The tourist season in Gjirokastër continues to show positive results for the hotel sector. The summer visitor flow has boosted activity at accommodation facilities and generated more revenue for the local economy.

Gentian Bineri, head of the Gjirokastër Hotel Association, said the sector has performed well so far. He also highlighted the impact of events organized by the municipality.

“Overall, the season has been satisfactory. Unlike July, August proved to be a successful month, mainly thanks to individual tourists. We also hosted a series of concerts and cultural events, which made visitors’ experience more diverse. September and October also look promising. We already have bookings made more than a year in advance. We are almost fully booked, especially through agencies. At the same time, we are working on winter packages to create a welcoming and positive atmosphere for visitors throughout the year,” Bineri said.

However, the hotel sector still faces several challenges. Businesses need to improve services and infrastructure. They also need to secure enough workers. Meanwhile, operators aim to keep Gjirokastër active as a tourist destination beyond the peak summer months.

“I think we have largely reduced the problems. Of course, challenges always remain. We are working together with all operators and institutions to address them. Overall, we have made progress, and tourists can enjoy their stay,” he said.

Tourism has now become an important source of income for Gjirokastër. Its economic impact extends well beyond hotels. Visitors also generate revenue for restaurants, craft businesses, tour guides and other related services.

Moreover, bookings continue for the coming months. Therefore, hoteliers expect the economic activity generated by tourism to maintain its momentum even after the summer peak.