Nestled on Israel's northern coast, Akko is an up-and-coming port city rich with Jewish history, sites, and fantastic food. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Israeli treasure is a unique cross between east and west, modern and ancient Israel, beauty and ruins. Its rich history is palpable in its alleyways, underground passages, and picturesque architecture, whose character reflects the legacy left behind by the Greeks, Romans, Crusaders, and Arabs. But what has transformed this hidden gem from a pit stop to a destination is its recent emergence as a culinary force in the north, with some of the best hummus on the eastern Mediterranean (some say it’s better than the Jaffa street food offerings) and some of the best seafood restaurants in Israel.
Things to do in Akko
The luxurious Efendi Hotel features a beautiful terrace with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. It is located in the historic centre of Acre. Haifa is a 30-minute drive away.Only a 10-minute walk from the beach, this hotel is surrounded by picturesque alleys and is 100 metres from the promenade. The Jezzar Pasha Mosque is 200 metres away.Set in 2 buildings, rooms are all modern and air conditioned, and overlook the mountains and the sea. Each has free WiFi, and a living area with an LCD satellite TV and DVD player.The restaurant at Hotel Efendi specialises in fresh seafood and local recipes. A varied Israeli breakfast is served and includes eggs, salads, bread, and hot and cold drinks.A relaxing session in the Turkish bath or in the massage rooms is not to be missed.
Calling all seafood lovers: while visiting Akko, a trip to Uri Buri is an absolute must. This iconic Akko institution has a minimalist decor and a laser focus on fish and flavor. Every item on the menu is fresh, seasonal and guaranteed to make your tastebuds dance, from the scrumptious seafood soup to the sashimi salmon with wasabi sorbet.
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