Archanes-Asterousia Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Heraklion which includes a church or cathedral, religious elements and heritage architecture
Heraklion showing a bay or harbour, heritage architecture and a marina
Heraklion showing heritage architecture, religious elements and a small town or village
Heraklion showing boating, heritage architecture and a bay or harbour
Heraklion which includes general coastal views, a bay or harbour 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, artefacts 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 centre 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 Rp3.155.680 per night from 30 Aug to 31 Aug
Rp3.155.680
Rp3.876.180 total
30 Aug - 31 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Heraklion. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in their ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,000 reviews)
"Very nice clean hotel with good amenities and friendly staff , comfortable bed and lovely shower , could do with a few more decent tv stations"

Reviewed on 14 Aug 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 Wi-Fi and free parking. Popular attractions Heraklion Port and Heraklion Archaeological ...
9/10 Wonderful! (85 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
Mitsis Selection Laguna

Mitsis Selection Laguna

5 out of 5
Anissaras, Hersonissos, M
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is Rp5.435.386 per night from 15 Sept to 16 Sept
Rp5.435.386
Rp6.471.908 total
15 Sept - 16 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Hersonissos. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the property condition ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (747 reviews)
"Best All-inclusive experience we have had. Each staff member was amazing, and the restaurants options were diverse and served delicious food. We will definitely be back"

Reviewed on 6 Aug 2025

Mitsis Selection Laguna
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 Wi-Fi, free parking and 4 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (390 reviews)
"Nice hotel, a little outdated. Rooms are very dark with limited view. Kitchenettes are lacking basic equipment to make them useable. That being said- the staff are very friendly and welcoming and the atmosphere is great!"

Reviewed on 7 Aug 2025

Village Heights Resort
Thalia Bloom Villa Apartments

Thalia Bloom Villa Apartments

2 out of 5
Marikas Kapsi, Malevizi, Heraklion
Stay at this aparthotel in Malevizi. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Psaromoura Beach and Agia Pelagia Beach are located ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (20 reviews)
"The owners were friendly and helpful. The property had simple amenities in the room but everything was clean. We enjoyed the lovely pool and the view from the pool area. We were very happy we chose Thalia Bloom Villa Apartments and want to thank the owners for making our trip spectacular. Only suggestion ..."

Reviewed on 3 Jul 2025

Thalia Bloom Villa Apartments
City Center Studios by Cretan Houses

City Center Studios by Cretan Houses

Heraklion
Stay at this aparthotel in Heraklion. Popular attractions Heraklion Port and Heraklion Archaeological Museum are located nearby.
9.2/10 Wonderful! (9 reviews)
"Nice apartment, central location"

Reviewed on 7 Jul 2025

City Center Studios by Cretan Houses
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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