Old craft shops are the true gem of our city. They used to be scattered all around Belgrade, but due to mass production and the opening of malls and big chains, most of them were forced to close their doors. Luckily, there are still a few of them remaining and welcoming the customers, while keeping the old traditions alive.
Perfumery Sava
Charming perfumery Sava is welcoming its customers in the very heart of Belgrade, in street Kralja Petra 75. This is the only store where you can buy hand-made and custom-made perfumes. It is present in this location since 1954, but in fact, the original store was even older. It is a small family-run business and the owner, Nenad Jovanov, will happily help you chose the right fragrance for you – or your loved one. Moreover, he will tell you more about the history of the store, how it survived World War 2, and how it got its name. So if you are visiting Belgrade – do not forget to visit this time-machine and feel the smell of the ’50s.
Candy Shop Bosiljčić
Candy shop Bosiljčić is the only remaining shop of such kind in Belgrade. Once upon a time, our city had over 100 such old craft shops. Now, only this one is remaining and proudly selling the best candies in Belgrade. Branko Bosiljčić, the grandfather of current owners Živorad and Branislav Bosiljčić, found this shop in 1936. They produce the candies according to old recipes, which are the real treasure for this store, but also for the city. Even the equipment they use is old, custom-made, and carefully maintained. If you are not sure what to buy – we suggest ratluk, which you may know as Turkish delight. The address is Gavrila Principa 14.
Old craft shops – Umbrellas
In Višnjićeva 6 street, you will find one of the last European umbrella-making and repairing shop. The owner, Ljubinka Bošković, has the nickname “doctor for umbrellas”. And truly, her store is attracting people from the region and even wider, who appreciate hand-made and unique umbrellas she makes. Of course, she can repair them as well, so if you have an old umbrella that is not working but you are sorry to throw it out – you know where to bring it! Right now, her daughter Tatjana Živković runs the store. This polite lady will bring it back to life and it will serve you for many years to come.
Rade Hats&Caps
Choosing the right hat or cap is not simple, and it is an entire “science” in the fashion world. So, let’s consult the experts! Rade Hats&Caps is a traditional, yet modern store, selling custom-made, high-quality hats and caps. Since the 1950s, many happy customers bought hats that are now worn all over the world. They have the entire guide for choosing the perfect headwear, which you can also order online. Of course, nothing beats the charm of visiting the store itself and speaking with trade masters. The address is Balkanska 34 – and this cobbled street once used to be a home of old craft shops such as this one.
Where to find these old craft shops?
All these old craft shops are very easy to find, as they are in the center of the city. They are very small shops and usually do not have any websites, so make sure you are looking for the signs. They believe in old-fashioned word-of-mouth advertising. So, while looking at the windows in Belgrade, pay attention! You may also stumble upon the traditional purse-maker, locksmith, or clockmaker. As always, if you need any help or advice – do not hesitate to contact us and we will respond as soon as possible.
Make sure to buy a unique souvenir from our country, and at least for a short time, feel the spirit of old Belgrade.