City Trade Center GTC - Towering office buildings
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City Trade Center GTC

4.1
·6k reviews·Skopje, North Macedonia

A unique urban space known for its brutalist architecture and open-plan design, offering a glimpse into the city's evolving landscape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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City Trade Center GTC - Towering office buildings

City Trade Center GTC

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A unique urban space known for its brutalist architecture and open-plan design, offering a glimpse into the city's evolving landscape.

4.1
(6k reviews)

"It is like an open air mall, or a covered pedestrian street, or a new take on public spaces. It is something unique, something different."

Vertical photo
TIP

Explore Beyond the Shops

Don't just focus on retail; discover the unique architecture and surprising casino.

Manage Expectations

It's an older mall with some empty spaces; visit for its character, not for a modern shopping spree.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Unique Open-Plan Architecture

Unique Open-Plan Architecture

Experience a shopping center unlike any other, with a distinctive open layout that feels more like a public space.

Reddit
The Integrated Casino

The Integrated Casino

A surprising element: a casino subtly built into the shopping center, adding an unexpected twist to your visit.

Reddit
Brutalist Design Elements

Brutalist Design Elements

Appreciate the raw, imposing beauty of its brutalist architecture, contributing to its unique and memorable atmosphere.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the City Trade Center

While once a bustling hub, the City Trade Center (GTC) now shows signs of age. Expect a mix of open shops and empty spaces. Consider it for its unique architecture and atmosphere rather than a premier shopping destination. Reddit

Beyond Shopping: What to Expect

The GTC offers more than just retail. Discover its unique open-plan design, a surprising casino, and a blend of old and new city elements. It's a place for exploration, not just commerce. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, local buzz
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎨 Did you know there's a Street Art & Graffiti Gallery hidden in the heart of Skopje? 📍 Located in the City Trade Center (GTC), you'll find dozens of graffiti pieces bringing the walls to life. It’s the spot to get a real feel of Skopje’s creative side. #skopje #skopjein #expats #macedonia #roastery #скопје #Македонија #travel #skopjecity #balkan #balkans #travelgram #shkupi #üsküp #скопље #guid...
skopje.in
100 likes • 4.2K views

Explore Beyond the Shops

Don't just focus on retail; discover the unique architecture and surprising casino. Reddit+1

Manage Expectations

It's an older mall with some empty spaces; visit for its character, not for a modern shopping spree. Reddit

reddit.com

Question about driving and staying by WTC

reddit.com

For those of you who got to see the original World Trade Center towers. What was it like, and why?

Consider Nearby Alternatives

If modern shopping is your priority, consider other malls like Diamond Mall. Reddit

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Tips

from all over the internet

Explore Beyond the Shops

Don't just focus on retail; discover the unique architecture and surprising casino. Reddit+1

Manage Expectations

It's an older mall with some empty spaces; visit for its character, not for a modern shopping spree. Reddit

Consider Nearby Alternatives

If modern shopping is your priority, consider other malls like Diamond Mall. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The City Trade Center (GTC) is recognized for its unique, open-plan architecture and brutalist design, offering a distinct urban experience. While it once thrived, it now shows signs of age with many empty spaces, leading some to suggest visiting other, more modern malls. However, its unconventional layout and integrated casino provide a memorable, if somewhat dated, visit. Reddit+2

"It was good mall long time ago. Now it is old and not being maintained well. There are so many things to be mended. There are many alternative shopping mall much better than here. Many shops are open but many places are empty. Consider visit other shopping malls like diamond mall."

Mothusi

"This shop is lowkey open planned. Never seen a shop built like this before. I kind of like it. There’s also a casino lowkey inbuilt into the shopping center — that’s weird but also… yeahhh why not!"

pia bellini

"A very original city because there are hundreds of statues. A new city with teraces, an old bazar and some markets.
Half a day is enough for a visit in Skopje"

Dani Bis

What People Like

Unique open-plan design
Brutalist architecture
Integrated casino

What People Dislike

Shows signs of age
Many empty spaces
Run down appearance

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The City Trade Center (GTC) is accessible by various public transport options. Local buses and trams frequently stop nearby. If driving, be aware that parking might be limited, and it's advisable to check for available parking garages in the vicinity. Reddit

