+962 7 9635 8199
[email protected]
“Acre City” could refer to a city named “Acre” rather than “Akko.” Acre (also known as Akko) is a historic city located in northern Israel along the Mediterranean coast. It holds great historical and cultural significance, dating back thousands of years. Acre is an ancient port city that has played a pivotal role in the history of the Eastern Mediterranean. It is known for its well-preserved Crusader architecture, Ottoman-era buildings, and vibrant markets. The city has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich historical and cultural heritage. Acre is situated on the northern coast of Israel, about 23 kilometers (14 miles) north of Haifa. It is located near the border with Lebanon.
Old city of Acre was to the Asher tribe, and it was under the rule of the Israelites, then in the ninth century BC it became under the rule of the Assyrians, and in the sixth and fourth centuries BC it was ruled by the Phoenicians until it was invaded by Alexander the Great. Today, Acre is a thriving city with a mix of modern life and historical charm. Its coastal location also makes it a popular destination for tourists.
The history of Acre (also known as Akko) is rich and diverse, spanning thousands of years and reflecting the influence of various civilizations. Here is an overview of its historical timeline:
When visiting Acre (Akko), you’ll find a captivating blend of history, culture, and architecture. Here are some of the top attractions and sites to explore in Acre:
1-Old City Walls and Ramparts:
The well-preserved medieval walls and ramparts surrounding the Old City provide a glimpse into Acre’s historical fortifications. You can walk along these walls and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sea
2-Citadel of Acre:
This impressive fortress dates back to the Crusader period. It includes various chambers, halls, and dungeons. The Knights’ Halls are a highlight, showcasing beautiful architectural features and exhibits.
3-Al-Jazzar Mosque:
Named after Ahmad Pasha al-Jazzar, an 18th-century Ottoman governor, this mosque is a significant religious and architectural site. Its distinctive green dome and elegant design make it a must-visit.
4-Khan al-Umdan:
This Ottoman-era caravanserai (a roadside inn for travelers) is known for its massive pillars that supported the building’s upper floors. It’s an iconic symbol of Acre’s history as a trading center.
5-Old City Market (Bazaar):
The bustling markets of Acre’s Old City offer a vibrant atmosphere where you can explore narrow alleys filled with shops, stalls, and traditional goods. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs, spices, textiles, and local crafts.
6-Hamam al-Basha:
This Ottoman-era bathhouse offers a glimpse into the bathing rituals of the past. The architecture and design reflect the attention to detail during that period.
7-Templars’ Tunnel:
This underground tunnel was used by the Knights Templar during the Crusades to access the harbor from their fortress. Walking through the tunnel provides a unique historical experience.
8-Acre Harbor:
The modern harbor area contrasts with the ancient sites but still offers a picturesque view. You can take boat rides, explore seafood restaurants, and enjoy the waterfront ambiance.
9-Treasures in the Walls Museum:
This museum showcases the history and diverse cultural heritage of Acre through multimedia exhibits and artifacts.
10-Acre Marina:
A newer addition to the city, the marina is a great place for a leisurely stroll along the promenade, surrounded by boats and cafes.
11-Acre’s Beaches:
Acre has several beaches along its coastline where you can relax and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea.
12-Acre Fortress National Park:
This park encompasses many of the historical sites mentioned above, making it a comprehensive place to explore Acre’s history and culture.
Akko or Acre
Before continuing to explore all that Akko has to offer, there is a crucial point we need to make clear.
The same location is called Akko, Acre, Akra, Acco, or possibly Akka.
When we were planned the vacation, we must admit that these numerous spellings were perplexing us.
Therefore, even if it may seem clear to some, we want to establish this as general knowledge right away.
To clarify the situation in this travel guide, we will refer to Akko by that name.
Although we aren’t experts on the subject, from what we’ve observed, the word acre is more frequently used in English, however even that isn’t always the case.
Weather and Climate in Acre City
In ‘Acre City, the summers are hot, muggy, arid, and clear and the winters are cool, wet, and mostly clear. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 50°F to 87°F and is rarely below 44°F or above 90°F. which has pleasant, sunny summers and mild, dry winters (with chilly nights) (during which thunderstorms often break out).
Summers are long, lasting from May to September, with July and August being the hottest months. Temperatures range between 23-36° C (75-96° F) and you can expect 50-90% humidity. The good news is that there is air-conditioning almost everywhere you go, from buses and taxis to malls and hotels. However, it is really important to prepare for these temperatures, especially when spending time outdoors. Buy good sun protection, wear long but cool clothes and make sure to drink plenty of water.
Autumn is, for the most part, a continuation of the summer weather. It does get a little cooler and the humidity drops, so it is more comfortable. The season starts in September and at the end of November it starts getting cooler and we might see a little rain, but not too much. September is usually as warm as summer, but the temperatures in autumn are similar to those of spring and range between 16-24° C (60-75° F).
Depending on where you come from you might not even consider the city weather “real winter weather”. This is the wettest time of the year and temperatures range between 6-15° C (42-60° F). Israeli schools have a winter break for Channukah during December, this usually doesn’t affect accommodation, but activities tend to get crowded. Also, tourists from nearby countries use their winter breaks to enjoy the warmer temperatures in this city.
Spring is between March and May; this is the ideal time to visit this city. You usually won’t see much rain and the temperatures are mild, ranging between 16-24° C (60-75° F), although the nights might still be chilly. Passover falls in April so if you are planning on visiting during this time keep in mind that prices of flights and accommodation will rise and tend to get booked early.
When is the best time to book my flight ?
There are many different factors that affect each route and so the bad news is – no one rule fits all. But the good news is that Hopper, a Boston-based start-up that analyses flight data and predicts the best time to book a specific flight is doing a great job (they are right 95% of the time), so we suggest checking out their predictions for your flight.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Akko
It is reasonable to assume that any season is suitable for sightseeing in Akko if you are not only there for the beaches.
If we were being very choosy, we may advise you to travel to Akko from April to November.
Despite the fact that the summer months (June to August) would likely be too hot for us, it is the weather-wise greatest season to visit Israel.
We prefer to travel in the off-peak months, and we discovered that November was the ideal month to see the country because there was no rain, and the temperatures were tolerable.
Safety
Acre City did, in fact, feel a little left out, especially closer to the fish market, but we’d think that’s relatively typical in communities with comparable demographics. Due to the high visitor traffic in the city center, it is important to protect your belongings from opportunistic thieves. Checking the local news often for the most recent developments is one of the greatest methods to be safe in Israel.
Tours & Transfers:
Where To Stay In Acre City
1-Old City:
Staying within the Old City allows you to immerse yourself in Acre’s historical atmosphere. You’ll be close to many of the main attractions, making it convenient for exploring on foot.
2-Harbor Area:
The harbor area offers a mix of modern amenities and proximity to the waterfront. You’ll find hotels with views of the sea and easy access to the marina.
3-City Center:
Acre’s city center provides access to shops, restaurants, and transportation hubs. This area might have a broader range of accommodation options to suit different budgets.
4-Boutique Hotels and Guesthouses:
Acre has a few boutique hotels and guesthouses that offer a more personalized and intimate experience, often with unique decor and local charm.