Archanes Crete: Top Attractions, History, Travel Guide and Car Rental

Archanes Village is one of Crete’s most historical villages. Its history dates back to the Minoan era. It is located in the Heraklion regional unit of Crete. Archanes has a beautiful view of the local countryside. The village has a rich history dating from the Byzantine era. In 1961, Nikiforos Fokas defeated the Arabs, who had power over Crete. Then, the Venetians ruled the island in 1205. There are churches built during those times. Later, the village of Archanes was known to be the key location in the revolt of 1897 against the Ottomans. Archanes village was also a significant area of resistance during World War II. At present, Archanes Village is a perfect location for exploring archaeological sites. There are beautiful old churches of the Byzantine and Venetian periods in the village. Furthermore, it is famous for the excellence of its neoclassical architecture, which is prominent in Crete. Archanes is an award-winning village that preserves its natural beauty and historical sites. Travelling to Archanes village is very easy. If one is arriving at the Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport, car rental companies are plentiful in the airport. If one prefers to take the public bus, there are several KTEL bus stations departing daily from Heraklion. There are plenty of things to do and attractions to visit in Archanes including the Archaeological Collection of Archanes, Mount Giouchtas, the Archaeological Site of Fourni, the The Minoan Mansion of Vathypetro and the Afentis Christos Chapel. Fancy but still Cretan authentic accommodation options are widely available including Manili Boutique Suites & Villas, Inotropes Boutique Suites, Carpe Diem Hotel, Eliathos Residence Houses and Katalagari Country Suites. Archanes is one the top gastronomic towns within the Heraklion region. Gastronomic visitors should visit the top places to eat in Archanes including Zen Of Crete, Bakaliko, Kritamon Restaurant and Trioroukouno Restaurant Cafe.

Archanes Village is the best holiday destination for people who love history and wine. One will never run out of things to do in Archanes Village. Going around different places is easier because there are several car rental companies that offer the best services. Booking online is the fastest way of availing one’s service. Make sure to provide all the requirements needed when renting a car. These include a valid driving licence, the age must be 21 years old, a credit or debit card with the driver’s name on it, insurance, and the type of vehicle. Car rental Crete has the best offers when it comes to renting a car in Crete. Simply book a reservation on their website and follow the procedure.

How does the Archanes Village map look?

Below is an image of the Archanes Village.

What are the top attractions to visit in Archanes?

Listed below are the top attractions to visit in Archanes.

