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The Perfect 3-Day Taipei Itinerary (2024 Updated Travel Guide)

October 14, 2023 by Bino 2 Comments

Taipei has long been an attractive travel destination for travelers from neighboring countries. While it has never really established itself in the backpackers’ trail, the city attracts plenty of midrange and high-end tourists looking to sample the local street food, shop in the night markets, soak in the hot springs and interact with the highly hospitable locals. Personally, Taipei is a feel-good place. I don’t go there expecting to see some mind-boggling sights. Like Tokyo , I go there time and time again for the wonderful ambiance.

If you are heading down south, also check out this Kaohsiung and Tainan itinerary .

Here is a well-balanced itinerary for Taipei that you can do in 3-days. It offers a fine mix between sights, eating and shopping and also has a few off-the-beaten path attractions thrown in.

Tip: If you are heading down to the other cities, check out this current promotion with Klook where Taiwan High Speed Rail tickets are available on a 20% off basis. Valid for Non-Taiwan residents only. Book here

chiang kai shek memorial hall

Day 1 – Quintessential Taipei

Tip: If you are landing in Taoyuan International Airport and wish to buy a local sim card for data needs, the airport does sell these but the queue tends to be quite long (not to mention it can get quite long at immigration as well). A way to circumvent this is by buying your sim card beforehand and just collect at the airport. I usually pre-order here to avoid the queues and the package also comes with a ticket for the airport train to Taipei.

national palace museum taipei by gary todd

The National Palace Museum  (tickets available here ) is the farthest among Taipei’s attractions so might as well start here in order to devote the rest of your time in the city. When the Kuomintang fled from Mainland China and transferred their seat of power in Taipei, they brought with them plenty of treasured artifacts. These are now stored in the National Palace Museum. This is one of the – if not the – best places to see Chinese art. Good thing about this museum is that it opens at 8:30AM so you can have a relatively early start here. Opening hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm daily except Monday

artwork inside moca taipei by harry li

I am not really a museum type of person but I do recommend heading over to the Museum of Contemporary Art (MoCA) Taipei to see plenty of quirky art pieces. Honestly, this is one of the museums that I genuinely enjoyed and won’t hesitate to return to. Opening hours: 10:00 to 18:00 daily except Monday / Nearest MRT: Taipei Main Station

Tip: Buses run aplenty in Taipei and is the best mode of public transport for those who want to minimize walking to their destination. It’s also the cheapest with fares at TWD 15 per ride. Do note that drivers don’t provide change and for some reason, some buses require payment upon boarding while others require payment upon alighting. You can easily tell these buses apart through the sign board on top of the driver seat. 上 means you pay upon boarding while 下 means you pay when you get off.

Stop over at Jinfeng Braised Pork Rice (#10, Section 1, Roosevelt Road) for lunch. There’s often a long queue here for the rice topped with braised pork. I personally do not enjoy it due to all the fat but many people rave about it. Opening hours: 11:00 to 1:00 daily / Nearest MRT: Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall Station

jinfeng braised pork rice

the gate to the chiang kai shek memorial hall

Make your way to the Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall which is just a short walk from Jinfeng. The place is best visited in the afternoon since the façade faces the west. Before the Taipei 101 was built, this structure served as the city’s most iconic structure. While there, make sure to check out the changing of the guard ceremony which happens every hour on the hour. Opening hours: 9:00 to 18:00 / Admission: Free / Nearest MRT: Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall Station

longshan temple

From here, it’s a short bus ride to Longshan Temple , one of the most popular temples in Taipei and a great example of classical Taiwanese architecture. It also offers a good peek at local religious life. Two blocks away from the temple is the historic Bopiliao Walking Street where you can relive the olden days with Taisho (colonial Japanese) era architecture and try your hand at age-old crafts. Opening hours for Longshan Temple: 6:00 to 22:00 / Admission: Free / Nearest MRT: Long Shan Temple Station

red house ximending

Depending on your pace, it’d be late afternoon by this time – just right to witness the lights turning on at the buzzing Ximending shopping area. This is equivalent to Taipei’s high street and you can find all sorts of brands here as well as several shops selling traditional delicacies and tea. The Red House is a symbol of the area and inside you can find plenty of independent stalls run by enterprising locals. If this is your first time in Taipei, you need to check out Ximending. Alternatively, you can also check out this handy guide on Taipei for first timers . Nearest MRT: Ximen Station

While you will find plenty of restaurants in Ximending, I recommend skipping these and heading straight to Ningxia Night Market instead. You can either take a short cab ride or walk the 2km stretch. Taipei is famous for its night markets with each having its own specialty. Ningxia Night Market is well-known for food and people from all over the world come here to eat oyster omelette and mochi. While there are a couple of stores selling these items here, the place you should try for oyster omelette is: 圓環邊蚵仔煎 (Roundabout Oyster Omelette) and for mochi, it’s: 林記燒麻糬 Nearest MRT: Shuanglian Station or Zhongshan Station

Day 2 – Excursion to Yehliu and Jiufen

yehliu geopark by bill so

Start early in the morning and take bus 1815 to Yehliu GeoPark . The journey takes about 1.5 hours and depending on the weather and the crowd, you’ll find plenty of rocks jutting from the ground like mushrooms. It’s a pretty sight except when it gets too crowded. Avoid the weekends if you can. Alternatively, take the train to Pingxi and launch a sky lantern .

Take another bus to Jiufen , an old seaside mining town that has developed into a tourist attraction filled with teahouses, cafes and souvenir shops. It’s a charming place to simply wander around or to spend an hour or two holed up in one of the teahouses. For history buffs, there are also museums showcasing the town’s mining heritage. Alternatively, you can also take a 3-in-1 day tour   from Taipei Main Station which brings you to Yehliu, Jiufen and Shifen and back within a day. This option saves you the commuting time and the need to find directions. You can find out more information here .

taipei 101 as seen from shangri-la far eastern plaza hotel taipei

Try to leave Jiufen by around 3 to 3:30pm and head back to Taipei via Bus #1062. Make your way to the Elephant Mountain Trail , a viewpoint that you climb in order to see sweeping views of Taipei 101 during sunset. Alternatively, you can also head up to the observatory of Taipei 101 itself (discounted tickets here ). In my opinion, this iconic building is better appreciated from afar.

For a truly special dinner experience, head to RAW (301 Lequn 3rd Road), the restaurant of one-Michelin starred chef, Andre Chiang. The cuisine is a fusion of Taiwanese and French cuisines. It gets booked out easily and online reservations are required.

raohe night market

End your day at the Raohe Night Market located at the other side of the river. This night market packs in a plethora of eats as well as ready-to-wear apparel. Nearest MRT: Songshan Station

Day 3 – Modern and Hipster Taipei

After two whirlwinds days exploring the city’s main attractions and also doing a day trip to Yehliu and Jiufen , your third day can be spent just chilling and exploring the more hipster side of the city. Taipei offers plenty for shopaholics out there and some up-and-coming neighborhoods offer a great counterpoint to characterless shopping malls.

fujin street in taipei

Start your day with some coffee from Fujin Tree 353 Cafe in Fujin Street – probably the most hipster area in Taipei. You’ll find plenty of quirky restaurants and boutiques with equally quirky people patronizing them. Even if you are not looking to buy anything, Fujin Street is also a great place for a stroll, being one of the rare tree-lined streets in the city. Opening hours: 9:00 to 18:00, daily

huashan 1914 creative park by travel oriented

Continuing on with quirky things, head over to Huashan 1914 Creative Park . What used to be a winery has been converted into a creative space attracting writers, moviemakers and even painters. There is always an exhibition going on in here which is worth checking out. You’ll also find a lot of local crafts and independent stores within the vicinity. Do note that the park is actually quite spread out and you’ll find the stores and exhibition areas in different buildings within the complex. It may not be an ideal place to visit whenever it’s raining. For tech geeks, you can continue on to Guanghua Digital Plaza for all your IT needs. Taiwan is a major manufacturer of computers and hardware. Opening hours: 11:00 to 21:00, daily / Nearest MRT: Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station

daan forest park mrt station

Pause for lunch at the famous Lin Dong Fang (#274, Section 2, Bade Road) for some delicious beef noodles before continuing on to Daan Forest Park for some r&r. The namesake metro station – Daan Forest Park – is an attraction in itself with curved glass curtain walls and plenty of art installations. Two metro stops away is the Kishu An Forest of Literature where you’ll be transported to another world with its Japanese style bungalow. Opening hours: 10:00 to 18:00, Tuesday to Sunday (until 21:00 on Friday and Saturday)

matcha canele at heiankyo in taipei

While you are in the general vicinity, check out Heiankyo (165 Shida Road, open 12:30PM to 8:00PM except Tuesdays) for some traditional and modern matcha-based desserts. My personal favorites are the matcha canele (the first time I’ve seen one) and the rich and flavorful match ice cream. The venue is highly authentic, replete with a mini Japanese rock garden outside and interiors mimicking a traditional tea house.

koo chen fu national library at national taiwan university

Even those who have no interest in reading will probably be awed by the interiors of the Koo Chen Fu National Library (inside the National Taiwan University). Designed by Japanese architect, Toyo Ito, the reading room is made up of over 88 white columns that creates something like a forest out of minimalism. Admission is free but do note the library closes slightly earlier, at 5PM, during Saturdays and it’s closed on Sundays.

old buildings in dihua street by adam jones

Spend the late afternoon at Dihua Street , a colonial era part of town that has been rejuvenated with plenty of traditional shops. You’ll find Chinese medicine stores interspersing with cafes, antique shops as well as the odd art studio. Opening hours: 10:00 to 22:30, daily / Nearest MRT: Shuanglian Station

End the day at Shilin Night Market , undoubtedly Taipei’s biggest and most well-known night market. The place is known for local delights such as stinky tofu as well as oyster mee sua so make sure to come with an empty stomach. Opening hours: 15:00 to 1:00, daily / Nearest MRT: Jiantan Station

Getting to Taipei from Taoyuan International Airport

• Available 24 hours. Taxis cost roughly TWD 1,000  to 1200 from the airport to the city center. Alternatively, you can book here for private car transfers at around 15 to 20% cheaper than taxis. If there are 3 to 4 persons in your group, this option is recommended over public transport or the MRT.
• The relatively new Taoyuan Airport MRT gets you from the airport to Taipei Main Station in roughly 37 minutes. The price is TWD 230 per person. You can buy tickets online at a hefty discount here .
• You can also take one of several airport buses that stop in Taipei’s main station. In case you’re arriving in Taipei past midnight and don’t wish to spend on taxis, take the #1819 Kuo Kuang bus. It costs TWD 125.

Travel Tips for Taipei

• Best time to visit Taipei: It is between October to March when the days are relatively cool. Even during the “depth of winter” in January, temperatures rarely fall below 10 degrees celsius. Summer is between June to September and it can get really hot and humid in the city. That being said, summer is the best time to visit the city if you wish to see the city with sunshine. This is especially helpful if you wish to climb Elephant Mountain for instance and witness a nice sunset blanketing the city. Taipei is notoriously known for its prolonged cloud cover. It’s one of the least sunniest capitals in the world!
• Travel Insurance: In these uncertain times, it may be wise to get travel insurance before traveling to Taiwan. If you reside in Singapore, check out Starr Travelead , one of the cheapest travel insurance. They have a promotion that comes with S$10 cash rebate that helps to cover the insurance cost. 
• Changing Money in Taipei: If you come from Singapore and are armed with Singapore Dollars, you might find the rates in DBS (the local Taipei branch) quite competitive. For folks from elsewhere who are bringing in USD, you can change money in the airport. The spread is slightly less than 1%. In the city, it is advisable to change money at large banks such as Bank of Taiwan.
• Transport Passes: If you foresee yourself taking buses and the subway in Taipei, it is advisable to purchase their local transport pass – the Easycard . You get 20% discount for public transport rides in Taipei. It also works in Kaohsiung’s public transport system as well as for supermarket, convenience store and other places. At the end of your trip, you can refund any unused amount with a mere TWD 20 service charge. 

Where to stay in Taipei

citizenm taipei hotel

Taipei has a plethora of accommodation options but the city is most well-known for its boutique hotels – some of which have “branches” throughout the capital. I personally enjoyed staying at citizenM Taipei Northgate with its high-tech rooms and beds situated just next to the window with panoramic views of the city. The property is also 5 minutes walk to the airport MRT station and 15 minutes walk to Ximending. Alternatively, the amba Taipei Zhongshan will attract those who are into a clean, all-white and minimalist theme. You can also check out more Taipei hotels HERE   to compare for the best prices.

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Hi, my name is Bino and I started I Wander around 15 years ago with the aim of sharing about some of my personal journeys and experiences, hoping that the information may benefit readers like yourselves. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

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February 23, 2018 at 12:45 am

Great post Bino. I agree that Taipei is a feel-good place. I visited for the first time last month on an independent trip with a friend. I went to Huashan 1914 Creative Park on a cold and rainy day expecting it to be indoors. Ha ha! Ended up spending most of my time watching a movie in the SPOT cinema. It was interesting reading about your suggested itinerary. I wrote my own version of a 2-day itinerary on my blog!

September 3, 2019 at 3:01 pm

SIR BINO, YOUR TAIPEI TOUR WAS VERY INFORMATIVE. GOT LOTS OF IDEAS. AM SURE YOUR WRITE UPS ON TAIPEI WILL HELP OUR SEPT. 2019 TRIP TO TAIPEI MEMORABLE MORE POWER TO YOU. GOD LOVES US ALL. THANK YOU.

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Asia , Itineraries , Taiwan · November 17, 2020

A Local’s Taipei Itinerary: How to Spend 1-5 Days in Taipei

Taipei is a multifaceted city brimming with deep-rooted history, a pulsating culture, incredible architecture, and a fantastic food scene. But with so many layers to uncover, things to do, and street food to taste, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when planning a Taipei itinerary.

To help you figure out what to do and where to go, I’ve compiled this  fully flexible   itinerary in Taipei for 1-5 days . It’s packed with must-do activities, places to see, and top tips to make the most of your time during your 5-day stay.

Ready to find the absolute best things to do in Taipei and see all Taiwan’s colorful capital city has to offer? Let’s go! 

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

How many days to spend in Taipei

While one could easily spend weeks in Taipei, not everyone has the luxury of unlimited time in this megacity. With 1 or 2 days in Taipei, you’ll be able to see the city’s most iconic sights. However, to really uncover the city’s DNA, I recommend staying at least 3-5 days in Taipei. 

Plan Your Taipei Trip

Before you start your Taipei itinerary, read my detailed guides to help you better understand the city.

• Travel Tips for Taipei
• Where to Stay in Taipei
• Getting from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei
• Taipei Nightlife guide
• Solo Traveler’s Guide to Taipei
• Best Taipei Side Trips

In a rush? Pin this itinerary for Taipei to read later.

Taipei Itinerary Essentials

Want to maximize your time in Taipei? Here are a few essentials you’ll need for a stress-free 5 days Taipei itinerary. 

• Taipei has oodles of hotels and hostels. For the best prices,  search accommodation  at least 2-3 weeks in advance. Alternatively, see my insider’s guide on the best hotels & areas to stay in Taipei .
• Taipei has two airports, Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) and Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). While Songshan is closer to Taipei, Taoyuan is the main international gateway. Read my quick guide on how to get to Taipei from Taoyuan Airport . Alternatively, book a private transfer straight to your accommodation for a stress-free trip. 
• Grab a  Taipei Fun Pass  to see all the Taipei must-see sights at a discount. 
• While there are more than 4400 Wifi hotspots in Taiwan, it’s worth spending a few extra dollars on a local  4G Sim Card , Pocket Wifi , or this E-sim . By doing so, you can plan all your stops and access maps, schedules, and translations on the go. 
• Make sure to pack a  travel umbrella  as frequent downpours aren’t uncommon in Taipei. This guide on what to pack for Taiwan will also come in handy.
• Grab a  Lonely Planet guidebook  for more tips and things to do. It’s packed with awesome recommendations and insights into the culture, history, and more.
• Need travel insurance for your trip?  SafetyWing is my go-to travel insurance provider.

How to get around during your Itinerary in Taipei

Taipei is a sprawling city. While it is an exceptionally walkable city, an efficient transport network is ready to whizz you off to all corners. To maximize your 5 days in Taipei, use a mix of transport methods to access the best of Taipei’s attractions. Here’s how to get around during your 5-day stay.  

• MRT:  Taipei has an extensive subway system called the MRT. Tickets are cheap and you can buy them at any MRT station. However, to save time, grab Taiwan’s local top-up card, the  Easy Card . With this card, you can tap and go on the MRT, buses, and regional trains. See the metro map here . Also check out my guide on useful Taiwan travel apps to have on your phone.
• HOP ON HOP OFF BUS:  The Taipei sightseeing bus is a great way to get a well-rounded glimpse of the city while ticking off your Taipei must-visit list. The bus stops at all the major tourist attractions on this Taipei itinerary. It’s also a fun way to see the city from a different angle. There are two routes, and  9hr or 24hr passes  are available. 
• BY BIKE:  YouBike is an official bike sharing system in Taiwan. It allows you to rent a bike for as little as NT$10 per 30 minutes. You’ll find an endless supply of bicycle-sharing kiosks allover Taipei City, too. These are conveniently located outside MRT stations and tourist spots. Just a head’s up, you’ll need an  Easy Card  and a local number to register for this service. For single rent users, you’ll need to pay a NT$2000 deposit with your credit card. 
• TAXI:  Yellow taxis can be spotted and flagged down all over Taipei. They are reasonably priced, starting at around NT$120 for the first 1.25km and then increase with NT$5 for every 200m. Between 11 pm to 6 am, rates start at NT$140. 
• UBER:  Uber is a great and cheap alternative to get around Taipei quickly. Make sure to download the Uber app before you arrive. 

Best Hotels and Hostels to stay during an Itinerary for Taipei

Luxury: W Taipei  is the best luxury hotel in Taipei. The 5-star property features beautiful, spacious rooms accompanied by terrific views. But even on top of that, you’ll be steps from the trendy bars, shops, and restaurants of Xinyi.  Check rates/ availability here . 

Mid-Range: Via Hotel  is a 3-star hotel that combines comfort and design. It’s the perfect choice for mid-range travelers who want to be right in the city center. What’s more, it offers easy access to Taipei Main Station, as well as oodles of shops and eateries.  Check rates/ availability here .  

Budget:   Star Hostel  is a chic hostel offering both private and dorm rooms at great prices. Located mere steps from the Taipei Main Station, it’s the perfect base if you want to be close to the main transport hub.  Check rates/ availability here .  

Taipei Itinerary Quick Overview

Day 1 in Taipei:  Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall >> Longshan Temple >> Taipei 101 >> Elephant Mountain >> Raohe Night Market

Taipei Day 2:  Dihua Street >> North Gate >> Ximending >> Huashan 1914 Creative Park >> Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall >> Stroll the streets of Daan

Day 3 in Taipei:  National Palace Museum >> Beitou Hot Springs >> Tamsui >> Shilin Night Market

Taipei Day 4:  Yehliu Geopark >> Shifen >> Jiufen 

Day 5 in Taipei:  Taipei Zoo >> Maokong Mountain >> Taipei Fine Arts Museum >> Addiction Aquatic Development

Want to see the city’s best attractions without planning a thing? Check out this  city tour ,  night tour ,  walking tour , or this  popular sights private charter .

The Perfect Itinerary for Taipei: What to do in Taipei in 1-5 Days

Whether you have one day in Taipei or many, the city is jam-packed with places to see and fun things to do. 

Below you’ll find my top recommendations on how to spend up to 5 days in Taipei. I’ve included all the must-see attractions, iconic landmarks, and even a few hidden gems for those who’d like to experience Taipei’s quirky side! 

Throughout this Taipei itinerary, you’ll also get handy tips to help you experience the best of Taipei. With that said, though, feel free to mix things up as you see fit.

1 Day Taipei Itinerary

With only 1 day in Taipei, trying to figure out where to go and what to do in a megacity like Taipei can be challenging. While one day is not nearly enough to see all the city has to offer, it will allow ample time to get a taste of Taipei’s top attractions. Here are the best things to do in Taipei in 1 day. 

Oh, and travel tip – make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes . You have a lot of ground to cover on your first day! 

Get a glimpse into the past at Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall

Kickstart your 1 day Taipei itinerary with a visit to the city’s most iconic square – Liberty Square ( 中正紀念堂廣場) .

Featuring neatly kept gardens, this sprawling area is home to the National Theater , the National Concert Hall , and of course, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall (中正紀念堂).

Besides strolling the beautiful grounds and taking Instagrammable photos, it’s also a great spot to get a better understanding of Taiwan’s complex history. 

Within the main hall, browse the exhibitions and learn more about the country’s liberation struggles. Afterward, climb the 89 steps leading to the massive statue memorializing Chiang, Taiwan’s first president. It’s also worth watching the changing of the guards’ ceremony, which happens every hour on the hour. Entrance to Liberty Square, as well as Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, is free. 

Insider’s Tips:  If time permits, take a stroll over to the  Presidential Palace  (中華民國總統府). It was built during the Japanese Colonial era and has a gorgeous red brick exterior and large balconies. Today, it serves as the workplace of Taiwan’s president. Join the free guided tour (weekdays only) to get a glimpse of the inside. Afterward, take a stroll through the serene  2/28 Peace Memorial Park  (二二八和平公園). The park commemorates the victims of the anti-government uprising movement in 1947. Don’t miss the huge memorial monument at the center of the park! The nearby memorial museum also offers more insights into Taiwan’s turbulent past. 

Experience the Culture at Longshan Temple

Next up on your Taipei itinerary, head to Taipei’s most famous religious complex, Longshan Temple (龍山寺). Dating back to 1737, Longshan Temple is one of the most famous landmarks in Taiwan and a great place to get acquainted with Chinese folk religion. To this day, locals journey from near and far to make prayers and wish for good fortune in these incense-filled halls. 

Right near the entrance, you can relish in the local custom of throwing moon blocks . Make sure to throw these tiny blocks in unison. The way they fall will reveal whether the gods favor you or not. 

There is no entrance fee for Longshan Temple. But please remember to dress appropriately as this is still a place of worship. 

Insider’s Tips:  A short stroll from here, head to the  Bopiliao Historical Block  (剝皮寮歷史街區) where you’ll find stacks of 18th-century houses. To learn more about the area’s history, you can also join this free  walking tour . Afterward, browse the  Huaxi Street Market  (華西街觀光夜市) filled with weird and interesting traditional snacks. Or better yet, join this  fun food tour . Just a word of caution; this is Taipei’s red-light district and it can be a bit seedy at night. Although Taipei is a very safe city, I wouldn’t recommend visiting here late at night if you are a solo female traveler.  

Take in the Views Atop Taipei 101  

In Xinyi, often dubbed as the Times Square of Taipei, you’ll find one of Asia’s most iconic landmarks – Taipei 101 (台北101). 

