Tourism board hails Nicosia’s rise on European cultural map

Nicosia has been ranked second among the top 20 destinations in Europe for 2026 by the European Best Destinations organisation, after receiving 109,214 votes from international travellers worldwide.

According to a statement issued by the Nicosia Regional Tourism Board (Etap), the distinction emerged through a global online vote involving more than 1.3 million participants, who were asked to choose the European destination they most want to visit in 2026.

At the same time, Nicosia was also awarded the title of European Best Cultural Capital 2026 by the Brussels-based organisation, outperforming major cultural cities such as Florence and Krakow through the same international vote.

According to the announcement, the recognition confirms Nicosia’s potential as a modern cultural capital while further strengthening its presence on the European cultural and tourism map.

“This double distinction positions Nicosia as a leading Mediterranean cultural city break destination and marks a new era for its tourism trajectory,” the statement said.

The announcement added that Cyprus’ capital is increasingly establishing itself among the most recognisable and attractive European destinations for 2026, strengthening its international visibility and long-term tourism prospects.