Archaeological Collection of Archanes: The Archaeological Collection of Archanes is a museum that showcases artefacts and findings from the Minoan civilisation that once thrived in the area in the village of Archanes in Lampraki 101, Epano Archanes 701 00, Greece. Visitors can explore the various rooms and exhibits that recreate the living spaces and workspaces of the ancient Minoans. They can see displays of pottery, tools, weapons, jewellery, and other household items that the Minoan people once used. The museum offers guided tours and educational programs to enhance the visitor experience. The admission cost for entering the Archaeological Collection of Archanes is €2 ($2.16, £1.74) for a general admission ticket and €1 ($1.08, £0.87) for a reduced ticket.
Mount Giouchtas: Mount Giouchtas (Juktas or Youktas) is a mountain in north-central Crete, 1 kilometre (0.62 miles) north of the village of Archanes. Mount Giouchtas is an archaeological site and a former place of worship and ritual sacrifice during the Minoan era. Mount Giouchtas provided the first evidence of human sacrifice practices in Minoan Crete. The archaeological excavations conducted in 1979 by Giannis and Efi Sakellarakis revealed the remains of a young man and a young woman, along with various offerings. Visitors to Mount Giouchtas can explore the archaeological site, which includes the remains of the two-story building, altars, and other structures. Guided tours are often available to provide insights into the site’s history and significance in the Minoan religion and culture.
Archaeological Site of Fourni: The Archaeological Site of Fourni is an ancient Minoan cemetery between Ano Archanes and Kato Archanes, near the Minoan settlement of Archanes. It is considered one of the most significant prehistoric cemeteries in the Aegean region, providing valuable insights into the Minoan civilisation’s burial practices and social structure. Visitors can explore the excavated tombs, which include rock-cut chamber tombs, pit graves, and shaft graves. The site features a quarry area where the materials for constructing the tombs were extracted. Guided tours provide insights into the site’s history and significance.
The Minoan Mansion of Vathypetro: The Minoan Mansion of Vathypetro is an archaeological site once a significant Minoan-era complex south of Archanes on the southeast side of Yuhtas. The Minoan Mansion of Vathypetro is an archaeological site and the remains of a Minoan-era mansion or villa complex. The site features the remains of a large central building complex and evidence of wine presses, suggesting it played a role in wine production. Visitors can explore the excavated ruins and see the remains of the central mansion building, wine presses, storage areas, and other facilities. Guided tours are available to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
Afentis Christos Chapel: The Afentis Christos Chapel is a church located at the summit of Mount Giouchtas in Epano Archanes 701 00, Greece. The Afentis Christos Chapel is a religious and cultural attraction, serving as a place of worship and pilgrimage for many Cretans. The Afentis Christos Chapel has four aisles, which are believed to symbolise various religious events and figures. Visitors to the Afentis Christos Chapel can explore the chapel’s interior, admire its architecture, and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the summit of Mount Giouchtas. Many visitors attend religious services or participate in the annual pilgrimage and festival on August 6th, celebrating the Transfiguration of Christ.
Koronekes Olive Mill: Koronekes Olive Mill is a family-owned organic olive mill in the village of Archanes. It is a working olive mill that produces high-quality extra virgin olive oils using traditional methods and sustainable farming practices. Visitors can take part in various activities and experiences. They can learn about the production process of olive oil, from cultivation to bottling, and taste their range of organic extra virgin olive and flavoured oils. Participate in cooking demonstrations or hands-on classes to learn how to incorporate olive oil into traditional Cretan cuisine and attend workshops on olive oil soap-making, sensory play for children, and more. The standard Olive Oil Tour and Tasting admission cost is €14 ($15.13, £12.17) per person. Other activities like cooking classes, workshops, and specialised tours may have different pricing.
Sinadinakis Winery: Sinadinakis Winery is a family-owned winery in the village of Archanes. It is a small-scale winery that combines traditional winemaking methods with modern technology to produce high-quality Cretan wines using organic farming practices. Visitors can take a guided tour of the winery facilities, including the vineyards, the production area, and the ageing cellars. They can learn about the winemaking process, from grape harvesting to bottling, and gain insights into the unique terroir of Archanes and its influence on the wines. Visitors can participate in wine-tasting sessions to sample a range of Sinadinakis wines and learn about their characteristics and food pairings. The winery does not charge an admission fee for visitors, but wine-tasting fees may apply, depending on the specific tasting experience.

What are the hiking routes for Archanes Village?

Giouchtas Loop is one of the best trails in Archanes Village. It is generally considered a moderately challenging route and takes an average of 3 hours to complete. The route ascends the northern slope of Mount Giouchtas, to the south of Heraklion, and next to the Archanes Village. The starting point is located just below the area of the Anemospilia Cave. The trail continues along the ridge of the mountain. In the middle of the route, one will see the ruins of the Minoan Peak Sanctuary. The route continues to Giouchtas summit, where the chapel of the Lord Christ is. From there, hikers will go down steeply to the west and follow a northern route to the starting point. Archanes is part of the E4 hiking path or European long-distance path. The villagers use the central square as a starting point, and going west, a path will be seen, which leads to the summit of the Mountain Giouchtas. The course is impressive, especially during springtime. One famous hiking route, especially for pilgrims, is the Feast of the Transfiguration of The Saviour, every 6th of August. There are many pilgrims who climb the mountain every year. People will walk from Archanes to the chapel on top of Giouchtas, to honour Christ. There is also a folk tale explaining the reason why the church has four aisles. There was once a builder who slipped from the top aisle while building. While falling, the builder prayed to Christ to save him. He promises to build three more aisles as a way of honouring Christ. The builder survived and kept his promise. These four aisles represent the Transfiguration of the Saviour, The Holy Belt, The Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, and The Holy Anargyros. Another highlight of this route is the gorgeous sunset that everyone must witness.

