The historical area of ISTRON has grown due to the proximity its beaches and to service the increase in holidaymakers enjoying this beautiful area.
Istron itself is on the national highway 10 kms from Aghios Nikolaos and 74 kms from Heraklion airport. It has several tavernas, cafes, bars and shops many of which are open year round plus a bakery, hairdressers, hardware store and so on. There is a small folklore museum open in the season, plus car hire and other tourist related businesses. The beaches in the area range from a big sandy bay, to little sandy coves and a couple of shingle beaches. With the sea on one side and cliffs on the other, the area in between is farmland with olive and citrus groves. There is a regular bus service to Aghios Nikolaos and on to Heraklion; plus the other way to Sitia 60 kms distant and to Ierapetra 26 kms in the South.
Within 3 kms are the two traditional villages of Kalo Horio and Pirgos, which have a few cafeneions and basic small shops between them plus a medical centre just outside Kalo Horio.
The area is additionally served by the traveling shops selling seasonal fresh produce, bread, clothes, shoes and household goods and furniture.
