Archanes lies in a fertile basin between Mount Juktas and Kefala Hill, about 380 metres above sea level. It is roughly 14 km from Heraklion and south of Knossos. The Kaeratos River flows through the valley towards Knossano Gorge.

The main square, with its cafés and tavernas, is a good starting point for a walk around town. The surrounding lanes are lined with restored houses with colourful façades, neoclassical buildings, courtyards and old churches. The town’s efforts to preserve its architecture earned it recognition in the European Village Renewal competition in 2000.

The area’s Minoan history is visible in the town itself. Parts of the Minoan palace of Archanes have been excavated in the Tourkogeitonia quarter. Just outside town, the hill of Fourni is home to Fourni Wood and the Minoan cemetery, where archaeologists have uncovered tholos tombs and other funerary buildings.

Vineyards surround Archanes. A wine press found at the Minoan villa of Vathypetro, south of town, bears witness to the long history of winemaking here. Old presses and mills also show how wine and olive oil were made in more recent times.

Mount Juktas rises to the west. From a distance, its ridge resembles the profile of a person lying on their back. Local tradition places the tomb of Zeus here. The mountain is also home to a Minoan peak sanctuary and the church of Afentis Christos.

For walks around Archanes, explore Knossano Gorge or follow sections of the E4 trail towards Myrtia or Profitis Ilias.