For the second year in a row, the historic city of Paphos on the coast of Cyprus has been the most popular choice for visitors from Poland. This continued preference shows a clear change in travel habits, which is mostly due to a major increase in flight connections. Tourism leaders are now using this trend to try to make Paphos a year-round destination for Polish travelers, not just a summer one.
The numbers from the past summer season are very clear. Almost half of all Polish tourists arriving in Cyprus went to Paphos as their main destination. This large market share shows how much the city appeals to them. This popularity is not by chance. It is the direct result of a big and lasting expansion in flight routes. Air travel between Paphos and Poland is now stronger than it has been in thirty years. With up to twenty flights every week, Paphos is connected to six major Polish cities.
The main reason for this change is the budget airline Ryanair, which has greatly expanded its network. The airline now controls almost all flights on these routes. Its strategy of offering direct, affordable, and frequent flights has removed the old difficulties of traveling to Paphos. This easy access has made the city a convenient and appealing choice for Polish visitors. As a result, Poland has become one of the most important markets for tourism in Paphos.
Because this trend is now stable, the Deputy Ministry of Tourism and local Paphos organizations are starting special campaigns. Their goal is not only to benefit from the busy summer period. They are also giving information to travel agents in Poland to promote Paphos as a destination for all seasons. They are highlighting the city's warmer winter weather, ancient archaeological sites, and cultural activities. The aim is to create a more steady flow of tourists throughout the year, which would help the local economy even in the quieter months.
This development has several important effects. For the economy, it provides reliable and growing income for hotels and services in Paphos. For international relations, it creates a strong base for better tourism cooperation between Cyprus and Poland. The ongoing preference from Polish tourists shows that Paphos has successfully matched its attractions with easy travel options. As flight connections continue to shape how people travel, Paphos demonstrates how good airline links can change a destination's success.