Just when you think that you have formed your opinion about Belgrade, it might surprise you where you least expect it.  Take for example what happens if you by chance stumble upon “Čumicevo sokače”- a seriously crumbling shopping mall in the very center of the city and suddenly find yourself surrounded with dozens upon dozens of hip designer shops, galleries and concept stores where young, emerging and already established designers and artists show and sell their work right next to each other.

It is hard to imagine now, but not that long ago the place was bursting with glitz in its full ’90s marble, steel and fake shine glory. After its short-lived heyday, bigger and shinier shopping malls started popping up around the city and “Čumić” was forgotten, mostly abandoned and left to decay… Until someone had the great idea to let local designers rent empty locales in the abandoned mall.

The former ghost town is now bursting with life and creativity. Named Belgrade Design District (rather handy for tourists, who would otherwise have to ask for Chou-mitch-aevo sou-kat-che), prepare for great local shopping, with the unfinished ‘90s interior design exorcism just adding to the somewhat surreal and definitely creative atmosphere of the place. Check out Nešović fine arts gallery for young Serbian art scene, Bartselona gallery for photography exhibition, All Nut for cold pressed and organic local produce, Spice up to invigorate all senses and any of many designer shops for inspiration and cool new clothes.