Mr Brooks-Sykes said work was being done to ensure the city holds its top 10- spot.

He added: “We need to build on these foundations: more events, more business tourism and this will continue.”

Capital of Culture is credited with boosting the region’s economy by £800m. The number of visits to Liverpool also exceeded 15m in 2008.

Dave Brewitt, owner of the Hope Street Hotel, said his boutique venue saw an average occupancy of around 75% last year, which has prompted him to expand from 48 rooms to 89. The first 15 new rooms will open for the first time this week.

Mr Brewitt said: “It was a fantastic year for us – it would be hard not to be in such a successful Capital of Culture year with so many international events. I’d like every year to be like that.

“The industry is starting to work together because the city is a great visitor attraction that it didn’t used to be. As people stay at home and visit nice cities it will get better.

“This year’s slightly weaker, but trade’s holding up. You would expect it to be down on last year.”

The visitor numbers were compiled by tourist board VisitEngland.

Jenny McGee, the body’s strategy and engagement head, said: “We’re delighted to see that our urban centres continue to attract visitors with their increasing and diverse range of attractions and cultural events.

“Credit should go to clever marketing for stellar performances by the top performing cities – especially the likes of Newcastle and Liverpool, the latter having the advantage of being named the 2008 European Capital of Culture.”