Nicosia, Cyprus. Nicosia has been ranked second among the top 20 destinations in Europe for 2026 by European Best Destinations after receiving 109,214 votes from international travellers. The city was also named European Best Cultural Capital 2026 by the Brussels-based organisation.
Global vote and ranking
According to a statement issued by the Nicosia Regional Tourism Board (Etap), the distinction came 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.
Cultural capital recognition
Nicosia was awarded the title of European Best Cultural Capital 2026 through the same international vote, outperforming cities including Florence and Krakow, according to the announcement.
Tourism and visibility
The announcement said the recognition confirms Nicosia’s potential as a modern cultural capital and strengthens 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 statement 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.
How do you think this recognition could affect Nicosia’s tourism in 2026?