This imposing bamboo-shaped skyscraper towers 509m above the city and showcases exceptional design inside and out. Taipei 101 also houses the world’s 3 rd fastest elevator, traveling at a speed of 1,010 meters per minute. It is the most prominent landmark in the city, rightly deserving a spot on your Taipei itinerary.

Within the tower, you can browse the world’s best luxury stores. These include the likes of Bvlgari, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and Patek Philippe, to name just a few!

But arguably, the best thing to do here is get a bird’s-eye view over the entire city. Once you’re done browsing the stores, head to the Observation Deck. Besides taking in the excellent vistas, don’t miss getting a close-up look at the massive damper housed here. The damper weighs a whopping 660 tons and stabilizes the tower during strong winds or typhoons.

Just a word of warning – the Observation Deck’s lines are always long, and one could easily queue for hours. Grab a fast track pass to skip the lines. 

Insider’s Tips:  While here, don’t miss Taiwan’s very own Michelin Star restaurant  Din Tai Fung  (鼎泰豐). The eatery serves up the juiciest xiao long bao ever! If time permits, take a stroll through the lively  Att 4 Fun  (信義店) pedestrian area. Here you’ll find loads of trendy hangouts, hip bars, Taipei’s coolest clubs, and great shopping hotspots. A few blocks further, explore the  Breeze Songgao Store  (微風松高) filled with shops, hip food trucks, and restaurants. There’s a great vibe here, so don’t skip it! 

Catch the sunset at Elephant Mountain

Just one stop down the MRT Red Line is one of Taipei’s most Instagrammable places – Elephant Mountain (象山) 

Popular among sunset chasers and nature seekers alike, Elephant Mountain offers spectacular views over the entire city bowl. While it’s quite a steep trek to the view points, the sights along the way will be more than enough reward. 

Depending on your fitness level, it takes about 20 minutes to reach the first observation platform. For the best views, though, continue on a bit further. There you can scramble up on the boulders and snap an iconic selfie with the entire city as your backdrop.

Feast at Raohe Night Market

After a day out exploring all Taipei’s iconic sights, it’s time to sample some of the city’s best street food. And the best place to do just that is at Raohe Night Market (饒河街觀光夜市).

Raohe is one of the most famous night markets in Taiwan , and no Taipei itinerary would be complete without a visit here. The best part? There are loads of street food snacks to try. These include bubble milk tea, grilled squid, fried chicken steak, pepper pork buns, and stinky tofu. Prefer to visit with a guide? Here’s a great Raohe night market tour .

Besides filling up with all the delicious food, it’s also a great place to bargain hunt. You’ll find everything from clothes, cellphone accessories, bags, earrings, and more here! If you’re looking to squeeze in a bit of shopping, the nearby maze-like alleyways of  Wufenpu  (五分埔) is for you. Here you’ll find tons of cheap clothing stores selling the latest Korean and Japanese fashion trends. It’s also a great place to practice your haggling during your itinerary in Taipei. 

2 Day Taipei Itinerary

With 2 days in Taipei, you can get a closer look at the city’s quirky pop culture, visit a few more historical sites, and of course, relish in its bustling food scene. 

Follow my sample itinerary above, and then on day 2 check out these cool places in Taipei. 

Browse the historic Dihua Street 

Start your morning bright and early with a visit to one of the city’s best-preserved streets, Dihua (迪化街).

Right in the heart of Datong, you’ll find a bunch of restored buildings dating back to the 1800s. It’s a great place to stroll, people watch and of course, get acquainted with authentic Taipei. Don’t miss the bustling market that sells a mix of weird and wonderful food, teas, spices, as well as traditional Chinese medicinal products.

After taking in the sights and sounds of Dihua Street, make a quick photo stop at the impressive 19th century  North Gate  (臺北府城 北門), which was built as part of the city’s fortifications. 

Enjoy the vibe at Ximending Walking District

Next up, head over to the massive pedestrian walking street of Ximending (西門町).

Ximending is a bustling youth district on the western side of Taipei City, rightly nicknamed the Shibuya or Harajuku of Taipei. With hip clothing stores, brightly-lit billboards, themed cafes like Modern Toilet (便所主題餐廳 西門店), and alleyways dotted with the city’s best street art, it’s not hard to see why its such a firm favorite among tourists and locals alike. All in all, Ximending is a great place to stroll around, shop, eat, hunt for street art, and people watch.

Another noteworthy attraction to check out while here is the  Red House Theatre  (西門紅樓), which showcases cheap live performances.  Ningxia Night Market  (寧夏夜市) is also just around the corner and is another great Taipei night market. Join this cool Michelin night tour at Ningxia  to sample the best street food on offer here! 

Check out the Quirky Displays at Huashan 1914 Creative Park

Built in 1914, Huashan Creative Park (華山1914文化創意產業園區) has quite a unique history. It was once a Japanese sake brewery, and then later a camphor refinery. Today, the park is the city’s most prominent art center and a popular go-to spot among art lovers and those looking to escape Taipei’s concrete jungle. 

There are several buildings to browse filled with cute artisan shops, designer stores, bookshops, as well as several gourmet eateries and hipster hangouts. Don’t miss the cool outdoor art displays dotted around sprawling gardens. 

Stroll through Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall

After getting a taste of Taipei’s artsy side, head over to Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall (國立國父紀念館). It is one of Taipei’s most important historical buildings and another interesting place to learn a little about Taiwan’s history. 

The memorial hall was built in 1972 to honor Taiwan’s founding father, Sun Yat-sen. The main structure features intricate architecture and is surrounded by lovely gardens, which also house a massive fountain. Within its walls, you’ll find varied exhibitions offering insight into Sun’s life and his revolution efforts.

Insider’s tips:  Nearby, take a gentle stroll through the city’s largest park  Daan Forest Park  (大安森林公園). Alternatively, head over to  JenGuo Flower Market  or  Jianguo Jade Market  (建國玉市). Both are excellent places to shop for souvenirs and quirky trinkets. The buzzing alleyways jolting off from  Lane 137, Yanji Street  are just a stone’s throw from here and are chock-full with hipster hangouts, themed cafes, hidden izakayas, and posh international eateries. If you’re not hungry, it’s still an excellent place for a walkabout or to grab a cuppa. If you’re seeking a boozy cocktail, head out to the Instagrammable  Drunk Cafe  (爛醉咖啡). Alternatively, grab an ice-cold beer at the city’s best craft beer bar,  On Tap . 

Taipei 3 Days Itinerary

If you have 3 days in Taipei, you’ll have more than enough time to explore the far-flung corners of the city and get a closer look at a few more must-see attractions. Follow the steps above and on day 3 of your Taipei itinerary, head out to these places below. 

Browse the National Palace Museum 

Start your day early with a visit to one of the city’s most iconic museums, the National Palace Museum (國立故宮博物院).

Housing more than 700,000 pieces of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts, artworks, and relics, spanning over 8000 years of history, the museum holds the world’s most complete Chinese artifacts collection. The National Palace museum is a treasure trove for history buffs and art enthusiasts, rightly deserving a spot on any Taipei itinerary! 

The museum entrance fee is NT$350, but since the lines are always long, it’s worth grabbing a  discounted e-ticket here  in advance. 

Visit Beitou Hot Springs

Most visitors to Taipei don’t know that actual volcanoes are right within the city’s limits. So next up on your itinerary in Taipei, immerse yourself in nature with a visit to the steamy thermal pools of Beitou Hot Springs (北投溫泉).

Beitou  is one of Taipei’s most popular side trips, and it’s not hard to understand why. Surrounded by lush greenery and the allure of abundant hot springs is what really makes this Japanese-inspired retreat such a popular go-to spot among locals and those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of urban Taipei. This picture-perfect setting is perfect spot to unwind!

If you’re not checking in at one of the luxurious hot spring hotels, like  Grand View Resort , head out to one of the outdoor public baths to experience the geothermal activity like a local. 

Other things to do in Beitou include visiting the  Beitou Thermal Valley  or “Hell Valley” (地熱谷), the  Beitou Hot Spring Museum  (北投溫泉博物館), the  Beitou Museum  (北投文物館) and the  Xinbeitou Historic Station  (新北投車站).

For a unique experience, enjoy a traditional Japanese ceremony at the  Taiwan Folk Arts Museum  (北投文物館), visit the  Ketagalan Culture Center  (凱達格蘭文物館), or stop by one of the incense-filled temples like  Puji Temple  (北投普濟寺). 

Looking to get off the beaten path? Head out to one of Taipei’s best-hidden gems –  Wulai  (烏來). Wulai is an aboriginal village neatly tucked away in the mountains. Here you can soak in hot springs, hunt for waterfalls, eat traditional Atayal food, and take a fun ride on the cutest little train ever! Read my guide on  what to do in Wulai . 

Wander the streets of Tamsui

After enjoying a slice of nature, head out to Tamsui (淡水) – a scenic little town located on the Tamsui River banks right at the edge of Taipei City. 

Tamsui, also often spelled Danshui, has a lot going for it. From a bustling Old Street chock-full with cute artisan stores, souvenir shops, and vendors serving up the freshest seafood imaginable to several historical sites and a booming craft beer scene. But even on top of that, the star attraction here is the incredible sunset. 

While you can catch an epic sunset from anywhere along the boardwalk, the best spot to watch the sun melt away over the horizon is at Lover’s Bridge . It’s a popular spot among love birds and photographers, so expect it to fill up quickly!

Oh, and don’t miss stopping by the incredible Wuji Tianyuan Temple if you happen to visit Taipei during cherry blossom season.

Insider’s Tip: For those traveling between Hongshulin and Fishermen’s Wharf , the newly built Tamsui light rail line is a fun way to explore the area. The Blue Seaside Line, which will connect the Tamsui MRT and the Fisherman’s Wharf is scheduled to be completed in 2024.

Eat your way through Shilin Night Market

The last stop on your 3 days in Taipei itinerary is Shilin Night Market (士林夜市). 

Shilin is a bustling place jam-packed with food vendors and stalls selling all kinds of bits and bobs. What’s more, it is probably the best and most popular street food market in Taipei! It’s the perfect spot to sample local street snacks and authentic Taiwanese cuisine. 

Since the area really only comes alive at night, make sure to time your visit here. Whatever you do, though, come hungry, because there are lots to try! 

Taipei 4 Day itinerary

With so much to do in Taipei, it’s hard to get bored. But beyond the buzzing urban hub, there are a handful of must-see places worth a visit. So, on day 4 of your Taipei itinerary, it’s time to explore the city’s outskirts! Think quaint little towns, lush jungles dotted with waterfalls, epic ocean views, and great hiking opportunities! 

Visit the rock formations at Yehliu

Yehliu Geopark (野柳地質公園)   is a unique place along Taiwan’s north   coast that’s well worth a visit. Fringed by the Pacific Ocean, this massive geopark is home to cool fossils and the weirdest rock formations imaginable. Some of the most notable rock forms to look out for are the Queen’s Head, Fairy’s Shoe, Bean Curd, and Dragon Head. 

Yehliu is a great place to stroll around, take in the incredible ocean views and scenery, and of course, hunt for bizarre rock formations. Don’t forget your  camera , because you’ll want to take lots of photos of this alien-like wonderland! 

Insider’s Tips:  There is a small entrance fee (NT$120) to enter the park, but you can also grab an entry ticket online in advance. While it’s relatively straightforward to visit Yehliu independently, joining a day tour will save you the hassle of planning a thing. Another good option is this  tour which includes a pastry making sesh. If you have your own set of wheels, also check out the Twin Candlesticks and Shen’ao Elephant Rock nearby.

See Taiwan’s widest waterfall 

Just 32 kilometers northwest of Taipei City, lies Taiwan’s very own mini version of Niagara Falls measuring 40m in width – Shifen Falls (十分瀑布).

The waterfall is tucked away amid a lush jungle setting, and there are tons of lookout points covering all angles of the waterfall. It’s an incredibly scenic place to visit and the perfect choice for those wanting to spend a day immersed in nature.

I’ve written an extensive guide on Shifen , which includes absolutely everything you need to know about visiting this beautiful area – from how to easily get there to what to do in the quaint little town, as well as other cool places to check out nearby. If you prefer to join a guided tour,  this one  is a great half-day option. 

Wander the lantern-filled alleys of Jiufen

A visit to Taipei (or Taiwan as a matter of fact) would simply not be complete without a trip to Jiufen (九份). Located not too far from Shifen, this gorgeous little town is perched on a hillside and offers epic views over the ocean and mountains.

While the views are incredible and stand testament to Taiwan’s mind-blowing natural scenery, there is yet another reason to add Jiufen to your Taipei itinerary. Often touted as the inspiration to Miyazaki’s Spirited Away, Jiufen’s true charm lies in its rustic alleyways strewn with dangling red lanterns, charming traditional teahouses, hot spring hotels, and phenomenal food scene. 

While most people visit here on a half-day trip from Taipei, I highly recommend staying overnight if you can. The night view is absolutely breathtaking! And if you love photography, you could easily spend hours wandering through the little alleyways. Also read my guide on how to get from Taipei to Jiufen for the easiest routes there.

If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, hike up  Keelung Mountain  (雞籠山登山步道) or join this  Jiufen Village tour  to see other highlights like the  Golden Waterfall and the Ying Yan Sea  (陰陽海). 

Itinerary for Taipei 5 Days

On the final day of your Taipei 5 days itinerary, enjoy a different side of the city surrounded by greenery right in the heart of town. Pop by the zoo, take a thrilling gondola ride, and see some of the world’s finest artworks on display. Then, end your day with a massive feast at the city’s top seafood market. 

Meet furry friends at Taipei Zoo

If you’re visiting Taipei with kids, it’s worth stopping by the Taipei Zoo (臺北市立動物園). The zoo is the largest zoological garden in Taiwan, and is home to more than 2000 animals from various species, including pandas and koalas! 

While it is one of the city’s top attractions, the grounds are massive, making it quite easy to get away from the crowds and enjoy the varied animal life at your leisure. If you plan on spending several hours year, pack a picnic basket to enjoy on the grass. Grab a Taipei Zoo combo ticket here to skip the lines. 

Enjoy a tea ceremony at Maokong

After visiting the zoo’s furry friends, head over to the Maokong Gondola to  take a fun ride in a glass-bottom car  over the mountain tops. Besides enjoying the views below your feet, the views of the city’s skyscraper-studded skyline in the distance are just as magnificent. 

Once at the top, pop into cute coffee shops or tea houses offering  authentic tea ceremonies  and traditional Taiwanese fare with sprawling tea plantations at their doorstep.  

Browse Taipei Fine Arts Museum

If you still want to squeeze in another activity before dinner time, hop back on the MRT to Yuanshan Station and head over to the Taipei Fine Arts Museum (臺北市立美術館). 

Here you’ll find some of the best local and international artwork displayed in an impressive geometrical building. The museum showcases more than 5000 pieces of traditional and contemporary art, but I highly recommend checking out the photography section. The entrance fee is NT$30, and the museum is open until 20:30 on Saturdays. 

Insider’s Tips: If you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in Taipei, a stroll through the dreamy Floral Tunnel (花之隧道) or a visit to the Lin An Tai Historical House and Museum (林安泰古厝) should not be overlooked.

Enjoy the vibes at AAD

On the last night of your 5 days Taipei itinerary, head over to the city’s best indoor seafood market – Addiction Aquatic Development (上引水產). 

This massive complex is home to several eateries, dishing up everything from hot pot and barbecued skewers to melt-in-the-mouth sashimi, huge crabs and more. 

There’s also an incredible deli where you can buy all kinds of imported goods, tasty snacks, fresh seafood and Kobe beef. 

AAD gets quite lively at night, so don’t come too late. If the restaurants are packed, grab a few snacks at the deli instead. There are many seating areas scattered around the market where you can sit back and enjoy your food. Also, don’t miss the sangria! It’s the best you’ll find in the city! 

5 Days Itinerary in Taipei Conclusion

Taipei is truly a remarkable city with plenty to keep you busy. I hope this Taipei travel itinerary has helped you figure out what to do and where to go in Taipei!

That wraps up this Taipei itinerary for 5 days or less. Do you have any tips for fellow travelers planning an itinerary in Taipei? Feel free to share your top tips and epic things to do in Taipei below! 

Need More Help Planning a Taiwan Trip?

• 2 weeks in Taiwan
• Taroko Gorge Travel Guide
• 3 days in Taichung
• Sun Moon Lake Travel Guide
• Alishan Travel Travel Guide  
• Kaohsiung 2 days itinerary
• Taitung Travel Guide

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October 9, 2023 at

Hello I am still confused of what to see in Taiwan…ours is pure cultural no adventure no beach. Can u help…with an itinerary For 7 nites..with 1/2 free days to walk around. Thanks Wynoma de Faria

October 11, 2023 at

Hey Wynoma,

Even if you’re looking for a more culturally oriented itinerary, there’s loads to do in Taiwan. With seven nights, you’ll have more than enough time to venture outside of Taipei and see a bit more of the island. Here’s some inspo:

– Spend 2-3 days in Taipei and visit the museums and temples. Check out the National Palace Museum, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Longshan Temple, and Taipei 101. Also, be sure to visit some of the night markets like Shilin or Raohe. – Take a day trip from Taipei to Jiufen. – Spend a day in Tainan (Taiwan’s ancient capital city). Visit Chihkan Tower, Koxinga Shrine, Anping Old Street, and the Anping Tree House. – Travel to Kaohsiung for 1-2 days and visit the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center, the temples and pavilions at Lotus Pond, and the Pier 2 Art Center.

Of course, there are loads more to see and do, but if you’re not really into nature/ adventure, the spots above should tick your boxes. Hope this helps!

December 19, 2023 at

Hello, I’m planning to visit Yehliu Geopark, Shifen and Jiufen for a whole day. I plan to go in that order and travel by public transport/taxi if needed, can you recommend me some bus/mrt I should take to go those places.

January 19, 2024 at

Hey Wendy, it might be tough to squeeze all three places in on one day, but if you start super early and make use of taxis/Uber it might be doable.

You can catch Kuo-Kuan Bus 1815 from TPE Bus Station. The journey takes about 1h30. From there, I’d suggest getting a taxi/Uber to the Ruifang Train Station so that you can catch the train Shifen. You can check with the driver if he’s willing to take you all the way to Shifen but it’s quite rural and it will be pricy. From Shifen, you’ll need to catch the train back to Ruifang from where you’ll need to get a bus to Jiufen. There aren’t many taxis in Shifen, but just walk around and ask the locals. We got a taxi there once and it saved us the hassle of dealing with public transport. It was rather expensive though for such a short distance.

Google Maps works extremely well in TW and once you have an idea of your timings it will give you the best options on which buses/ trains to take. Just make sure you check the timings of the last bus/train. Here’s a link to the TRA website if you want to get a better idea of the train schedules in the meantime.

January 17, 2024 at

I am traveling alone to Taiwan for 7D, possible to purchase a local day trip to Jiufengand Sifen Falls, another day trip to Tainan, and the third day to Sun Moon Lake? Please give me your suggestion.

Hey Sue, Jiufen and Shifen are popular day trips from TPE and there are loads of guided tours that will get you there (check on Klook).

Tainan is accessible from Taipei and the HSR (bullet train) can get you there is less than 2hrs. Here’s my guide on how to get to Tainan from Taipei . For SML, the best way to get there is to first take the HSR to Taichung where you can catch the bus to SML. I’ve written a guide on that too, see here . Just a side note, Tainan and SML are both really great places to visit with lots to do, so I recommend spending at least 2D1N in each to make the most of your time there.

February 15, 2024 at

Hello, I’m planning to visit Yehliu Geopark, Shifen and Jiufen for a whole day with my wife and would like to take a private tour (so that we can be flexible with the timing etc). Can you recommend any reliable companies that offer private tours? Thank you very much.

Hey TH, thanks for stopping by.

My go-to provider for tours in Taiwan is Klook . They have a wide selection of tours, so it’s easy to find the right option that suits your schedule and budget. (Here’s my affiliate link to all the tours they have to Yehliu, Jiufen & Shifen )

Alternatively, you can also check out this tour on GetYourGuide which has an option for a private tour.

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The Ultimate Taipei Itinerary For 1-5 Days

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Planning a trip to Taiwan? I have the perfect Taipei itinerary that I tried and tested during my trip. From shopping to cityscape views, nature, history and culture, I’m confident it has it all!

TAIPEI ESSENTIALS Accommodation  – Booking.com / Hostelworld Getting around – walk / MRT / bus Activities: GetYourGuide / Viator Guidebook: Lonely Planet Taiwan Staying connected: unlimited 4G SIM card

Read next: the ultimate 2 week Taiwan itinerary

Taipei is a city that I tried to make sense of by comparing it to other places. It has the quirky culture of Japan, the language of China, the clean and efficient subway of Singapore and the affordable prices of Malaysia . It’s new and modern, yet the retro housing blocks and long-serving tea stands are a throwback to several decades prior. With Mandarin shop signs lit up against neon backgrounds, it feels like a smaller and calmer Hong Kong.

Why is it that we need to compare places to make sense of them? For whatever reason, I do it all the time. I hit the streets of Taipei in search of sights, sounds and smells that would familiarise me with the city and allow me to someday say ‘this reminds me of Taipei.’ Because really, Taipei isn’t quite like anywhere and that’s what makes it so special. This urban hub of 2.7 million is Taiwan ’s capital city, blending ancient Taoist temples with the bright lights of Ximending, the city’s answer to Harajuku. 

Read next: 25 travel tips for Taiwan

How long to spend in Taipei?

Like many cities, you could rush around the sights in a day or so. However, many of the best things to do in Taipei are actually in the surrounding countryside: thermal landscapes, national parks, hot springs and scenic ex-mining towns will keep you busy. I would suggest spending at least 3 days in Taipei . You can see a lot during this time and explore three different night markets during the evenings. To help you do exactly that, I’ll share my Taipei itinerary for 3 days. For me, 5 days in Taipei was optimum. I took most of my day trips by public transport to reduce my Taiwan budget and allow me to spend a full day in each place.

If you have 3 days in Taipei or less, day tours are a good idea. You could see 3 places (which took me 3 days to visit on public transport) in just one day. I recommend GetYourGuide and Viator for these.

Stay connected with a Taiwan SIM card

SIM cards in Taiwan are relatively affordable so, to stay connected on the go, order one in advance for airport pick-up . You can get cards for 3, 5, 7 10, 15 or 30 days with UNLIMITED(!) data starting from US$8.

Getting around Taipei

Taipei is an easy city to get around with excellent public transport. Your best options are…

MRT – the Metro network is efficient with over 80 stops, serviced by six lines differentiated by colour. Not only is the Metro map easy to follow but the trains are clean and regular. My one word of warning? There’s a strict no-food policy. I once got told off for taking a sip of water. Yikes!

Tip – get an EasyCard before you begin your Taiwan itinerary. You’ll get a discount on MRT, bus and ferry journeys plus you can pre-load them to save time on buying individual tickets. Buy yours now to pick up at the airport.

