Nearly 1 million and 100 thousand tourists have visited Sofia for the first 10 months, registering 11 percent growth compared to last year. For the same period, overnight stays have increased by 13 percent, which means that tourists extend their stay in the capital. A survey of the Master Card Global Destinations Index in 2016 ranked Sofia in the top ten destinations in Europe, registering the highest rates of increase in the number of tourists in the period 2009 - 2016 - above 7 percent.

The mayor reminded that Sofia already has its established international festivals and events for contemporary art; the city hosts more and more prestigious sports events and business forums.

"In 2018, Sofia will host the Presidency of the Council of the European Union and will be the sports capital of Europe. For us and for all of you, involved in tourism, this is both a great responsibility and an opportunity once again to show our city in the best light", said Yordanka Fandakova.