Archanes-Asterousia Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Heraklion which includes religious elements, a city and a church or cathedral
Discover the ancient charms, archaeological treasures and simple culinary delights of this restored village, perched in a crook of the Cretan Mountains above Heraklion.

Explore the Archanes-Asterousia municipality and journey through the hilly landscape above the Archanes village. Browse precious relics of the area’s history in the Archaeological Museum and then take a peaceful hike on nearby mountain trails. Take a moment’s rest in the old town square, where you can savour a meal and a fine wine at one of many cafés.

As you explore the narrow streets of this ancient settlement, enjoy the colours and aromas of its flower displays and fruit trees. Find the village’s closest archaeological site at the old Minoan graveyard on the village outskirts. Nearby, three other sites have produced some fascinating finds. Browse the exhibits of the Archaeological Museum and see Greek ceramics, precious artefacts and ancient tools on display. The museum does not charge admission and is open daily except Tuesdays.

Get the heart pumping and the lungs working with a hike up the E4 hiking trail. This trail begins in the village centre, past an ancient chapel, Afentis Christos and up Mount Yiouhtas. Photograph picturesque vistas of mountain valleys and goats grazing along grassy ridges. Be sure to close any gates you pass through. From the top, you’ll get some of the best views of the landscape, Heraklion, and beyond.

Return to the Archanes main square in the evening and watch crowds of locals heading home for the day. Take a seat at one of several restaurants serving traditional Greek cuisine around the square. Compliment your dish of seafood, goat stews, flaky pastries or olives with a fine wine produced in the vineyards surrounding the village.

Archanes is situated south of Heraklion. Getting there by car will take around 30 minutes, making it an easy destination for a daytrip. Though some accommodation is available, book in advance as places are limited.

Aquila Atlantis Hotel
Aquila Atlantis Hotel
5 out of 5
2 Ygias Street, Heraklion, Crete Island
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$277 per night from 26 May to 27 May
NZ$277
per night
26 May - 27 May
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! (804 reviews)
"Room was fine And clean Absolutely lovely staff who were extremely helpful during our stay Clearly boutique level"

Reviewed on 11 May 2024

Aquila Atlantis Hotel
Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa - Adults Only
Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa - Adults Only
5 out of 5
Analipsi, Analipsi, Hersonissos
The price is NZ$840 per night from 20 May to 21 May
NZ$840
per night
20 May - 21 May
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Hersonissos. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the room service ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (256 reviews)
"Everything is exactly as you expect! All of the staff we have interacted with have been the most caring and attentive people I have ever met, especially at the Makuti bar day in day out they even recommended us some films to watch. The pictures of the place you see are exactly what you get. If you ..."

Reviewed on 1 May 2024

Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa - Adults Only
GDM Megaron Historical Monument Hotel
GDM Megaron Historical Monument Hotel
5 out of 5
9, D. Beaufort Street, Heraklion, Crete Island
The price is NZ$312 per night from 15 Jun to 16 Jun
NZ$312
per night
15 Jun - 16 Jun
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 pool in our reviews. ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (1,001 reviews)
"5 star hotel with very friendly reception staff."

Reviewed on 14 May 2024

GDM Megaron Historical Monument Hotel
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.
City Lion by Semavi
City Lion by Semavi
3 out of 5
Psaromiligkon 13, Heraklion
Stay at this 3-star aparthotel in Heraklion. Enjoy free WiFi, dry cleaning or laundry services, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Heraklion Port and ...
10/10 Exceptional! (58 reviews)
"Very unique space with ample living room and modern design. Excellent location in the heart of the city."

Reviewed on 19 Mar. 2024

City Lion by Semavi
Manili Boutique Suites & Villas
Manili Boutique Suites & Villas
5 out of 5
Ano Archanes, Archanes-Asterousia
Stay at this 5-star luxury aparthotel in Archanes-Asterousia. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Palace of Knossos and Fourni ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (10 reviews)
"An exquisitely designed property in a charming town, near Heraklion. Although it's no fault of the hotel, GPS programs insist on directing you on tiny, steep lanes to bring you to and take you from the property. Highly recommended to not rely on GPS apps. This offers small town flavor near to Heraklion ..."

Reviewed on 2 Apr. 2024

Manili Boutique Suites & Villas
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 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (316 reviews)
"Great resort"

Reviewed on 3 May 2024

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.

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