Young visitors choosing the capital
Nicosia accounts for around 6% of Cyprus’ inbound tourism, with most visitors under the age of 40, according to the Nicosia Tourism Board.
Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), Nicosia Tourism Board officer Sotiris Christoforou said the city’s typical visitor is a younger traveller, with 51% of tourists also being women. He said the capital is increasingly attracting visitors looking for authentic experiences, gastronomy and vibrant nightlife.
Visitor numbers also rise significantly during the winter months, reaching around 15%, highlighting Nicosia’s growing role in year-round tourism.
Hotel expansion boosts capacity
Christoforou said the capital’s tourism potential is also reflected in continued investment in accommodation, from boutique hotels within the historic walled city to larger hotel developments in central Nicosia.
Three additional hotel projects are expected to be completed in the city centre, significantly increasing the number of available tourist beds.
“We are now at a stage where accommodation capacity in Nicosia is expanding rapidly. Hospitality is no longer an issue,” he said.
Focus on niche tourism
Christoforou said Nicosia’s tourism identity differs from other destinations on the island, with strong potential in special-interest tourism.
He noted that modern travellers increasingly seek meaningful and authentic experiences rather than traditional sightseeing alone.
As part of this strategy, the Nicosia Tourism Board is developing industrial tourism through a four-year European-funded project, promoting Cyprus’ industrial heritage as a visitor attraction.
One initiative focuses on Nicosia’s long-standing ice cream industry.
“We have a unique history in Nicosia that deserves greater recognition – our ice cream industry,” Christoforou said, referring to established Cypriot manufacturers Papafilipou, Heraklis Ice Cream and Regis, whose histories date back to the 1950s.
Mining and quarrying heritage could also become part of Cyprus’ industrial tourism offering, although specialised guide certification will be required before such sites can be opened to visitors.
Signature cocktail gains recognition
Following Nicosia’s designation as Europe’s Culinary Capital in 2024, the Tourism Board continues promoting the city’s signature cocktail, “Welcome to Nicosia”.
The drink is made using Cypriot ingredients including zivania, Commandaria, locally produced gin and mint, with the aim of featuring it on menus across the capital.
New heritage projects under way
The Tourism Board is also investing in projects designed to showcase Nicosia’s history and cultural identity.
Historical information plaques within the walled city are currently being documented and restored, while the city’s statues are being digitally catalogued in cooperation with the Cyprus Tourist Guides Association. The project, expected to be completed by November, could eventually lead to dedicated sculpture walking tours.
Meanwhile, the historic British colonial-era water tower at the junction of Solomou Square and Rigenis Street will be transformed into a visitor information centre.
The facility will provide tourist information while also serving as a heritage attraction, featuring digital information kiosks and virtual reality technology. The project is expected to be completed by October.
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