What museums should travellers visit when in Archanes?

Listed below are the museums visitors can go to when in Archanes:

Folk Museum of Archanes: The Folk Museum of Archanes is dedicated to showcasing the traditional way of life and culture of the village of Archanes in Epano Archanes 701 00, Greece. It is housed in a restored 17th-century building, once a wealthy merchant’s home. Visitors can explore the various rooms and exhibits that recreate a traditional Cretan home’s living spaces and workspaces. They can see displays of traditional clothing, embroidery, and textiles, as well as tools and equipment used for farming, winemaking, and other local industries. The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs to understand the village’s history and cultural heritage. The admission cost for entering the Folk Museum of Archanes is €2 ($2.16, £1.74) to €3 ($3.25, £2.61) for adults, with discounted rates for students, children, and seniors.
Museum of Cretan History and Tradition: The Museum of Cretan History and Tradition is a folklore museum in Archanes Asterousia 701 00, Greece, that showcases the cultural and traditional life on Crete through exhibitions of artefacts, tools, machinery, and other objects related to rural life, food production, architecture, music, and more. Visitors can explore the different sections showcasing tools, machinery, traditional Cretan houses, and workshops for pottery, weaving, and other crafts. They can see exhibits related to rural economic activities, customs, and traditions and view the daily life of Cretans in the past. The entrance fee for the Museum of Cretan History and Tradition is €3 ($3.25, £2.61) for adults. Children below 18 years of age and university students can enter for free.
Archaeological Collection of Archanes: The Archaeological Collection of Archanes is a museum that showcases artefacts and findings from the Minoan civilisation that once thrived in the area around the village of Archanes on the island of Crete in Lampraki 101, Epano Archanes 701 00, Greece. Visitors can explore the various rooms and exhibits that recreate the living spaces and workspaces of the ancient Minoans. They can see displays of pottery, tools, weapons, jewellery, and other household items that the Minoan people once used. The museum offers guided tours and educational programs to enhance the visitor experience. The admission cost for entering the Archaeological Collection of Archanes is €2 ($2.16, £1.74) for a general admission ticket and €1 ($1.08, £0.87) for a reduced ticket.

What are the best places to stay in Archanes?

Listed below are the best places to stay in Archanes:

Manili Boutique Suites & Villas: Manili Boutique Suites & Villas is an accommodation place in Archanes 701 00, Greece. Manili offers stylish and fully equipped villas and suites with air conditioning, TVs, and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy outdoor pools, barbeque facilities and dining at the on-site Manili Bistro. Rates start at €153 ($165.57, £133.12) per night, including breakfast.
Inotropes Boutique Suites: Inotropes Boutique Suites is an adults-only property in Párodos Antoniou Ploumídou 1, Archanes, 70100, Crete, Greece, 9.6 kilometres (5.9 miles) from Heraklion Port. It features a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge, and a terrace with a spa tub. The air-conditioned rooms have satellite TVs and espresso makers, and free WiFi is available. Rates start at €168 ($181.92, £146.28) per night, including breakfast.
Carpe Diem Hotel: The Carpe Diem Hotel is a newly renovated historic building in Archanes 701 00, Greece. It offers a terrace, garden, and free WiFi. The air-conditioned rooms have flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms, and breakfast is available for an additional fee. Room rates at this hotel start at €127 ($137.37, £110.36) per night. It provides a unique and authentic experience in the heart of Archanes.
Eliathos Residence Houses: Eliathos Residence Houses is an accommodation in Ano Archanes, Epano Archanes 701 00, Greece, that offers well-appointed self-catering units with modern amenities like air-conditioning, fireplaces, and flat-screen TVs. Guests can enjoy an outdoor pool, rent bicycles, and taste local cuisine at the attached winery, restaurant, and coffee shop. The property provides free WiFi access throughout, allowing guests to stay connected.
Kalimera Archanes Village: Kalimera Archanes Village is an upscale aparthotel at 4-8 Agiou Georgiou Str, Archanes 701 00, Greece. It features a rooftop terrace and a garden, perfect for relaxation and taking in the scenic views. The air-conditioned rooms have fireplaces and kitchenettes, providing a cosy and homely ambience. Guests can enjoy complimentary WiFi access during their stay.
Katalagari Country Suites: Katalagari Country Suites is a Mediterranean-style hotel in Katalagari Village, in Archanes-Asterousia 701 00, Greece. It features a seasonal outdoor pool, a terrace, and a garden, offering guests ample opportunities to unwind and soak up the Cretan sun. The hotel also has a snack bar/deli and room service catering to guests’ culinary needs. The rooms are equipped with kitchenettes, providing the convenience of preparing light meals or snacks.

