Younger tourists are choosing Cyprus in the winter

Cyprus is eyeing a promising future in winter tourism as visitor demographics evolve and interests diversify beyond the summer sun, according to recent findings from Hermes Airports.

According to a report by Pavlos Neophytou, a survey conducted among departing passengers reveals a notable uptick in winter travelers, now constituting 24% of all visitors, up from previous years. This demographic shift includes a significant 60% aged 45 and under, challenging the traditional notion that winter visitors to Cyprus are mainly retirees.

The appeal of Cyprus in the off-season lies in its natural beauty, cultural richness, and convenient travel options, with 41% citing these factors as primary reasons for their visit. Notably, 77% of surveyed visitors expressed a desire to return, underscoring the island's potential beyond its renowned beaches.

Paphos emerges as a top destination during winter, hosting 35% of visitors, bolstered by increased flight options and ongoing hotel operations. Larnaca follows with 22%, highlighting the island's regional diversity in attracting off-season tourists.

Hermes Airports reports robust connectivity throughout winter, dispelling misconceptions about reduced airline presence during this period. Last winter saw 30 airlines operating flights to 33 countries from Larnaca and 39 from Paphos, supporting a network of 49 and 39 routes respectively.

Looking ahead, Hermes anticipates welcoming approximately 11.9 million passengers this year, up from 11.6 million in 2023, driven by steady growth across key markets like the UK, Greece, and Israel. The addition of new flight routes underscores Cyprus' strategic approach to expand its tourism base, with destinations like India and the USA identified as potential growth areas.

As Cyprus prepares to host a conference in November to discuss enhancing its winter tourism product, stakeholders are urged to capitalize on these findings and invest in year-round attractions. The island's ability to attract younger travelers and maintain high visitor satisfaction underscores the importance of developing sustainable tourism practices for future growth.