Taxi – yellow taxis are easy to flag down and not too expensive, or there’s Uber. You can even call taxis from ibon machines inside 7-11 stores. For a fun and touristic way to get around, there’s also the Taipei sightseeing bus tour stopping at all the top attractions like Taipei 101 and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.

Pick up a $5 Taipei fun pass for unlimited public transport and Maokong Gondola.

Where to stay in Taipei

• Hostel: For a top-rated hostel in Taipei centre, it doesn’t get much better than Flip Flop Hostel Garden. This spacious hostel is filled with natural light and includes a shared lounge, sun terrace, tour desk and kitchenette. Check availability from $21 .
• Budget hotel: for a clean and conveniently located budget hotel in the heart of Taipei, stay at If Inn . Rooms come with daily housekeeping, coffee makers, a desk and a TV.  Check availability from US$45 .
• Mid-range: Just 5 minutes from Taipei Main Station and the Artist Village, K Hotel Tianjin features air-conditioned rooms, a 24-hour front desk, delicious breakfast, and facilities for disabled guests. Check availability from US$72 .
• Splash-out: With a fabulous outdoor pool, lounge area, fitness centre, terrace, bar, and restaurant, the views alone make a stay at Hilton Taipei Sinban worth it. Each modern room has a city view and includes an abundant buffet breakfast. Check availability from US$222 .

Taipei itinerary for 3-5 days

There’s so much to do in Taipei and some amazing attractions in the surrounding region. I would suggest beginning with a city day to get your bearings before heading out on a few day trips.

Wander Ximending, Taipei’s coolest hood

Ximending is called the Harajuku of Taiwan for good reason: it’s colourful, neon-lit, busy and extremely quirky. Wandering around this neighbourhood is a good way to get to know it. 

There are countless bubble tea cafes and food stands around Ximending. It’s a place for young people to hang out with friends, shop and eat.

Things to do in Ximending:

• Shop or catch a show at the Red House – this red-brick venue is packed with quirky stores in the day and cool bars at night, plus there’s a theatre where you can catch cultural shows 
• Watch street performers – there’s always something weird and wonderful going on in Ximending!
• Try your luck at amusement arcades – in particular, claw machines are all the rage here. It’s very tricky to win at them, as I know after developing an unhealthy obsession!
• Eat at Hot Star – TFC (Taiwanese Fried Chicken) is what’s hot here. I devoured an enormous fried chicken slab bigger than my head. I was stuffed but had no regrets.
• Catch a movie – there are tons of cinemas packed into Ximending since it was once known as the country’s theatre district. If you’ve been travelling a while, sitting back with a good film might be just what you need!
• Eat EVERYTHING – there’s so much delicious street food in Ximending from straight-up delicious dishes to unusual specialities like stinky tofu. I dare you to try it!

Take a walking tour with TourMeAway (Saturdays, 2pm)

I’d recommend TourMeAway’s free Old Town Taipei tour for an informative explanation of Taiwan’s eventful history. From the ice age to Japanese rule, European involvement and Chinese martial law, they explained everything perfectly.

So rather than me try to fill you in, I suggest you take their Old Town Taipei tour which runs on Saturdays at 2pm. It’s free but you should pre-book on the Tour Me Away website.

If you’re more into food than history, consider their Hunger Game Tour focussed on the weirder and more wonderful foods on offer in Taipei. It’s a bit of an eating challenge (perfect for me!) with stinky tofu, sweet potato balls, chicken skin and feet, oyster noodles, herbal jelly milk tea and taro ball dessert. It’s a bargain at 700 TWD for 12 dishes shared with the group.

Visit National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Right in the centre of Taipei beside Liberty Square is the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall dedicated to the former President of the Democratic Republic of China. It’s 76 metres tall with a giant statue of him inside.

Learning about the history of Taiwan at the museum is a must for your Taipei itinerary, or you can just take a few moments to browse the iconic temple.

Longshan Temple

I wasn’t blown away by this Buddhist-Taoist temple but maybe that’s because I’ve seen so many around Thailand and Malaysia lately. It’s one of the places in Taipei to experience the culture so it’s worth a visit. Longshan was built in 1738 and has survived numerous natural disasters and wars. There’s a pretty, manmade waterfall just across from the main temple building, and entrance is free.

Huaxi Night Market

Just around the corner from Longshan Temple is one of Taipei’s most vibrant night markets, Huaxi . Although the famed dish to sample here is snake soup, you’ll be forgiven for tucking into a less adventurous dinner like beef noodle soup, tempura, dessert waffles and more!

Head up Taipei 101 or see it from the Xiangshan Trail

I seek out a cityscape view whenever I can. In Taipei, many travellers pay to visit the Taipei 101 observation deck . If you do this, buy your ticket in advance to avoid queuing. For a free alternative, the Xiangshan Trail is a steep climb made bearable by the fact you’re surrounded by nature as you go. From the top, you have a spectacular view of Taipei including Taipei 101, once the tallest building in the world.

Sunset is a great time to capture your dreamy Instagram shots, although prepare for it to be very busy.

Day 2 Taipei itinerary – Yangmingshan National Park and Beitou

Yangmingshan is one of Taiwan’s nine national parks and the closest one to Taipei. It’s just 11 miles from the capital and you can drive there in under an hour making it an easy day trip. Popular sights are the Flower Clock that chimes on the hour, the hot springs and the Qingtiangang Grasslands walking trail.  Getting to Yangmingshan:

• Hire a car using Rentalcars.com
• Take a day tour with GetYourGuide
• Use public transport : catch shuttle bus #260 from behind Taipei Main Station, or the Red Line MRT to Shilin and transfer to buses #R5 or #260.

The benefit of driving or taking a tour is that you can add a second fantastic destination to your Taipei itinerary on the way home…

Beitou Hot Springs & Thermal Valley

To unwind in Taipei, swing by Beitou Hot Springs . This area is known for its bubbling thermal pools, created by the underground volcanos that pushed Taiwan out of the ocean in the first place. Apparently, ancient people referred to the area as ‘witch’ and wouldn’t go near it, speculating that the water was bubbling straight up from hell.  During Japanese rule, the springs became a playground for wealthy colonialists. After the Japanese left Taiwan, this scene dissolved. Nowadays, Beitou is visited by tourists who marvel at the steaming Thermal Valley, and locals who wallow in the Public Hot Springs.

Continue your Taipei itinerary at the Hot Springs Museum which only takes a few minutes to look around, then check out the library next door, designed in the shape of a giant ship. Afterwards, head to the Thermal Valley (no entrance fee) to get a sense of Beitou’s natural powers. Finally, visit the Public Hot Springs and soak with the locals. This costs 40 TWD, plus 20 for a locker. Bring your swimwear and follow the rules on the boards. Getting to Beitou: I suggest you visit on the way back from Yangmingshan but, if coming from Taipei, take a 25-minute direct train from Zhongshan. From Beitou station, it’s a 15-minute walk to the springs or you can transfer one stop to Xinbeitou and be right there.

Shilin Night Market

Shilin Night Market is a great market to visit on your way back from Beitou. This is a modern and vibey night market where you can try everything from noodles to bubble tea and the national dish of stinky tofu (I’m not a fan).

Day 3 Taipei itinerary – ride the Pingxi Line

The Pingxi Line is a train line departing Ruifang (a station easily accessed by train from Taipei) visiting several fantastic locations. Once you’ve seen each one, hop back on the train to the next.

Shifen is the most popular destination along the line. Many people skip the rest of the line, just visiting Shifen and the cute town of Jiufen (not on the line). I’ve saved Jiufen until tomorrow assuming you have time for a full 5 day Taipei itinerary. However, if you have just 3 days in Taipei, you could visit both Shifen and Jiufen today (more details to come).

Start with…

Houtong Cat Village

If there’s anywhere in the world that would have a cat village, it’s Taiwan. People here love anything cute and quirky, fitting this village to a tee! You’ll find well-loved felines lounging around, being pampered by tourists and generally ruling the roost. There are also cat-themed cafes, a lot of gift shops and stunning views over the Taiwanese countryside. Getting to Houtong Cat Village : Catch a train to Ruifang and transfer to the Pingxi Line. You only really need an hour to look around so it’s a quick and quirky addition to your Taipei itinerary. 

Shifen is set alongside an old-fashioned railway line that’s still in use today. When people aren’t dodging the train, they’re writing wishes on giant paper lanterns and releasing them into the air.

Later, continue further to Pingxi Old Street on the Pingxi Line. Here you can experience another cute village with traditional lanterns and tasty street food stands before heading back to Taipei. 

Related activity: Pingxi sky lantern & Shifen Waterfall tour from Taipei

Day 4 Taipei itinerary – Jiufen 

Jiufen is a hillside town overlooking the mountains and ocean with adorable teahouses and a thriving food market. As an old mining settlement, the village is a throwback days of colonial Japanese rule. After exploring the village, why not soak up the surrounding area? Jinguashi region – easily accessible on foot – is full of treasures like old gold mines, waterfalls and shrines. Climb Teapot Mountain for beautiful views if you’re feeling energetic. 

Getting from Taipei to Jiufen: the easiest way is a direct bus. The 1062 goes from Zhongxiao Fuxing MRT while the 965 goes from Beimen MRT exit #2 to Jiufen Old Street. Alternatively, take the train from Taipei Main Station to Ruifang Station and board a bus to Jiufen.  The best option for a guided tour (great for meeting other travellers) is a Jiufen & northeast coast highlights tour inc Jinguashi for US$40 . Another option if there’s a group of you is a private transfer to Jiufen or Shifen for US$30 .

Only have a 3 day Taipei itinerary or simply want more time soaking up the city? Save a day by combining days 3 and 4. Squeeze Houtong Cat Village and Shifen into the morning then catch the Pingxi Line train back to Ruifang Station and board a bus to Jiufen Old Street.  Follow my Jiufen & Shifen day trip guide . Be sure to start early!

Day 5 Taipei itinerary – Yehliu Geopark

The weird and wonderful scenery of Yehliu Geopark is totally different to anywhere I’ve been before. It’s not even similar to the Taiwanese countryside surrounding it. The rock formations and craggy landscape are straight out of Mars, peppered with 4,000-year-old fossils.

Meanwhile, the crashing waves are constantly reshaping the towering rock formations. Many of these are bizarre-looking, resembling the profiles of people or household objects. Don’t miss the Queen’s Head or the Fairy’s Shoe named after their resemblance to these things.

Read next: Visiting Yehliu Geopark from Taipei

Getting to Yehliu Geopark: Catch the 1815 bus from Taipei Main Station or take a day tour including Keelung Harbour ($40) . 

Time-saving tip – if you’re on a tight Taipei itinerary, there are tours visiting Shifen, Jiufen and Yehliu Geopark during the same day .

Alternative day 5 itinerary

Since my suggested Taiwan itinerary includes several day excursions, I decided to insert an alternative day that you can follow instead of one of the day trips above. This will allow you to soak up more of the city if the idea of several day trips sounds tiring. Here’s what I’d recommend doing during another city day…

National Palace Museum

Northeast of the city centre just past the Shilin district is one of Taipei’s best museums detailing 8,000 years of history. The number of artefacts and relics total over 700,000! 

With so much to see, you could easily spend half a day here. Check the website to see events and exhibits happening during your visit

Entry is NT$350 or buy an e-ticket in advance to avoid queuing. Open from Tues-Sun, 9am-5pm.

For the afternoon, here are a few options : Huashan 1914 Creative Park – this colourful creative park boasts vibrant street art, boutique shops and sculptures. Another similar one is Songshan Creative Park , an old tobacco factory converted into a modern art and design complex. 

If you like creative parks and you’re heading down south, Pier Art 2 is one of the top things to do in Kaohsiung , Taiwan’s second-biggest city.  Take a walk in Daan Forest Park – dubbed the ‘lungs of Taipei’, this sprawling 26-hectare public park is the best place to get some fresh air and feel at one with nature. It’s free to enter and open 24 hours a day. Visit Xingtian Temple – to delve deep into Taiwanese culture, visit some other temples. Although it’s built in traditional style, this modern temple is dedicated to the god of businessmen (and businesswomen too, I hope!). It’s an atmospheric place to glimpse local life.

Food in Taipei

Part of the joy of visiting Taiwan is all the fantastic food! From typical Asian dishes to unique Taiwanese dishes (some sweet and some savoury), it’s a food lovers paradise. Although this topic is too big to cover here, these are a few of my favourite places to eat in Taipei…

Read next: 22 best Taiwanese dishes to try

Try soup dumplings at Din Tai Fung

Moreish xiao long bao are best eaten in one mouthful as they contain juicy pork in a small serving of flavoursome soup. They’re famously served at Din Tai Fung which was voted one of the top 10 restaurants in the world. There are a few different branches in Taipei but I tried them in the basement of Taipei 101, something you can time around a visit to the observation deck.  Tip – if you don’t fancy a long wait, visit at the opening time of 11am. This is what I did and it was getting busy when I left 30 minutes later. 

Eat bizarre ice cream flavours at Snow King

For a quirky addition to your Taipei itinerary, head to Snow King for some of the best (and strangest) ice creams in Taipei. There are bizarre flavours including chicken skin and pork knuckle as well as normal ones like cherry and vanilla. Then, there are some in the middle including basil, cinnamon, sticky rice, taro, beer and wine! I went with basil and it was surprisingly tasty.

Night markets in Taipei 

The number of night markets in Taipei is crazy but it just reflects Taiwan’s fixation with food (not that I can talk!). Apparently, when you greet someone in Taiwan, you say ‘have you eaten?’ rather than ‘how are you?’. I love this – it’s the real issue, right? The answer to ‘how are you?’ is always ‘fine thanks and you?’ which makes it kind of redundant. ‘Have you eaten?’ can result in being offered a snack, and there is nothing redundant about snacks.

Raohe Night Market – when you say ‘Taipei night market’, most people will think of Shilin but I preferred this busy local market with an emphasis on real authentic food. The pork pepper buns are to die for! Shilin Night Market – the beast of Taipei night markets, it’s hard to tell where this one begins and ends. It takes up the whole central area of Shilin, and shops and cafes stay open late to join the party. You can shop for clothes, people-watch from a bar or stick to the street food stands. Linjiang Night Market – I liked this market which is more like Raohe than Shilin, tightly packed with lots of authentic food stands. Here you can try dumplings, shaved ice, authentic Thai & Vietnamese food, fresh clams and lots more. It’s near Taipei 101 so you could combine both into one outing. Huaxi Street Night Market – this is nearby to Longshan Temple and characterised by the giant Chinese archway. It’s the oldest night market in Taipei and also known as Snake Alley. Here you can sample famous snake soup any time of day or wait until sundown when the vibrant food market gets underway. Many Asian tourists visit for the herbal medicine products on offer. Jingmei Night Market – this very local market in the south of the city is where I explored with TourMeAway during their Hunger Game tour. While I’d highly recommend this, you can also visit by yourself and get stuck into endless local delicacies. Here you’ll find unusual foods including stinky tofu and chicken feet as well as tasty treats like steamed buns and ice cream.

Thanks for reading my Taipei travel itinerary!

Check out my other Taiwan blogs:

• The ultimate 2 week Taiwan itinerary
• How expensive is Taiwan? Complete budget guide
• Solo travel in Taiwan
• 17 Taiwan tips for travellers
• Guide to the Rainbow Village Taiwan
• The 20 best Taiwanese foods to try
• Taipei to Jiufen and Shifen
• How to plan a Taroko National Park day trip
• Things to do in Kaohsiung Taiwan
• 10 Taiwan facts to know before visiting

See you next time for more adventures,

Ps. Liked my 5 day Taipei itinerary? Pin it for later!

TAIWAN QUICK LINKS Getting there – it’s easy to arrive by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. Stay connected with an unlimited 4G SIM card for 3, 5, 7, 10, 15 or 30 days. In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Lonely Planet Taiwan . Car hire – I recommend RentalCars.com for car hire in Taiwan and around the world. For Taiwan High Speed Trains , use 12Go . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide and Viator as they both have a huge range of affordable tours. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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The PERFECT 3 Days in Taipei Itinerary [2024 Guide]

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

Make the most of your time in Taiwan with our perfect 3 days in Taipei itinerary!

From chowing down on Taiwanese delicacies in Taipei’s night markets to hiking in the hills of Maokong, Taipei’s is one of Asia’s most interesting cities.

Taipei has long held the reputation of being one of Asia’s most intoxicating cities.

It combines the best of urban and rural in a way that few other cities on the continent can.

All while being affordable, offering oodles of history and culture and having some Asia’s most tantalising cuisine.

Taipei really does have it all. And in truth you could easily spend more than 3 days in Taipei – between hiking in the mountains, exploring old temples and stuffing your face at one of the cities numerous night markets and other eateries – there is plenty to keep you busy ! 

Table of Contents

Morning – Enjoy An Early Morning Stroll Around Tamsui

Afternoon – palace museum , evening – shilin night market , night – long shan temple and nearby night market, morning – chiang kai shek’s memorial hall, afternoon – explore the area around dongmen , afternoon – sun yat sen’s memorial hall , evening – elephant hill, night – taipei 101, morning – wulai , afternoon – maokong, evening – raohe night market and sung shan tzu yu temple , getting to and from taipei, getting around taipei, when to go to taipei, best budget accommodation in taipei – meander taipei hostel, best midrange accommodation in taipei – star hostel taipei east, best luxury accommodation in taipei – jolley hotel, best budget restaurant in taipei – 府城台南美食, best midrange restaurant in taipei – watch bbq, best luxury restaurant in taipei – din tai fung, your perfect 3 days in taipei itinerary.

Taipei in 3 days is certainly a squeeze, but a doable one!

Make sure you have a comfortable pair of shoes as you will definitely be getting the steps over these jam-packed days! 

To start with I recommend checking out this 3-day unlimited rail and attractions pass , which will really make your Taipei itinerary easy and cheap to do.

Day 1 

Here’s how you should spend the first day in Taipei!

Begin your time in Taipei by getting out of the city to the lovely coastal area of Tamsui . It’s littered with temples, old markets and plenty of great places to pick up a bite to eat when the sun has risen.

Hobe Fort and Aletheia University are a reminder of the areas of fascinating history, with Peace Park also well worth checking out.

The grounds of Aletheia University are pretty big, so there is plenty to explore.

To the north-west of the MTR there is a maze of alleyways made of markets, shops and temples that are well worth checking out.

Wondering what to do in Taipei for 3 days? Well visiting the Palace Museum should be high on your list! 

This is surely the number one destination in Taipei. This museum contains over 700,000 pieces of Chinese art encompassing 8000 years of Chinese history.

The sheer quantity and diversity of what’s on show is staggering.

Understandably the museum is huge. So plan what you want to see first to maximise your time, and get your e-ticket early .

The calligraphy section is particularly impressive. 

There are not a huge amount of food options nearby, aside from a cafe at the museum. Therefore it could be worth bringing some food with you. 

The artefacts in the Palace Museum used to be held in a similarly named museum in Beijing.

After the Mukden Incident in 1931 the treasures were moved to Shanghai, and then Nanjing.

In 1948, seeing the writing on the wall in his battle with the communists, Chiang Kai Shek moved the entire museum collection from Nanjing to Keelung in Taiwan.

The Palace in its current format opened in Taipei in November 1965. 

• Nearest Subway: Head to Shilin, take exit 1 and then take bus R30, minibus 18 or 19, or bus 255, 304 or 815. Do not cross the road or you will be going the wrong way. 
• Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 6:30 pm with opening hours extended to 21:00 on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Cost: NT$350 

Any itinerary for 3 days in Taipei will include a visit to the city’s famous night markets. Shillin is the biggest and most famous of those.  

From Shilin station, which you will return to after visiting the palace museum, it’s a short walk to Taipei’s biggest night mark.

Expect plenty of market stalls offering all kinds of Taiwanese delicacies.

There are a couple of temples buried in the mazes that are well worth checking out.

This night market is Taipei’s most popular, so you can expect it to be busy! 

Another good option is to book yourself in for a free walking tour of Taipei’s historic route. You can do that online here .

• Nearest Subway: Head to Shilin, and then follow the signs.
• Opening Hours: Whenever the stalls want to open and close. It starts to pick up after 7 pm.
• Cost: Free 

This temple in the south of the city is a short journey on the subway from Shilin and is one of Taipei’s most stunning and popular temples.

The temple is open 24 hours and is particularly atmospheric at night as members of the community come to worship, chat and socialise in its grounds. 

The nearby night market, whilst being far smaller than Shilin is a more relaxed open-air affair.

It is also hosted on wide boulevards as opposed to narrow alleyways.

Again there is some particularly excellent food on offer.

Due to the fact, there is more space here there plenty of dining areas where you can sit and eat before hunting for more amazing Taiwanese food.

• Nearest Subway: Longshan Temple and then follow the signs
• Opening Hours: The temple is open 24 hours and the night market peaks between 7 pm and 11 pm

Day 2 

Hope you got some rest last night, because we have a big day planned for today!

Taiwan’s former leader Chiang Kai Shek is revered in Taiwan, in spite of some of his government’s more questionable actions since the Chinese civil war ended in 1949. 

The structure itself occupies one end of a large square in central Taipei’s Zhong Zheng District (中正區).

With Chiang Kai Shek’s to the east, the western end is flanked by the National Theatre and National Concert Hall .

All three structures display a similar white building, blue roof motif, giving an impression of tradition and modernity. 

The changing of the guard’s ceremony that happens every hour is particularly interesting.

However, do be aware that it can get quite busy. In the memorial hall itself, strict silence should be observed at all times. 

Below the memorial hall is a rather interesting museum giving you an insight into the life and times of Chiang Kai Shek and to a lesser extent, the founding of the Republic of China, as Taiwan is officially known. 

• Nearest Subway: Chaing Kai Shek Memorial Hall
• Opening Hours: 9:00 am until 6:00 pm every day. 

The maze of narrow streets is home to some of the cities most famous beef noodle restaurants. Yongkang Street has plenty of excellent ones. 

If beef noodles don’t really tickle your fancy there are plenty of other excellent eateries in the area.

Nearby is the lovely Da’an Park where you can take a load of and escape the concrete. 

• Nearest Subway: Dongmen 
• Opening Hours: As long as the restaurants remain open. However, for the beef noodle restaurants between 12 pm and 2 pm is a solid bet. 

READ MORE: Add these activities to your list of things to do in Taipei !

A short subway ride away is Sun Yat Sen’s Mausoleum . This is one of the few individuals the People’s Republic of China (China) and the Republic of China (Taiwan) both hold in extremely high regards. 

Sun Yat-Sen is a man revered by those from both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

After the Qing government collapsed in 1911, it was Sun Yat-Sen who set up the Republic of China which maintained control over the mainland until 1949.

He helped to end China’s Imperial system and revitalise the country as a republic. 

Whilst not being as striking as Chiang Kai Shek’s place of reverence, the museum here is particularly interesting.

And it demonstrates Sun’s importance to the Chinese people as a whole regardless of which side of the strait they occupy.  

