Timeless Charm of Old City of Acre

Discover the Old City of Acre in Akko, Israel - a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with historical landmarks, vibrant markets, and stunning Mediterranean views.

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Old City of Acre

Welcome to the Old City of Acre, a UNESCO World Heritage site that seamlessly blends history and culture. This coastal gem in Akko, Israel, is a treasure trove of ancient fortresses, bustling markets, and serene sea views. Perfectly preserved, the Old City offers a journey back in time with its narrow alleys, stone buildings, and significant landmarks. Explore the impressive Crusader Fortress, a testament to Acre's strategic importance during the medieval period. Wander through the subterranean Crusader City, an underground labyrinth that reveals the architectural ingenuity of its time. Don't miss the Al-Jazzar Mosque, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture with its elegant minaret and lush gardens. Indulge in the vibrant local culture by visiting the Turkish Bazaar, where you can find everything from spices to handcrafted jewelry. Sample delicious Middle Eastern cuisine at the local eateries, and enjoy fresh seafood straight from the Mediterranean. The Old City of Acre is not just a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Local tips in Old City of Acre

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful stroll through the ancient streets.
Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone streets can be uneven and slippery.
Carry some cash as some local vendors in the markets may not accept credit cards.
Don't forget to bring a camera; the architectural details and sea views are picture-perfect.
Check the opening hours of major attractions like the Crusader Fortress and Al-Jazzar Mosque, as they may vary.

File:Acre (Akko) - Israel (24846100681).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

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File:Akko Mosque.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:PikiWiki Israel 28209 The White market in Acre.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:Akko Jumping off Sea Wall (15168628997).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Templars Tunnel - Crusader Structure - Akko (Acre) - Israel (5693889442).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Acre - Akko 6 - the fishing port (6658890981).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Hammam al-Pasha, Acre, Israel, 2017 04.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Old City Fortifications - Akko (Acre) - Israel (5693734646).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Knights' Halls, Old Akko

Explore the Knights' Halls in Old Akko, a captivating historical landmark revealing the rich tapestry of medieval Crusader history and stunning architecture.

The Old City

Explore the Old City of Acre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant markets, and delicious local cuisine.

Treasures in the Walls Museum

Explore the Treasures in the Walls Museum in Acre for an enriching experience of diverse cultures and ancient traditions in a historic setting.

Akko Old City Waterfront Wall

Explore the historic Akko Old City Waterfront Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with breathtaking views and rich cultural significance.

Walls of Acre

Discover the majestic Walls of Acre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history meets breathtaking Mediterranean views in this ancient port city.

Old Akko Walls

Explore the historic Old Akko Walls in Acre, Israel, where ancient architecture meets breathtaking Mediterranean views.

City Wall Watchtowers

Discover the awe-inspiring City Wall Watchtowers of Acre, a historical landmark with stunning views and rich cultural significance.

اسوار عكا

Discover Acre, Israel: A Historical Landmark with Rich Culture, Stunning Architecture, and Vibrant Markets Awaiting Your Exploration.

Ottoman’s Clock Tower

Discover the Ottoman's Clock Tower in Acre, an iconic historical landmark that showcases the city's rich heritage and stunning architecture.

Haim Farhi House

Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of the Haim Farhi House, a pivotal landmark in Acre's vibrant cultural landscape.

Unmissable attractions to see

Old Akko Walls

Experience the grandeur of the Old Akko Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Acre, Israel, where history and stunning views collide.

Lighthouse

Discover the historic Lighthouse in Acre, a stunning tourist attraction showcasing breathtaking views and rich maritime heritage along the Mediterranean coast.

Acre Ottoman Aqueduct

Explore the breathtaking Acre Ottoman Aqueduct, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture and a key historical site in the heart of Acre, Israel.

Essential places to dine

Uri Buri

Discover Uri Buri in Acre: A premier destination for exquisite seafood dining that showcases local flavors and innovative culinary artistry.

Abu Christo

Discover authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Abu Christo in Akko - where tradition meets flavor.

The Bread And Fish

Discover the authentic taste of Acre at The Bread And Fish - where fresh ingredients meet traditional Israeli cuisine.

MINA

Discover culinary excellence at MINA in Acre – where tradition meets innovation in every delicious bite.

Panorama Restaurant Acre

Discover panoramic views and exquisite cuisine at Panorama Restaurant in Acre - where every meal is a memorable seaside experience.

Siran Restaurant

Discover Siran Restaurant in Acre: A delightful fusion of traditional Mediterranean cuisine and modern dining ambiance.

Sama

Experience culinary excellence at Sama gastropub in Acre - where local flavors meet modern dining.

Hummus Al-Abed Abu Hamid

Experience authentic Israeli cuisine at Hummus Al-Abed Abu Hamid in Acre's historic old city—where every bite tells a story.

Elmoalem Restaurant

Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Elmoalem Restaurant in historic Acre - a culinary gem by the sea.

Ouda restaurant

Experience authentic local flavors at Ouda Restaurant in Acre - where culinary tradition meets modern taste.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The White Market

Explore The White Market in Acre, a vibrant shopping haven showcasing local craftsmanship and delicious cuisine.

