Pissouri and Kalopanayiotis, two charming villages in Cyprus, have earned recognition as part of the “Best Tourism Villages 2024” by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

During the 122nd session of the UNWTO Executive Council, 55 villages across 30 nations were honored, chosen from over 260 submissions spanning 60 member states.

Now in its fourth edition, this global initiative celebrates villages excelling in sustainability efforts and aligning with the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. This year’s winners represent a diverse range of countries, including Argentina, Vietnam, China, Saudi Arabia, Austria, Spain, Chile, and Greece, among others.

With this year’s new additions, the Best Tourism Villages network now boasts 254 members, solidifying its position as the largest global community dedicated to rural tourism. This initiative highlights villages where tourism plays a key role in preserving cultural heritage, promoting equitable development, and safeguarding biodiversity.

Cyprus has previously celebrated success in this program, with Lefkara village earning recognition in 2021. According to the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, which represents Cyprus in the UNWTO, these awards provide invaluable global exposure to the island’s rich natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance.

The selection process evaluates villages based on diverse sustainability criteria, including the conservation of cultural and natural assets, economic resilience, and environmental stewardship.

Villages that achieve this distinction benefit from inclusion in a global network, fostering the exchange of best practices and expertise in advancing sustainable rural tourism.

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