Cyprus hotels are entering the peak of the summer tourist season, with occupancy rates expected to range between 90% and 95% from this coming weekend until August 18.

Speaking to CNA, Cyprus Hotels Association (PASYXE) President Thanos Michaelides said hotel occupancy in Cyprus is currently at its highest for these specific days, noting however that there is availability in hotels across all districts and that Cypriots and visitors can find options both in the mountains and the coast.

He added that after August 18, when Cypriots begin returning home, occupancy rates will drop to around 80% in the last ten days of August.

Regarding the overall picture of the summer season, Michaelides said that when the season started in June, “there were various problems in our region. These problems caused some fluctuations in booking flows, but overall, occupancy levels are satisfactory for July and August.” He added that traffic is “roughly at the 2024 level,” with differences from hotel to hotel.

Commenting on the role of self-catering accommodations such as Airbnb, he stressed that they certainly take a share of the tourist flow from hotels. However he added that the real issue lies with unlicensed accommodations, which not only draw tourists away from hotels but also from licensed self-catering establishments.

“When operators function outside the legal framework, it not only creates unfair competition but also risks damaging the island’s reputation if problems arise for guests staying in such establishments,” he said, adding that the state must ensure all businesses in Cyprus’ tourism industry comply with the law.

He stressed the need for a clear legal framework and strict enforcement, noting that when someone operates outside the law, the state loses the tax revenue it collects from licensed operators and hotels.

CNA/TNE/EPH/2025

ENDS CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY