the various cultural fabrics that make up the beautiful city of Akko!

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Morning - Soak up Some History

Knights' Halls, Old Akko

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The "main attraction" of the city, the old Crusader fortress is likely to be your first stop in Akko. A vast complex of fortifications, the complex includes six semi-joined halls: one large hall, a dungeon, a dining room and remains of an ancient Gothic church. Medieval European remains include the Church of Saint George and adjacent houses at the Genovese Square. The site does not have a ton of explanations. However, the old structures are quite fascinating to view and can keep you staring in awe at just how many pillars can be in a place.

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Al-Jazzar Mosque

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An easy to miss site in Akko, the Al Jazzar Mosque is probably my favorite building in all of Israel/Palestine (and yes including Jerusalem). Built in 1781, it is one of the largest mosques in Israel. Jezzar Pasha built the mosque as a monument to his rule; however, he was known for being quite brutal and chopping off people's body parts as punishment (i.e. cutting off an ear as punishment). This earned him the nickname "the Butcher", which is consequently the colloquial name for the mosque: the Butcher's Mosque. The mosque has a beautiful green dome and features a beautiful courtyard. The Butcher and his successor Suleiman Pasha are buried in a small graveyard adjacent to the mosque. In a shrine on the second level of the mosque, a single hair from the prophet Mohammed's beard is kept and shown on special ceremonial occasions. You will need to pay a small fee to view the site. Further, women will have to cover entering the mosque; they provide scarves if you do not have one. I highly recommend visiting this magnificent building while in Akko!

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Lunchtime - Head into the Covered Markets

Once you've seen the two big attractions in the northern end of downtown, make your way around towards covered markets in the center of town.

The Souq of Akko

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As with many other Crusader cities in the Middle East, the European's left behind covered markets as they couldn't tolerate the sun (also true in the case of Jerusalem's old city). The markets in Akko are a wonderful experience for any traveller. Whether you are looking for sweets, house goods, souvenirs, spices, clothing, or more, you will find it here. While you do need to haggle at most places, you shouldn't need to haggle as much as in Jerusalem or other larger cities. This makes Akko the best city to shop in. On my multiple visits to Akko I always get a bag of za'atar to bring back to the US.

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The markets are a great place to get lunch! Your best bet for lunch in Akko is hummus for sure. There are multiple places that could be picked as fantastic hummus. I've only included one here, but it happens to be one of the most famous in all of Israel. If this is too "mainstream" for you, ask around the markets for people's favorite - you'll get all different answers to find the best hummus stop.

Hummus Said

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If you surveyed people around Israel (Arabs and Jews) as to what the best hummus in the country is, Hummus Saïd would probably be a top 5 pick. The business has occupied this spot in the city of Akko for almost 50 years. Only serving three things - hummus, ful, and a dish called mushawsha - you'll be filled up with some of the great hummus and bean dips of the land! As soon as the hummus is finished the restaurant closes - usually at about 13:00-14:00.

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If you have a sweet tooth like me, you'll probably want some dessert to wash down your hummus. Luckily, Hummus Said sits in the same stretch as one of Akko's famed sweet shops!

Kashash Sweets

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A small sweet shop in the middle of the markets, you make think this place looks tacky or low end. But go in and get a box of their baklava, nut pastries, kunafeh, or really anything and you'll see it's a top spot in the city. If you're too full from lunch, take a tray to go as you walk around and enjoy the sweets by the water for an awesome treat! Just don't do this with kunafeh or it won't be good

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After Lunch - Soak up a Mediterranean Breeze around the Boat

After you're done shopping and eating, hand over to the port where you'll see lots of boats for both fishing and leisure. Some can even take you onto the water if you're interested in a boating excursion!

Ottoman’s Clock Tower and the Khan of the Pillars

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The Ottoman clock tower (very similar to the one in the Jaffa area of Tel Aviv) serves as a great landmark to see the small boats of the port and an impressive historic site: the Khan al-Umdan (also known as the Khan of the Pillars). Built by The Butcher (see the mosque above) as an inn for merchants traveling through Akko, there are incredibly intimidating pillars throughout the inside. These pillars were built with stone looted from the ruins of Caesarea further south. While you cannot enter and the site is abandoned, there should be an entrance doorway you can peak through - the view is worth just the small peak!

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As you navigate around the Mediterranean waterfront, make sure to climb on the walls!