• Nearest Subway: Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall 
• Opening Hours: 9 am to 6 pm. 

This has to rank as one of the most stunning night views of a city across the world alongside such classics as Manhattan from Brooklyn Heights, or Lujiazui from the Bund. 

Any 3 days in Taipei itinerary has to include this stunning evening activity!

Climbing Elephant Hill can be a particularly sweaty affair thanks to Taipei’s near-constant humidity and the rather large steps you need to climb to enjoy the views.

The most efficient way would be to get to the Xiangshan (象山) subway station at least an hour before sunset.

This way you’ll get the best views as the sun sets and the night sky envelops the city. 

The trail has numerous viewing points, which is a welcome relief as it can be quite busy, especially during peak seasons.

The further you go, the better the views. There are a couple of points where some dirt paths will take you down to secluded viewpoints.

However, do be careful when accessing such paths as there are no lights and they can be slippery. 

Once you’ve found a space, get comfortable, make sure you’re camera is set up and enjoy. 

• Nearest Subway: Xiangshan 
• Opening Hours: 24 hours, however, sunset is particularly spectacular. 

At one point this was the tallest building in the world. It towers over the Taipei skyline with an air of invincibility and a swagger not out of place in a 007 film.

This is completely understandable, however, as it is an absolutely beautiful building. 

The area around Taipei 101 is a mixture of malls and restaurants, although there is a car park nearby which offers amazing views of the building itself. 

The views from the top of the building are very nice. However, it’s hard to compete with the views from Elephant Hill (see above) or views from the Maokong Gondola (see below).

The exhibition inside the tower on how it was built to withstand the typhoons that frequently batter Hong Kong is particularly interesting.

Make sure you buy your ticket in advance to save time and money.

• Nearest Subway: Taipei 101/World Trade Centre
• Opening Hours: The observation deck is open from 9 am to 10 pm daily.

Day 3 

As anyone that has been to Taipei will tell you, the outskirts of Taipei are littered with stunning mountain views, great walks and hot springs.

Therefore it’s only natural that any 3 days in Taipei itinerary should include some of these beauties! 

Best of all, thanks to the awesome Taipei metro, many of these places are easily accessible through public transport. 

Nestled amongst the mountains outside of Taipei, Wulai is a gorgeous town with temples, hots springs and hiking.

To get here you will need to take the subway and then take a bus for the final leg to Wulai. 

The town itself is as famous for its scenery as it is for its hot springs. If you’re looking to indulge in a spot of relaxation then jumping into one of the hot springs is an excellent option.

These can be rented for the day or by the hour, with the cheapest rates seeming to be between 2 and 5 when the town is at it’s quietest.

Alternatively, you may want to spend one of the nights in one of the hot spring hotels. 

There are also a number of walking trails. The most common one takes you through the town to the Wulai Waterfall.

Beyond this is a number of other trails.

However, do check with local authorities as to which routes are open as typhoons can close the trails. 

Amazingly all of this breath-taking scenery is just an hour or so from downtown Taipei – incredible.  

• Getting there and away: You will need to take both subway and bus here, but it is very much worth it. Head to Xindian station and then take bus 849, which comes roughly every 15 minutes.  Getting back I would recommend cueing up early for the bus if it’s busy.

This beautiful area on the outskirts is far easier to access than Wu Lai and has a more aesthetically pleasing journey. 

You will need to take the subway to Taipei Zoo and then take the Maokong gondola to your final destination of Maokong.

The cable car through the hills on the outskirts is particularly lovely with incredible views on offer if you make the return trip at sunset. 

Maokong is famous for its tea plantations and there are numerous trails all over the hills with many offering spectacular views.

There is a lovely walk to the silver stream waterfall and cave which takes approximately an hour.

Along the route, there are numerous paths that lead into various other areas of the tea plantations. 

The views from the silver stream waterfall are spectacular, particularly at sunset.

It’s close proximity to Taipei truly emphasises the uniqueness of Taipei’s relationship with its natural surroundings.

There are very few major cities in the world that are so close to deserted hiking trails and pristine forests. However, Taipei has this in abundance. 

• Getting there and away: Take the subway to Taipei Zoo and then follow the signs to the Maokong gondola. It is possible to pick up a subway day pass which includes a return trip on the Maokong Gondola.

End your last day in Taiwan with a visit to the gorgeous Sung Shan Tzu Yu Temple.

Like many temples in Taipei, it comes alive at night with worshippers and locals congregating throughout.

The Roahe night market it one of the quieter night markets in the city and offers a plethora of excellent food.

This is the perfect way to end your 3 days in Taipei itinerary. 

• Nearest Subway: Songshan 
• Opening Hours: The temple is open 24 hours and the night market gets going from 6 pm with things winding down beyond 11 pm. 

READ MORE: Explore Hong Kong with this perfect 3 day itinerary !

Taipei Travel Guide

Now that you have a solid 3-day Taipei itinerary we want to help you make your other plans as well by sharing transportation, accommodation and meal options in the city.

Air: Taipei is easily accessed from major cities in Asia, especially those in China, Japan and South Korea.

From outside of Asia the chances are you will have to have to make a detour via a major Asian city. 

Train: Within Taiwan itself, Taipei is the central hub of the countries excellent railway system.

Major cities like Kaohsiung, Tainan and Taipei (unsurprisingly) are easily accessible from almost anywhere in the country.

To get to some of Taiwan’s more remote and off the beaten path locations you will probably need to take an intercity train and change to a local service or a bus. 

The most cost-effective way to get around the city is to buy a 3-day unlimited rail pass around Taipei .

Bus: Alongside an excellent train network Taiwan has a good intercity bus network.

Though not a fast or comfortable as the trains they are an excellent opportunity to save a few pennies.

In the very south of the country around Kending, buses the only way to get around.

Taipei’s metro system is excellent. It has been universally loved by travellers since it opened.

The metro system takes you to the farthest corners of the city helping you to access some of Taipei’s most beautiful natural scenery. 

Getting out to the cities outskirts will most likely require you to take a bus after the subway.

These buses to the cities outskirts are generally pretty regular but they can get crowded on the weekends and over national holidays. 

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Make no mistake about it Taipei bakes during spring, summer and autumn.

Summer brings searing heat and the additional risks of storms and typhoons.

Winter is cold and quite wet, although it’s not as cold as parts of Japan, South Korea or China.

Aside from the weather, it is advisable to avoid Taipei during and Chinese National Holiday.

The main two are Chinese New Year which is usually around the end of January, beginning of February (although this is a lunar holiday so the dates change every year) and the Nation Day Holiday from October 1st – 7th. 

Any 3 Days in Taipei itinerary is likely to have a healthy dose of sunshine, so long as it’s outside of the winter months.

Accommodation in Taipei

Accommodation in Taipei is definitely at the cheaper end of the scale in comparison to other East Asian capitals.

Taipei’s centre is reasonably compact, and this combined with its excellent subway system means that almost any centrally located hotel or guesthouse is a good option location wise. 

This excellent hostel in the heart of Ximending , one of Taipei’s most hip and happening areas.

The area of chock full of great restaurants, shops selling the latest in Taiwanese pop culture and even the occasional temple hidden amongst the chaos. 

Offering affordable dorms, and slightly more expensive double and triple rooms as well as an awesome common area it’s no surprise that this is so popular with travellers. 

This excellent midrange option is located in the heart of the Da’an District and is a short walk from Sun Yat Sen’s Memorial Hall.

This area is a little quieter than Ximending and the maze of alleyways are replaced by wider tree-lined streets. 

The hostel offers dorms and has an excellent common space giving you the opportunity to meet fellow travellers from across the world.

This excellent option close to the Confucius Temple offers a variety of rooms at a very reasonable price for a luxury hotel.

Rooms also include breakfast and being in the heart of the Zhongshan district it’s quieter than the busier districts of Zhongzheng and Wanhua, making it a good option for families.

Eating in Taiwan

Surely one of the main highlights in Taiwan is eating. The nation’s capital is chock full of excellent restaurants offering the best in contemporary Taiwanese cuisine. 

This excellent noodle restaurant on Yongkang street specialises in Tainan style food. Its noodles are excellent, and unsurprisingly it can be crowded in the evenings and at weekends.

This awesome all you can eat BBQ restaurant is located in the heart of Ximending a few minutes walk from Ximen station.

The all-you-can-eat BBQ lasts for 1.5 hours and you have three different menus to choose from. Portions are small giving you the chance to sample a wide range of awesome food.

This is not like American BBQ, it’s more akin to the Japanese or Korean form whereby you cook yourself over a grill. The food here really is excellent.

This luxuriousness of this restaurant comes from the sheer quality of food, not the price.

This is the original location of the world-famous chain that has received a Michelin star and was named by the New York Times as being one of the top 10 restaurants in the world .

Their speciality is Xiaolongbao, a type of Chinese soup dumpling, with a portion of 10 costing roughly $7.5 dollars.

The food is phenomenal so don’t be surprised if you end up spending more than you planned here. However they do not take reservations, so be prepared for a long wait.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Richard Barnes

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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You shouldn’t recommend the 3 day HSR rail pass for visiting Taipei. This pass is for the High Speed Rail, which only works for getting to other cities in Taipei. Your article suggests the pass can be used for taking the MRT around the city, which is false.

Thanks for pointing that out, Nick! We’ve updated the post now. Appreciate the correction 🙂

Good Morning Team.

Enjoyed reading the blog and the information is great. I am planning to travel to TAIWAN/JAPAN/KOREA this April end.

I will be reading your blog on KOREA AND JAPAN.

Thanks for the detailed information

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Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, taipei itinerary: complete travel guide and things to do in taipei.

So, I’ve been pretty lucky to have been able to visit Taipei multiple times in the past decade. In total, I’ve visited Taipei three times: Once when I was a newbie traveler in 2011, then once more in 2018 when I got to go on a food marathon , and then most recently after COVID restrictions were lifted in 2023.

From the fact that I kept coming back, you could tell that I really enjoyed my time in Taipei. After all.. what’s not to like? The city is easy to travel in, you can find affordable and delicious food anywhere, and the people are friendly and polite. Taiwan is definitely one of my favorite countries to visit, so I’m here to impart my knowledge to make your trip to Taipei easier!

Taipei Travel Tips for First-time Visitors

How many days should i spend in taipei, when is the best time to visit taipei, how to get to taipei city from the airport, how to get around taipei, where to stay in taipei, what to eat in taipei.

• Taipei Itinerary Example

What to do in Taipei

Recommended trips from taipei.

One of the reasons why I kept coming back is because Taipei is a very safe and tourist-friendly city. I saw it as a combination of Japan, Shanghai, and Singapore. When you don’t have to worry about safety, things are cool and dandy. I was not concerned to go by myself, even as a solo female traveler.

Here are some tips that would make your trip even easier:

1. Buy a prepaid SIM Card – I cannot stress how important it is to have an internet connection during your visit to Taiwan, especially if you don’t speak the language. With an internet connection, you can easily find directions, research on the go, and translate what you need to say into the local language.

You can get your prepaid SIM card here and pick it up when you are at the airport. The pickup counter is located right where you exit the immigration section.

I find that the validity of the SIM card excludes the day of activation. For example, I bought a 5-day SIM card – I landed on April 19 in the afternoon and activated the SIM card right away, and the SIM card worked until April 24 at 23:59.

2. Buy an EasyCard – EasyCard is the transport card used across Taiwan. It works on the local trains as well as buses. You’ll definitely want to get the card so that you can use public transport easily while you’re in Taiwan.

You can get your EasyCard here and pick it up when you are at the airport.

I recommend preloading it with around NT$ 400 of balance, depending on how long you’re going to be in Taiwan. A train/bus ride usually costs NT$ 15-18 per way and the airport MRT costs NT$ 160 one way. Don’t worry about putting in too much money – you can return the balance of the EasyCard later at the end of the trip, minus NT$ 100 for the cost of the card.

3. Buy Taipei attractions tickets via Klook – During my time in Taiwan, I bought all of the ticket attractions from Klook. It was super easy as Klook provides direct entry for most attractions, meaning you don’t need to redeem another ticket – just show the QR code from your voucher!

What is Klook? Klook is the leading travel and experiences booking website in Asia. And yes, they are legit! I personally always book my activities through them whenever I am traveling. See my review of Klook here .

4. Download Google Maps – This is my tip for pretty much every destination. Pre-download Google Maps so that you can use it when you don’t have the internet on your phone. Not only that, it will help you keep your data usage down! Here is how to download maps offline .

5. Download the traditional Chinese language pack from Google Translate – Taiwan uses traditional Chinese, so download the traditional Chinese language pack from Google Translate! You can then use this to take a picture of any text you need to be translated and Google will provide a translation for it. It doesn’t always work perfectly, but it’s better than nothing.

6. Download Uber – Uber basically owns this city. From food delivery to ride-sharing, you can get it easily via Uber. I’m pretty sure I don’t need to explain what Uber is to you, just make sure you have the app downloaded on your phone. I find that the Uber rate in this city is very reasonable, and might be cheaper than taxis.

7. Luggage storage at the train station – If you need to check out of your accommodation and your flight is not til night time, there are plenty of lockers at the station, especially major stations like Taipei Main Station. Also, don’t be deceived by the size of the locker from the outside – each locker can fit a lot! We managed to fit 2 of our carry-on luggage and 3 backpacks inside. Just make sure you remember which lockers you’ve put your stuff into because the main station is huge and you don’t want to lose your luggage later on.

8. Monitor the weather – If you happen to visit during rainy or colder months, you can monitor the weather forecast here or see the rain weather radar here . That said, on my recent visit it was forecasted to rain a lot, but in the end, it only rained on the first day. I also find that the rain is not too bad – usually just a drizzle.

9. Go on a free walking tour in Taipei – This is a great way to get yourself familiarized with Taipei, while learning the history and culture of Taipei. The tour is free, but tips are encouraged!

Taipei is a large city. You won’t run out of things to do here. If this is your first time visiting Taipei and you want to see most of the must-do things, I recommend spending at least 2 days in Taipei, maybe 3 days if you want to take things slow or if you want to take day trips outside of Taipei.

I would recommend visiting Taipei from March to April when the weather is still somewhat cooler and there is not much rain. Starting from mid-May, it might get hot and a little bit rainy in Taiwan. There is also a possibility of typhoons in the region around September or October. November to December might also be a good time to visit when it’s not yet too cold.

I personally visited Taiwan in April, May, and November. Out of those times, I feel April was the best for me personally. In April, the weather in Taipei is still cool, but not too cold. There could be some rain but in my experience, it was only minimal, barely a drizzle.

Getting to Taipei City, where you’d likely be staying, is easy from the Taoyuan Airport. Here are some ways you can get there:

1. Take the Airport MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) from Taoyuan Airport

Taking the MRT to Taipei City is really easy from Taoyuan International Airport. From Terminal 1 or 2, once you’ve exited the immigration area, just look for the sign that says “MRT”. The train will take you to Taipei Main Station, and from there you can resume your journey via the Taipei Metro train to the closest station to your destination.

The MRT journey from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei Main Station will cost NT$ 160 , while the metro will cost NT$ 18 per ride.

Use Easy Card – All of the train journeys, including the airport MRT, can be paid for by just tapping the EasyCard at the gantry, which is why I recommend buying the EasyCard and pick up at the airport !

When taking the MRT from Taoyuan Airport, make sure you take the express train and not the commuter train! It will be about 15 minutes faster because there are fewer stops. You can check the train schedule on Google Maps.

2. Private Car from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei City

If you’re traveling with a lot of luggage, you might want to book your own private car to take you from the airport .

A quick search seems to say this is cheaper or comparable to taking Uber or Taxi. It cost us NT$ 1,200 to take Uber to our hotel in the Zhongxiao Fuxing / Da’an area, but only NT$ 1,080 using the link above to the same destination.

3. Take an Uber or Yellow Taxi

If all else fails, Taxi and Uber are plenty in Taipei. For a quick price reference, it cost us NT$ 1,200 to take Uber to our hotel in the Zhongxiao Fuxing / Da’an area from the Taoyuan International Airport.

As I said before, Taipei is a really tourist-friendly city. And part of the reason why that’s so is because it’s easy to get around in Taipei! Here are your options:

By Train (Taipei Metro) – This is my favorite option to explore Taipei. Taking the train is the most convenient method: it’s safe, clean, and most of the instructions will be in English. The train comes every 5 minutes and there are plenty of stations close to most tourist attractions. A ride on the train costs NT$ 18 per ride.

By Bus – The bus in Taipei is not a terrible way to travel. Most bus stops in Taipei will even have a display sign that tells you when the next bus will arrive. However, the frequency of the bus is way less than the train. Some buses might even only come once every 30 minutes. A ride on the bus costs NT$ 18 per ride.

Ride-sharing via Uber – I’m pretty sure I don’t need to explain what Uber is to you. I find that the Uber rate in this city is very reasonable. I took Uber many times when I was in Taipei when I don’t feel like walking or dealing with public transport.

Yellow Taxi – The yellow taxi can be easily hailed in the city and other touristy spots. They are a good alternative if you don’t want to use Uber.

Any location close to a metro station would be good, but I would recommend staying near the following stations specifically:

• Taipei Main Station – This will be convenient if you plan to travel to other parts of Taiwan that might require inter-city travel by train. Most of the journey will begin at Taipei Main Station. It’s also close to other locations like Ximending and Zhongshan station.
• Ximen Station / Ximending – This area is great for shopping with tons of food nearby. It’s fairly close to Taipei Main Station.
• Zhongxiao Fuxing station – on the blue and brown line, easy to reach from Taipei Main Station and takes you from central to west or east (Sun yat sen memorial hall) easily. Zhongxiao Fuxing is a convenient area with lots of shops and restaurants.
• Da’an station – on the red and brown line, easy to reach from Taipei Main Station and takes you from central to west or east (Taipei 101) easily. The Da’an area is very nice and quiet but still has a lot of eateries around.

Here are some of my recommended hotels:

• Kimpton Da An Hotel – Located within a few minutes walk to Zhongxiao Fuxing Station. One of the most convenient locations in the city!
• Star Hostel Taipei Main Station – If you’re looking for a budget dorm near the main station, this is it! The hostel is clean and modern. Their amenities are really nice and the staff speaks English. They also give you a good breakfast for free with each stay. Towels can be rented for NT$ 30. The location is only a 5-minute walk from Taipei Main Station (Y13 exit). A stay at one of the 6-bed female dorms cost me only NT$ 936.

• Hotel Howard Plaza Taipei – This is an older hotel located strategically between Zhongxiao Fuxing and Da’an station. Even though the hotel is a bit dated, their rooms are very spacious. There are tons of buses that stop directly outside of the hotel, and you have the option to walk 7-8 minutes to either Zhongxiao Fuxing or Da’an station.

There is so much good food in Taipei, that I’ve dedicated a separate post for food in Taipei.

For more ideas on what to eat in Taipei, check out my must-eats in Taipei !

3-Day Taipei Itinerary Example

In order to make your trip more efficient, here are my recommended way to group the spots to see in Taipei so that you don’t have to travel back and forth. You don’t need to do them in the exact same order as below, just take note of the grouping!

Day 1: West Taipei

• Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
• Walk around Zhongshan District
• Ximending in the afternoon or nighttime
• Ningxia Night Market for dinner

Day 2: East Taipei

Songshan cultural and creative park.

• National Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall
• Taipei 101 Observatory
• Elephant Mountain trek
• Raohe Night Market

Day 3: Central Taipei and everything else

• National Palace Museum

Huashan 1914 Creative Park

• Shida Night Market or Shilin Night Market

Day 4: Trips outside of Taipei

There are plenty of quick day trips or short 1-2 day trips you can do from Taipei. I’ll elaborate more in the “ Recommended trips from Taipei ” section below. However, if this is your first time in Taiwan, I recommend visiting Jiufen for a quick day trip!

Taipei is a large metropolitan city, and there are lots to do here! In no particular order, here are some things you can do when you’re in the city.

1. Taipei 101 Observatory

As the name suggests, this building stands at 101 floors. It is currently the tallest building in Taiwan. At the time of its completion in 2004, Taipei 101 was even the tallest building in the world, standing at 508m, until Burj Khalifa in Dubai took the throne five years later.

Entry to Taipei 101 is timed, so I definitely recommend pre-booking Taipei 101 tickets online via Klook to guarantee entry at the time you want. Plus, it could be cheaper via Klook sometimes!

The regular ticket gets you access to the observatory on the 88th and 89th floors. There are some photo props up there you’d want to take photos with, but the most exciting part for me is that you’ll get to see the tuned mass damper . This is the technology that is responsible for the stability of Taipei 101 during the event of a strong wind or earthquake.

The mass damper is stationary most of the time (and really, you would want it to be stationary while you’re up there) but you will be able to see a video of it in action during the 2015 earthquake, as well as scientific explanations on how and why it works. Super cool!

You can buy an extra ticket that lets you go up to the 101st floor, but as someone who has been there before… I think the 88th and 89th floors will do just fine. The 101st floor is definitely more quiet, so it could be a good option if you’re after some exclusivity, but it is a lot smaller than the observatory and the view is more or less the same as the 88th and 89th floor.

➡️ Pre-book your Taipei 101 ticket here to ensure you can go at the time slot you want!

2. Stroll around Ximending

Ximending is a popular shopping and eating district in the eastern part of Taipei. The concept is similar to a night market, but the shops are located in actual shophouses inside a building. The area is for pedestrians only, and closed to all cars, making it really easy to walk around in. If you’ve been to Seoul – it’s kind of like the Myeongdong area.

Ximending is a lot more alive on weekends and at night. So if you’re looking for that hustle-bustle atmosphere, consider visiting it on a Saturday or Sunday night. Even if you’re not into shopping, it’s fun to visit so that you can people-watch or see the street performers.

To get to Ximending, take the blue or green metro line to Ximen station , and take Exit 1 or 6. This will drop you to the crossing where you can start your journey into Ximending.

Don’t miss the rainbow street at the entrance for a really cool photo op! This street is right off Exit 6 of Ximen station.

3. Eat your heart out at the night markets

Taiwan Night markets are, to put it in one word, AMAZING! They are the ultimate definition of what a night market should be: bustling atmosphere, great shopping, and most importantly:  a large variety of street food with an affordable price tag!

The most popular night in Taipei food markets are:

• Shilin Night Market  – Shilin needs no introduction. This is Taiwan’s biggest and most popular night market. For most tourists, this is the ultimate night market since it has both: food and shopping!
• Shida Night Market  – I would say Shida is more about fashion than food. I was told this is where Taiwanese students go to find cheap yet fashionable and good-quality clothes. Most of the styles I found were inspired by Korean fashion, which is all the rage across Asia these days. I found some cute earrings for a reasonable price here. That said, you can still find solid food options at Shida too, such as Shi Yun fried chicken and Hsu Ji Shen Jiang Bao.
• Raohe Night Market  – Raohe spans across a narrow street called Raohe Street. While the two rows of temporary stalls in the middle of the street consist mostly of snacky street food and drinks, you can find some night market goodies in the shophouses that line up the street. This night market is extremely popular so expect it to be very crowded over weekends and peak tourist seasons . My favorite food here is the Fuzhou pepper bun.