Duck You Akko

Discover the whimsical charm of Duck You Akko, a unique toy store in the heart of Old Acre, perfect for families and gift shopping.

בצק סוכר

Discover the sweet side of Acre at בצק סוכר, your go-to grocery store for baking supplies and gourmet delights in Israel.

עיצוב בפרי

Explore the vibrant flavors of Acre at עיצוב בפרי, your go-to destination for fresh fruits and vegetables in the heart of the city.

תכשיטים ומזכרות בולוס אליאס

Explore the vibrant world of local crafts and souvenirs at Tchotchkes and Souvenirs Boulos Elias in Acre, a must-visit for every traveler.

New

Explore Acre's vibrant gift shop for unique souvenirs, local crafts, and a taste of the city's rich cultural heritage.

כל בו רירי

Explore unique styles at כל בו רירי, Acre's finest dress store, where fashion meets the charm of the historic city.

the gift boutique

Explore The Gift Boutique in Acre for unique souvenirs and local art, capturing the essence of this historic city in every delightful piece.

טדי ברס ישראל | TEDDY BEARS ISRAEL

Discover the enchanting world of Teddy Bears Israel in Acre, where nostalgia meets novelty in a delightful shopping experience for all ages.

שלי'ס

Explore the charming שלי'ס gift shop in Acre for unique handcrafted souvenirs that celebrate local culture and artistry.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Uri Buri

Experience the best seafood dining at Uri Buri in Acre, where fresh flavors meet breathtaking Mediterranean views for an unforgettable meal.

Hummus Said

Discover the flavors of traditional Middle Eastern cuisine at Hummus Said, a must-visit restaurant in historic Acre, Israel.

Abu Christo

Discover Abu Christo in Akko, where local flavors meet exceptional hospitality in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Roots רותס

Discover Roots רותס in Acre for an unforgettable kosher dining experience, blending tradition with modern culinary artistry.

Al Fanar cafe

Experience the flavors of Acre at Al Fanar Cafe, a delightful spot for breakfast and local delicacies in a vibrant atmosphere.

The Pisani Port Restaurant

Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean at The Pisani Port Restaurant in Acre, where fresh seafood and local ingredients create unforgettable dishes.

Sama

Discover Sama Gastropub in Acre, where modern cuisine meets stunning views of Old Acre's historic charm in a delightful dining experience.

Hummus Al-Abed Abu Hamid

Experience the authentic taste of Middle Eastern cuisine at Hummus Al-Abed Abu Hamid, a culinary gem in the heart of Acre.

Marsa Bar מרסא בר

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Marsa Bar in Acre, where stunning sea views meet refreshing cocktails and live music in a historic setting.

Rytal queen

Discover the vibrant flavors of Acre at Rytal Queen, where tradition meets modern cuisine in a stunning coastal setting.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Old City of Acre

Discover Old City of Acre with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- Helloשָׁלוֹם
  [shālōm]
- Goodbyeלְהִתְרָאוֹת
  [lehitra'ot]
- Yesכֵּן
  [ken]
- Noלֹא
  [lo]
- Please/You're welcomeבְּבַקָּשָׁה
  [bevakasha]
- Thank youתוֹדָה
  [todah]
- Excuse me/Sorryסְלִיחָה
  [selicha]
- How are you?אֵיך אתה?
  [eich atah?]
- Fine. And you?טוֹב. וָאַתָּה?
  [tov. va'atah?]
- Do you speak English?הֲאַתָּה מְדַבֵּר אַנְגְלִית?
  [ha'atah medaber anglit?]
- I don't understandאֲנִי לֹא מֵבִין
  [ani lo mevin]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseאֲנִי רוֹצֶה לִרְאוֹת אֶת הַתַּפְרִיט, בְּבַקָּשָׁה
  [ani rotseh lir'ot et hatafrit, bevakasha]
- I don't eat meatאֲנִי לֹא אוֹכֵל בָּשָׂר
  [ani lo ochel basar]
- Cheers!לְחַיִּים
  [lechayim]
- I would like to pay, pleaseאֲנִי רוֹצֶה לְשַלֵם, בְּבַקָּשָׁה
  [ani rotseh leshalem, bevakasha]
- Help!עֶזְרָה!
  [ezrah!]
- Go away!לְךָ לְהַלֵךְ
  [lecha lehalech]
- Call the Police!קְרָא לַמִּשְטָרָה!
  [kra lamishtara!]
- Call a doctor!קְרָא לַרוֹפֵא!
  [kra larofe!]
- I'm lostאֲנִי אָבוּד
  [ani avud]
- I'm illאֲנִי חוֹלֶה
  [ani choleh]
- I'd like to buy...אֲנִי רוֹצֶה לִקְנוֹת...
  [ani rotseh liknot...]
- I'm just lookingאֲנִי רַק רוֹאֶה
  [ani rak roeh]
- How much is it?כַּמָה זֶה עוֹלֶה?
  [kama zeh oleh?]
- That's too expensiveזֶה יָקָר מְדַי
  [zeh yakar medai]
- Can you lower the price?הֲאַתָּה יָכוֹל לְהוֹסִיף אֶת הַמְחִיר?
  [ha'atah yachol lehosif et hamachir?]
- What time is it?כַּמָה הוּא זְמַן?
  [kama hu zman?]
- It's one o'clockזֶה חָדֵשׁ
  [zeh chadash]
- Half past (10)חֲצִי (עֶשֶׂר)
  [chatzi (eser)]
- Morningבֹּקֶר
  [boker]
- Afternoonצָהֳרַיִם
  [tsohorayim]
- Eveningעֶרֶב
  [erev]
- Yesterdayאֶתְמוֹל
  [etmol]
- Todayהַיוֹם
  [hayom]
- Tomorrowמָחָר
  [machar]
- 1אֶחָד
  [echad]
- 2שְׁתַיִם
  [shtayim]
- 3שָׁלוֹשׁ
  [shalosh]
- 4אַרְבָּעָה
  [arba'ah]
- 5חֲמִשָּׁה
  [chamishah]
- 6שִׁשָּׁה
  [shishah]
- 7שִׁבְעָה
  [shiv'ah]
- 8שְׁמוֹנָה
  [shmonah]
- 9תִּשְׁעָה
  [tish'ah]
- 10עֶשֶׂר
  [eser]
- Where's a/the...?אֵיפֹה הוּא/הִיא...?
  [eifo hu/hi...?]
- What's the address?מַה הַכְּתוֹבֶת?
  [mah haktove]
- Can you show me (on the map)?הֲאַתָּה יָכוֹל לְהַרְאוֹת לִי (עַל הַמַפָּה)?
  [ha'atah yachol leha'arot li (al hamapa)?]
- When's the next (bus)?מָתַי הַאָסִיף הַבָּא?
  [matay ha'asif haba?]
- A ticket (to ....)כַּרְטִיס (ל...)
  [kartis (le...)]

