Acre

עכו

A UNESCO World Heritage coastal city with a magnificent walled Old Town featuring Crusader-era architecture, underground halls, and a charming harbor lined with seafood restaurants. The blend of medieval history, vibrant Arab culture, and Mediterranean atmosphere makes it unmissable.

Things to do

• Explore the Old City Walls — Walk the 16th-century Ottoman fortifications encircling the Old Town, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the harbor.
• Tour the Knights Halls — Descend into the underground vaulted halls built by the Crusaders, now excavated and open as a museum showcasing medieval architecture and artifacts.
• Visit the Bahá'í Gardens and Shrine — Climb to the terraced Persian gardens overlooking Acre, surrounding the golden-domed Shrine of Bahá'u'lláh, a major pilgrimage site and UNESCO site.
• Wander the Harbor and Fish Market — Stroll the picturesque waterfront lined with fishing boats, seafood restaurants, and local vendors selling fresh catch and souvenirs.
• Visit the Mosque of al-Jazzar — Admire the 18th-century mosque with its distinctive dome and minaret, one of the largest and most beautiful in Israel, set within the Old City.
• Explore the Souk and Bazaars — Browse the narrow, winding market streets selling spices, textiles, jewelry, and traditional crafts in an authentic Arab setting.

Food to try

• Hummus at a Local Hummus Shop — Savory chickpea paste blended with tahini, lemon, and garlic, topped with olive oil and served warm with pita—a staple breakfast or lunch in Acre.
• Grilled Sea Bream (Deniss) — Fresh Mediterranean sea bream caught locally and charred over open flames, served with lemon and herbs at harborfront restaurants.
• Salatim (Mixed Mezze Platter) — An array of small dishes including baba ganoush, tabbouleh, olives, and cheese, designed for sharing and showcasing Palestinian flavors.
• Shrimp Saganaki — Plump local shrimp sautéed with tomatoes, garlic, and white wine, topped with melted cheese—a signature dish in Acre's waterfront restaurants.
• Knafeh (Sweet Pastry Dessert) — Crispy shredded phyllo soaked in syrup with soft white cheese and topped with pistachios, served warm and enjoyed as a traditional sweet treat.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Prayer Times and Dress Modestly — If visiting the Mosque of al-Jazzar or other religious sites, remove shoes, dress conservatively, and avoid entering during the five daily prayers.
• Bargaining is Expected in the Souk — In the bazaars and markets, haggling over prices is a normal and encouraged cultural practice; start at 50-70% of the asking price.
• Learn Basic Arabic Greetings — Locals appreciate visitors who attempt Arabic phrases like 'Marhaba' (hello) and 'Shukran' (thank you), though Hebrew and English are widely understood.
• Best Time to Visit is Late Afternoon — The Old City is cooler and less crowded after 4 PM, and the golden-hour light enhances photography while restaurants prepare for the evening meal rush.