What are the best places to eat in Archanes?

Listed below are the best places to eat in Archanes:

Zen Of Crete: Zen Of Crete is a highly rated restaurant on the central square of Archanes in Pl. El. Venizelou 2, Epano Archanes 701 00, Greece. The restaurant offers traditional Cretan dishes with local, organic ingredients. Popular menu highlights include the classic Dakos salad, Kalitsounia cheese pies, and lamb with Stamnagathi greens. Zen Of Crete is a top choice for experiencing Cretan cuisine at reasonable prices, focusing on authentic flavours and high-quality produce.
Bakaliko Crete: Bakaliko Crete is a bar serving innovative Greek cuisine with a Cretan twist on Eleftherios Venizelos Square 13, Epano Archanes 701 00, Greece. Their creative menu features fennel pitas, legume salads, and a Cretan-style “risotto.” They are best at desserts like cheesecake with baklava flavours and offer an excellent wine selection at affordable prices for quality.
Kritamon Restaurant: Kritamon Restaurant in the central square of Archanes at Kondilaki 38, Chania 731 31, Greece, is a culinary workshop showcasing creative Cretan cuisine. The chef uses locally sourced wild greens, homemade pasta, and olive oil to craft dishes like legume stews and salads with aromatic herbs. A must-try is the rooster with pilaf, a traditional Cretan delicacy. Prices are mid-range for the high-quality fare.
Trioroukouno Restaurant Cafe: Trioroukouno Restaurant Cafe is known for its traditional Cretan dishes in a courtyard setting in Epar.Od. Patsidon – Vathipetrou 133, Kato Archanes 701 00, Greece. The restaurant’s Menu highlights include lamb with Dako greens, snail dishes, and plates showcasing local cheeses. The atmosphere and focus on regional specialities make it a standout dining experience in Archanes.
Likastos Tavern: Likastos Tavern is a beloved traditional Greek tavern in Pl. El. Venizelou, Epano Archanes 701 00, Greece. It is run by Mrs Keti, who cooks authentic Cretan dishes using locally sourced ingredients, many from her farm. The cosy tavern has a warm, welcoming ambience. It is known for its classic Cretan fare like Gemista (stuffed vegetables), Kalitsounia (cheese pies), stifado stew with pearl onions, and lamb cooked with Stamnagathi wild greens.

When is the best time to visit Archanes Village?

The best time to visit the Archanes village is all year round. The village is known to have a mild climate and low altitudes. Outdoor activities like hiking and cycling are perfect during the spring and autumn months. The temperatures get very high during hot summer days.

What is the importance of Archanes Village to the history of Crete?

Based on archaeological findings, the history of Archanes began 5000 years ago. It was very significant in the Minoan era and later. The first reference to the Archanes village was in a 1271 contract. Since then, several other references to the settlement exist. Archanes village was an aim of the Turks, because it was a Christian camp. Archanes village played an organisational role in the Cretan Revolt. The Centre of Governing the Greeks Forces moved to Archanes during World War II. The first spy team on the island of Crete was also established in the village.

Can you go to Archanes with a car rental?

Yes, you can easily go to Archanes with a car rental from Heraklion. Archanes is just a short 20-25 minute drive from Heraklion and about 5 km by road. The route goes past Knossos and then a sign-posted right turn takes you to Archanes in about 5 km. There are many car rental options available in Heraklion, with prices starting as low as € 21/day for economy and compact cars from local car rental companies like Rental Center Crete. The drive is straightforward, with Archanes located just south of Heraklion and the roads are in good condition. Having a rental car will allow you to easily explore Archanes at your own pace.

