Land Gate
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Land Gate

4.6
·814 reviews·Acre, Israel

Explore the magnificent Citadel of Acre, a well-preserved Crusader fortress with fascinating underground passages and stunning sea views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Opening hours

Avoid crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Land Gate

Land Gate

Best Time

Opening hours

Avoid crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the magnificent Citadel of Acre, a well-preserved Crusader fortress with fascinating underground passages and stunning sea views.

4.6
(814 reviews)

"Amazing medieval site! If you love history, you're gonna like it for sure."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive at Opening

Beat the crowds by arriving right when it opens. Coach parties arrive later, so early birds get a more peaceful visit.

🎟️ Combo Ticket Value

Save money with combo tickets for Citadel, museums, bathhouse, and Templar's Tunnel. Great value for exploring more.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Hospitallers' Fortress

The Hospitallers' Fortress

Citadel

Explore the impressive medieval fortress of the Knights Hospitaller, a testament to Crusader-era architecture and history.

Secret Tunnel to the Sea

Secret Tunnel to the Sea

Templar's Tunnel

Venture through the fascinating underground medieval passages, including a secret tunnel that once led to the sea.

Sunset Citadel Walk

Sunset Citadel Walk

Citadel Walls

Experience a priceless walk along the citadel walls at sunset, with breathtaking views of the sea and the ancient city.

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Planning Your Visit

Arrive Early for Peace

To avoid crowds and enjoy the historical site in tranquility, aim to arrive right at opening time. Coach parties tend to arrive later, making the experience much more peaceful beforehand.

Combo Tickets for Value

Consider purchasing combo tickets that include the Citadel, museums, bathhouse, and Templar's Tunnel. This offers excellent value and allows you to explore multiple historical facets of Acre.

Best Times

When
Opening hours
Why
Avoid crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Priceless views, romantic ambiance
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎯 Arrive at Opening

Beat the crowds by arriving right when it opens. Coach parties arrive later, so early birds get a more peaceful visit. Reddit

🎟️ Combo Ticket Value

Save money with combo tickets for Citadel, museums, bathhouse, and Templar's Tunnel. Great value for exploring more. Reddit

🎧 Audio Guide Recommended

Enhance your visit with the entertaining audio guide, available in various languages for a richer historical understanding. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Combine with Tunnels

Don't miss the nearby Templar's Tunnel, a quick but fascinating addition to your historical exploration. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive at Opening

Beat the crowds by arriving right when it opens. Coach parties arrive later, so early birds get a more peaceful visit. Reddit

🎟️ Combo Ticket Value

Save money with combo tickets for Citadel, museums, bathhouse, and Templar's Tunnel. Great value for exploring more. Reddit

🎧 Audio Guide Recommended

Enhance your visit with the entertaining audio guide, available in various languages for a richer historical understanding. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Combine with Tunnels

Don't miss the nearby Templar's Tunnel, a quick but fascinating addition to your historical exploration. Reddit

🌅 Sunset Citadel Stroll

Walk the citadel walls at sunset for stunning sea views and a magical atmosphere. Truly unforgettable. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(814 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Citadel of Acre for its well-preserved Crusader history and engaging presentation. The interactive elements and audio guides are highlighted as particularly strong points, making it enjoyable for both adults and children. While the site can get crowded, arriving early or visiting during sunset offers a more peaceful and breathtaking experience.

"We stayed in Acre overnight, primarily to visit the Citadel. We arrived just before 9 and went straight in. There is a nice route laid out with plenty of information boards and exhibits. There is lots of information about the Military Orders, the Crusades, life at that period as well as an area that is family friendly with interactive displays and I think some dressing up areas.
The place is obviously pretty large and it took a couple of hours to see everything and by then it was crowded with lots of coach parties so if you want to see it in peace, arrive at opening time.
I'd recommend combing this with a trip to the nearby tunnels (very quick - 15 minutes there and back) and also the sea walls to look at the Ottoman walls and remains of the Crusader fortifications."

