International tourism continues to play an increasingly important role in Kemi. During the first eight months of 2026, overnight stays by international visitors increased by 16%, helping maintain overall tourism volumes despite a decline in domestic travel. August also proved to be a particularly strong month for the city.
August was significantly busier for accommodation providers in Kemi than the year before. Photo Kuvavuorinen
Nearly 69,000 overnight stays were recorded in Kemi's accommodation establishments between January and August 2026. While the total number of overnight stays increased only slightly, by 0.4%, the figures reveal a clear shift towards a more international visitor profile.
A total of 31,279 international overnight stays were recorded during the period, representing a 16% increase compared to the previous year. Domestic overnight stays totalled 37,639.
As a result, international visitors accounted for 45% of all registered overnight stays in Kemi, up from 39% a year earlier. Across Finland, the average share of international overnight stays was approximately 30%, highlighting Kemi's growing international appeal.
Visitors from Taiwan formed the largest international visitor group, accounting for 24% of all international overnight stays. They were followed by visitors from France as well as from China and Hong Kong. Compared with the national average, Kemi attracts a particularly strong share of travellers from Asia.
August Growth Exceeds the National Average
Following a successful winter season, August also delivered encouraging results for the local tourism industry.
Accommodation providers recorded nearly 7,100 overnight stays during the month, an increase of more than 7% compared with August 2025. Growth in Kemi outpaced the national average, reflecting continued demand for the destination throughout the summer season.
Leisure Travel Continues to Dominate
Approximately two-thirds of all overnight stays recorded between January and August were leisure trips, while business travel accounted for the remaining third.
The average length of stay in Kemi remains shorter than the national average for both domestic and international visitors.
Accommodation capacity in the city has remained largely unchanged. In August 2026, Kemi had seven registered accommodation establishments offering 386 rooms and 753 bed places.
Approximately two-thirds of all overnight stays recorded between January and August in Kemi were leisure trips. Photo Kuvavuorinen.
