Tourism Statistics for Cyprus 2024–2026 — Who’s Coming and How Much Are They Spending
Cyprus is one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the Mediterranean. The island, with a population of just 1.2 million, welcomes several times more tourists than its population each year. What do the data from the Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) for 2024–2026 reveal? Let's check the facts.
![Panorama of Limassol from the sea with a promenade and modern skyscrapers — a symbol of tourism growth in Cyprus]
Record Numbers — Tourism in Cyprus in 2024
2024 proved to be a breakthrough year for the Cypriot tourism industry. According to CTO data, the island attracted approximately 4.1 million foreign tourists, representing an increase of nearly 8% compared to the previous year. Total tourism revenues exceeded 3.5 billion euros, accounting for over 20% of the island's GDP.
Where Are the Tourists Coming From?
The largest group of visitors are citizens of the United Kingdom — a historical pillar of Cypriot tourism, stemming from the period of British administration on the island. In 2024, Britons accounted for approximately 26% of all arrivals.
Also holding a significant position are:
- Germany and Austria — circa 11% of arrivals, a growing trend
- Israel — approx. 9%, tourists appreciating proximity and visa-free travel
- Russia and CIS countries — share decreased after 2022, but still present
- Poland — dynamically growing market, approx. 3–4% of arrivals in 2024
- Sweden, Finland, Norway — Scandinavians particularly appreciate the Cypriot winter climate
Polish tourists are primarily driven by the availability of cheap flights from Warsaw, Krakow, Wroclaw, and Gdansk to Larnaca Airport (LCA) and Paphos Airport (PFO). The Polish holiday season lasts from May to September, peaking in July and August.
How Much Does the Average Tourist Spend in Cyprus?
Average tourist spending during a stay in Cyprus amounts to approximately 850–950 euros per person for a standard 10-day stay. The breakdown of expenses is as follows:
| Category | Percentage of Budget | |---|---| | Accommodation | approx. 35% | | Gastronomy | approx. 25% | | Local transport and excursions | approx. 15% | | Shopping | approx. 15% | | Entertainment and attractions | approx. 10% |
Tourists from Israel and Scandinavian countries have the highest average spending — often exceeding 1200 euros per person. Tourists from Eastern Europe (including Poles) are slightly below the average, with a dynamically growing group of wealthier travelers.
![Restaurant on the Limassol waterfront full of tourists — an illustration of gastronomic spending in Cyprus]
Trends 2025–2026 — What’s Changing?
Slow Travel and Longer Stays
Cyprus is actively promoting the “slow travel” model — longer stays with a deeper exploration of the island. Digital nomad programs (Cyprus was one of the first EU countries with a dedicated visa for remote workers) attract a new type of long-term tourist.
Health and Wellness Tourism
The health tourism segment is growing. Facilities such as Aphrodite Hills Resort and Amathus Beach Hotel Limassol offer comprehensive wellness programs, thalassotherapy, and medical treatments. CTO plans to certify health facilities by 2026.
Ecological Alternative — Agrotourism
The dynamic growth of agrotourism in the Troodos Mountains cannot be overlooked. Troodos Mountain Lodge and similar facilities are experiencing booking increases of over 30% year-on-year. Guests are seeking contact with nature, local cuisine, and authentic Cypriot life away from crowded resorts.
Digitalization and Online Booking
Over 70% of bookings in Cyprus are made online — a 15 percentage point increase compared to 2022. Local booking platforms, such as CyprusBooker, are gaining importance at the expense of traditional travel agencies.
Seasonality — When Do Tourists Arrive?
Cyprus is a destination with a clear summer peak, but with an increasingly strong offering outside of the peak season:
- May–October: peak — approx. 80% of all arrivals
- November–April: low season — but growing, approx. 20%
- July–August: absolute record — airports operating at capacity
Larnaca Airport (LCA) handles approximately 65% of the island's air traffic, Paphos Airport (PFO) — the remaining 35%.
![Crowd of tourists on Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa during the peak summer season]
Forecasts for 2025–2026
The Cyprus Tourism Organisation expects further growth in the number of visitors to 4.5–4.8 million in 2025. Key drivers of growth include:
- New air connections — particularly from Eastern European markets
- Expansion of luxury hotel infrastructure
- Active promotion of Cyprus as a year-round destination
- Programs for digital nomads and business tourism (MICE)
- Ecotourism and health tourism as new pillars of the offer
Cyprus vs. Other Mediterranean Destinations — Where Does the Island Stand?
Compared to the region, Cyprus performs very well in terms of value for money. With an average 10-day stay costing 15–25% less than in Mykonos or Santorini, the island offers a similar standard of beaches and weather, a richer history, and a significantly calmer atmosphere.
Summary — Why Visit Now?
CTO data for 2024–2026 confirm: Cyprus is experiencing a golden age of tourism. The quality of services is growing, the offer is expanding, and prices — despite inflation — remain competitive with Western destinations. For the Polish tourist, Cyprus is currently one of the best holiday options: affordable, safe, and exceptionally sunny.
Plan your stay in Cyprus through CyprusBooker — compare hotel offers in Limassol, Paphos and Larnaca and book directly, without intermediaries.