Archanes, a charming village just outside Heraklion, offers much more than its traditional streets and local tavernas. It’s a hub of craftsmanship, history, and Cretan culture—a perfect base for exploring with a variety of engaging tours. Whether you’re interested in learning about olive woodcraft, tasting local wines, or visiting ancient palaces, Archanes has something to satisfy every curiosity. We particularly love the hands-on olive woodwork workshop (see details here), which allows you to create your own keepsake, or the full-day excursion that combines Knossos, olive oil, and wine (more info here). These tours are perfect for travelers looking to deepen their understanding of Crete’s craftsmanship and history in an authentic setting.
In this list, you’ll find tours that focus on hands-on experiences, cultural visits, and scenic adventures. From olive woodturning demonstrations to exploring monasteries and mountain villages, each offers a glimpse into Crete’s traditions and natural beauty. Read on for the most compelling options in Archanes, including practical details, what makes each one special, and who will enjoy them most.
1. Crete: Working with olive wood in Archanes
At number 1, this 1.5-hour hands-on workshop allows you to learn the basics of woodturning with olive wood, one of Crete’s most iconic materials. The instructor guides you through safety rules and tool use, then helps you craft your own piece from a piece of olive log. It’s a wonderfully tactile experience that lets you get up close and personal with Crete’s famous olive trees.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to work with the beautiful grain of olive wood, producing a unique souvenir you’ve made yourself. It’s ideal for creative travelers or those interested in craftsmanship who want a tangible memory of their trip. The limited duration makes it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing without overcommitting.
Bottom line: Perfect for hands-on learners, this workshop is a memorable way to connect with Crete’s artisanal traditions. Reviewers give it a perfect 5/5 for its friendly guidance and fun atmosphere.
2. Archanes: Olive Woodturning Demonstration
At number 2, this 45-minute demonstration showcases a skilled craftsman transforming raw Cretan olive wood into a beautiful bowl. You’ll get to observe the entire process, feel the smooth curves taking shape, and ask questions about the techniques involved.
Unlike the more interactive workshop, this demonstration is ideal if you prefer to observe craftsmanship in action rather than participate. It provides an excellent close-up look at the tools and materials used, while the guide shares insights into olive wood’s characteristics and the artistry behind each piece.
While reviews are not available for this specific demonstration, it’s a great way to appreciate the skill behind traditional woodturning without a long commitment. It appeals to travelers with a curiosity for craftsmanship and a desire to see local artisans at work.
Bottom line: An informative, concise peek into Cretan woodturning that complements the hands-on workshop well. It’s best suited for those short on time but eager to learn.
3. Authentic Crete in Winter: Minoan Farm, Winery and Monastery
Number 3 on our list is an 8-hour day trip into the heart of Crete’s rural culture. This tour takes you to a Minoan farm, a family-run winery, and the Monastery of Saint George Epanosifis. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the more traditional side of Crete, taste local produce, and enjoy scenic mountain views.
The tour kicks off with a honey tasting and a visit to a beekeeping operation, followed by a guided tour of a family winery where you sample local wines. The peaceful monastery offers a quiet spot to reflect and admire Cretan architecture. The highlight for many is exploring a mountain village, where you may find time to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
The itinerary includes multiple stops, each offering both cultural insight and sensory pleasures. It’s perfect for those interested in Cretan food traditions, history, and natural scenery.
Bottom line: This full-day experience immerses you in local life, with authentic tastes and tranquil settings. The reviews are not yet available, but the well-rounded itinerary promises a memorable day.
4. Full day tour: Knossos, Koronekes Olive mill, Lyrarakis winery
Coming in at number 4, this 8-hour tour combines ancient history, olive oil production, and premium wine tasting. The itinerary includes a guided visit to the Palace of Knossos, a tour of the Koronekes olive mill, and a wine tasting at Lyrarakis winery. It’s a comprehensive way to get a broad sense of Crete’s cultural and culinary traditions.
The Palace of Knossos is the highlight, with its labyrinthine halls and mythic roots. The olive mill tour provides a glimpse into traditional olive oil production, a key part of Cretan life. The wine tasting session offers an opportunity to sample region-specific varietals and learn about local winemaking techniques.
Guests praise the guide’s knowledge and the variety of stops, making it ideal for travelers who want a little of everything in one day. The price per group ($847 for up to 10 people) offers good value for a full, well-organized experience that covers history, food, and drink.
Bottom line: This is a great choice for history buffs and food lovers who want an all-in-one experience. It’s especially suitable for small groups seeking a personalized tour.