Marcus Hurley

"Amazing medieval site! If you love history, you're gonna like it for sure. The Hospitallers' fortress and Knights hall, the old underground medieval passages, the Al-Jazzar mosque etc."

Cedric Martin

"Well presented and preserved crusader Castle in Acre, (Akko), Israel. Great museum with great audio visuals. Don't miss the secret tunnel that leads to the sea! Great for adults and kids. Lots of fascinating history. Headphones for tours in various languages as well."

Y. Harvey Norman

What People Like

Well-preserved Crusader history
Engaging audio guides
Interactive displays for kids

What People Dislike

Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Land Gate, often referred to as the Citadel of Acre or Crusader Castle, is centrally located in the Old City of Acre. If you're arriving by car, look for parking near the Old City walls. Public transport options include buses that stop near the city center, from where it's a short walk. Many visitors find it easy to navigate the Old City on foot once they arrive. Reddit

Yes, there are parking areas available near the entrance to Acre's Old City. From there, it's a pleasant walk to the Citadel. Reddit

The Acre bus station is relatively close to the Old City. You can walk to the Land Gate from the bus station, which should take about 15-20 minutes, depending on your pace. Reddit

While the main areas of the Citadel are generally accessible, some of the older sections and tunnels might present challenges. It's advisable to check with the site directly for the most up-to-date accessibility information. Reddit

Acre is well-connected by train and bus from major cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa, making it an excellent destination for a day trip. The journey is relatively short and convenient. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but purchasing combo tickets for the Citadel, museums, bathhouse, and Templar's Tunnel is highly recommended for value. A combo ticket was around 49 shekels, offering access to multiple attractions. Reddit

It's often possible to purchase tickets online in advance, which can save you time upon arrival. Check the official website for the Citadel of Acre for the most current booking options. Reddit

The Citadel typically opens in the morning, around 9 AM, and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to verify the exact hours for your visit, as they can change seasonally. Arriving at opening is advised to avoid crowds. Reddit

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Inquire at the ticket office or check the official website for any applicable discount programs. Reddit

Combo tickets typically grant access to the main Citadel, various museums within the site, the Ottoman Bathhouse, and the Templar's Tunnel, offering a comprehensive historical experience. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Allow at least two hours to fully explore the Citadel and its exhibits. If you plan to visit the nearby tunnels or sea walls, allocate additional time. Reddit

Yes, an excellent and entertaining audio guide is available, offering insights in various languages. This is highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the history. Reddit

Inside, you'll find extensive information about the Military Orders, the Crusades, and daily life during that period. There are also interactive displays and family-friendly areas. Reddit

Absolutely! The site offers interactive displays and some dressing-up areas that are great for kids. The audio guide is also engaging for younger visitors. Reddit

These refer to the Templar's Tunnel and other excavated areas beneath the Citadel, offering a glimpse into the city's ancient infrastructure and secret routes. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Citadel walls, especially at sunset, offer stunning panoramic views of the sea and the Old City. The architectural details of the Crusader fortress are also highly photogenic. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed in most areas of the Citadel. However, always be mindful of any specific signage or restrictions, especially in museum exhibits. Reddit

Sunset is particularly magical for photography, casting a warm glow over the ancient stones and sea. Early morning also offers softer light and fewer crowds. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in historical sites and urban areas. It's essential to check local regulations before flying a drone in Acre. Reddit

Yes, photography is usually permitted within the tunnels, but be aware of lighting conditions. Using a flash might be necessary in some darker sections. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Citadel of Acre is a fantastic destination for families. It offers interactive displays and even some dressing-up areas that will capture children's imaginations. The audio guide is engaging and can help keep younger visitors interested in the historical narratives. Reddit

