CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS

In Belgrade you can discovered some quite handy places where you can find something that you didn't even know that you were looking for.

Parfimerija Sava - With its old-fashioned interior, gorgeous vintage bottles and delectable scents wafting throughout, this traditional perfumery is a doorway into the Belgrade of yore. Established in 1954 by the current owner's father, this is the last shop of its kind in Belgrade, where scents are still mixed by hand in a mysterious room behind a heavy curtain.

Zeleni Venac Market - Even if you're not shopping, this bustling fresh produce market – the oldest in Belgrade – is worth a visit; it's always buzzing and the colourful stalls make for great photographs. It's across from a huge bus hub; lines run to and from Novi Beograd, Ada Ciganlija, Zemun (and elsewhere) from here.

Zemun Flea Market - Rummaging through this ramshackle market's piles of clothes, books, tools, toys and just about anything you can imagine is a wonderful way to start a Sunday. Unlike at green markets, haggling is expected here, but you'll be pitting your wits against some tough cookies; bring your game face (and cash).

Čumić District - Once Belgrade's first shopping mall and later abandoned, this revitalised complex is now home to more than 30 boutiques showcasing up-and-coming local fashionistas, jewellers, artists and designers. It's a fabulous place to pick up original pieces that you won't find anywhere else in the world.

Bombondžija Bosiljčić - Literally the last of its kind, this family-owned store is the only remaining one in Belgrade selling handmade sweets. The Bosiljčić family has kept the tradition alive by handing it down for three generations. The sweets include lollipops and promincle (spicy sweets), all handmade to 1930s recipes, but the speciality is Turkish delight; it's usually made the same day and there are 13 varieties on offer.

Supermarket Concept Store - Belgrade's first concept store was established with the idea of promoting design as a lifestyle. The new store is packed with high-end goods by both local and international designers, from books about design to fashion items and assorted knickknacks. There’s also a cafe with a unique drinks menu you'll be hard pressed to find elsewhere in the city.

Yugovinyl - Crate-diggers will find plenty to paw through at Yugovinyl, hailed as one of the best record stores in Europe. It's got about 20,000 records in about as many genres, though there's a big focus on Yugoslavia-era prog, punk and new wave. It's worth a visit just to listen to whatever tunes the owners are spinning.

source:lonelyplanet.com