World’s Best Place to Buy a Holiday Home? Why Cyprus Is Number One
Cyprus has taken first place in a new global “holiday home hotspots” index published by Compare the Market’s home loan division. It scored 8.25 out of 10, ahead of Australia (7.46), Malta (7.11), Italy (6.91) and Greece (6.76).
But the real value is in what the index tried to measure: the practical mix of lifestyle, climate and housing-market conditions that can make a second home either a pleasure or a burden.
Why Cyprus scored so highly
Cyprus performed strongly on “density” measures that usually signal a mature visitor economy. The index lists 534 restaurants per 100,000 people, plus 334 “things to do” per 100,000. For owners, that often translates into longer seasons, better choice beyond the peak summer months, and services that cater to people who come and go.
Weather helped too. Cyprus posted low average precipitation in the index at 31.89mm per month and an average temperature of 20.2°C. Lower rainfall can reduce the maintenance surprises that arrive in closed-up properties, while milder winters make short visits feel worthwhile.
The study also recorded Cyprus at 99.6 on its “real house price index”, which it treats as relatively low compared with many competing destinations. It does not mean every listing is cheap, especially in prime coastal areas. It does suggest the market has not been pushed as far out of line as some second-home hotspots.
For many British buyers planning to buy Property in Cyprus, the attraction sits in that combination: easy living and numbers that still look sensible on paper.
The living part: what owners notice
The Compare the Market write-up nods to Cyprus’ history, beaches, wine and local produce, and that flavour is part of the draw. Owners often add a more everyday list: a strong café culture, outdoor dining for much of the year, and established networks of tradespeople, letting agents and property managers in the main buying areas.
Access matters too. The island is served by Larnaca and Paphos international airports, making frequent short breaks realistic. That practicality tends to separate “nice on holiday” from “useful as a second home”.
A word on due diligence
A top ranking is not a substitute for careful buying. The UK government warns that purchases in Cyprus can carry pitfalls, particularly where title deeds are not readily available. The sensible approach is familiar: use an independent lawyer, insist on searches and written answers, and check permissions and boundaries before funds are committed.
Be honest about how you will use the home as well. Will it sit empty for months? Will you let it to cover costs? If rentals are part of the plan, look beyond glossy yields and focus on maintenance, local rules, and who handles guest turnover when you are not there.
Choosing the right area
One reason Cyprus Property continues to draw overseas interest is variety. Paphos can suit buyers who want a slower pace and heritage sites nearby. Limassol has a more urban feel. Larnaca offers a year-round rhythm and quick airport access. The east coast is geared to long beaches and resort infrastructure, while the Troodos villages provide cooler summers and a different pace.
Also Read: The Rise of Holiday Homes: How Tourism Is Shaping Real Estate Demand in Cyprus
Cyprus is number one in this index because it performs well across the basics: food and activities, climate, safety indicators and a price measure that stays competitive. Treat that as a starting point, do the checks, and real estate in Cyprus can be more than a holiday idea. It can be a place you actually use.
Ready to turn Cyprus’ “number one” holiday-home ranking into a place you’ll actually use (and enjoy)? Chris Michael Property Group can help you choose the right area, run proper due diligence, and shortlist homes that fit your lifestyle and budget. Visit chris-michael.com.cy or call +357 25313135.