Consider purchasing a combo ticket to explore the Templar's Tunnel, which is often a hit with kids due to its adventurous feel. Arriving early is key to ensuring a less crowded and more enjoyable experience for everyone. The site is large enough to explore without feeling overly confined, and the historical context provides a great learning opportunity. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the combo ticket is your best friend. It bundles access to the Citadel, museums, bathhouse, and Templar's Tunnel for a set price (around 49 shekels), offering significant savings compared to individual tickets. Reddit

While there might be an extra charge for specific exhibits like the Leonardo da Vinci display, the core combo ticket provides excellent value. Pack your own snacks and water to save on on-site purchases. Exploring the Old City on foot after your Citadel visit is also a free and rewarding activity. Reddit

❤️ Couples

A visit to the Citadel offers a blend of history and romance, especially during sunset. Walking the ancient walls as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the sea, is an incredibly romantic experience. Reddit

Consider exploring the underground passages together for a bit of shared adventure. The historical ambiance of Acre provides a unique backdrop for a memorable outing. Enjoying a meal at one of the local restaurants in the Old City after your visit can round off a perfect day. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Crusader History of Acre

Acre, or Akko, boasts a rich and complex history, particularly its role as a major stronghold during the Crusades. The Land Gate, more accurately the Citadel of Acre, stands as a powerful reminder of this era. It was a key fortress for the Knights Hospitaller, one of the most influential military orders. The site showcases impressive Crusader architecture, with vast halls, defensive walls, and underground passages that speak to the strategic importance of the city.

Visitors can delve into the lives of the knights, the intricacies of medieval warfare, and the daily routines of the inhabitants. The interactive displays and audio-visual presentations bring this history to life, making it accessible and engaging for all ages. The preservation of these structures allows for an immersive experience, transporting you back to a time of knights and sieges. Reddit+1

Beyond the Citadel itself, exploring the sea walls and Ottoman fortifications offers further context to Acre's layered past. The city's strategic location on the Mediterranean made it a coveted prize, leading to numerous conflicts and periods of rule by different empires. Understanding this historical tapestry enhances the appreciation of the Land Gate as a significant historical monument. Reddit

Exploring the Underground Passages

One of the most captivating aspects of visiting the Land Gate complex is the opportunity to explore the underground medieval passages. These subterranean networks served various purposes, from secret escape routes to storage and living quarters. The Templar's Tunnel, in particular, is a highlight, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity and clandestine operations of the past. Walking through these dimly lit tunnels provides a unique perspective on the city's hidden history. Reddit

These passages are often part of combo tickets, making them an easily accessible addition to your visit. The experience is both thrilling and educational, allowing you to imagine the lives of those who navigated these routes centuries ago. The well-preserved nature of these tunnels contributes to their allure, making them a must-see for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Reddit

When exploring the tunnels, remember that lighting can be dim, so be prepared. Some visitors find it adds to the atmosphere, while others might prefer to use their phone's flashlight for better visibility. The short duration of the tunnel visit makes it a perfect, quick adventure that complements the main Citadel exploration. Reddit

The Citadel at Sunset

For an unforgettable experience, a visit to the Citadel at sunset is highly recommended. As the day winds down, the ancient stones of the fortress are bathed in a warm, golden light, creating a truly magical ambiance. The panoramic views from the citadel walls stretch across the Mediterranean Sea and the charming Old City of Acre, offering a breathtaking spectacle. Reddit

This time of day is not only visually stunning but also offers a more serene atmosphere. The crowds tend to thin out, allowing for a peaceful stroll along the ramparts. The gentle sea breeze and the vibrant colors of the sky create a perfect setting for reflection and appreciation of the historical significance of the site. Reddit

Many visitors describe the sunset walk as 'priceless,' highlighting the emotional impact of the experience. It's an ideal moment for photography, capturing the enduring beauty of Acre against the backdrop of a setting sun. Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking a beautiful view, the sunset at the Citadel is an experience that stays with you. Reddit

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