Located on the Northern District of Israel is the coastal city of Acre. This place can trace its history as a major trading hub and is known to have survived major conquests and destruction dating back to Napoleon Bonaparte’s era. Although it is known as a holy city for those of the Bahá'í Faith and it receives many pilgrims every year, the historical landmarks and remains from both the Crusades and the Ottoman Empire are also a delight for tourists visiting the country. Acre is definitely rich in history and mystery. Whatever it is that brings you to this city, you should not miss out on the best things to do and the best places to explore, as there is something for everyone here. Read on to find a list of top things to do in Acre, Israel.
1. Discover the historic El-Jazzar Mosque
El-Jazzar Mosque on el-Jazzar Street can be found inside the historic Old City of Acre. Named after the Ottoman governor Ahmad Pasha el-Jazzar, this holy site is more popularly known as the White Mosque. It is in a prime location, overlooking the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Your trip to Acre might lead you to the discovery of this historic and marvellous place that prominently features the Ottoman-style architecture, which incorporates both Byzantine and Persian styles of building.
El-Jazzar Mosque
Address: El Jazzar St, Old City, Acre, Israel
2. Travel back in time inside Citadel of Acre
Put on some light clothes, grab yourself a bottle of water and embark on a journey to Citadel of Acre, a place that will take you through a part of the country’s history. This structure is one of the better-preserved Bizantine buildings in the region. Travel back in time and experience this amazing archaeological gem in the northern part of Israel. The historical citadel consists of beautiful, old stone walls and arches. As it is rich in history, the tour here is bound to cover the better part of your day.
Citadel of Acre
Address: Weizman 1, Acre, Israel
Opening hours: Sat - Thu: 8:30am - 5pm; Fri: 8:30am - 4pm
3. Soak in the tranquility of Bahai Gardens and Shrine
Grab your camera and take shots of your day out at one of the most visited tourist attractions in Israel, at the Terraces of the Bahá'í Faith, which is more commonly referred to as the Hanging Gardens of Haifa. The garden is a prime attraction that is filled with spectacular, breathtaking views. Opt to join a tour to Shrine of the Báb which is located on Mount Carmel in Haifa. Take note that this attraction asks visitors to follow the dress code - skirts and pants should fall below the knee.
Bahai Gardens and Shrine
Address:Yefe Nof St 61, Haifa, Israel
Website: Bahai Gardens and Shrine
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
4. Explore the unique Or Torah Synagogue
Ohr Torah Tunisian Synagogue, Akko
Posted by Via Sabra - Unfolding Israel on Monday, 17 December 2018
Take your adventure to Israel’s coastal city of Acre up a notch by exploring the unique Tunisian synagogue known as Or Torah Synagogue. Hailed as one of Israel’s most breathtaking sites, Or Torah or Djerba Synagogue is completely covered in mosaics, which means every floor, wall, and ceiling features the most intricate design patterns. If you are a lover of historical places and are interested in seeing depictions of biblical passages, then a visit to this attraction will provide spiritual and visual enrichment in many ways.
Or Torah Synagogue
Address: Eliezer Kaplan St 13, Acre, Israel
5. Stroll The Knights' Halls
Wander across the echoing chambers of the historical fortress that still stands today, the Knights’ Halls. This medieval structure forms a crucial part of the Crusader period inside the Old City of Acre. You will be amazed by incredible tales and facts about the medieval knights who once patrolled, dined, and prayed at this 800-year-old structure. Opt for a guide so that the interesting displays are enhanced with audio effects. This attraction is something you must not miss!
The Knights' Halls
Address: Weizman St 1, Acre, Israel
Opening hours: Sat - Thu: 8:30am–7pm; Fri: 8:30am - 5pm
6. Enjoy the sea breeze atop the City Walls
Built initially as a fortification, a wall designed for the defence of the city’s boundary in the 1700s, the City Walls in Acre covers the eastern and southern parts of the city near the beautiful blue coastline. A tour here will not be complete without experiencing the refreshing sea breeze and enjoying the view of the deep blue waters along the coast. Don’t forget your camera!