Walls of Acre

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The beautiful sea walls provide great elevation for views of the town including the Butchers Mosque, across the harbor to Haifa (including a dramatic view of a small shining dome that is the center of the Bahai Gardens), and of course the sea. If you go to Akko in the warmer months, make sure to visit the seawalls to watch the local teenager take part in a right of passage: jumping off the seawalls! It looks quite scary but all teenage boys in Akko enjoy this activity to both cool off and show off. You may even want to join in if you'd like - but be warned as it can be dangerous if you don't know where to jump.

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Afternoon - Pamper Yourself with a Spa Treatment

At this point, you are probably a little tired. What better way to spend the afternoon than with a message a scrub?!

Ghattas Turkish Bathhouse - חמאם גטאס

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One of the larger and more serene Turkish baths inside the state of Israel, Ghattas allows you to be pampered. With scrub treatments, massages, and other spa services available, this is a great place to unwind. They offer a couples treatment for 800 shekels total - a hefty price but worth it if you're interested in a romantic treatment with your significant other. Contact before going as there is limited availability and the menu of options is not super clear based on their website.

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If you Have Time - Go Visit Akko's Main Jewish Site

If you do have time and are up for a walk outside the old city, the Or Torah Synangogue is a unique Jewish worship space to tour.

Or Torah Synagogue

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In a country where synagogues tend to be rather austere, Or Torah is an exception. The synagogue was built roughly 60 years ago by Tunisian Jews living in Akko the synagogue is sometimes referred to as the Tunisian Synagogue. Covered in gorgeous mosaics and paintings, I can't think of another Jewish site that is this beautiful and artistically pleasing in the rest of the country. Hours are not always clear and sometimes you'll show up just to find it is closed for no apparent reason. However, even the outside is filled with art and worth a look

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Dinner - Have a Delicious Seafood Meal

With a location so close to the water, it's easy to believe Akko has delicious seafood, which is the perfect choice for dinner.

Uri Buri

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A basic interior but an amazing array of fish - that's the best description of Uri Buri. Owned by Uri Jeremias the restaurant has been lauded for its creative and delicious seafood. While it's hard to say what to get, any fresh fish from Uri Buri is a delicious meal. Located right on the water, you can take a wonderful walk once you've filled up on the delicious food. I had the barramundi when I dined here - excellent!

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Interested in Staying the Night?

Akko is typically the sort of place people either stop between Haifa and the Sea of Galilee or a day trip from Haifa. But really, so much time could be spent in this charming historic city. If you're looking to linger and stay overnight, here are some great suggestions!

Arabesque Hotel

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The Efendi Hotel

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עכוטל AKKOTEL

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Villa Sera

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Reach out to Mark!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mark Fedoronko

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My name is Mark, and I've been travel planning since the age of 11. About Me I help redefine the way you experience the world. I don't just plan trips; we craft extraordinary adventures tailored to your unique desires. Mark's journey into the realm of travel planning began at an early age, driven by an insatiable curiosity to uncover the hidden gems and cultural nuances that make each destination truly exceptional. Expertise Beyond Borders Boasting an extensive portfolio of expertise, Mark is a seasoned navigator through the enchanting landscapes of Morocco, the captivating history of Jordan, the rich tapestry of Israel/Palestine, the cosmopolitan allure of Copenhagen, and beyond. Whether you're yearning for the vibrant markets of Marrakech, the ancient wonders of Petra, the historical significance of Jerusalem, or the contemporary charm of Copenhagen, I ensure that your journey is not just a trip but a transformative experience. Custom Itineraries, Crafted with Care I understand that no two travelers are the same. My commitment to personalization means that every itinerary is a bespoke masterpiece, meticulously crafted to reflect your preferences, interests, and dreams. From immersive cultural excursions to adrenaline-pumping adventures, we curate experiences that resonate with your individual travel style. Why Choose Mark's Travel Recs? Passion-Driven Expertise: Mark's lifelong passion ensures every itinerary has an authentic touch. Global Perspective: With knowledge spanning diverse destinations, I offer journeys beyond the ordinary. Attention to Detail: I leave no stone unturned, from accommodation to off-the-beaten-path excursions. Seamless Planning: Let me take the reins for a stress-free journey from conception to execution. Embark on a voyage of a lifetime with me—where the world is your oyster, and I help you discover its pearls

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