In a testament to Cyprus’s enduring appeal, the island nation welcomed over 1.65 million tourists in the first half of 2024, marking a 2.4% increase from the same period in 2023. This growth, driven by significant influxes in June, highlights the resilience and attractiveness of Cyprus as a premier travel destination.
According to data from CySTAT, June 2024 saw 482,261 tourist arrivals, up 5.5% from June 2023. The United Kingdom remained the largest source market, contributing 35.6% of the total arrivals. Israel followed, showing a notable rise to 10.7%, while Poland, Sweden, and Germany also featured prominently. This diversity in tourist origins underscores Cyprus’s broad international appeal and strategic marketing efforts.
Interestingly, the majority of these visitors, 83.4%, cited holidays as their primary purpose, reflecting the island’s reputation for leisure and recreation. Meanwhile, 10.5% visited friends or relatives, and 5.9% travelled for business, suggesting a balanced mix of travel motivations that contribute to the local economy.
The slight decline in Cypriot residents travelling abroad, down by 1.3% compared to the previous year, further indicates a domestic preference for local tourism or a shift in travel patterns.
This surge in tourist arrivals is a promising sign for Cyprus’s economy, providing a significant boost to various sectors including hospitality, retail, and transportation. As Cyprus continues to attract a growing number of international visitors, the tourism industry is poised for a robust recovery and sustained growth in the coming years.