7. Shop your heart out at Acre Market
Find all of the tasty Meditteranean restaurants, spice shops, jewellery stores, and other bazaar-type goods as you meander through this busy and colourful market. Acre Market is still as busy as it once was, and it tells the story of the city as it was in the past. This is a chance for you to experience their unique culture, taste local dishes, and explore the outdoors. Get all your souvenirs from this market to take back home.
Acre Market
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
8. Relax and soothe your senses at Ghattas Turkish Bath
Participate in the local culture of enjoying a Turkish Bath in public. Associated with the culture of the Ottoman Empire, this rite is seen as a way of cleansing yourself but it is also a great way of relaxing. Ghattas Turkish Bath is the largest and one of the most beautifully designed Hamams in the city of Acre, and it is a good place to forget all your problems. Sink in and relax your mind, body, and soul. You can also get a massage here. Check it out and partake in this tradition.
Ghattas Turkish Bath
Address: Rehov Hahaganah | Magdeor Alley, Acre, Israël
Website: Ghattas Turkish Bath
Opening hours: 9:30am - 7:30pm (daily)
9. Walk through the underground Templar Tunnel
The secret underground tunnel that connects the port to the fortress was built by the Knights Templar, an old military order. The 350-m (1148.29-ft) long underground passageway once served as an escape route. Your tour of Acre will not be complete without a visit to this historical attraction that remained hidden for 700 years. Learn about its history and find your way to the port.
Templar Tunnel
Address: Asher St 37, Acre, Israel
Opening hours: Sat - Thu: 9am - 7pm; Fri: 9am - 5pm
10. Take your kids to see the Ottoman Cannons
The city of Acre is well-known in history, but few know about how it once faced an encounter with the emperor of France, Napoleon Bonaparte. This military leader aimed to dominate Israel but his attempted conquest of the land, however, suffered a setback and he lost his cannons and guns. Evidence of this great heist remains in Acre, at the Old City where these cannons are displayed. Experience a bit of history and take your kids with you.
Ottoman Cannons
Address: Old City, Acre, Israel
11. Indulge in some local delicacies from the famous Uri Buri
After a long day touring the city of Acre, help yourself to some delicious eats at Uri Buri, an elegant, waterfront Mediterranean restaurant well-known amongst locals. This cosy restaurant offers some of the best coastal dishes, rich in flavour and made with the best products available in the market. The proximity to the coastline makes the setting breezy, relaxing, and comfortable. Check it out and please your taste buds!
Uri Buri
Address: Ha-Hagana St, Acre, Israel
Opening hours: 12pm - 12am (daily)
12. Pay a visit to Acre's Old Market
Acre’s Medieval Market is located inside the Old City. Its past glory still shows although this century-old market is not as busy as it was long ago. It used to be the busiest, considering how close it is to el-Jazzar Mosque. It’s a small market, and you can cover the whole area in 15 minutes or less. You can still get some rich, authentic delicacies here at a local favourite, Hummus Said. Though it is not a big restaurant, you will definitely enjoy savouring these tasty dishes at this simple diner.
Old Market Acre
Address: Old City, Acre, Israel
13. Marvel at the displays inside Hamam El Basha Museum
Get the chance to see a medieval Hamam at Hamam El Basha Museum. A visit to this museum will include a guided tour of the Turkish bath’s compound, which was built in the late 18th century by the then governor of Acre, Jazzar Pasha. The tour to this exquisite and old bathhouse will include an introductory audio-visual movie explaining the history of the old city of Acre and the culture of taking baths in bathhouses. You will see several halls like the summer dressing room, four intermediary rooms, and the hot room. Its a definite hit for both kids and adults.
