Archanes is a large village, located 16 kilometers from Heraklion, on 400 m. altitude under the Juktas mountain. It’s a very beautiful picturesque village with stone-paved streets and colorful houses with yards full of blooming trees and plants. Archanes has won 2nd award of the best restored village in Europe and 1st award in long term development prospects. A walk around its streets is a pleasure.

In ancient times there was a significant Minoan palace but smaller than Knossos and Phaistos palaces. There is a worth visit Archaeological Museum which displays finds of the Minoan era came from excavations in the broader Archanes area and the close by archaeological sites of Anemospilia, Fourni and Vathypetro.

Archanes is also a local agricultural center, famous for its production of olive oil, wine and raisin. You can see and visit vineyards and olive groves which surrounding the village. 

You can eat or enjoy a hot cup of tea at the cafes and taverns of the restored square where there are outdoor seating and tree-shaded terraces.

Go explore this great place and get lost in the beauty of its streets with comfort and safety that cars of Rent a car at Crete offers you. Feel free to send us an email request for suggestions and information for a more cultural vacation experience in Crete.