Tourists look at a road blocked with barrels and sandbags, with a banner showing the island in division at the top, across the UN buffer zone that divides Cyprus, in the divided capital Nicosia, Cyprus. [Petros Karadjias/AP Photo]
Cyprus, and most of Europe, may see fewer American tourists this summer as high travel costs and shifting preferences push US travelers to rethink their vacation plans.
According to the latest data from the European Travel Commission, the percentage of Americans planning a European trip has fallen from 45% in 2024 to 37% in 2025 – the lowest since 2021.
For Cyprus, a destination that has been steadily attracting more US visitors in recent years, this shift could have economic implications. American tourists are known for their high spending habits, contributing significantly to the tourism sector. While Cyprus is not the top European destination for US travelers, the island has benefited from increasing interest, particularly in the form of cruise tourism and cultural experiences. A slowdown in US arrivals could affect local businesses, especially luxury resorts, fine dining establishments, and high-end tour operators.
The main reason behind the decline is cost. Rising airfare, expensive accommodations, and general inflation in Europe are making US travelers reconsider their summer getaways. Additionally, many are opting for domestic vacations or alternative destinations.