Cyprus recorded a significant boost in tourism in November 2025, with arrivals reaching 234,580 compared with 179,941 in the same month last year. The 30.4% increase, reported by the Statistical Service on Wednesday, underscores a strong end to the year for the sector and reflects sustained demand across both traditional and emerging source markets.
The United Kingdom remained the country’s dominant market, accounting for 22.7% of all arrivals (53,267 visitors). Poland followed with 13.2% (30,983), while Israel contributed 11.4% (26,816). Germany and Greece rounded out the top five with 10.4% (24,361) and 6% (13,965) respectively.
Travel motivations also point to a market rebounding in depth, not merely volume. This November, 72% of tourists visited for holidays, compared with 64.5% last year. Visits to friends and relatives fell from 17.2% to 13.1%, while business travel declined from 18.1% to 14.4%, suggesting a renewed emphasis on leisure travel even in the traditionally slower autumn months.
Over the January–November period, total arrivals reached 4,377,114, a 12% rise from 2024’s 3,907,137. The cumulative performance strengthens prospects for the full year, positioning 2025 among Cyprus’ stronger post-pandemic seasons and reflecting both improved air connectivity and persistent demand from European markets despite economic uncertainty.
Outbound travel also rising
Outbound travel by Cypriot residents increased notably as well. In November, 137,210 residents returned from trips abroad, up 14.1% from 120,248 in the corresponding month of 2024.
Greece remained the primary destination, representing 30.9% of all returns (42,442). The United Kingdom followed with 9.7% (13,286) and Italy with 4.5% (6,114), reflecting familiar travel patterns driven by cultural ties, study connections and direct flight availability.
Holiday travel dominated residents’ motivations at 65.9%, while business accounted for 31.5%. Travel for studies and other reasons remained marginal at 1.3% each.
A winter season with momentum
The November figures paint a picture of a tourism sector operating with renewed resilience. The strong mix of holidaymakers, improved seasonal demand, and the steady return of residents from abroad suggest an active winter period ahead, one that may help offset broader economic pressures and reinforce Cyprus’ position as a year-round destination.
Source: CNA