Archanes-Asterousia

Travel Guide

Heraklion showing religious aspects, heritage architecture and a church or cathedral
Heraklion which includes heritage architecture, boating and a bay or harbour
Heraklion showing religious aspects, a small town or village and a church or cathedral
Heraklion showing boating, heritage architecture and a marina
Heraklion which includes general coastal views, a marina and heritage architecture

In this area of Crete, seek out the charming village of Archanes, just a short drive from Heraklion, to discover archaeological treasures and some fine walks.

Archanes-Asterousia is a municipality of Crete. One of the most interesting places in this area is the village of Archanes, located in the hills south of Heraklion, the island’s capital city. Walk through the beautifully restored village and visit its four main archaeological sites. See the best of the relics found at these sites in the excellent archaeological museum before taking a walk in the nearby mountains. Relax with a meal and a glass of wine in one of the many fine cafés in the old town square.

Wander along the narrow streets and admire the bright blooms of the flowers and fruit trees that line the pavement. Walk to the nearest archaeological site, an old Minoan graveyard at the edge of the village. Three other sites lie nearby, all of which have been locations for important finds. Visit the Archaeological Museum to see the recovered ancient Greek ceramics, artifacts and tools on display. The museum is free to enter and is open daily except Tuesdays.

Climb the E4 hiking trail up Mount Yiouhtas. This trail starts in the village center and takes you to the ancient chapel, Afentis Christos, at the top of the mountain. Look for sheep and goats grazing along the rugged trail. These are not wild animals be sure to close any gates that you pass through. Enjoy stunning views across Heraklion and beyond.

Head back to the square in the late afternoon and watch as the locals make their way home for the day. Several cafés and restaurants serve typical Greek cuisine: seafood, goat dishes, flaky pastries, yogurt and olives. Pair your Cretan meal with a superb wine grown in the vineyards surrounding the village.

Archane is located less than 30 minutes by car south of Heraklion. Make a comfortable daytrip. Places to stay are limited, so make sure you book ahead if you want to extend your visit.

Aquila Atlantis Hotel

Aquila Atlantis Hotel

5 out of 5
2 Ygias Street, Heraklion, Crete Island
The price is €194 per night from 6 Aug to 7 Aug
€194
6 Aug - 7 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Heraklion. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,001 reviews)
"Proximity to shops and restaurants"

Reviewed on 27 Jul 2025

Aquila Atlantis Hotel
Hotel Tsagarakis Beach

Hotel Tsagarakis Beach

3 out of 5
37, Andrea Papandreou str., Ammoudara, Malevizi, Crete Island
Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Malevizi. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Heraklion Port and Natural History Museum ...
9/10 Wonderful! (74 reviews)
"It's a unique place. You've got to be the type of person that doesn't judge on face value to enjoy it. I really liked it. There's definitely some characters there. Badly needs a refurb but if it had one it would be busier and less enjoyable in other ways. Take it as you find it and don't judge too ..."

Reviewed on 30 Jul 2025

Hotel Tsagarakis Beach
Village Heights Resort

Village Heights Resort

5 out of 5
Hersonissos, Hersonissos, Crete Island
The price is €132 per night from 1 Sept to 2 Sept
€132
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury aparthotel in Hersonissos. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 4 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (384 reviews)
"Rooms were spacious and had everything we needed. All the staff were so lovely and helpful. Most of all the food was amazing."

Reviewed on 29 Jul 2025

Village Heights Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Village Heights Resort

Village Heights Resort

5 out of 5
Hersonissos, Hersonissos, Crete Island
Stay at this 5-star luxury aparthotel in Hersonissos. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 4 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (384 reviews)
"Rooms were spacious and had everything we needed. All the staff were so lovely and helpful. Most of all the food was amazing."

Reviewed on 29 Jul 2025

Village Heights Resort
Castello Village Resort

Castello Village Resort

4 out of 5
Papatheodorou, Sissi, Agios Nikolaos, Crete Island
Stay at this 4-star spa aparthotel in Agios Nikolaos. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Malia Beach and Stalis Beach are ...
7.6/10 Good! (42 reviews)
"La cucina orribile. L' acqua non è compresa nella mezza pensione. 3 euro una bottiglia d'acqua, 4 euro frizzante. Nel buffet abbiamo visto capelli qua e là. La struttura avrebbe bisogno di maggiore pulizia e manutenzione. Animazione inesistente. La struttura è fronte mare, ma non puoi fare il bagno ..."

Reviewed on 16 Jul 2025

Castello Village Resort
LAVRIS City Suites

LAVRIS City Suites

38 IKAROU AV & T. GEORGIADI, Heraklion, CRETE
Book a stay at this eco-certified apartment in Heraklion. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (156 reviews)
"Highly recommended to anyone looking for a top-tier hospitality experience."

Reviewed on 25 Jul 2025

LAVRIS City Suites
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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