History of Old City of Acre

The Old City of Acre, known as Akko in Hebrew, has been a pivotal port city since ancient times, with its origins tracing back to the Phoenician period around 3000 BCE. It served as a vital trading hub due to its strategic position along the Mediterranean Sea, facilitating commerce between various civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans.
During the 12th century, Acre became a significant Crusader stronghold, serving as the capital of the Kingdom of Jerusalem. The city was fortified with impressive walls and structures, including the famed Crusader Fortress, and became a thriving center of trade and culture, attracting pilgrims and merchants from across Europe.
Following the fall of the Crusader states, Acre came under Mamluk control in the 13th century, and later, the Ottomans in the 16th century. The Ottomans invested in the city's infrastructure, constructing mosques, caravanserais, and public baths, contributing to its cultural and architectural richness. The city's layout reflects a blend of Islamic and Crusader influences, visible in its diverse monuments.
One of the most notable historical events in Acre was the Siege of Acre in 1799, where Napoleon Bonaparte's forces attempted to capture the city. The siege lasted for several months, ultimately ending in failure due to strong resistance from the local Ottoman garrison and the arrival of reinforcements. This event marked a significant moment in the Napoleonic Wars and highlighted Acre's strategic importance.
In 2001, the Old City of Acre was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its well-preserved historical architecture and rich cultural heritage. Today, the Old City serves as a vibrant cultural hub, showcasing its diverse history through museums, art galleries, and archaeological sites, while continuing to thrive as a bustling marketplace that reflects the living history of its inhabitants.

Old City of Acre Essentials

Old City of Acre is accessible from various neighborhoods in Akko. The city is well-connected by public transportation. Buses run frequently from Akko's central bus station to the Old City, taking around 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can walk from the central area, which will take approximately 20 minutes. Taxis are also available and can be a convenient option, especially for those with luggage.
The Old City of Acre is compact and best explored on foot. Many of its attractions, including the Crusader Fortress, the Al-Jazzar Mosque, and the bustling market, are within walking distance. Bicycles can be rented in nearby neighborhoods, but be cautious of the narrow, cobbled streets. Public buses connect the Old City to other parts of Akko, while taxis are readily available for longer distances.
Old City of Acre is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, like any tourist destination, it is wise to remain vigilant. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep your belongings secure. While there are no specific high-crime areas, exercise caution in crowded markets where pickpocketing can occur.
In case of an emergency, dial 100 for police, 101 for ambulance services, and 102 for fire. Local hospitals and clinics are in Akko, with the closest being the Western Galilee Hospital. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available in the Old City for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, particularly in mosques. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to the elderly and women with children. Don't eat or drink in public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Shalom' or 'Marhaba'. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and enjoy the street food. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it’s considered impolite.
To experience Old City of Acre like a local, visit the bustling markets early in the day for the freshest produce and local delicacies. Try to engage with shopkeepers; many are eager to share stories about their products and the city's history. Explore lesser-known alleys to uncover hidden gems, such as small cafes and artisan shops. Participate in local events or festivals if they coincide with your visit for an authentic cultural experience.

Timeless Charm of Old City of Acre

Local tips in Old City of Acre