Driven by international trends around nature and sustainable experiences, and according to a national survey of nine national and regional trails, 53 percent of businesses along selected cycle trails are experiencing more cyclists in 2025 compared to 2024. According to industry operator Sweden by Bike, sales of cycling packages have increased by around 20 percent per year in recent years. The number of cycling trips in Sweden increased according to the authority Transport Analysis (TRAFA) a total of 12 percent between 2023 and 2024.
The development is largely driven by pedal power from international visitors who, according to Cykelfrämjandet, come predominantly from Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France. [cykelframjandet.se], which corresponds to the markets that Visit Sweden highlights as important for tourism to Sweden.
International cycle tourists plan their trips well in advance, stay for several days, and request ready-made packages with accommodation and services. At the same time, international travellers are increasingly seeking nature-based and sustainable experiences.
Sweden has a relatively strong position as a cycling destination from a European perspective, with a growing network of quality-assured cycle routes, an established cycling culture, and national investments in infrastructure. Furthermore, its geography and climate are well-suited for cycle tourism.
This makes it possible to combine cycling, local experiences with meals and accommodation along the routes. And it is precisely the combination of activity, nature and local content that is central to future travellers, not solely for cyclists.
According to Visit Sweden's surveys, travellers increasingly prioritise nature, authenticity, sustainability, and quality of life when choosing destinations. At the same time, there is a growing demand for more personal and experience-based trips, where visitors can be active and get close to the place they are visiting.
Overall, the development shows that cycle tourism is not an isolated activity, but a valuable and growing part of how people choose to travel.
Developing attractive and successful cycling routes is about more than infrastructure. It's a direct investment in regional growth, a vibrant tourism industry, and more sustainable travel.
As travellers increasingly demand sustainable, flexible, and experience-based trips, cycling becomes a concrete example of how Sweden's offering meets global demand.
Experience Sweden from the saddle of a bike:
On tourists' needs and motivations
