Knez Mihailova — Prince Michael Street — is the main pedestrian boulevard of Belgrade, running from Republic Square down to the gates of Kalemegdan fortress. The street was developed in the 19th century as Belgrade's first modern promenade and is lined with handsome Neoclassical and Secession-style buildings from that era, housing a mix of bookshops, cafes, chain stores, and the occasional gallery. The whole length of it, about 800 metres, is traffic-free.
In the evening the street fills with Belgraders walking, meeting friends at cafe terraces, and browsing the bookshops. The atmosphere is genuinely local despite the tourist traffic — this is where people actually come after work and on weekends. Several of the buildings along the street date from the late 19th century and are architecturally notable. The National Museum, at the Republic Square end, and Kalemegdan fortress at the far end give the street its clear sense of direction and purpose.