Newsroom
Soon, visitors to Cyprus will be able to plan their dream trip before they even pack a suitcase, thanks to a new €600,000 digital tourism app designed by the Cyprus University of Technology (TEPAK) in partnership with the Deputy Ministry of Tourism.
The app, expected to launch by the end of 2026, promises to change how tourists experience the island. Instead of generic recommendations, travelers will get tailor-made itineraries based on their personal interests, from hiking in Troodos and exploring ancient churches to sampling village wine routes or tracking down the island’s hidden beaches.
“This isn’t just another travel app,” said TEPAK associate professor Antonis Theocharous, who heads the project. “It’s a personalized digital guide that puts the user at the center of the experience.”
According to Kathimerini's Dorita Yiannakou, the tool will feature more than 8,000 points of interest, everything from castles and monasteries to cycling paths and local festivals, each with images, detailed descriptions, and interactive maps. Users can preview their chosen spots with augmented reality (AR), getting a virtual glimpse of sites like archaeological ruins or hiking trails before even stepping foot there.
One of the standout features? Offline access. After the initial download, the app can function without an internet connection, perfect for rural adventures or mountain hikes where signal is spotty.
Beyond helping visitors explore, the app will also help Cyprus improve. Tourists can submit feedback and complaints directly to the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, allowing authorities to spot problems and fine-tune the country’s tourism offering in real time.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis called the project “a leap forward for Cyprus tourism,” adding that digital tools like this are key to keeping the island competitive. “Our responsibility is to create the right conditions and tools to upgrade Cyprus’ tourism experience,” he said.
The initiative also aligns with the country’s “Heartland of Legends” campaign, which highlights authentic experiences in Cyprus’ countryside and villages.
While the app will launch first in Greek and English, it will later expand to other languages and run on both iOS and Android. Testing begins in mid-2026, with a full rollout expected by the year’s end.
One thing’s for sure: Cyprus isn’t just a beach destination anymore; it’s becoming a smart, connected island ready to meet every traveler where their curiosity leads.