Hamam El Basha Museum
Address: El-Jezzar Street, Acre, Israel
14. Enjoy the views atop Akko Light
Akko Light, or Acre Lighthouse, is a tall, commanding structure situated to the southwest of the Old City’s walls. It is open to the public albeit still being an active lighthouse. The 33-feet (10-m) black and white concrete tower is believed to have been the former site of an Ottoman flag tower known as Burj-El-Sanjak, therefore it is a historical site that once served a purpose in the city of Acre. While at Akko Light, feel the cool, refreshing breeze coming in and enjoy stunning views of the coast.
15. Soak in some culture at Akko Theatre Centre
Posted by תיאטרון עכו on Saturday, 2 February 2019
The Acco Theatre Center aims to forge a strong and lasting link between two communities, the Jewish and Arab. The centre hosts several plays inside stunning facilities. Learn about local history and soak in the city’s rich culture while being entertained with some interesting and educational theatre performances. Some of these plays have earned recognition, winning prestigious prizes from popular festivals. Book tickets for you and your family and get hooked by their amazing production in a comfortable and superb setting.
Akko Theatre Centre
Address: 1 Weizmann Street, Acre, Israel
Website: Akko Theatre Centre
16. Tour Old City of Acre - a UNESCO heritage site
The Old City of Acre, or Old Town Akko, is a piece of history that still stands up to now. Showcasing many medieval buildings from the Crusader era, this place has preserved substantial pieces of history dating back to the 18th and the 19th centuries. Its citadels, mosques, and bathhouses - like Hamam El Basha - are still standing well into the present day. The Ottoman-style walls surrounding the city have made this a UNESCO World Heritage site and it shares the accreditation with some big city names like Rome. A tour of this area is, therefore, priceless and something you must definitely include in your itinerary when you visit Acre.
17. Sunbathe at Laguna Beach
After a tour of several historical sites in the Old City of Acre, you may want to enjoy spending some of the time finding relief from the hot summer sun by the water. Luckily for you, Acre has some nice spots for you to go to. The stretch of coastline in Acre is home to several beaches, especially when you head south of the city. The coast gives you the opportunity to enjoy the sandy beaches and the cool waters of the sea. At Laguna Beach, you get to enjoy fun activities with friends and family and even find the time to sunbathe. Grab your swimsuits and hit the beach!
18. Sip some great cocktails at Marsa Bar
Posted by Marsa Bar on Thursday, 27 October 2016
Explore some of the unique local dishes at Marsa Bar and Restaurant. This establishment offers the best dining experience complete with unique decor and dim lights to highlight its vibrant setting. Include the excellent food and service provided by professional staff and you get a great place to dine. Catch up with the town’s busy nightlife at the bar, which offers great drinks and cocktails for your tasting pleasure. Grab your coat, head to Marsa Bar, and experience a fun outing well into the night.
Marsa Bar
Address: Talmi Street, the Old Port of Acre, Acre 2470000, Israel
Opening hours: Sat - Wed: 6pm - 2am; Thu - Fri: 6pm - 4am
19. Enjoy a romantic evening with Manana Sailing Yacht
הפלגת החיים הטובים - למביני עניין ........
Posted by מניאנה - חווית שייט ואירוח ימי - Mañana -Top Class Sailing - Manyana on Saturday, 21 September 2019
You can never go wrong with dinner on a yacht. The setting is bound to spark romance and create memories. Enjoy a night out with your partner, or even with your friends and family by seeing Israel from the water and indulging in this luxurious cruise along the Mediterranean. Enjoy a delicious meal prepared by a seasoned chef while you take in stunning views of the coast. This romantic and fun evening cruise is provided by the Manana Sailing Yacht team.
Manana Sailing Yacht
Website: Manana Sailing Yacht
Enjoy the historical sites of Acre
The city of Acre is unique because of the ancient buildings and structures that have been well-preserved for centuries, letting us catch a glimpse of its rich history. The rich, vibrant culture is both educational and fun. Visit its historic landmarks and holy places, head to the museums, experience bathing at a Hamam, and enjoy an afternoon on the beach. These are just some of the things you will encounter during your trip to Acre. Plan your next holiday here with these activities and more!
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to