How to Spend 3 Days in Heraklion
With three days in Heraklion (aka Iraklio), you can discover the area’s 4,000 years of history, savor the local cuisine, wander landscapes like the Samaria Gorge—and even visit another island.
Archanes
Free admission
Discover one of Crete’s most important archaeological sites during a visit to the ruins of Archanes. See ancient musical instruments, pottery shards, and cooking pots at this archaeological site and museum. Learn about the site’s history and see evidence of aqueducts, a reservoir, and a theater.
Open Wed - Mon 8:30am - 3pm
The basics
Excavations at Archanes began in 1964 and revealed large tombs with sarcophagi and funeral offerings of jewelry. During a visit, hear stories about the site’s history. It’s thought that Archanes was a summer palace and the site is fascinating for its range of findings, including small domestic objects such as tweezers. It is a short bus ride from the capital city of Heraklion or Iraklio.
Things to know before you go
*Learn about the Minoan history of Crete during a visit to these archaeological ruins. *Archanes is a must-see attraction for history buffs and families seeking educational experiences. *The archaeological ruins are not fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. *Be prepared for a visit with sturdy shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water.
How to get there
Archanes is located approximately nine miles south of Heraklion or Iraklio, the capital and port city of Crete. It can be reached by a 30-minute trip into the interior of the island by bus. Parkings is also available for people who prefer to drive independently.
Trip ideas
When to get there
The climate in Crete is pleasant all year long, but the most popular time to visit this Greek island is from April to mid-October, with tourism peaking during the summer months. Travelers looking to avoid the crowds may want to plan a trip during the spring or fall months when the island is more peaceful and temperatures are cooler than in the summer months.