Cyprus Achieves Historic Record for Tourist Arrivals

Cyprus reached a remarkable milestone in 2024, setting a historical record with over four million tourists visiting the island for the first time.

According to the Statistical Service, a total of 4,040,200 travelers visited Cyprus in 2024, representing a 5.1% increase compared to 2023, when 3,845,652 international visitors were recorded. The previous record was set in 2019, with 3,976,777 arrivals.

December 2024 also set a monthly record for tourist arrivals, with 133,063 visitors—a 7.6% increase compared to December 2023, which saw 123,630 travelers arriving.

The United Kingdom emerged as the top source of tourists in December 2024, accounting for 23.7% (31,501) of all arrivals. Israel followed with 17.4% (23,168), then Poland at 9.4% (12,473), Greece at 9.0% (11,969), and Germany at 5.7% (7,535).

Nearly half of the visitors in December 2024 came for leisure, while 37.5% traveled to visit friends or family, and 12.7% arrived for business purposes.

Additionally, Cypriot residents themselves traveled abroad more frequently in December 2024. The Statistical Service reported 168,022 outbound trips, a rise from 153,736 trips in December 2023.

The most popular destinations for Cypriot residents returning home in December 2024 were Greece, accounting for 31.2% (52,344) of trips, followed by the United Kingdom at 13.7% (22,995), and Poland at 5.3% (8,956).

As for the purpose of travel, 65.7% of Cypriot residents traveled abroad for leisure, 16.3% for business, and 17.6% for educational purposes.