Poland Joins Germany, United Kingdom, Israel, Greece, and More as South Cyprus Sees Over Eight Percent Growth in January Visitor Numbers, Strengthening its Global Appeal and Tourism Economy

Image generated with Ai

Poland has emerged as a key contributor to the impressive over eight percent growth in visitor numbers to South Cyprus in January 2026, joining the ranks of Germany, the United Kingdom, Israel, and Greece. This surge highlights the strengthening global appeal of South Cyprus as a tourist destination and underscores its growing ties with Eastern Europe. The increase in Polish visitors, along with a broader influx from other nations, reflects South Cyprus’ successful marketing strategies, improved accessibility, and diverse tourism offerings, boosting its economy and further solidifying its position as a rising star in Mediterranean tourism.

Tourism in South Cyprus has experienced a significant boost, with the number of arrivals in January 2026 rising by 8.5% compared to the same month in 2025. A total of 121,625 visitors arrived on the island, as reported by the Greek Cypriot Statistical Service. This upward trend reflects the continuing appeal of South Cyprus as a travel destination, as it remains a popular choice for both leisure and business tourists.

Leading Sources of Visitors

Poland emerged as the largest source of tourists, accounting for 18.6% of total arrivals, with 22,575 visitors landing on the island. This marks Poland as a key market for South Cyprus tourism, showing the ongoing rise in interest from Eastern and Central European countries. Israel followed closely behind with 18.1% of the total arrivals. Israel’s proximity to Cyprus, combined with the appeal of the island’s Mediterranean climate, has made it a prime source market for tourism.

The United Kingdom remains one of the most significant contributors to the island’s tourism industry, with British nationals accounting for 15.8% of arrivals, translating to 21,981 visitors. This consistent flow of visitors from the UK has been a cornerstone for Cyprus’ tourism sector for years, supported by historical, cultural, and familial ties. Greece also maintained its position as a key source of tourists, contributing 9.6% of the total arrivals. Germany, with 6.2% of visitors, rounded out the top five source markets for South Cyprus.

The data highlights the diverse range of countries contributing to Cyprus’ tourism sector. The increasing number of visitors from Poland and Israel suggests that tourism demand in South Cyprus is becoming more varied, reaching beyond traditional European markets. As the island remains a popular destination for European travelers, its appeal to tourists from the Middle East, particularly Israel, is also gaining traction.

Purpose of Visits

As is typical for many popular tourist destinations, the majority of travelers visited South Cyprus for holiday purposes. A substantial 60.7% of arrivals in January 2026 were leisure tourists. Cyprus is well-known for its sunny beaches, charming coastal towns, rich cultural history, and vibrant cities, all of which contribute to the island’s reputation as an attractive holiday destination. Its year-round pleasant climate makes it especially appealing during winter months when much of Europe faces colder temperatures.

Family and friend visits also formed a significant portion of the arrivals. Around 22.8% of tourists traveled to South Cyprus to visit relatives or friends. This is a notable statistic as it reflects the island’s role as a destination for reconnecting with loved ones, an aspect of travel that tends to grow in importance as family members migrate for work or study. The long-standing Cypriot diaspora in countries like the UK and Israel also drives this trend.

Business tourism made up 16.2% of arrivals, showing that South Cyprus is an emerging hub for business travelers. This segment of tourism is essential for the island, as it helps diversify the tourism sector. Cyprus has a growing business environment, with an expanding number of conferences, trade shows, and corporate events held across the island. The business-friendly environment, alongside modern infrastructure, positions the island as a strong competitor in the global business tourism market.

Outbound Travel by Greek Cypriots

Outbound travel from Greek Cypriots also saw notable growth in January 2026. The number of Greek Cypriots traveling abroad rose by 15% compared to the previous year, reaching a total of 170,045 trips. This increase in outbound travel is an indication of growing international mobility among the population, as more Cypriots take the opportunity to travel abroad for holidays, business, and other purposes.

Greece remains the most popular destination for Greek Cypriots, receiving 27.6% of these outbound trips. The close proximity of Greece, combined with cultural and linguistic ties, makes it an attractive option for Cypriots seeking a familiar yet vibrant destination. The United Kingdom ranks second with 8.5% of trips, maintaining its status as a favored destination due to historical links and the presence of large Cypriot communities. Poland ranks third with 5.8% of outbound travel, reflecting the growing interest in Eastern European countries as travel destinations.

Types of Outbound Travel

The majority of Greek Cypriot trips abroad were for leisure. A substantial 82.2% of outbound trips were for holidays. This highlights the increasing desire among Cypriots to explore new destinations or return to favorite spots abroad. The rise of low-cost airlines and accessible travel options has made it easier for Greek Cypriots to take vacations, whether for short getaways or longer stays.

Business travel also contributed to outbound tourism, with 16.3% of trips being made for work-related purposes. This statistic underscores the importance of Cyprus’ role in the global business landscape. Many Cypriots work in international sectors such as finance, technology, and education, which require frequent travel.

The remaining portion of outbound travel was for education and other purposes, showing that Greek Cypriots, like many people worldwide, travel abroad for a wide range of reasons, including higher education and personal matters.

Tourism in South Cyprus is thriving, as evidenced by the growth in both inbound and outbound travel. The island’s ability to attract visitors from diverse markets, particularly Poland, Israel, and the UK, highlights its broad appeal. The majority of visitors continue to choose South Cyprus for leisure purposes, but the growth of business tourism reflects the island’s increasing importance as a business hub.

Poland has joined Germany, the United Kingdom, Israel, and Greece as a key contributor to South Cyprus’ over eight percent growth in January 2026 visitor numbers, driven by enhanced connectivity, targeted tourism campaigns, and growing interest from Eastern European travelers, boosting the island’s global appeal and tourism economy.

Meanwhile, outbound travel by Greek Cypriots also demonstrates a thriving travel culture, with Greece, the UK, and Poland as leading destinations. As the tourism landscape evolves, South Cyprus is likely to continue its upward trajectory, maintaining its position as a key destination in the Mediterranean region.