What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?

Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete.

Insurance. Car rental insurance protects a passenger against the cost of damage when renting a car. Crete car rental includes insurance for Collision Damage waiver, and a driver’s credit card is required as a guarantee.
Driver’s age. The legal age requirement to drive in Crete is 18 years old. One must have a valid driving licence.
Driver’s gender. Both women and men can drive in Crete. As long as the driver is of the legal age of 18, driving is allowed in Crete, regardless of gender.
Car type. When travelling in Crete, the vehicle type needed depends on the number of passengers. Travelling with groups or with members of the family requires a much bigger car. Car rental companies in Crete offer a variety of cars to choose from. Choosing a smaller car is best when driving in Crete. The reason for that is that some Greek roads are narrow.
Documents needed for renting a car. One important document needed for renting a car is a valid driving licence. However, a credit or debit card with the driver’s name is also one of the requirements in Crete car rental.

How much does a car rental in Crete cost?

Crete is a gorgeous island with several tourist spots that can be travelled using a rented vehicle. Crete car rental costs vary depending on the number of passengers, itinerary, car type, location, and duration. The average cost of renting a vehicle in Crete is around €30 to €40 per day. A car rented for a whole week will cost an average of €250. Renting a vehicle for the weekend will cost around €78. Car rentals in Crete vary depending on the car type. Car rental companies offer a variety of cars depending on customers’ preferences.

Is winemaking popular in Archanes?

Yes, winemaking is popular and has a long tradition in Archanes, Crete. Archanes is in the heart of one of the major wine-producing areas of Crete. Archaeological evidence found in the area proves that winemaking has been practised in Archanes since the Minoan era, making it one of the oldest wine regions in Europe. The village of Archanes was formed around viticulture, with many residents involved in grape cultivation and winemaking for centuries. Archanes is part of the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) Archanes, which produces dry red wines from the indigenous Kotsifali and Mandilaria grape varieties. Several famous Cretan wineries are based in Archanes, including the Archanes Farmer’s Cooperative, one of the oldest in Greece, established in 1933. The area’s long winemaking tradition makes Archanes a popular and significant wine village on the island of Crete.

What wineries are based in the Archanes area?

Listed below are the wineries based in the Archanes area:

