If you're like me and you Google all the places before you arrive, you probably know that when visiting Belfast and Northern Ireland, you can't miss the Titanic Museum or the Game of Thrones Studios. However, there’s nothing more satisfying than those hidden spots that you discover by chance and end up being your favorite places.

If you're not like me, and you have no idea what to expect from this city, you're in luck because I'll be sharing five hidden Belfast gems and one seasonal treat!

Banana Block

No, they don’t sell bananas. But if you want to buy vintage clothes, vinyl records or the best bagels, this is definitely the place for you. Banana block is a living museum, as its website describes it, where I love to go to see art exhibitions and spend time with friends.

Where is it? PortView Trade Centre, 310 Newtownards Rd, Belfast BT4 1GE

^{Banana Block}

C.S. Lewis Square

If you made it to Banana Block, you can't miss the C.S. Lewis Square (it's just around the corner!)

Yes, C. S. Lewis. The one who wrote the Narnia Chronicles. He was born in Belfast and to commemorate him they have this street full of sculptures of characters from the books. Here you can see the professor entering the wardrobe… Or is it C.S. Lewis himself?

Where is it? Visitor Centre, 402 Newtownards Rd, Belfast BT4 1HH

^{C.S Lewis at the famous wardrobe door}

St. George’s Market

A Sunday is not a Sunday if my friends and I don’t go to St. George's to buy some fresh cheese and fish for the week. You can also have a late breakfast and enjoy the typical Irish craft stalls. To keep in mind: it’s only open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Where is it? St George's Market, East Bridge St, Belfast BT1 3NQ

^{St George's Market}

The Dome at Victoria Square

In the heart of Victoria Square shopping centre is this incredible Dome from which you can see the entire city of Belfast. It’s open every afternoon but I recommend going at sunset to enjoy an incredible view.

Where is it? Belfast BT1 4QL

^{The Dome at Victoria Square}

Belfast City Hall

In addition to sitting on the grass to enjoy the sunny days, I recommend going inside the City Hall and taking the guided tour if you get the chance. The architecture of this building is amazing and I always enjoy learning about the history of the place where I live.

Where is it? Donegall Square N, Belfast BT1 5GS

^{The amazing ceiling in City Hall}

Belfast Christmas Market

Ok, this isn’t hidden but I had totally underestimated the Belfast Christmas Market! The Christmas lights that begin to adorn the city are truly magical and the atmosphere of this market really captures the Christmas spirit. You can buy Christmas decorations, ride the carousel and also have chocolate, coffee, churros, marshmallows… Definitely the best way to fight the cold and spend an afternoon with friends.

Where is it? Outside City Hall!

^{The Christmas Market at City Hall}

Do you want to know the best about all these places? I got to know them for free in trips organised by my School or accommodation! So, keep an eye out for announcements and invitations that come your way, they are the best way to get to know Belfast as a newcomer and a great opportunity to make friends to return to these places with.

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Queen's Accommodation

Life in Belfast

Camila Montero English | Postgraduate Student | Uruguay My name is Camila and I’m from Uruguay (South America). I graduated as an English- Spanish Translator and moved to Belfast to do a Master’s Degree in English (Literary Studies). I live in Elms BT1 and plan to see as many new places as I can while I’m here, so in my spare time I always sign up for the accommodation activities and trips. I am also passionate about yoga, literature and art so you can always count on me to go to a museum or take a yoga class in the Botanic Gardens.