5. Knossos palace, Archanes village & Winery from Heraklion
At number 5, this 8-hour guided tour starts with a visit to the Palace of Knossos. Afterwards, you’ll stroll through the traditional village of Archanes, enjoy a local coffee, and indulge in a guided wine tasting at a Cretan family winery.
This tour’s strength lies in its combination of archaeological exploration with authentic village life. The guided visit to Knossos offers insights into Minoan civilization, while the village stop provides an opportunity to experience local life firsthand. The wine tasting includes five varieties paired with a cheese plate, adding a gastronomic touch.
Ideal for travelers who want a blend of history and local culture without a long day. The tour is flexible, with multiple pickup points, and provides a well-rounded picture of Crete’s heritage and cuisine.
Bottom line: Perfect for those interested in archaeology, local lifestyle, and wine, this tour balances education and leisure in a manageable timeframe.
6. Jeep Tour to Archanes with Wine tasting & Lunch
Number 6 features an 8-hour off-road Jeep tour that explores Archanes, Mount Juktas, and the surrounding landscapes. It includes a wine tasting at Titakis Winery, a visit to the village of Archanes, and a scenic drive through forested mountain routes.
What makes this tour stand out is the adventure of exploring off-road terrain, giving you unique views of Juktas Mountain and the countryside. The lunch at Archanes is a highlight, offering local flavors in a picturesque setting. The visit to the Ag. Eirini Aqueduct adds a historical touch to this scenic journey.
The tour is suitable for active travelers who enjoy outdoor exploration and scenic drives. It’s a good choice for those wanting to combine adventure with wine tasting and cultural visits.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a sporty, scenic day with some off-the-beaten-path stops. Bring sturdy shoes and a hat.
7. Athens: Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Walking Tour
Although not in Crete, this 4-hour guided walking tour of Athens rounds out our list. Early access to the Acropolis lets you beat the crowds and marvel at the Parthenon and other buildings while a knowledgeable guide shares mythic stories and historical facts.
The tour also visits the Acropolis Museum, where ancient artifacts are displayed in a stunning modern building. It’s a great way to combine outdoor exploration with museum insights, perfect if you’re passing through Athens before or after your Crete trip.
While shorter than others, this tour packs a punch with its focus on main landmarks and rich storytelling. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts or those new to Greece who want a strong introduction to classical Athens.
Bottom line: A solid, compact tour for exploring Athens’ most iconic sites, especially if you prefer guided storytelling and early entry.
8. Visit Knossos and the Valley of Zeus
Finally, number 8 offers an excursion combining a visit to the Palace of Knossos with a trip to the Valley of Zeus. This 4-hour tour is perfect for those interested in mythology and natural beauty.
Your guide leads you through Knossos’ labyrinthine ruins, uncovering stories of King Minos and the Minotaur. Then, you’ll explore the Valley of Zeus, where you can taste local olive oil, wine, raki, and other products directly from the garden of Zeus. This blend of history, myth, and local flavors makes it a comprehensive experience.
Guests appreciate the personalized guided tour and the opportunity to sample real Cretan products. It’s suitable for travelers who want a quick, myth-rich introduction to the island’s legendary past.
Bottom line: Combining archaeology with authentic food tasting, this tour offers a compact, engaging overview of Crete’s mythical and natural riches.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Archanes
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and travel style. If you love hands-on experiences, the olive wood workshop (see details here) is a highlight. For a full culture, the full-day Crete tour (more info here) offers a balance of history, food, and scenery.
Those with a passion for archaeology should prioritize the Knossos visits (see here) or the guided Athens tour if Athens is part of your trip. If you prefer adventure, then the Jeep Tour (details here) combines scenic driving with wine and local sights.
Budget-conscious travelers might favor shorter demonstrations and visits, while those seeking a comprehensive experience will appreciate full-day excursions with multiple stops. Remember to book early, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and group size.
Final thoughts
Archanes offers a rich mix of craftsmanship, history, and local flavor, making it a fantastic base for exploring Crete. From creating your own olive wood piece to sampling wines from family estates, each tour provides a unique way to connect with the island’s traditions.
For travelers who want a hands-on activity, the olive wood workshop is hard to beat. If you’re more interested in history and archaeology, the full-day tour combining Knossos, olive oil, and wine is a memorable choice. And for those seeking scenic adventures, the Jeep Tour with its mountain vistas and village visits offers plenty of excitement.
Whatever your interests, booking early is wise—these tours fill up quickly during the busy season. Now’s the time to plan your memorable trip to Archanes and enjoy the very best Crete has to offer.
