Sweden’s tourism sector is experiencing a strong upturn. In the first half of 2026, foreign overnight stays rose 6.4 % compared with the same period in 2025, according to data from Tillväxtverket. June 2026 became the country’s most visited June on record, and the overall trend points toward a record‑breaking summer driven by an increase in foreign boat nights.
Visitors from southern Europe are contributing significantly: French tourists increased their stays by about 20 % and Spanish tourists by roughly 49 % in June and July, even though the base numbers were modest. Industry observers say the momentum could boost employment and enhance Sweden’s soft power if it continues.
While tourism accounts for about 5 % of Sweden’s transport‑related greenhouse‑gas emissions, officials note a shift toward more dispersed, lower‑impact destinations to mitigate mass‑tourism pressures.
Entities: Sweden · Tillväxtverket