If you prefer smaller markets that aren’t as crowded, you can try these markets:

• Ningxia Night Market  – In comparison to the other night markets, Ningxia is very small. However, I think they’re great to visit, especially if you are trying to avoid crowds. They still have at least one stall for each famous night market meal. My favorite here is the peanut ice cream stall.
• Nanjichang Night Market  – I have not been to Nanjichang, but I expect it to be similar to Ningxia Market, where it’s slightly smaller and more subdued compared to other markets.

Except for Nanjichang, I have been to all of the above markets. Shida and Ningxia are probably my favorites, simply because I get overwhelmed easily and those markets were on the quieter side. Shilin and Raohe were too big and too crowded for me with way too many options. However, Ningxia and Shida might be too quiet if you’re looking for a bustling night market vibe.

4. Visit Taipei’s Creative Parks

A “creative park” is a concept that exists all over Taiwan. It’s a place designated for modern arts and culture. At these creative parks, you can usually find shops with products made by local designers, art exhibitions, trendy coffeehouses or restaurants, and a space where people can hang out or for live performances. Furthermore, the creative parks in Taiwan are usually located in abandoned old buildings from the Japanese colonial era that have been renovated and repurposed to their current state.

Creative parks are great to visit on Saturday or Sunday, especially if you’re visiting during Spring time in April or May. There might even be some live music, open-air markets, and other activities.

Here are the creative parks you can visit in Taipei:

A former sake factory during Japanese colonial time, located in the center of Taipei. My favorite brand here is Wooderful Life , where they sell kids’ toys and everyday goods all made from wood.

A former tobacco factory in the 1930s. There are plenty of locally-made accessories, clothes, and everyday goods. On the other wing, you can find the Taiwan Design Museum and library space.

16 Creative Boutique

Located at The Red House in Ximending, a former public market, bookstore, cinema, and most recently a theatre. This boutique is much smaller than the creative parks, but it houses similar brands as the two creative parks mentioned above.

5. National Palace Museum

The National Palace Museum is located in the northern part of Taipei, in Shilin. It’s a bit out of the way from everything else, but it’s worth a visit. The museum houses thousands of Chinese artifacts from the mainland.

You can buy tickets to the museum here via Klook . The museum is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm.

One of the most notable items on exhibit at the National Palace Museum is the Jadeite cabbage , a piece of green and white jade that has been carved into the shape of a very realistic miniature of a cabbage. If you go to the museum to see this item, you might find a line of people waiting for their turn to view the jadeite cabbage up close.

However, my personal favorite is actually the item behind it, the meat-shaped stone , which is a piece of jasper stone that has been carved into the shape of a very realistic braised pork belly. Yes, you’ve got to see it to believe it.

6. Hike up Elephant Peak

The hike to elephant peak is very close to the city and can be done easily. It involves a 1.5 km long set of stairs and takes only about 20 minutes to complete. I recommend doing this in the late afternoon, almost at sunset time when the weather is good and visibility is fair.

To get here, simply take the train to Xiangshan station and take Exit 3. From there, the start of the trail is easy to find by just following the Google Maps instructions.

The Elephant Peak trail is a very popular and easily accessible trail, so don’t expect to be the only one here! In fact, when I was there it was very crowded at the peak.

7. Sip on world-famous coffee at Simple Kaffa

If you’re a fan of coffee, you must stop by Simple Kaffa. They rose to prominence when the owner of the cafe, Berg Wu, won the 2016 World Barista Championship.

Simple Kaffa has a few branches around Taipei:

• Simple Kaffa Flagship near Huashan 1914 Creative Park
• Simple Kaffa Sola on the 88th floor of Taipei 101 (Requires reservations and has a minimum spend)
• Simple Kaffa Super Kiosk on Jinshan Rd
• Simple Kaffa The Coffee One on Jinshan Rd
• Simple Kaffa at Taoyuan T2 Terminal Public Area (newly opened!)

The one I would recommend is the Simple Kaffa Flagship store, because of its convenient location. Takeaway coffee is pretty easy – but if you’re thinking of getting a table here, be prepared to wait! The good thing is you can put your name down and then walk around Huashan 1914 Creative Park nearby.

You can also purchase some beans here to take home for about NT$ 450-500. They’ll provide an instruction card on how to enjoy the beans (best enjoyed 10 days after the date printed on the bag, to let the coffee beans age), as well as give you a sticker to cover the slits on the bean bags if you are planning to take it on a flight.

8. Go on a food marathon!

A visit to Taipei is not complete unless you eat until you’re full. There is so much good food in Taipei, that I’ve dedicated a separate post for food in Taipei.

For ideas on what to eat in Taipei, check out my must-eats in Taipei !

With Taipei being the capital city of Taiwan, it’s really easy to travel in and out to the rest of Taiwan. Below are some ideas for trips that you can do easily from Taipei:

1. Jiufen (Day trip)

You can easily visit Jiufen from Taipei as a day trip, or you can extend your trip and include other activities such as hiking up the Teapot mountain.

I’ve written all about visiting Jiufen from Taipei in this post , including all the transportation modes you can take to get to Jiufen!

2. Tainan (1-2 Days)

Tainan is located in the south of Taiwan, and is the oldest city in Taiwan. I recommend setting aside at least 2 days to visit Tainan.

I’ve also written a separate post about Tainan, so be sure to check it out here .

3. Beitou (Day trip)

If you’re a fan of the Japanese onsen (hot spring) experience, you’ve got to come to Beitou.

4. Taichung and Sun Moon Lake (2 days)

Taichung is the second most populous city in Taiwan. Sun Moon Lake is the largest body of water in Taiwan and one of the most popular places to visit in the country. Sun Moon Lake can be visited on a day trip from Taichung.

5. Alishan (1 day)

Alishan is a mountainous region in Taiwan. It’s great for hiking trails, sacred trees, and beautiful sunrises.

And that’s all I know about visiting Taipei! Please leave a comment below if you have any questions or comments about this post. See you in the next post 👋🏻

• April 18, 2024

Thanks for providing such a valuable information 👍.

• January 30, 2024

What’s the weather for in between and end of April? Is it raining often? What to wear also?

Hey there, when I went in April the weather was pretty good. There were some rain but only a drizzle and passed by quick. There was one day when a hurricane passed but it was ok after. It was not very cold too. I only need a light hoodie in Taipei.

• January 3, 2024

Your blog is so helpful! We are planning to go to Taipei in March, and it’s my first time to travel outside the Philippines so I’m really anxious about how to plan the trip. I appreciate the complete details. Thank you so much. All the best! ✨

• February 7, 2024

Hi Sang Hyoon! I don’t know if you’re reading this and I’m planning to go to Taipei too in March! It’s my first time too and I’m very anxious. I hope I don’t mess up and most importantly don’t get too lonely during the trip. I’m visiting from 4-11 March. Maybe we can meet somehow? Good luck with your trip!! ✨

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3 Days in Taipei: The Perfect Taipei Itinerary

last Updated: January 13, 2022 Taipei Taiwan

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Taiwan in the near future and looking for the perfect 3 day Taipei itinerary?! Consider yourself lucky, because I’ve got the most perfect 3 days in Taipei all planned out for you!

Taipei is one of those cities that has it all: food, shopping, nature, and tons of historic temples. It’s a glamorous metropolis that’s steeped in culture and surrounded by gorgeous mountain terrain.

In fact, Taiwan’s capital is filled with so many awesome things to do that it’s hard to know where to begin. Fortunately for you, you lucky thing, this 3 day Taipei itinerary is here to help you have the best possible 3 days in Taipei. I’m not just talking inside the city either. This Taiwan travel blog also contains some amazing day trip options so that you can make the most of the country’s natural beauty.

Don’t worry about your time limit: follow this guide and you’ll see everything and more that the city has to offer in 2 days in Taipei and enjoy a wonderful day trip. Sound good? Thought so!

When to Visit Taipei

The best time to spend 3 days in Taipei is during October and November. These months mark the latter half of fall and the end of cyclone season (and getting stuck in a cyclone is no fun, trust me).

Humidity drops and temperatures hover around the 68 ° F/20 ° C mark, meaning you don’t melt into a sweaty, frizzy-haired mess during your 3 days in Taipei. Winters here are mild, so December and January are also great times to visit. It’s unlikely to get colder than 10 ° C/50 °F and these months experience the least rainfall.

February is best avoided if possible as the Lunar New Year usually falls during this month – though be sure to double check as dates vary year to year. During this holiday, many businesses will be closed and transport and accommodation will be busy and expensive.

Visiting Taipei during spring (March-May) is a risky business as the weather can be very unpredictable. Summer, meanwhile, is off-season so prices are cheaper, but temperatures soar and storms abound.

Despite this, remember that if you do experience bad weather during your trip, it won’t necessarily be ruined – a metropolis like Taipei definitely has enough indoor entertainment to keep you amused while the storm passes.

How to Get Around Taipei

As you might expect, this city has a slick transport system. The MRT (subway) system is clean, efficient and cost-effective, with trains running every few minutes. A single ticket costs between $0.60-$2.00 and for extra ease you can get one, two or three day tickets which can also be used on buses. Win!

For this trip, it’s best to buy a ticket that will cover 2 days in Taipei, as we’ll be venturing out of the city on day 3.

For a greener and healthier transport option, you can hire a You-bike for around $2.50 for four hours and cycle around the city. You’ll be able to find these bikes all over the metro area are there are tons of routes around town. Cycling is a great way to make the most out of this city and get a little exercise while you’re doing it!

Taxis are also a good option for getting around. They add a splash of sunshine to the city with their cheerful shade of yellow and unlike in many other cities, you’re unlikely to get ripped off here. Hailing a cab is easy, fares are cheap and drivers are almost always polite and friendly.

Where to stay in Taipei

Thanks to Taipei’s amazing transport system the whole city is easily accessible wherever you stay. Make sure that your hotel is close to an MRT station as for the ultimate convenience. For the most glamorous Taipei experience, head to the Xinyi district. It’s  a fashionable, futuristic area teeming with luxury stores and swanky hotels.

The Ximending neighborhood is a great choice for budget travellers. It’s a buzzing, youthful area with plenty of nightlife and cheaper accommodation options. There are lots of hostels here, so it’s a good option for those going solo, too.

Xinyi Hotels:

• The W Hotel. Stay here for style, city views and stunning sunsets from the WOOBar.
• Eslite Hotel
• Tango Hotel

Ximending Hotels & Hostels:

• Hotel Papa Whale
• Next Taipei Hostel

Language and currency in Taipiei

Language is a complex issue in Taiwan. Many different dialects exist throughout the country but Mandarin is the lingua franca, and this goes for the capital, too. English can often be found on signage also. The New Taiwan Dollar (NT$) is the currency and money exists in both note and coin form, with five denominations of each. $1 USD is roughly 30NT$, so it’s easy enough to convert.

And now what you came here for, the perfect 3 days in Taipei!

The Perfect 3 Day Taipei Itinerary

Day 1: temples, memorial halls, and snacks.

Stop 1: Longshan Temple and Herb Lane

First up on our Taipei itinerary is Longshan Temple, one of Taiwan’s best-known sites of worship. Built in 1738 by settlers from Fujian, it’s one of the country’s oldest temples. Inside there are hundreds of Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian statues, reflecting the country’s varied religious heritage.

Just around the corner lies Herb Lane, aka Lane 224. It’s tucked just off of Xichang Street and as the name implies, it’s packed with herb stores selling soups, teas, soap and more. Try the bitter tea for a truly memorable taste sensation!

Stop 2: Light Lunch or a wander at Ximen (Ximending), the “Harajuku of Taipei”

Taiwan was occupied by the Japanese between 1895-1945 and this influence can still be felt today. Ximending is known as the “Harajuku of Taipei” because much like its Tokyoite twin, it’s a place where young people flock to showcase the latest extravagant fashions that they’re rocking.

Wandering around the area and exploring its eccentric boutiques is a super fun Taipei experience.

After a morning of exploring you might be feeling a little peckish. Luckily, Ximen is full of street food and trendy restaurants – try Lao Wang Ji Beef Noodles for some classic, no-frills deliciousness.

Stop 3: National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

You can’t go to Taipei without visiting the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in Liberty Square. You just can’t. No Taipei itinerary is complete without it! Erected in memory of – yep, you guessed it, Chiang Kai-shek – the hall is open from 9-6 every day and the changing of the guard ceremony happens on the hour every hour from 9-5. Trust me, you don’t want to miss it!

Located in the Liberty Square plaza, the hall is flanked by the National Theatre and National Concert Hall. The square was often the site of choice for mass demonstrations and rallies during the ‘80s and ‘90s and consequently played an important role in the democratization of Taiwan. Pretty cool, right?

Stop 4: Snacks on Dongman Street/Yongkan Street

Hungry again? This Taiwan travel blog has got your back. Yongkan Street is considered one of the best foodie destinations in the world! To try one of Taiwan’s most beloved eats, head to Tian Jin Onion Pancake for a flaky, chewy scallion pancake that will blow your mind.

If you’re in the mood for noodles, look no further than Yongkang Beef Noodles for tender, Sichuan-braised Australian beef. Yum! World-renowned Din Tai Fung is another great spot for filling your belly. They serve delicious soup dumplings that are so good there are now branches all over the globe.

For a sweet treat, enjoy mango shaved ice, sorbets, and smoothies at the Smoothie House. This venue replaced the iconic Ice Monster which closed after some soap-opera style drama that has become the stuff of urban legend.

Stop 5: National Dr. Sun-Yat Sen Memorial Hall (國父紀念館)

The second memorial hall on this Taipei itinerary is dedicated to Dr Sun-Yat Sen, the founder of modern China. The hall contains many exhibitions about his life and revolutionary accomplishments. It’s also a cultural hotspot, serving as the meeting site for a variety of social and educational activities. The hall also often hosts performances and lectures, as well as housing a library with hundreds of thousands of books. The building is in Chung Shan park which comprises an exhibition area, the lovely Emerald Pond and and beautiful gardens.

Stop 6: Bird’s eye view of the city at dusk

Watching the sunset behind the skyscrapers is always one of the best parts of a city break. In Taipei, you’re truly spoilt because there are two amazing spots to get a bird’s eye view of the city as it lights up in the evening. The sun goes down at around 5:30pm during the winter months and 6:30pm in the summer.

Elephant Mountain: Start hiking during the late afternoon to catch daytime and stunning sunset views from the top of the mountain. The hike only takes 15-20 minutes and there are lots of stairs involved! Go during the week if you can as it gets pretty crowded at weekends.

Taipei 101: Head to this iconic tower for a swanky sunset viewpoint. There are indoor observation decks on the 88th and 89th floor, with an outdoor deck on the 91st which opens when the weather is good.

Stop 7: Tonghua (Linjiang Street) Night Market for dinner

End your first day in this incredible city with one of Taipei’s most authentic market experiences. Tonghua Night market is favored by locals rather than tourists and is a mecca of delicious street food – it would take you years to get bored of eating here.

It’s also less manic and cramped than some of the city’s other markets, which is always a bonus. There are tons of yummy treats on offer here, from fermented tofu (it tastes better than it smells, trust me) to steamed buns and bubble tea. You may never want to leave!

Day 2: Gondola, Thermal Baths, and More Temples

Stop 1: Maokong Gondola and Zhinan Temple

Rise and shine, it’s time for day two! Make your way to Taipei Zoo but rather than saying hello to the cute animals, jump on the Maokong Gondola. It’s views for days on board this baby! The third stop is Zhinan Temple Station, which is where we’re getting off to explore. This intricately decorated, brightly colored-temple holds great significance for Taiwan’s Taoist population but it wasn’t easily accessible until the gondola opened, so feel super fortunate that you get to go!

The mountainside views are awe-inspiring and the wow-factor continues as you climb back on the gondola and head to the fourth and final stop: Maokong. This is an important tea-growing area and there are loads of plantations and shops, so you’ve just got to stop for a cuppa! Order baozhong oolong tea to taste a delectable local specialty.

Stop 2: Taipei Confucius Temple and Dalongdong Ba-On Temple

Hope you’re not tired of temples because here are another two must-see sites on this Taipei itinerary. The Taipei Confucius Temple is one of Taiwan’s most important places of worship and also functions as a Chinese cultural centre. If you have a little extra time, you can even take Chinese calligraphy lessons here – how cool is that?

The UNESCO-listed Dalongdong Ba-On Temple sits adjacent to the Confucius Temple and is another awesome site to explore.

Stop 3: National Palace Museum

From the temples, you can either take the MRT to Shillin Station and board the R30 bus to the National Palace Museum, or take a 15-minute taxi if that sounds like too much hassle.

Fun fact – this museum is the source of some international beef, since it was originally established in Beijing but later evacuated to Taipei, causing ownership disputes between Taiwan and China. It’s home to over 700,000 ancient Chinese artifacts, many of which were collected by China’s emperors, making it one of the largest collections in the world.

Stop 4: Beitou Thermal Area

For a spot of relaxation (which will probably be needed by now) take a taxi on over to Beitou Thermal Valley and enjoy the therapeutic warm water of the volcanic hot springs. It’s especially nice coming here during the winter! To learn more about the springs, head to the Hot Spring Museum.

This is far from a stuffy museum experience: there’s a balcony where you can gaze down at the beautiful Beitou Creek, a relaxation room and an ancient Roman style-bath housed in an elegant arcade room.

Stop 5: Guandu Temple

The final temple in this 3 day Taipei itinerary is the Guandu Temple, a Buddhist temple dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea. Again, the best way to get here is by taxi – it takes just seven minutes and should only set you back around $10.

Filled with intricate Buddhist sculptures and carvings, it might just be one of the most breathtaking sites of worship you ever see. Be sure to venture down into the 80-metre deep Buddha cave, which is filled with 28 representations of heavenly emperors.

Stop 6: Shillin Night Market

After all of that exploring, you’re bound to be hungry. Take the MRT back into town from Guandu to Jiantan Station and walk for five minutes to get to Shillin Night Market. This is another excellent street food spot and it’s probably the most famous market in Taipei.

No decent Taiwan travel blog could fail to mention it! While you’re there you’ve simply got to try an oyster omelet – it’s a Shillin specialty! If that’s not your thing, try a peppered pork bun or refresh with some lemon aiyu jelly juice – it’s divine on a hot day! Once you’ve filled your tum, check out the cheap, trendy clothes on offer if you’ve got some energy left for shopping.

Day 3: Take a Day Trip

After 2 days in Taipei, it’s time to head out of the city. A day trip should definitely be a part of your Taipei itinerary. It would seriously be such  a shame not to explore outside of the city borders a little during your 3 days in Taipei when there’s so much natural beauty close by.

Option #1: Jifuen Village & The Northeast Coast

How to get there: Jifuen is 35 km from Taipei, so it’s not too far afield. By far the easiest way to explore Jifuen and the rest of the Northeast Coast is to book onto an organized tour. The following options are all great choices and will save a ton of time and hassle. You can thank me later!

What to do: After you arrive in Jifuen, head to quaint Old Street and refresh with a cup of tea at one of the many tea houses the town has to offer. Once your thirst is quenched, you’ll definitely want to take some time to explore the rest of the street and its old-timey shops that sell lots of traditional, hard-to-come-by Chinese goods.

Be sure to check out the Shengping Theatre, too. It was one of the first cinemas constructed in Taiwan and now functions as a museum.

Travel 40 minutes inland to see the equally charming town of Shifen and its beautiful waterfall, which often creates rainbows on sunny days.

Once you’re ready to head up the coast, make sure you catch a glimpse of the Bay of Two Colors, or Ying Yang Sea. The high concentration of Fool’s Gold in the water has created contrasting yellow and blue patches of water in the shape of – you guessed it – Ying and Yang. Finally, don’t miss out on marveling at the crazy rock formations in Yehliu Geopark which lies 45 minutes up the road.

Option #2: Thousand Island Lake and Pinglin Tea Plantation

How to get there: Both attractions are roughly 25 km away from the city centre. To get to Thousand Island Lake the MRT to Xindian MRT station and then catch the Green 12 bus to Shiding. Once there, get off the bus and walk down the hill to the lake.

Honestly though, the easiest thing to do is book a private tour. Getting from the lake to the tea plantation requires a driver, so being escorted in a coach or car makes life so much easier.

What to do: Marvel at the beauty of Thousand Island Lake. Lush green islands are dotted throughout the bright blue water and gazing down at them from the mountainside is a jaw-dropping experience.

The ideal time to go is between February and June when it’s unlikely that there will be fog obscuring your view. Next, it’s onto Pinglin. A visit to Pinglin Tea Museum is an absolute must (but bear in mind it’s closed the first Monday of every month). You’ll learn about the growth and cultivation of tea, as well as its role in Chinese history.

Make sure you stop in the museum’s tearoom to enjoy a cup of local honey bao zhong tea. After that, head to Jingualiao Street and rent a bicycle to explore the Jingualiao River bike route, which runs along the water through tea plantation mountains. It’s a sublime experience and the route is super-short at only 2 km long, so there’s no excuse not to start pedaling!

Option #3: Taroko Gorge

How to get there: Taroko is roughly 150 km away from Taipei. If you want to take public transport, the fastest option is to take the train from Taipei Main Station to Xincheng and then take the #302 bus to Taroko Gorge. It should take between 2-3 hours on the Puyama train service.

Organised tours also tend to use trains and buses and also include hotel pick up, so you won’t need to worry about getting to the station at the crack of dawn!

What to do: Once you reach Taroko National Park, you’ve obviously got to visit the eponymous gorge. Head to the bell tower above the Eternal Spring Shine for a killer viewpoint. This is one of the lesser-known spots for gazing at the gorge, so you’re unlikely to be accompanied by crowds.

ChingShui Cliff, on the other hand, is one of the park’s most popular spots, and with good reason. It offers stunning views of the ‘patterned’ ocean, which is colored various shades of blue thanks to the various currents at work beneath the surface.

It’s one of Taiwan’s natural wonders and is well-worth the 8km hike – trust me! During the late afternoon, take a walk underneath Swallow Grotto to see the eponymous birds hovering around the beautiful rock formations – it’s a pretty magical sight.

The best times to visit the park are between the shoulder seasons of April-June and September-November for clement weather and fewer fellow tourists.

Will you be following this 3 day Taipei itinerary?! What are you most excited about on your trip?!

Photos via //  gondola | tea | National Palace Museum | Thermal Area

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15 things to know before going to Taipei

Oct 13, 2023 • 7 min read

Be ready for any visit to Taipei with this guide to health, safety and etiquette © asiastock / Shutterstock

Taiwanese culture is an intriguing tangle of traditional Chinese customs and Japanese sensibilities, permeated with an insatiable commercial drive.