Archanes Farmer’s Cooperative: The Archanes Farmer’s Cooperative is one of the oldest cooperatives in Greece, established in 1933. It produces red and white wines from Kotsifali and Mandilaria varieties in the Archanes area. It is based in the Archanes wine region.
Winery of Synadinakis: Vangelis Sinadinakis runs the Winery of Synadinakis, a small local winery in the village of Ano Archanes, within the Archanes wine region. This boutique winery specialises in crafting ecological wines that have received numerous awards.
Stilianou Winery: The Stylianou family is dedicated to cultivating indigenous Cretan grape varieties such as Vidiano, Thrapsathiri, Vilana, Kotsifali, and Mandilaria on their 30 hectares (74 acres) of private vineyards in the village of Kounavoi.
Mediterra Winery: Mediterra Winery is in the village of Kounavi, in the Peza wine region of Heraklion. This winery has been producing wines since 1973 from Crete’s native grape varieties like Vilana, Thrapsathiri, Kotsifali, and international varieties. Their wines are distributed across Greece and exported to over 25 countries worldwide, having earned numerous awards at international competitions.
Titakis Winery: Titakis Winery is a family-run winery in the village of Kounavoi, in the heart of the Peza PDO wine region. They produce a range of wines, including the ‘Impetus White’ from Vidiano and Malvasia di Candia and the ‘Impetus Red’ blend of Kotsifali, Merlot, and Syrah.
MINOS—Miliarakis Winery: MINOS—Miliarakis Winery in Peza produces 300,000 bottles annually, with 70% consumed in Crete, Peza. Their vineyard includes local varieties like Kotsifali, Mantilari, Vilana, Vidiano, Moschato Spinas, and Thrapsathiri and international varieties like Syrah, Mourvèdre, Grenache Rouge, and Roussanne. Notable wines include the ‘Miliarakis’ white blend, the ‘Vilana Fumé,’ and the ‘Turtle Red’ red blend.
PEZA Union: PEZA Union is one of the largest cooperative wineries in Greece, established in 1927 in Paliani. PEZA Union produces crisp and fruity ‘Domenico Thrapsathiri’ white ‘Domenico Vidiano’ white with melon, peach, floral, and herbal aromas from local grape varieties.
Rhous Winery: Rhous Winery is in the village of Archanes, near Heraklion. It is open to the public all year round for visits and wine tastings. The winery focuses on reviving rare indigenous Cretan grape varieties like Vidiano, Vilana, Dafni, Plyto, and Mandilaria. The winery welcomes visitors for guided tours and tastings, offering an opportunity to experience the distinct flavours of Cretan wines.
Menexes Domaine: The Kypriotakis family’s Menexes Domaine is within the Archanes PGI zone, near the ancient Minoan settlement of Vathypetro. Their vineyards cultivate indigenous Cretan grapes like Vilana, Vidiano, and Kotsifali and international varieties such as Syrah and Merlot.
Paterianakis Domaine: Paterianakis Domaine is a family winery in the Peza PGI zone that practices certified organic agriculture in Meleses. It gained recognition for its minimal-intervention wines, including its Vidiano and Melissinos White, a blend of the local Thrapsathiri variety with Sauvignon Blanc.
Lyrarakis Wines: Lyrarakis Wines is a family winery committed to reviving rare indigenous Cretan varieties like Dafni and Plyto in Alagni, in Archanes-Asterousia. Its vineyards are rooted in sandy and rocky soils at an elevation of 500 metres (1,640 feet), allowing it to showcase these unique varieties’ distinct characteristics.
Michalakis Domaine: Michalakis Domaine, established in 1962 on 450 hectares (1,111 acres), continues the tradition of creating quality wines. Notable wines include the mono-varietal Vidiano, an aromatic blend of Moscato Spinas, Vidiano, and Chardonnay in the ‘Gold Cuvée’ label, and the crisp ‘Michalakis Estate Thèse Limited Edition’ made from Assyrtiko, Vidiano, and Sauvignon Blanc. The winery is in the village of Partheni.

What is the archaeology of Archanes Village?

The Archanes Village is located in Heraklion in Crete. It is 15 kilometres from the city of Heraklion. In 1912, Xanthoudides cited the importance of Archanes, but it was Sir Arthur Evans who first identified the site as palatial. It was believed that the place was likely a Summer Palace for the Knossos Kings, but no strong evidence supported Evan’s theory. Yannis Sakellarakis dug trial trenches at the site and discovered the principal evidence of a palace site. In the Minoan period, aqueducts provided water to Kephala Hill from spring water at Archanes. A variety of vases, stone lamps, pillars, wooden columns, and many everyday domestic tools have been dug up at the site. A cemetery was discovered in the northwest part of the town. On the west side, a vast temple with possible signs of human sacrifice was uncovered.

How is the economy of Archanes Village?

The economy of Archanes village revolves around olive and grape processing. Some 96% of its total agricultural products account for both products. The Agricultural Cooperative of Archanes, is one of the oldest in Greece. A portion of the wine production in Archanes village is exported to France, Netherlands, and Germany. The rest of the wine production is marketed locally. Archanes village’s economy’s backbone consists mostly of the agricultural production of grapes and olives.

How is the Archanes Village preserved?

Archanes Village is awarded as the 2nd best-restored village in Europe. It was a well-deserved award for a village’s remarkable initiative to rebuild old infrastructure and revitalise the village by setting up arts, crafts and cultural events. This effort has been funded by European subsidies together with private capital. Archanes village also attracts human capital by providing incentives to young and educated people to transfer to the village. They encourage people to engage in distinctly abundant traditional forms of agriculture. After all, the village is famous for its olive oil and wine production. The Seismic Disaster Preparedness Policy in Risk Management Planning in Greece is one way of preserving its rich historical and archaeological sites. The policy presents up-to-date measures and actions taken in Greece regarding earthquake preparedness.

Published on April 23, 2024