Parking availability can be inconsistent. While some garages exist nearby, it's recommended to research and potentially book a spot in advance, especially if arriving by a larger vehicle. Reddit

Yes, GTC is generally accessible. Its central location makes it a point of interest for visitors exploring the city. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the City Trade Center GTC is typically free. It functions as a public space with shops and amenities inside. Reddit

Opening hours can vary for individual shops, but the general public areas of the GTC are usually open throughout the day. It's best to check specific store hours if you have particular shops in mind. Reddit

While the casino is integrated into the GTC, there might be separate entry requirements or age restrictions for the casino itself. It's advisable to check the casino's specific policies. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

GTC features a mix of shops, though many spaces are currently empty. You'll find a variety of retail outlets, but it's not as densely populated with stores as it once was. Reddit

The GTC is known for its unique, open-planned design with significant brutalist architectural elements. It's often described as feeling like a covered pedestrian street or a new take on public spaces. Reddit

Yes, there are several restaurants, pubs, and cafes within the GTC, offering various dining and refreshment options. Reddit

Absolutely! The unique brutalist architecture and open-plan design make GTC a distinctive spot for photography, capturing its raw and original aesthetic. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

GTC offers a selection of restaurants, pubs, and cafes. While not a gourmet destination, you can find various options for a meal or a quick bite. Reddit

You can find a range of dining choices, including some more casual cafes and pubs that may offer more affordable options. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Focus on the unique open-plan areas and the striking brutalist architectural features. The interplay of light and shadow within the structure can create dramatic shots. Reddit

Photography rules inside casinos can be strict. It's best to check with casino staff before taking pictures to avoid any issues. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the City Trade Center (GTC) might find it a mixed bag. While there are cafes and some shops, the overall atmosphere is less geared towards children's entertainment compared to modern malls. However, the unique open-plan design can be interesting for kids to explore, and the presence of cafes offers opportunities for breaks. Reddit

It's advisable to manage expectations regarding the number of active shops and entertainment options. Consider it more of a place for a casual stroll and a snack rather than a dedicated family outing. If your children are interested in unique architecture, they might find the brutalist style intriguing. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget travelers, the City Trade Center (GTC) can be a good option for experiencing a slice of local urban life without significant expense. Entry is free, and you can find affordable dining options at the various cafes and pubs within the center. Reddit

While many shops may be closed, you can still appreciate the distinctive architecture and the general ambiance of the place. It offers a glimpse into the city's past and present without requiring a large budget for shopping or entertainment. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Architecture of GTC

The City Trade Center (GTC) stands out due to its distinctive open-planned architecture. Unlike traditional enclosed malls, it feels more like a covered public space or a modern interpretation of a bustling street. This design choice, heavily influenced by brutalist aesthetics, gives the GTC a raw, imposing, and undeniably unique character. Visitors often remark on how different it is from typical shopping centers, appreciating its originality. Reddit

This architectural style contributes to a specific atmosphere within the GTC. While some find it dated, others are drawn to its unconventional beauty and the sense of history it evokes. The structure itself becomes a point of interest, offering a visual experience that goes beyond mere commerce. It’s a place where the building’s design is as much a part of the visit as the shops themselves. Reddit

When exploring, pay attention to the interplay of light and shadow within the vast open spaces, and the stark geometric forms characteristic of brutalism. These elements make the GTC a compelling subject for photography and a memorable destination for those seeking something architecturally distinct. Reddit

Navigating the GTC Experience

Visiting the City Trade Center (GTC) requires a slight shift in expectations. While it was once a premier shopping destination, current reviews suggest it's now showing its age, with many empty storefronts alongside operational ones. This means it's less about a vast array of modern retail and more about experiencing its unique character. Reddit

Beyond the retail aspect, the GTC holds a few surprises. Notably, it features an integrated casino, a rather unusual combination that adds a quirky element to the visitor experience. This blend of commerce, entertainment, and distinctive architecture makes the GTC a place that defies easy categorization. Reddit

For those planning a visit, it's recommended to approach the GTC with an open mind. Consider it an opportunity to see a piece of the city's evolving urban landscape, appreciate its architectural quirks, and perhaps enjoy a meal or a drink at one of its cafes or pubs. It offers a different kind of urban exploration compared to a pristine, modern mall. Reddit

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