The epitome of all things Taiwan is its capital  Taipei , a city so safe that you’d be wise to worry more about the weather than your wallet. While you may leave your laptop unattended in a cafe and expect it to be there when you return, the same may not be said of your umbrella.

Read on for a crash course in more of the capital’s quirks (example: wearing flip-flops in a rainstorm really is the wisest choice). Here’s all you need to know about health, safety and etiquette before your trip to Taipei.

1. Learn some very basic Mandarin

Luckily for non-native speakers, the communication style of the Taiwanese is very straightforward. The word “please” is a rarity when buying things, swapped instead for a polite bow and a thank-you after receiving your order.

If you can manage a simple “hello” (pīnyīn: nǐ hǎo ) and “thank you” ( xièxie ), along with your order of bubble tea ( yī bēi nǎi chá ), you might even receive a compliment on your impeccable Chinese from kindly vendors.

Often, Taiwanese locals will be more than happy to practice their high-school English skills with you. Still, making the effort to converse in Mandarin is a great way to level the playing field.

2. Pack flip-flops for the plum rain

When it rains in Taipei, it pours. And in summer it rains a lot. Each year, the city is blessed with 98in (2500mm) of rainfall, seeing the highest precipitation in the hottest months from June to September – also known as monsoon or “plum rain” season.

To save your best sneakers from saturation, wear flip-flops on rainy days (avoiding tiled surfaces) and include a raincoat and umbrella on your packing list. The rain usually won’t turn up until late afternoon, so it’s also a good idea to start your day quite early (between 6am and 8am), when the weather is cooler and the sky brighter.

3. Follow a Taipei foodie before you arrive

Beyond the Michelin-acclaimed Din Tai Fung and the slightly too touristy Shilin Night Market , Taipei has a mouthwatering food scene. Discover what’s new, popular and off the beaten track through the city’s network of local bloggers (we love  Hungry in Taipei  and  Taipei Foodie ) and on social media.

One nice shortcut for finding good local spots is to search on Instagram for the area you want (eg Ximen ; 西門) followed by the phrase “beautiful food” (美食). This will present all the recently hashtagged gems for your drooling perusal.

4. Hot-step it to a 7-Eleven for an EasyCard and a tea egg

The mother of all convenience stores in Taiwan, 7-Eleven sells all the familiar snacks, food and drinks you get in the West – with such added Asian lunch additions as onigiri  (Japanese rice balls) and tea-stained eggs.

But more than that, 7-Eleven is also the place to go for buying (and topping up) your MRT EasyCard , printing documents, sending packages and withdrawing cash. The swankiest locations even have bathrooms, free wi-fi and tables with charging docks.

A word of warning: convenience stores can quickly become a comfortable choice, but this will cost you in terms of the most authentic food and local interactions, so visit sparingly.

6. Don’t leave a tip

As in Japanese culture, tipping is not customary in Taiwan – in some cases, it could even be considered an insult. Due to Western influences, it has become slightly more common to tip in Taiwan, particularly in international hotels and bars. Generally, though, it is not expected.

7. Drinking culture is also eating culture

Cheap and cheerful with an unabashed amount of booze, a  re chao (熱炒) is the equivalent of a Japanese izakaya (or English pub). Re chao (meaning “fast fry”) serve up excellent wok-fried dishes at around 100NTD apiece, alongside Taiwan Beer and unlimited rice. Browse the tanks of live fish, lobster and other shellfish to see what’s fresh.

Taiwan's drinking culture is concentrated around the dinner table, meaning re chao restaurants often get more raucous than the bars. Those looking for the bar and club scene can try the rooftop establishments in Xinyi district after dinner.

8. There could be typhoons and earthquakes

Some of the strongest tropical cyclones in the world pass over Taipei in the late summer, ripping shop signs from buildings and making mailboxes all wonky. Keep an eye out for any alerts from the Central Weather Bureau , going outside only for essentials when a typhoon is incoming.

Earthquakes are also extremely common in Taipei (though the epicenter tends to lie further south). When you feel the ground shake and your phone shriek in alarm, do not panic. A “Presidential Alert” is sent as a warning, recommending people go outside while the Earth does its thing.

9. Be quiet and courteous on public transportation

Taipei’s metro service ( MRT ) is all sleek lines and clean plastic seats, polished to a high shine. In order to keep it that way, gum, food and drink (including even water) is banned on public transportation .

Since undue noise is also frowned upon on the MRT, rarely will you hear a conversation going above a low murmur. Refrain from loud conversations unless you want to receive some hard stares.

Another faux pas on the MRT is to sit in the dark-blue priority seats. These seats are reserved for those in need, including the elderly, pregnant and people with disabilities – a norm refreshingly maintained by local straphangers.

10. Remember to give and receive with two hands

This mainly applies to financial transactions, but it can also extend to gift-giving and even passing your passport over at immigration. Giving and receiving with two hands is a sign of respect, even if it means putting your shopping down to do so.

11. Greet Taiwanese with head dips, not handshakes

A handy custom in a post-Covid world, bowing is the preferred greeting in Taiwan, with handshaking reserved for business meetings. While locals treat bowing more casually than in either Korea or Japan, a polite head dip in gratitude for a fresh bubble tea won’t ever go amiss.

12. Buy bottled water

Most locals drink bottled water in the steamy heat. A sustainable alternative is to refill your bottle at water stations across the city, using the Feng Cha App to help locate them ( 奉茶行動 ).

13. Handling chopsticks is a subtle art

As if handling chopsticks wasn’t hard enough for some people, Taiwan has a long rulebook of how not to handle them. Primarily: never stick your chopstick upright into a bowl of rice (as it is said to resemble an incense sacrifice) and never point at anything but your food with them.

Other faux pas include crossing your chopsticks and using your own set for shared dishes. Being a forgiving bunch, Taiwanese are likely to overlook any slip-ups and perhaps offer you a fork instead.

14. Expect curious looks

Is Taipei tourist-friendly? Yes. But the Taiwanese can be shy.

The approachability of Taiwanese people lies at the heart of the island’s charm. Locals tend to be curious when spotting a foreigner, so you may experience a few stares. Nonetheless, you can expect a shy smile underneath. If you catch someone staring quietly, try smiling or striking up a conversation; you may make a new friend.

15. Taiwan and China feel worlds apart

Democratic, LGBTIQ-friendly Taiwan feels like a very different destination from China, and locals may cringe at any mention of the “motherland.”

Many young Taiwanese are fiercely pro-independence, while older generations tend to have a softer attitude towards China, rooted in economic necessity. Because of this divergence, people don’t usually talk politics in polite conversation.

As well as its history with China, the national culture has been shaped by both Japanese colonialists and Indigenous populations, the latter having settled the island up to 14,000 years prior to the arrival of Chinese Han. Learn more about the island’s aboriginal culture at the Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines in Shilin .

This article was first published July 2022 and updated October 2023

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TAIWAN: The Ultimate Taipei Travel Guide 2024 + Itinerary, Things to do and more

Diy trip taipei itinerary & travel guide.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Taipei, Taiwan

Table of Contents

Planning a trip to Taiwan soon? Dive into our Taipei Taiwan Travel Guide Blog for a useful Sample DIY Taipei Itinerary, a handpicked selection of top tourist attractions, thrilling activities to experience, and must-know travel tips to enhance your journey.

I f you haven’t been to Taipei, Taiwan, you’re missing out on a lot in life. Taiwan is one of the Asian countries with the most beautiful cultures. It combines the liveliness of Chinese culture and the elegance of Japanese culture. Taiwan was conquered by the Japanese from 1895 to 1945, and its Chinese roots continually shaped its culture. Taiwan, therefore, has this combination of both Chinese and Japanese influence, and the beauty of the mixture, along with a bit of a mix of Taiwan’s own culture, produced a beautiful, whole new culture in itself—this is why I think Taiwan has the most exquisite culture in Asia.

Its capital city, Taipei, especially showcases Taiwan’s culture. Taipei, a famous tourist destination in Taiwan, is noted for its colorful, bustling streets, night markets, and towering Taipei 101 skyscraper. Taipei has so much of Taiwan’s culture condensed in its area that it is virtually impossible to run out of new things to see and do here. So, if you haven’t been to Taipei yet, it’s time to start planning to—and here’s the Ultimate Taipei Travel Guide to help you out.

Starting in November 2017, Filipino Passport holders no longer need to secure a visa to visit Taiwan. Philippine passport holders can travel to the Republic of China (Taiwan) completely visa-free for 14 days.

Visa-Free Requirements for Filipino Travelers

A visa-free traveler only needs to prepare the four documents listed below:

• An ordinary/regular passport with a remaining validity of at least six months from the date of entry (Diplomatic & Official passport holders are not eligible for visa-free treatment);
• A return ticket or a ticket for the traveler’s next destination and a visa for that destination if it is required;
• Proof of accommodation (hotel) booking or host/sponsor’s contact information, tour arrangements, travel, visit, events and meeting, etc.
• A completed “Arrival Card” may be obtained from the airline or cruise ship company.

Then, the completed arrival card with a passport is presented to the immigration officials at an airport or seaport upon their arrival in Taiwan. (complete FAQ)

• New Taiwan Dollar (TWD) is the currency of Taiwan
• Php100 is approximately NT$56.46
• To avoid currency loss, don’t change your money at the airport
• I prefer ATM withdrawal in Taipei; just notify your bank that you are traveling to avoid the hassle.

When is the best time to visit Taiwan?

Taipei has a semi-tropical climate characterized by hot and humid weather. The most comfortable season to visit is the fall, when the rainfall is at its lowest, and the temperatures average a pleasant 20°C. February to April are particularly damp with little sunlight, while the summers can be scorching but often punctuated by heavy thundershowers.

Taipei is prone to typhoons from May to October, though the highest concentrations are in August and September. Winters can be pretty chilly, with temperatures occasionally falling below 10°C at night, though snowfall has never been known to occur.

Summer (June – August)

Summers in Taipei are hot and humid. These months are usually the off-peak period for tourists, and it is best for budget travelers since there’s a huge inventory of rooms, which may lead to more hotel price markdowns.

Fall (September – November)

This is the time of the year when the weather is more enjoyable. It’s not too hot or cold, making it a significant period to visit Taipei from a weather perspective. October is also the official end of the tropical cyclone (typhoon) season; you can expect less rain and more sunny days.

Winter (December – February)

This is the driest month of the year, and it’s perfect if you want to do walking tours or outdoor trips. This is also one of the busiest since the winter season is the Christmas season. Avoid Taipei’s Chinese New Year celebration if you hate too many crowds, expensive flights, and hotels. It is usually celebrated at the end of January or early February.

Spring (March-May)

The temperature is somehow similar to the fall, which is around 20 degrees Celsius, but there are times when there will be precipitation.

As for when to stay, Taipei, Taiwan, generally has a fair climate all year round. However, if you’re the type of traveler who likes walking around and planning to visit Taipei’s night markets, be sure to avoid the months of July through September. July is usually the hottest month, with an average temperature of at least 30°C (85°F), while August to September is generally rainy. Although there are several activities you can engage in regardless of the weather, nothing beats exploring Taipei with nice, chill weather without the hassle of carrying a raincoat or an umbrella along with your shopping bags.

How to get there

Several international airlines offer daily flights to Taipei. Airlines like AirAsia offer flights from Manila and Cebu to Taipei.

From Manila

AirAsia’s Clark – Taipei route operates with the following schedule.

How to get from Taipei Airport to Taipei City Centre

You can ride a taxi or a bus from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport to Taipei. Both modes of transportation are available in both terminals. You can rest assured that the taxis at the airport are safe because they are accredited by the Aviation Police Bureau, but expect that there will be a fare surcharge.

On the other hand, bus fares are generally cheaper, and tickets are sold at bus counters. Buses can take you to Taipei Main Station, where you can book a much cheaper and shorter taxi ride to the hotel you booked.

The Taoyuan International Airport Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is a faster mode of transportation that directly connects the airport and Taipei City. The 51.03 km (31.71 mi) line began commercial service on March 2, 2017.

Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) Private Transfer to Taipei

• Travel in Comfort! Enjoy a direct private transfer from Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) to Taipei City.

Book your affordable Taipei Airport Transfer via KLOOK

Where to stay in Taipei

Taipei has a lot of good hotels around. YoMi Hotel ( check rates ), Via Hotel Loft ( check rates ), Ximen Hedo Hotel Kaifeng ( check rates ), and Taipei Morning Hotel ( check rates ) are some of the most affordable decent hotels and have been awarded TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence as well.

Taipei Districts

• Ximending –  Ximending is a neighborhood and shopping district in the Wanhua District of Taipei, Taiwan. It was the first pedestrian zone in Taiwan.
• Zhongshan –  The district features many recreational areas, including Rongxing Garden Park, Xinsheng Park, Yingfeng Riverside Park, Meiti Riverside Park, Zhongshan Fine Arts Park, Dajia Riverside Park, and Taipei Municipal Children’s Recreation Area.
• Da’an District –  Da’an has numerous shopping areas. On Zhongxiao East Road, Dunhua South Road, and neighboring alleys, there are clothing shops, restaurants serving world cuisines, and major department stores, including three branches of the Pacific Sogo Department Store, Breeze Center, the Ming Yao Department Store, and the immense 24-hour Eslite Bookstore.

Also Read:  Ultimate List of the Best Hotels in Taipei, Taiwan

Getting around Taipei

The lifeline of transportation in Taipei is the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system. The MRT, often called Metro Taipei, connects several major stations in Taipei. Metro Taipei displays and announces information in English aside from other languages, making it accessible for non-Chinese speakers.

The most expensive trips only cost NT$ 65, or about US$ 2. Buses are also a famous mode of transportation. Taipei buses also have English displays, which are suitable for non-Chinese speakers. Bus fares are paid per section the bus passes through, and each section is just NT$ 15, or less than US$ 1. Buses have digital displays that indicate when you should pay and when you can go down.

Taipei Transportation 

Use EasyCard while traveling in Taiwan! You can use it for the Taipei Metro, Ubike, Bus Services, Train, and even your purchases at various convenience stores! You can get EasyCard at any MRT Station and reload at MRT stations and convenience stores.

Get a Ubike! It’s a bike-sharing system in Taipei. All you need to do is register your EasyCard at one of the kiosks at each Ubike station or online using your local mobile number. You can use your credit card to rent a bike at any Ubike kiosks if you don’t have a local mobile number.

4-Hour Taipei Private Charter Service – From Taipei

Enjoy an introduction to Taiwan’s bustling capital, and pick and choose which sights you want to explore in Taipei with your own private transportation and driver for four hours.

[Book your Private Car Here]

Fun activities and places to see in taipei, visit jiufen old street in new taipei city.

New Taipei used to be called Taipei County and was a part of Taipei. Now, New Taipei is a separate city that surrounds Taipei. Quite confusing, right? Jiufen Old Street is a must-visit tourist destination near New Taipei, regardless of its origin. Once a gold mining village established by the Japanese, Jiufen Old Street is a quaint but colorful small village with plenty of food stalls and shops. Think of it as an old-school shopping district.

Join-in Tour From Taipei: Yehliu, Pingxi, Jiufen

Save money by booking affordable tours.

• Discover some of Northern Taiwan’s most beautiful scenery, just a short 1-hour ride from Taipei.
• Set off your Chinese lantern in the charming village of Pingxi and eat Taiwanese street snacks at Jiufen Old Street.
• See the Queen’s Head and some of Taiwan’s more unusual natural geological landscapes at Yehliu Geopark.
• Discover the delights of Jiufen, Yehliu, and Pingxi with your expert local travel guide and driver.

Book your Tour Here

Shop some more in Ximending

Ximending is often referred to as the Harajuku of Taipei. It’s the first pedestrian zone in Taipei—meaning no motor vehicles pass by. You’re free to walk around and shop ’til you drop or walk around ’til your feet hurt. There are countless shops in this neon-lit shopping district, ranging from individual food vendors to larger buildings. Think of it as an urban shopping district.

How to get there:   Take the THSR to Taipei Station, continue by MRT to  Ximen Station, or take the train to Taipei Railway Station and continue by MRT to Ximen  Station.

Go shrimp fishing. That’s right, you read right.

If Japan has goldfish scooping, Taipei has shrimp fishing. Shrimp fishing is paid per hour, and you’ll be provided with poles, bait (usually chicken liver), and a tray to place your fresh catch! What’s better is you can grill your catch on the spot too. Shrimp fishing indoor pools are located in clusters near Shilin Night Market, where you can…

Hualien Night Tour to River Shrimping with BBQ Dinner 

Nowadays, barbecue is not a cuisine but a culture. It has even become an eating lifestyle in many countries. For decades, barbecue as an entertainment event has traditionally bonded families and friends. Children rarely experience fun catching shrimp in the wild brook!

Buy a souvenir or two from the Shilin Night Market.

The Shilin Night Market is a famous shopping center in town. It opens at 4 pm and closes as late as 2 in the morning. There were 539 food stalls as of 2002. These stalls sell food and non-food items, and if you want to buy authentic street food (aside from souvenirs), this is the place for you.

Pray in Lungshan Temple of Manka.

The Buddhist temple of Lungshan Temple of Manka is a famous worship spot. It is home to Chinese deities Mazu and Guan Yu and was constructed in 1738. During the subsequent years, the temple was damaged during the Japanese rule in Taiwan and American air raids in 1945. Although the parts of the temple were reconstructed after the Second World War, it still stands as one of the most iconic temples that showcase classical Taiwanese culture.

How to get to Lungshan Temple

By MRT: Take the Blue Line 5 to Longshan Temple; the temple is located just north of the station plaza, Exit 1.

By Train: Longshan is located one block north of Wanhua station, accessible by Local service.

Location:  No. 211, Guangzhou Street, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10853 Telephone:  +886 2 2302 5162 Hours:  6am-10pm Daily

Shrink in front of the massive Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.

It’s impossible to miss Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in Taipei. It’s a gigantic white monument built in memory of the former President of the Republic of China, Chiang Kai-shek. It’s surrounded by an equally huge park. Moreover, the building is full of meanings. For instance, the octagonal blue roof symbolizes the number 8, commonly associated with good fortune. On the other hand, the 89 steps leading to the entrance represent the age of the former President’s age of death.

• Address:   No. 21, Zhongshan South Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100
• No Entrance Fee
• Hours: 9 am to 6 pm daily

Visit the National Palace Museum

Located in Shilin, Taipei, Taiwan, The National Palace Museum has a permanent collection of nearly 700,000 pieces of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts and artworks. Through Chiang Kai-shek’s initiative, he moved some collections from China to Taiwan in the late 1940s to escape the Communists. This Museum has a vast array of beautiful artifacts and is worth visiting.

How to get to the National Palace Museum

• Take the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line to the Shilin Station and bus R30 (Red 30 – Low-floor bus) to the National Palace Museum. Other routes that will take you to and near the Museum Plaza are buses 255, 304, 815 (Sanchung – NPM Line), M1, Minibus 18, and Minibus 19.
• Take the MRT Wenhu Line to the Dazhi Station and take bus B13 (Brown 13) to the National Palace Museum before the Front Facade Plaza of the Museum.
• Alternatively, visitors may take the Wenhu Line and get off at Jiannan Rd. Station, take bus B20 (Brown 20) to NPM’s front entrance (Main Building).
• From MRT Red Line 2 Shilin station, walk outside the station and board Bus R30, fare NT$15, payable by cash or Easycard.
• Busses generally leave every 30 minutes on weekdays until 7 pm and 15 minutes on weekends until 6:55 pm.

Location:  No. 221, Sec 2, Zhi Shan Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111 Telephone:  +886 2 2881 2021

National Palace Museum E-Ticket

• Enter the National Palace Museum and view one of the largest Chinese art collections.
• Marvel at architecture from the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum
• Discover Taipei’s treasures and learn about Chinese dynasties

Book your National Palace Museum e-Ticket Here

Travel to another world in Huashan 1914 Creative Park.

Huashan 1914 Creative Park has things you won’t see anywhere else in Taipei. Upside-down houses? Check. Giant soup bowl? Check. House covered in green plants? Check. Sophisticated cafes? Check! However, a funny thing about Huashan 1914 Creative Park is that it was built in 1916, not 1914. It started out as a winery that was made during Japanese rule. After being shut down decades later, local artists petitioned to reopen the abandoned winery. Not long after, Huashan 1914 Creative Park came to light and served, and still serves, as the playground of local artists and their creative minds.

Gaze at the breathtaking views in Taipei 101.

Taipei 101 is one of the World’s tallest skyscrapers next to the Burj Khalifa. Taipei 101 is also the tallest green building in the World. The 101-story building offers the best view deck in Taiwan on its 89th floor. It’s equipped with the World’s fastest elevator that can take you from the 5th floor to the 89th in less than a minute. The scenic view of Taipei is beautiful at all times. Still, I recommend coming to Taipei 101 from sunset to nighttime—the view of the horizon burning in red and orange before and the city lights slowly switching on is just rewarding.

Taipei 101 Observatory Priority Pass Ticket

Climb to the highest viewing platform of Taipei 101, Taiwan’s most iconic building. Ride one of the World’s fastest elevators to the 89th floor and check out the spectacular city view.

Book your Taipei 101 Quick Entry Ticket Here

Taipei 101 Observatory Skyhigh Camping Experience

Visit the elephant mountain.

Also known as the Nangang District Hiking Trail, it is best visited in the afternoon until sundown. This area provides a beautiful panoramic view of the forest and tall buildings.

The trail is close to the Taipei Metro Xiangshan Station. It is 183 m high and has a hiking trail that is about 1.5 km long.

Admission:  Free

What to eat

Egg pudding…in an egg..

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nataly Phuong (@natalyphuong)

The How Sweet bakery is famous for its egg pudding…served in actual eggs! The tip of the egg is cut, and the pudding is stored inside. No worries: the eggshell is sanitized and is enhanced, so it doesn’t break. How Sweet’s famous egg puddings can be bought from Taipei Main Station.

Bite a crispy fried cuttlefish

If you aren’t satisfied yet with Shilin Night Market’s food stalls, then you’ll be stoked to know that there’s another food-filled night market just south of Shilin and near SongSan Train Station… the Raohe Night Market. Here, you can spot Taipei’s version of food trucks and where you can indulge in freshly fried, crispy cuttlefish. Yum!

Indulge in a bowl of beef noodle soup

Your trip to Taipei won’t be complete if you haven’t tried its beef noodle soup at Din Tai Fung or in any noodle shop. The dish usually consists of tender beef, crispy greens, noodles, spice, and broth that deserves to be rewarded with a huge golden trophy. Most restaurants in Taipei serve their own versions of beef noodle soup, but you should try Regent Taipei’s twist.

You can also try cold noodles. Taipei doesn’t just have hot beef noodles; it also has cold ones, which you should definitely try. Taiwanese cold noodles are usually served with sesame seeds and sometimes with peanut sauce. Each stall has its own version as well.

Scallion Pancake in Yongkang St.

