Cyprus aims to attract tourists year-round. It also promotes active recreation in Poland.

Cyprus wants to increase the number of tourists arriving outside the summer season. In preparations for 2027, it is focusing on cruises, medical tourism, rural retreats, conferences, and sports camps. The goal is a longer season and greater benefits for towns further from the coast.

Poland remains an important market. Cyprus promoted training and active holidays during the 48th Warsaw Marathon, and is also including Polish organizers in its conference tourism development plans. The government has already approved incentive programs for conference events and foreign sports teams for the years 2026–2029.

Tourism in Cyprus all year round

Sun and beaches remain the mainstay of Cyprus' offerings, but authorities want to give travellers more reasons to come in autumn, winter and spring.

Preparations for the 2027 season are being led by the Ministry of Tourism, led by Kostas Koumis. A key milestone is the November travel fair in London, where representatives from the island will discuss flight connections and packages for next year.

A longer season could ensure more even utilization of hotels, restaurants, and tourist services. Authorities also expect visitors interested in specific activities and experiences.

Cruise ships are to call at the island more often

One area of development is cruise tourism. Cyprus is seeking a permanent place on the itineraries of ships sailing in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Island representatives are in talks with international shipowners, including Royal Caribbean, MSC, Norwegian Cruise Line and Celestyal.

Travel between several countries is also important. For tourists from distant markets, Cyprus can be a stopover on a longer trip through the region.

In October 2027, Limassol is scheduled to host the general assembly of MedCruise, an organisation of cruise ports.

Mountains, villages and local cuisine

An important part of the strategy is to drive more visitors to the island's interior. Troodos offers hiking trails, wine villages, UNESCO sites, and sites related to the history and geology of Cyprus.

The resort is developing hiking and cycling tourism, as well as offerings based on local products. The "Heartland of Legends," the "Taste Cyprus" initiative, and wine trails combine sightseeing with meetings with locals and experiencing regional cuisine.

In winter, the Christmas villages are an additional reason to visit the mountains. The benefits of such visits can directly benefit local businesses and producers.

Conferences - also with Poland in mind

The program for 2026–2029 includes conferences, meetings, corporate incentive trips and selected international events.

Additional incentives are provided for, among others, events organised in January and February and events taking place from November to April in rural, mountainous and remote areas.

One of the program's requirements is a trip allowing participants to explore the island. Organizers are therefore expected to combine business with sightseeing.

Among the target markets, in addition to Great Britain, Germany, France and Greece, are: PolandThe availability of flights and large conference and hotel facilities remains a challenge.

More teams at winter training

A separate program is available for foreign teams and athletes preparing for competitions in Cyprus.

Additional support is provided for groups training in December, January and February, choosing mountainous, rural or remote areas, and for athletes with disabilities.

Priority sports include football, cycling, athletics, swimming, triathlon, shooting, and water sports. These stays can secure bookings during periods of lower holiday season.

Cyprus promotes active recreation in Poland

A concrete example of these activities is the participation of the Cypriot Ministry of Tourism in 48th Warsaw Marathon.

As reported by the Cypriot Embassy in Warsaw, the island was presented to Polish runners as a place for training and active recreation all year round.

The stand presented sports preparation conditions, a competition calendar, and opportunities to combine training with vacation. Visitors could also learn about the incentive program supporting team visits and training stays.

According to the embassy, the promotion attracted interest from runners, fans, and sports enthusiasts. The stand was also visited by the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to Poland, Nikos P. Nicolaou.

The activities show that the Cypriot offer addressed to Poles also includes sports trips, which can take place outside the main season.

Medical tourism is the next direction

The Ministry also sees opportunities for developing travel related to treatment and medical services. In September, representatives from Cyprus participated in a conference on this topic in Yerevan.

The development of this offer requires cooperation between the tourism sector and healthcare institutions. It does not automatically provide foreign tourists with access to services financed by the Cypriot GeSY system.

All these initiatives are intended to increase the island's year-round appeal. Their success will depend on available air connections, the quality of service, and traveler interest.

Sources: Philenews; Cypriot Ministry of Tourism; Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in Warsaw.