Ever Growing, Never Aging
Q: In your opinion, what makes Sofia special?
“Ever Growing, Never Aging” – the motto of Sofia says a lot about the city and its people. Sofia has been settled for many millennia, but its spirit is young. With a history that stretches over 7 millennia, Sofia is the second oldest city in Europe rich in Orthodox churches, Ottoman mosques, Communist-era monuments and Roman ruins that lend an eclectic, exotic feel;; Affordable, two-hour or less direct flights from most European capitals and major international airports; Amazing street art and park culture – festivals, puppet theater, live music and cinema under the stars can be spotted almost every day from May to late September; Wine & dine in traditional Bulgarian pubs, family diners or exquisite high-end restaurants.
Bulgarian wines are an absolute must-try
Q: Where would you take someone to “feel” the vibe of Sofia and what is your best incentive idea in Sofia?
I would definitely suggest an evening walking tour of Sofia – the small streets of the city are full of nice and cozy bars and restaurants. Meeting the hospitable and friendly locals is the best way to get familiar with the young spirit of the city. Our cuisine is a mix of hearty Balkan food with a pinch of Mediterranean and Arabic flavors. Bulgarian wines are an absolute must-try!
Sofia is a great place to inflame your passion for exploration. When you’ve had enough of the city, you can take a break and visit Vitosha mountain for a hiking, mountain biking, ornithology or rare-flowers trip, just 20 minutes away from the center.
Q: What do you see as crucial marketing elements to lure meeting planners?
The establishment of the Bulgarian Convention Bureau is a national project whose aim is to develop and promote Bulgaria as a sustainable destination for conducting significant international events. Our mission is to support the MICE industry in the country by promoting and offering, both in Bulgaria and abroad, the congress and exhibition venues, specialised services for conducting international congress and convention events, trade exhibitions and fairs, corporate and incentive trips. Development of the marketing instruments of the BCB will improve the city representation and will allow the meeting planners to be well informed about the MICE infrastructure and services of the city.
Q: What was the most important event in Sofia 2019 (MICE event)?
Sofia is a preferred destination for international congresses and exhibitions, cultural festivals and sports events in Bulgaria. In parallel with many medical, pharmaceutical and scientific conferences and congresses, Webit.Festival took place in Sofia Events calendar for 2019. The event is among the top 3 Europe’s largest and most impactful innovation and tech events, which was selected as flagship innovation event for the Presidency of the Council of EU in 2018.