Din Tai Fung is not the only reason people visit Yongkang St. This street is a haven for food lovers. From Noodle houses, Bakeries, Fresh Fruit shops, and some shopping areas, there are a lot of things to do and see in this famous foodie district. Tian Jin Flaky Scallion Pancake is a must-try when you visit Yongkang St. This restaurant is hard to miss since you will immediately notice the long queue of customers waiting for their turn. With its semi-crispy pastry, you can choose an egg, cheese, bacon, Taiwanese basil, and other options to add more flavor to your Scallion pancake!

[ Click here to search for luxury hotels in Taipei, Taiwan]

Pork Xiao Long Bao at Din Tai Fung

If you want to taste one of the best Pork, Xiao Long Bao, in Taiwan, visit Din Tai Fung in Yongkang St. Steamed pork dumplings or xiao long bao containing minced pork wrapped in freshly made dough, pleated and twisted at the top and steamed.

Spring Onion Pie

Probably one of the most common street foods you will find in almost all the night markets in Taipei. This Onion Pie is a little crispy on the outside, but it has sweet and soft dough filled with minced spring onions.

Stinky Tofu

Like how people hated Durian, this stinky tofu is also delicious, but not everyone can appreciate its pungent odor. This fermented tofu is also one of the most famous street foods you can find in most night markets in Taiwan.

Super Mango Snowflake Ice with Panna Cotta

This yummy mango-flavored dessert has creamy shaved ice, real diced mangoes on the side, and a pannacotta on top. It’s really worth it, but make sure to be with someone; I had to finish it alone:)

Taipei Night Market Walking Tour

• Sample 12 classic Taiwanese snacks
• Experience a bustling Taipei night market and learn about Taiwan’s rich food culture from an expert foodie guide.

Book your Night Market Tour Here

Free WiFi in Taipei

Taipei is one of those Cities where FREE WiFi is widely available in most public places, and some of the city buses are called TPE-Free. To activate, you must register online or visit the visitor information centers and present your passport for assistance. Once registered, you can also use your account for the nationwide free WiFi called iTaiwan.

If you don’t want to rely on free WiFi access, you can buy a local sim card that offers 4-7 days of unlimited 3g or LTE data. You only need to present your passport and another valid ID at the nearest Mobile Carrier shops to buy a local data sim card.

Taiwan Unlimited 4G Portable WiFi Rental

Get your 4G Portable WiFi Rental to access unlimited high-speed internet while traveling in Taiwan.

Book your Taiwan 4G Pocket WiFi Here

Trivia about Taipei, Taiwan

• The popular Asian beverage “Bubble Tea” or “Boba,” made with milk and tapioca pearl, originated in Taiwan in the ’90s.
• You can find the World’s first animated pedestrian light, also known as the little green man, to the locals in Xinyi District.
• Taipei 101, at a height of 509.2 meters (1,671 ft), was the tallest building in the World until it was surpassed by Dubai’s Burj Khalifa in 2008. It still claims the official records for the World’s tallest sundial and the World’s largest New Year’s Eve countdown clock.
• The National Palace Museum, located in Shilin, Taipei, had over 5.3 million visitors in 2015 and ranks sixth among the most-visited museums in the World.
• Tsai Lng-wen became Taiwan’s first female President when she won the election in January 2016.
• With over 82,000 participants, Taiwan Pride is the biggest LGBT event in Asia, and protests in support of same-sex marriage are significant and peacefully observed by police. This has led many to refer to Taiwan as one of the most liberal countries in Asia.

Taipei, Taiwan Travel and Tou r Packages

Day Tour from Taipei: Northern Taiwan Private Charter (Book Online) – For 10 hours, Visit northern Taiwan’s most iconic sites like the Queen’s Head Rock in Yehliu, the Japanese colonial town of Jiufen, and eat fresh seafood at Guei Hou Fishing Harbor.

Taiwan Northeast Coast Day Tour (Book Online) – Escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown Taipei and embark on a fascinating journey to explore Taiwan’s Northeastern coastline and its stunning beaches.

8-hour Chartered Day Tour to Taipei-Hualien (Book Online) – Tour Duration: 8 Hours –  Train tickets from Taipei to Hualien are hard to get. If there is a group of you, why not charter a car from Taipei to Hualien? Or charter from Hualien to Taipei? You will be able to see sights along the way that you will not see by train. The Suhua Highway is the most beautiful in Taiwan. You can get out of the car and take pictures or see sights, making the long journey more fun!

• Tours in Taipei: Exploring the Northeast Coast of Taiwan
• Eight Things I Love About Taiwan
• 10 Amazing Reasons Why You Should Visit Taipei Now

We will continuously update this Taipei Travel Guide Blog with new travel tips, updated itineraries, budget tips, hotel recommendations, and top places to eat to help our dear readers plan their trip to Taipei. For comments, corrections, and suggestions, feel free to comment below:

Originally Published: January 14, 2017

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Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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The First-Timer’s Taipei Travel Guide

Updated March 2024

Whether this is your first time in Asia or your second, this first-timer’s Taipei travel guide will show you all that there is to discover. Taipei is a sprawling city and with so much to see and do, you could get lost down the lantern-stringed streets for hours.

Taipei was not the kind of city I had expected for Asia. It was my first time visiting Taipei so I was excited to explore it on my own. It was organized yet there were whizzing motorcycles, it was cosmopolitan yet felt tropical. There was the kind of upscale dining you’d expect, but for every 5 star restaurant there was a food cart to match. You could experience both sides of the spectrum and truly enjoy both. Taipei is a city for those who love food and who love to explore endless streets. A trip to Taipei is the experience for those looking to be surprised by somewhere that is too often overlooked.

There are so many things to do in Taipei, so take a look at where to say in Taipei and use this travel guide to help plan your trip!

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Taipei:

• CHECK inn , for the best centrally-located hotel
• W Taipei , for the best elevated hotel

For more Taipei planning resources, don’t miss why I fell in love with Taipei and my guide to the top things to do !

What to Know Before Visiting Taipei

Getting to Taipei

Taipei has a great international airport that is easily reached with many direct flights. Landing in Taoyuan International Airport, you can take the shuttle bus (U-bus) to the Taoyuan High Speed Rail station to access Taipei Main Station. Pre-arranged transfers with a hotel is also advised.

Getting Around Taipei

Once in the city of Taipei, the MRT (metro) is easy to use. Be sure to get an Easy Card at a Seven Eleven to use for easy entry into train stations.

Uber is very affordable and practical for getting around Taipei. Avoid rush hour as traffic can be painfully slow.

Currency and Money

The Easy Card is your best friend as you can use it for trains, busses, buying food at Seven Eleven and even taxis. This is like their local credit card.

Cash is king here and though most nice restaurants and cafes will accept credit card, cash is still needed for many places.

I’d suggest a translating app to assist while traveling in Taiwan. English is widely spoken in Taipei but a few phrases in the local language always helps.

I would recommend a minimum of 4 nights if you plan to do a day trip at least once. The city is big, with plenty to do and eat.

If you’re not to sure what to expect in Taiwan, take a look at this post on why I fell in love with the city.

Weather and When to Visit

Through looking at the different seasons, I believe the best time to visit Taipei is during the fall. It is cool weather and the least amount of rain.

The summers in Taipei can be hot and humid, so I’d avoid the peak of summer if you don’t love the heat.

Where to Stay in Taipei

Check inn (where i stayed).

Centrally located and footsteps from the MRT, this is a good, well-priced option. It is a young hotel and features a good cafe for breakfast and coffee as well. Book the best rates here .

For those looking for a luxe experience, this design-forward hotel is the spot. Well located and beautiful, it’s an upscale stay. Book the best rates here .

Where to Eat in Taipei

Addiction Aquatic Center

Easily some of the best sushi I have ever had, this place is a must. A cash-only sushi bar inside a fish market that is stunning and a great night out in Taipei.

Din Tai Fung

This is a classic and almost on everyone’s list when in Taipei. Dim sum and soup dumplings are a must on a visit to Taipei. Pro-tip: Put your name on the list and head to the top of Taipei 101 before settling for lunch or dinner.

Choose me Cafe & Restaurant

Solid cafe for coffee and small plates.

Restaurant Pinecone

Inventive dishes in a beautiful space, like Japanese-fried chicken over spaghetti.

Aura Pizzeria

Come here for your pizza cravings.

Ay Chung Flour Rice Noodles

The place (with lines) which serves some incredible Taiwanese noodles and food.

Yongkang Beef Noodles

An iconic dish from Taiwan, beef noodle soup is a staple during a trip.

Beautiful space with a brunch menu.

Ice Monster

A must try is Taiwanese shaved ice and this place serves some of the best.

What to Do in Taipei

• Book a private full-day tour of the city
• Check out the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall . This is one of the best things to do in Taipei
• Shop and cafe hop down the tree-lined Fujin Street
• Go to the top of Taipei 101 Observatory for a great view of the city. Be sure to put your name down at Din Tai Fung before going up
• Catch sunset over the city from Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan Trail, Nangang District Hiking Trail)
• Explore the National Palace Museum to see Chinese art and artifacts
• Head to the neighborhood of Ximending District where you can shop through multiple merchants and there’s plenty to eat
• Hit a night market while in town, like the Shilin Night Market
• Take a day trip to Jiufen
• One of my favorite places to visit from Taipei is also Sun Moon Lake

If you’re looking for a guided day tour, take a look at these options:

*Bon Traveler was welcomed as a guest of Taiwan Tourism Bureau. As always, all opinions are own.

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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This is great thank you so much! I’m hoping to go there in the spring and will definitely go to some of the places you recommend. it looks amazing!

Amazing! Have a wonderful trip!!!

Thank you so much for this! I am studying abroad in Taipei this summer and I am so excited to explore the places you mentioned. Your pictures also look AMAZING. May I ask what camera you used to take these?

Ah thank you! They are all taken on a Sony A7ii. I have a full post on my camera gear if you want to see the list!

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The 13 Best Things to See and Do in Taipei

Taipei, the capital of Taiwan and its most populous city, is the epicenter of tourism for the country (though most people just come for a short layover as it’s a major air hub for Asia).

And while there is plenty to do elsewhere in Taiwan , even if you don’t leave Taipei, you can still find lots of things to see and do in the area to fill close to a week!

I love Taipei. I lived here in 2010 while I taught English and built this website. It was a wonderful experience that helped me grow as a person. A decade later, I finally made it back to the city I loved so much and it was remarkable to see that so much of what I loved was still there: the endless gigantic food markets serving some of the best food in the world, a wild nightlife, spacious parks, interesting and quirky museums, and nearby mountains that call to you with easy and accessible hikes.

Taipei (like Taiwan as a whole) is a hugely underrated destination and I can’t urge you enough to visit. It combines culture, nature, wonderful people, and affordability. I don’t understand why more people don’t visit but make their loss, your gain!

To help you plan your trip, here are my top 13 things to do while in Taipei:  

1. Take a Free Walking Tour

One of the first things I do when I arrive in a new destination is take a free walking tour. They show you the lay of the land and help you see a place’s highlights while learning a little about its history and culture. Plus, you get access to a local guide who can answer any and all of your questions.

Like It Formosa offers free daily walking tours around Taipei. Their tours focus more on cultural history than their competitor, Tour Me Away , which also offers free walking tours geared towards the backpacker crowd (Tour Me Away also runs pub crawls).  

2. Visit the National Palace Museum

221, Sec 2, Zhi Shan Road, +886 2 2881 2021, hnpm.gov.tw/?l=2. Open Tuesday-Sunday 9am–5pm. Skip-the-line tickets are 346 TWD while half-day city tours that include entry cost 1,510 TWD.  

3. Soak in the Hot Springs

Admission to the hot springs starts around 60 TWD per person, making it a very affordable getaway for anyone looking for some R&R.

Hot Springs Museum: No. 2, Zhongshan Road, +886 2 2893 9981, hotspringmuseum.taipei. Open daily from 9am-5pm. Admission is free.

Xinbeitou Historic Station: 1 Qixing St., +886 2 2891 5558, xbths.taipei. Open Tuesday-Thursday from 10am-6pm and Friday-Sunday from 10am-8:30pm (closed Mondays). Admission is free.  

4. Take a Cooking Class

Some cooking classes worth checking out are:

• Ivy’s Kitchen
• CookInn Taiwan
• Make My Day Cooking Lab

Expect to pay around 2,500 TWD for a class.  

5. Visit the Museums

Taipei has a lot of museums. Given its size, I was surprised by how many actually they had, especially since the city isn’t known as being a center for museums. Here are some of my favorites:

• National Taiwan Museum – This is the oldest museum in Taiwan and covers its history from a variety of different scientific perspectives, such as anthropology, earth sciences, zoology, and botany. It’s really basic and best if you go with kids. Admission is 30 TWD.
• Miniatures Museum of Taipei – Opened in 1997, this museum is home to over 200 architectural miniatures, including castles, replica towns and streets, and even a 1/12 scale model of Buckingham Palace. It’s a weird museum but pretty cool. Admission is 200 TWD.
• Museum of Contemporary Arts – I’m not a fan of contemporary art myself, but if you are, then don’t miss this museum. It has a rotating collection of exhibits, so there is always something new on display. Admission is 100 TWD.
• Taipei Astronomical Museum – A fun and educational museum with exhibitions on ancient astronomy, technology, telescopes, the solar system, and much more. Admission is 40 TWD.
• Taipei Fine Art Museum – Opened in 1983, this was the first art museum in Taiwan. It’s home to a wide variety of works from both international and Taiwanese artists and hosts rotating exhibitions too. Admission is 30 TWD.
• National 228 Memorial Museum – This museum is dedicated to the tragic events that began on February 28, 1947, when an uprising against the Chinese government started following World War II. Admission is free.

6. Go Hiking

• Xiangshan Trail – An easy 45-minute hike that offers nice views of Taipei. It’s just a 10-minute walk from the Xiangshan MRT station.
• Bitoujiao Trail – Located one hour from town by car, this moderate hike takes you along the coast. The trail is in the Ruifeng District 11km east of Jiufen. The hike takes 2-3 hours.
• Jinmianshan Trail – An easy 1.5-hour hike in Yangmingshan National Park. The trail starts a 10-minute walk from the Xihu MRT station.
• Huang Didian Trail – A challenging ridge hike that takes around five hours. From Muzha Station, board the bus to Huafan University and get off at Huangdi Temple. From there, the trail is 25 minutes away on foot.
• Pingxi Crag Trail – A moderate 2-3-hour hike with lots of steep sections. For experienced hikers only. The trail begins just five minutes away from Pingxi station.

7. Take a Day Trip to Jiufen

Jiufen is tiny. You can walk around in about 30 minutes. The center of the city and its historic streets and buildings are all preserved as they looked 100 years ago so walking around here is a cool experience. Be sure to come early (like first thing in the morning) to beat the crowds because, by midday, the streets are wall-to-wall people. If you stay the night, you’ll also get the city to yourself once the crowds leave around 4pm.

As a tea lover, this is one of my favorite places in Taiwan because it’s home to some beautiful teahouses in the most stunning settings. It also overlooks a bay in the distance, and there are lots of lookouts.

Some teahouses not to miss are:

• Siidcha Tea House
• Skyline Tea House
• Amei Tea House
• Jiufen Tea House

Additionally, there are a few museums highlighting the town’s gold mining past, lots of parks and lookouts, and some nearby hiking trails. (If you want to hike, spend the night as you’ll need the extra time.)

The trip will take around 1-1.5 hours by train and bus. Take the train from Songshan Station (in Taipei) to Ruifang Station. From there you can take a bus straight to Jiufen. Expect to spend around 130-200 TWD for your round-trip ticket. There are also tourist buses with organized day trips but these can cost upwards of 1,000 TWD.  

8. See the Temples

• Longshan Temple – Built in 1738, this temple was built to honor the goddess of mercy, Guanyin. There are also statues worshipping 100 other Chinese folk deities here as well. The temple has been damaged or destroyed numerous times by earthquakes or military conflicts, but it is always rebuilt by the locals who still visit and worship at it. No. 211, Guangzhou Street, Wanhua District.
• Bao-an Temple – Dalongdong Baoan Temple (Bao-an for short) is a Taiwanese folk religion temple and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It dates to the mid-18th century and is home to two dragon columns that are over two centuries old. It looks particularly amazing lit up at night. No. 61, Hami Street, Datong District.
• Confucius Temple – Located near the Bao-an temple, this simple temple is dedicated to the famous philosopher Confucius, whose teachings are part of the cultural backbone of both Taiwan and mainland China. It’s modeled after the original Confucius Temple in Qufu, the hometown of Confucius in mainland China. No. 275, Dalong Street, Datong District.

9. Enjoy the View from Taipei 101

Additionally, go to Morton’s Steakhouse for happy hour. Not only do they have super cheap drink specials but their patio provides some extraordinary views of Taipei 101 itself.

No. 7, Section 5, Xinyi Road, taipei-101.com.tw/en. Open daily 11am–9pm. Admission is 600 TWD. Skip-the-line tickets are 1,200. I would definitely recommend getting your ticket in advance.  

10. See the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

In addition to his monument, which is over 75 meters (250 feet) tall, there is also a massive open square where rallies and protests have been held over the years (hence its renaming as Liberty Square). The memorial also houses a library and a museum that documents Chiang Kai-shek’s life and career. It also has exhibits on Taiwan’s history and how the country evolved throughout the years.

No. 21, Zhongshan South Road, Zhongzheng District, +886-2-2343-1100, cksmh.gov.tw/en. Open daily from 9am-6pm. Admission is free.  

11. Ride the Maokong Gondola

Stations at Taipei Zoo (2), Zhinan Temple, and Maokong. Open Monday–Friday 9am–9pm, 8:30am–10pm on weekends. Tickets start at 70 TWD.  

12. Explore the Night Markets

• Shulin Night Market – This is the biggest night market in Taiwan. Opened in 2017, it is home to over 400 vendors and covers a massive 12 acres. It’s full of delicious (and cheap) street food, as well as clothing, electronics, and all sorts of souvenirs and other goods.
• Raohe Night Market – The second most popular night market. Be sure to try the black pepper buns while you’re here. There’s also a Michelin-recognized food stall that you shouldn’t miss called Chen Dong Ribs Stewed in Medicinal Herbs.
• Tonghua Night Market – This night market is popular with locals, as it has a ton of delicious places to eat. It’s essentially a food market more than anything else. Be sure to try the stinky tofu!
• Snake Alley – Located in the former red-light district, Snake Alley (aka Huaxi Street Night Market)it gets its name from the fact that many tourists used to come here to eat snake meat. While I wouldn’t recommend that, there’s a tasty Michelin-recognized stall that’s worth sampling called Hsiao Wang Steamed Minced Pork with Pickles in Broth.
• Ningxia Night Market – This is one of the smaller night markets, so it’s easy to explore (though it does get crowded). There are lots of delicious oyster stalls here.

13. See the National Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall

In addition to the hall’s display of Sun’s possessions, it also serves as a meeting place, educational center, and cultural center.

No. 505, Section 4, Ren’ai Road, (02) 27588008 #546, yatsen.gov.tw/en. Open daily 9am–6pm. Admission is free.

From the food to museums to natural beauty, Taipei is a world-class city that I don’t think people appreciate enough. It needs to be on people’s radar more. I loved my time living there and coming back to visit just reminded me how marvelous (and affordable) the city is!

Make visiting Taipei a priority. With so much to see and do, you’re guaranteed to have an outstanding visit.

Book Your Trip to Taipei: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Two of my favorite places to stay are:

• Star Hostel
• Meander Taipei Hostel

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Wantt More Information on Taiwan? be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Taiwan for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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A Travel Guide to Taipei, Taiwan’s Tantalizing Capital

Taipei City (臺北市) has everything you could possibly hope for in an awesome capital city.

The list of reasons to visit goes on: unbeatable street food and night markets, temples and culture galore, ultra-convenient public transportation and public share bikes, excellent museums, extremely safe streets, welcoming people, and beaches, volcanoes, hot springs and hiking opportunities right on Taipei’s doorstep.

Like any big city, planning a trip to Taipei can be a little intimidating. In this guide, I’ve condensed all the essential info for planning a trip to Taipei, based on many years of living in Taipei, writing about it, and helping travelers in my Taiwan Travel Planning group .

Table of Contents

Taipei City Introduction

The Taipei area was originally home to the Ketagalan aboriginal tribe – you can learn more about them at the free Ketagalan Culture Center at Beitou Hot Spring, Taipei’s premier hot spring village.

Taipei literally means “Taiwan North” (臺 / 台 or tai for Taiwan + 北 or bei for north). It only became the capital of Taiwan in 1894. The original capital of Taiwan was Tainan (臺南 or “Taiwan South”). There’s also a Tai-middle ( Taichung ), Tai-east ( Taitung ), and Tai-west (a tiny village called Taixi).

Taipei was originally a walled city, today’s Wanhua/Bangka District (萬華區). It was accessed by five traditional gates, four of which are still standing today, but only one in its original form (North Gate or Beimen/北門). This is considered the Old City of Taipei , where many travelers stay. Popular Ximending neighborhood and Longshan Temple are there, while Taipei Main Station is a short walk away.

Taipei’s Eastern District (東區) is, by contrast, a ritzy and glamorous neighborhood of upscale malls, luxury boutiques, and high end restaurants. There you’ll find Taipei 101, the city and country’s most recognizable landmark . Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) flanks Eastern District, providing the city’s most famous view.

Today, Taipei city is known for its world-class MRT , which makes getting around the city a breeze, high concentration of convenience stores, legendary night markets, vast array of restaurants, and cultural and historical attractions.     

The area surrounding Taipei used to be called Taipei County , but in 2010 it became a city of its own: New Taipei City . Most day trips from Taipei are to places in New Taipei City, like Jiufen, Shifen , Yehliu, and Yehliu (see them on this tour ). I cover these, and other popular day trips from Taipei, in my guide to New Taipei City.

New Taipei City (population 4 million) is technically Taiwan’s largest city by population. But in practice, Taipei City (population 2.4 million), New Taipei City, and Keelung form one mega city.

Called Greater Taipei or the Taipei-New Taipei-Keelung Metropolitan Area, it is the largest city in Taiwan , with 7 million people, or 30% of the country’s population.

Quick Tips for Visiting Taipei

• Try to avoid Lunar New Year (if you have to, see my guide to visiting Taipei during Chinese New Year ), Plum Rain Season (May to early June), and summer (too hot and typhoon season). Long weekends and NYE (December 31 weekend) are also very busy.
• Get an EasyCard for the convenience of swiping onto all public transportation in the city (see more details about EasyCard below). Also see the best apps to download here .
• The Taoyuan Airport MRT is the best way to get to the city, while the Taipei MRT is the best way to get around the city. Here’s a list of budget flights to Taoyuan Airport and you can find the best flight deals here . Also see my guide to Taoyuan Airport .
• Some restaurants and attractions in Taipei are closed on Mondays , so double check opening hours before going.
• You’ll need cash for most street food and smaller shops in Taipei. Exchange money at the airport or withdraw from ATMs.
• Book your regular (TRA) train tickets out of the city early, especially to Hualien . They often sell out. You can buy High Speed Rail tickets even last minute, but booking early gives you a discount. More info on all that below!
• Tipping in Taipei is almost always not required, and could even be offensive.
• Dress however you want , even for visiting temples, but going barefoot or without a shirt is not OK. Read more FAQs about Taiwan here .

