The northern coast: Caesarea, Haifa and Akko
An exploration of history, culture and faith through port cities past and present.
Part of Classic Israel: a week across the country →
The shape of the day
We spend the day along the Mediterranean coast north of Tel Aviv, where layer after layer of history meets the sea.
We begin at Caesarea, the great port King Herod built and named for the emperor Augustus, the Roman capital of Judea. We take in the theatre, the hippodrome and the harbour ruins, understanding the incredible engineering feats that made it possible, and touching on the site’s religious significance.
We continue to Akko (Acre), an ancient walled port and the regional capital in medieval times. We’ll enjoy a delicious local lunch in the bustling market before exploring the impressive Crusader remains (a UNESCO world heritage site).
We’ll finish our day at Haifa, a modern, functioning port, with the city itself located on the slopes of Mount Carmel. We’ll enjoy an overlook over the impeccably manicured Bahá’í Gardens (another UNESCO world heritage site!) and understand the history of this very unique faith.
Before leaving Haifa, we’ll stop for some knaffeh, a traditional dessert popular in the local Arab community.
Sites we visit
- Caesarea
- Old Akko (Acre): market & Crusader city
- The Bahá’í Gardens, Haifa
Who it’s for
This day suits anyone interested in exploring Israel’s multi-layered history while enjoying beautiful coastal scenery.
For those interested in either a Christian or Jewish faith focus, I adapt it accordingly, exploring the relevance of Caesarea to both faiths, the connection between Elijah and Mount Carmel, and the synagogues of Akko.
FAQ
Can we go into the Bahá’í Gardens and the Shrine?
Yes, it’s definitely possible. The itinerary plans for a view from the upper terrace, but we can build the day with time to enter and explore in more detail.
The site has a dress code, so you need to be able to cover shoulders, chests and knees.
How much walking is it?
Not a huge amount. There is some walking around the site at Caesarea, which is on uneven ground, and we walk a bit through Akko to reach some of the sites, but it’s not strenuous.
Where does it start, and does it pair with the Galilee?
While it’s possible from Jerusalem, it’s best done as a day trip from Tel Aviv.
It’s a great natural pair with any of the other days in the north if you fancy an overnight in the Galilee.
Is it suitable for all ages?
Yes. There’s enough variety, ruins to clamber over, a harbour, gardens and a market, to keep most ages engaged, and we can lean the day towards what your group enjoys.
Make this itinerary yours
Tell me who’s travelling, your dates and where you want to focus. I’ll put together a personalised proposal.
For urgent bookings, send me a WhatsApp
If you are going to Israel, you would be mad not to give him a call.
Amol Rajan, BBC presenter and broadcaster
Having been on trips in Israel with seven different tour guides, Samuel stood above all the rest.
Seasoned Israel traveller
Samuel is one part walking encyclopedia, one part storyteller, one part stand-up comedian.
Berkeley Haas Business School student