Getting to Taipei

Taipei is extremely well connected to other cities in Taiwan, Asia, and around the world.

Taipei City has two airports. The larger, main airport is Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), located in Taoyuan City , about 30 kilometers west of Taipei. The smaller Songshan Airport (TSA) is in the Taipei city center. It handles mostly domestic flights and a limited number of international ones.

Budget airlines like Air Asia , Tigerair Taiwan , Peach , Jetstar , Scoot , Cebu Pacific , Thai Lion Air , T’Way , Jeju Air , and JinAir opeate low-cost flights between Taipei and other cities in Asia. I recommend using Kiwi.com to search all these budget airlines at once.

Air Canada , United Airlines , Cathay Pacific , and Japan Airlines are a few major airlines flying into Taipei, while Taiwan’s own Eva Airlines (the Hello Kitty one!) and China Airlines are well-rated. Try comparing their prices on Kiwi with booking direct – direct is usually best, but Kiwi is sometimes cheaper.

The smaller Uni Air and Mandarin Airlines operate domestic flights in Taiwan, including to some of the small offshore islands – search for their flights here on KKDay for discounted fares or if you find the airline websites hard to use.

High Speed Rail

Taiwan’s HSR (High Speed Rail) whizzes down the west coast only, from Taipei City in the north to Zuoying ( Kaohsiung ) in the south. There are two stations in Taipei City – the first is Nangang in eastern Taipei, and the second and most popular is Taipei Main Station – where you’ll also find the Airport MRT station, TRA station, and Taipei Main MRT station.

The HSR is the fastest but priciest way to travel from Taipei to/from other major cities on the west coast of Taiwan. However, Taipei is the only city where the HSR station is in the city center. In all other cities, the station is outside of the city center.

The HSR doesn’t go to Taoyuan International Airport. To connect to it, you’ll need to ride the Airport MRT to Taoyuan HSR station (going in the opposite direction from Taipei), a 20-minute ride.

You can book HSR tickets from Taipei at any station or convenience store, on the official site, here on Klook , or on the T Express app (the only option for e-tickets). On the official site, you can get an early bird discount (book up to 28 days in advance), while Klook offers a flat discount of 20% off.

You can also buy HSR tickets at the station before boarding, at full price. Just select “non-reserved ticket” on the machine, then sit anywhere in the non-reserved section (cars 10-12).

Find screenshots for all the steps to book HSR tickets 5 different ways here .

Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) operates regular trains, which do a full loop around Taiwan.

There are four TRA stations in Taipei from east to west: Nangang, Songshan, Taipei Main Station, and Wanhua.

These are a slower but cheaper alternative to the HSR, and the only way to reach destinations on the east coast of Taiwan. On the plus side, TRA stations across Taiwan are almost always in the city center.

There are a variety of TRA train types, including Local (free seating), Tze-Chiang and Chu-Kuang (reserved seats or standing allowed), and Taroko Express / Puyuma Express / Tze Chiang Limited Express 3000 (reservation only, fastest).

TRA tickets can be booked up to 28 days in advance at any station or convenience store, on the official site , or on the 臺鐵e訂通 app for e-tickets. Find more details and screenshots of each method in post covering how to book train tickets in Taipei .

Booking TRA tickets in advance is recommended, especially for express trains from Taipei to Hualien (an extremely popular route), or for trains on weekends or holidays. There are no discounts.  

A number of bus companies operate relatively inexpensive buses from Taipei to cities across Taiwan (except for Hualien and Taitung on the east coast – take the train for those). These buses are generally very comfortable, with large seats, and some even have WiFi.

Most depart from Taipei Bus Station just north across the street from Taipei Main Station, while Kuo Kuang Bus Company’s main bus station is on the Taipei Main Station side of the street.

Getting around Taipei

One of the best things about Taipei is how easy it is to get around. Visitor’s are often surprised at just how excellent Taipei’s public transporation is.

For the sake convenience, you’ll want to get an EasyCard for swiping on to the MRT and local buses in Taipei and all other major cities in Taiwan.

The card costs TWD 100 (non-refundable deposit) plus however much money you want to load onto it. Buy it on Klook for pickup when you arrive at Taoyuan Airport (note the available times), at any MRT station, or at convenience stores (super cute ones available).

You can also use EasyCards to pay for some taxis, some street food stalls, convenience stores, ferries (Tamsui, Cijin Island), TRA trains (standing tickets only), a few long distance buses in Taiwan (for example the bus from Sun Moon Lake to Alishan, but most long distance buses require a ticket), and a few attractions (like Taipei Zoo).

You can only reload EasyCards with cash, in any station or convenience store. Buying an EasyCard on Klook allows you to have a pre-loaded card when you first arrive in Taiwan.

The Taipei MRT system is the pride of Taipei. Most visitors to Taipei rely on it heavily for getting around. Download the Go! Taipei Metro app for a high-definition map, route planning, and more.

Kids under six ride free, while 6-12 can get a Concessionaire Card from the ticket window in any station – it only offers some very small discounts. You can also buy single-ride tokens from the machines in every station – cash only. All stations have restrooms, trash bins, and are wheelchair friendly.

There are some rules on the Taipei MRT: no eating, no chewing gum, dark blue seats are for the needy, line up in the designated spots, keep talking to a whisper, and the right side of escalators is for standing.

Note that the Airport MRT is operated by Taoyuan City, not Taipei. You can swipe EasyCard for the Airport MRT, but arriving at Taipei Main Station, you’ll have to swipe out of the Airport MRT station, walk 5-10 minutes, then swipe in to the Taipei MRT station for transferring to other areas in Taipei.

Local Buses

Sometimes it is more convenient, faster and/or cheaper to hop on a local bus in Taipei. You’ll need to swipe your EasyCard when you get on and again when you get off. For most buses, you can get on / off at the front or back door.

Buses are the only way to get to National Palace Museum or Yangmingshan National Park by public transportation .

GoogleMaps or the Bus+ app are good for finding bus times and bus stop locations.

Yellow Taxis are extremely common in Taipei. You can stand on just about any main road at any time of day or night and one will come by within a few minutes. A little red lights shines in the front window if it is available. Use the FindTaxi – Taiwan Taxi Finder to order one in English.

Taxis are relatively cheap, with a starting rate of TWD 85. They are safe and always use the meter. However, some taxis are old, messy, or smelly, and some drivers are a little wild. Most drivers speak little or no English, so it’s best to show your destination address in Mandarin.

Uber, on the other hand, almost always has new cars, safe drivers, plus the benefit of entering your destination first. They can be cheaper, similar price, or more expensive than taxis depending on the time of day.

Where to Stay in Taipei

With so many cool neighborhoods and hotels to choose from, choosing the right one for you can be tough. Ideally, you’ll want to be close to an MRT station for exploring the city.

Taipei Main Station Area

Staying close to Taipei Main Station is the most convenient for access to Taipei Main Station, which has the Airport MRT, HSR Station, TRA Station, Bus Station, and MRT.

Taipei Main Station is huge, with a maze-like network of underground walkways and malls. It’s easy to get lost. Sometimesit’s best to just go up to street level then find your way from there.

APause (see on Booking / Agoda ) is a good budget choice near Taipei Main Station. CityInn Taipei Station Branch III (see on Booking / Agoda ) is a popular mid-range choice with family rooms.

For rooms with an amazing view of the city, stay at Roaders Plus (see on Booking / Agoda ). It also has a children’s playroom and free snacks in the lobby.

Ximending (or Ximen) is the most popular neighborhood in Taipei for travelers. It’s only 10-20 minutes on foot, or one MRT stop on the blue line, from Taipei Main Station.

The core of the neighborhood is a walking and shopping district full of cool shops and restaurants. For budget travelers, I liked Ximen Garden Inn (see on Booking / Agoda ), which has self check-in. For mid-range travelers, Amba (see on Booking / Agoda ) is excellent and has 24-hour reception for late check-ins or the option to check in at 9 AM for half a day’s price.

GreenWorld Zhonghua (see on Booking / Agoda ) is great for families and has some connecting rooms.

For a unique experience, Ximen Airline Hotel (see on Booking / Agoda ) is an airline-themed hotel. Westgate (see on Booking / Agoda ) is a nicer option.

Best Hostels

The best hostels in Taipei are:

• Star Hostel (see on Booking / Agoda ) and Old Door Hostel (see on Booking / Agoda ) around Taipei Main Station
• Dan Hostel (see on Booking / Agoda ) in Ximending
• Star Hostel Taipei East (see on Booking / Agoda ) in Eastern District
• Dongmen 3 Hostel (see on Booking / Agoda ) in Da’an District.

To find out why I think these are the best, see my guide to the best hostels in Taipei .

Best Luxury Hotels

Taipei has some of the top luxury hotels in Taiwan . To summarize the top pics:

• Regent Taipei (see on Booking / Agoda ) for families
• Mandarin Oriental (see on Booking / Agoda ) for the most luxurious experience
• W Taipei (see on Booking / Agoda ) for the hippest choice
• Kimpton Taipei (see on Booking / Agoda ) for the most elegant choice
• Grand Hyatt (see on Booking / Agoda ) for the best Taipei 101 views
• Palais de Chine (see on Booking / Agoda ) for access to Taipei Main Station and for having Taipei’s only Michelin 3-star restaurant .

Top Things to Do in Taipei

I’ll only graze the surface here. For many more details and ideas, see my guide to the best things to do in Taipei.

The top Taipei attractions which almost every traveler visit are Taipei 101 Observatory (including the new Skyline 460 experience), Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall , Ximending walking district , Taipei Zoo & Maokong Gondola , Longshan Temple , and National Palace Museum .

Night markets are a huge attraction in Taipei, with the biggest and most famous ones being Shilin , Raohe , Ningxia , Tonghua , Huaxi , and Nanjichang Night Markets .

Read more about Taiwan’s best night markets here!

For temples, besides the most famous one, Longshan Temple, some others worth visiting are:

• Xingtian Temple (picturesque and incense-free)
• Taipei Tianhou Temple (small Matsu temple in Ximending)
• Songshan Ciyou Temple (large Matsu temple right next to Raohe Night Market )
• Bao’an Temple (overall impressive)
• Taipei Confucius Temple (most simple in design than typical Taiwanese temples)

Read more about Taipei’s best temples here .

If you’re into hiking, Elephant Mountain has the most famous city view but is very crowded, especially at sunset.

Other good ones are Jinmianshan , Jiantanshan , Four Beasts (which includes Elephant Mountain), Silver Stream Cave & Waterfall (at Maokong ), and Fuzhou Mountain . Here are some of the best hikes places to view Taipei 101 around the city.  

Yangmingshan National Park is a volcanic massif in Taipei and New Taipei City. There are several hikes and flower viewing locations – most visitors either plan a single hike there or visit multiple stops on a half-day trip by car . Find all the info in my Yangmingshan visitors’ guide .

Beitou Hot Spring in the north of the city is Taipei’s only hot spring village. It has some lovely Japanese-era buildings, steaming Thermal Valley, traditional bathhouses, and hot spring hotels. Avoid Monday, when several things are closed. See my guide to Beitou Hot Spring .

A few other attractions in Taipei include Huashan 1914 Creative Park , 44 South Village (Sisinancun), Jianguo Weekend Jade and Flowers Market , Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall , and Treasure Hill Artists Village .

Best Taipei Tours

Taipei is quite easy to explore on your own by MRT. You can hire a private driver here , but parking is difficult at many major attractions. Many people find taking the MRT and occasional Uber or taxi is sufficient.

For exploring Yangmingshan National Park , I recommend this private driver deal or this Beitou and Yangmingshan tour .

Here I introduce four free walking tours in Taipei . These are perfect if you’ve just arrived.

Many travelers take advantage of some high value day trip tours from Taipei . This one hits all the most popular stops, but there are variations like this one and this one .

How to Plan Your Taipei Itinerary

One day is too rushed to truly experience Taipei. If that’s really all you’ve got, visit Longshan Temple in the morning (Buddhist chanting takes place from 6-6:45 AM and 8-8:45 AM).

Next, head to Chian Kai-Shek Memorial Hall and Ximending for lunch. Spend the afternoon at Dihua Street or Huashan 1914 Creative Park. See the sunset from Taipei 101 or Elephant Mountain then have dinner at a night market.

With two days in Taipei city, you can add Taipei Zoo and Maokong Gondola in the south or Beitou Hot Spring, Yangmingshan, and/or Tamsui in the north. Another option is to use your second day for a day trip from Taipei.

With three days in Taipei (my most recommended), spend two full days in the city and use the third day for a day trip.

You could easily spend four, five, or more days in Taipei and never run out of things to do, especially with all the day trip possibilities. I’ve lived there for over 10 years, and there are STILL places on my need-to-visit list.  

Where to Eat in Taipei

Din Tai Fung is Taipei’s (and Taiwan’s) most famous restaurant chain. It specializes in xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). There are several branches, and all are very busy. You can’t reserve a table, but ordering your meal online will get you in a little faster.

Taipei is famous for its street food . Many visitors to Taipei eat every dinner at one of the city’s night markets . There are enough night markets that you could visit a different one every day for weeks and still have more to choose from.

Shilin Night Market is the largest and most famous. Raohe Night Market and Ningxia Night Market are tried-and-tested favorites, each with Michelin-recommended food stalls. Click the links to find out what to eat at each night market!

Tonghua (Linjiang Street) Night Market is close to Taipei 101, while Huaxi Street Night Market is rough around the edges and Nanjichang Night Market is the most local major night market.

If you’re vegetarian or vegan, see my recommended vegetarian food stalls in each night market, my favorite vegetarian restaurants in Taipei , and my vegetarian & vegan food guide .

Several districts of Taipei are also known for their food. Ximending has lots of cool restaurants and some street food, Yongkang Street is known for its excellent local restaurants and shaved ice, and Zhongxiao East Road area in Eastern Taipei has lots of BBQ, hot pot, and upscale restaurants.

For seafood lovers, the holy grail is Addiction Aquatic Development , a seafood market and upscale grocery store, with amazing take-away sushi, seafood and sushi bar, seafood hot pot, and outdoor grilled seafood restaurant.

There are some amazing food courts in Taipei – try Taipei Main Station (2F) or B1 of most department stores, including Taipei 101 Mall . Maji Square is an outdoor (but covered) food court at Yuanshan MRT station.

The b est traditional Taiwanese breakfast shops in the country can be found in Taipei. Read my guide to the best Taipei breakfast shops , my review of the most famous one, Fu Hang , and how to order breakfast foods in Taiwan .

Taipei has pretty much anything else you can think of – amazing sushi , fancy Michelin-star restaurants , noodle shops , Chinese restaurants , Taiwanese , hot pot , DIY BBQ , craft breweries , cocktail bars , and international food .

If you’re up late at night, check out these 24-hour restaurants , including breakfast shops, dim sum, and noodles.

Where to Go Shopping in Taipei

Wondering what to buy in Taipei? Start with my guide to the best souvenirs in Taiwan .

For shopping in Taipei, try Wufenpu Shopping District for discount clothing, Ximending for souvenirs and teenager clothing, Shida Night Market or the small lanes north and south of Zhongxiao East Road (try this street first ) for fashionable clothing and accessories,

For upscale shopping, try the boutiques along Zhongxiao East Road between Zhongxiao Fuxing MRT and Sun Yatsen MRT, Taipei 101 area, and departments stores like Taipei 101 Mall , Sogo , Shin Kong Mitsukoshi , Q Square , and Miramar .

For Taiwanese tea and traditional Chinese ingredients of medicines, Dihua Street in Dadaocheng is best. This is my favorite tea shop in Taipei for buying quality, bulk tea. For electronics, go to Guang Hua Digital Plaza , or for camera gear, go to Camera Street .

For Taiwanese snack souvenirs, Taoyuan Airport and High Speed Rail stations have an excellent supply. For regular souvenirs, again the airport, Ximending, or the gift shops at Taipei 101 Observatory or National Palace Museum.

Also don’t miss the chain Don Don Donki for quirky Japanese items.

Taipei Events

The biggest traditional holidays of the year in Taipei are Lunar New Year (not the best time to visit), Lantern Festival (just after Lunar New Year), Dragon Boat Festival (June), and Mid-Autumn (Moon) Festival (September/October). The dates are determined by the lunar calendar.

There are Christmas lights in locations throughout the city from late November to early January, but the biggest Christmas event is in New Taipei City (Christmasland in Banqiao).

New Year’s Eve (December 31) has an extremely popular fireworks display from Taipei 101, making it the busiest weekend of the year in Taipei. Here are the best places to watch the fireworks .

Late January to mid-March is cherry blossom season in Taipei and surrounding areas. You can also see tulips in February, roses and azaleas (the official Taipei city flower) in March, calla lilies and hydrangeas at Yangmingshan (March to April and May to June), and chrysanthemums in November to December.

For traditional (and usually very noisy) Taiwanese folk religion events, there’s the Baosheng Emperor’s Birthday (early spring), Xiahai City God’s Birthday (late spring), Ghost Festival (late summer), and Qingshan King’s Birthday (November).

Other Taipei events to watch for include Summer Festival (with fireworks) in Dadaocheng, Urban Nomad Film Festival , Taipei Fringe Festival , Nuit Blanche Taipei , Taipei Jazz Festival , Hakka Yi Min Festival , Pride Parade (Saturday closest to Halloween), and Taipei Marathon .

A Travel Guide to Chiayi, Gateway to Ali Mountain

Off-the-beaten track in taipei: 30+ unique sights & activities, 6 thoughts on “a travel guide to taipei, taiwan’s tantalizing capital”.

Hello there, I would like your advice my family of 3 thinking to visit Taiwan for a week in December would you please help me with a plans and where to stay. we thinking to flying Taipei on the Saturday from Ho chi Minh and leaving the following sat/sunday. I can drive but is it necessary to rent a car and drive? I am a Us citizen and also have US driver license as well. Again thankyou monique

Your US drivers license won’t help. You need an International Driver’s Permit to rent and drive a car in Taiwan. But renting a car here is really unnecessarily, and often slower or more burdensome than taking public transportation. In Taipei, the MRT is far more convenient for getting around. With only a week, you may only visit 1 or 2 other places outside of Taipei, such as Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake, and/or Alishan. Trains and buses are very convenient for reaching these places. Only rent a car if you’re planning to do more of a road trip, visiting more smaller spots along the way rather than quickly getting to the final destinations. Also note that December is the busiest month of the year for tourism in Taiwan, so hotel prices are higher, and many are already selling out, while long distance train tickets are also crucial to book.

Me and the rest of my family of 4 are visiting Taipei at end of the month for a 3 day trip. We have tours booked on the first 2 days but the last day is free. What is the best way to get around the city if we are just visiting a few niche locations and none of us speak the local language? Like would getting an Easy card be worth it for a single day or would it be better to just Uber directly to where we can to go (can we even use Uber since we are tourists and our country doesn’t have Uber)? Also how much cash should be on hand for a three day trip for meals and souvenirs?

Thank you, Ana

Each EasyCard costs TWD 100, which is a non-refundable deposit, plus any money you load onto it. So if you’re only using it for one day, that would be NTW 400 lost, which isn’t really worth it. (keep in mind kids under 6 ride free). You can also just pay for MRT rides individually with cash at the station. Taxis are available everywhere in Taipei, too, and take cash. As for Uber, it doesn’t matter what country you are in, you just download the app, connect it to your credit card, and it will work wherever you go. The good thing about Uber is that you don’t need to speak. You just pin where you want to go, and there will never be a misunderstanding. With taxi drivers, it is better to show them a name or address in Mandarin rather than try to say it, as you will most likely not pronounce it wrong and they will have no idea what you are saying. As for how much $$ to bring, I normally tell people to prepare TWD 1000 to 2000 per person per day for sightseeing, food, and transportation. TWD would be a cheaper day with more street food and free or cheaper attractions (you could spend as low as 500 if you only did free things and ate cheap food). 2000 would be a bigger day with a more expensive attraction (like Taipei 101 Observatory is 600), nicer restaurant meals and/or a longer train ride to another city and/or some souvenir shopping.

Hi, just checking, is it possible to go Sun Moon Lake from Ximending and Return within the day at night? Is hiring a driver recommended in this case?

Sure, it’s doable. Walk or take the MRT one stop to Taipei Main Station, ride the HSR to Taichung (1 hr), catch the bus from taichung HSR to SML (90 minutes). Same way to come back. The bus schedule is here: http://www.ntbus.com.tw/tour-sml.html

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The Ultimate Taiwan Itinerary (2023)

This post may contain compensated links. Find more info in our disclosure policy

Having completed our own amazing two week Taiwan itinerary exploring the cities, mountains and scenic areas of Taiwan we’ve put together our recommended Taiwan itinerary. From chaotic Taipei to the beauty of Taroko Gorge to the natural wonder of Alishan, Taiwan is breathtaking and one of our favorite places to visit in Asia.  For those of you planning your own Taiwan itinerary, we wanted to share our Taiwan travel guide including the best things to do and what to see in Taiwan. 

Table of Contents

Taiwan Itinerary and Route

Most visitors touring around Taiwan either pick up a rental car and self-drive or use a mix of high-speed trains, tourist shuttles and taxis/private drivers to explore the country.

By rental car: With its excellent roads and good driving standards, Taiwan is the perfect country for a road trip. We followed a circular route starting and ending in Taipei, Taiwan’s capital city and the point of arrival and departure for most Taiwan travellers – check prices now!

By public transport:  this Taiwan itinerary can also be completed by a mix of trains and buses. On the west coast of Taiwan, the major cities are serviced by High-Speed Rail – check prices here!

  Click here to reserve Taiwan Rail tickets!

Taiwan Route and Map

Here is a map of the route we recommend taking around Taiwan.

The Route:  Taipei – Taichung – Alishan – Kaohsiung – Kenting – Taitung – Taroko Gorge – Taipei

Click here for the Google map

How to Use This Google Map:  Click on the grey star at the top of the map and this map will be added to your Google Maps account. You can then view it on your phone or computer in Google Maps by clicking on the menu button, going to “Your Places” and selecting this map. We use these maps all the time as you can set out your itinerary ahead of time and quickly reference the saved maps.

Renting a car in Taiwan

Navigating Taiwan by rental car is relatively easy and we highly recommend renting a car in Taiwan if you are comfortable driving. The roads are high-quality, driving standards are generally good and fuel is extremely cheap (compared to the UK and Ireland).

We’re huge fans of road trips and have driven rental cars in over 40 countries so we have a lot of experience renting cars in foreign countries. Klook.com is a great option as it includes international rental car companies as well as some local options. Book your car now with Klook.com  where you will find the best rental car prices.

Taiwan itinerary tip: An International Driving Permit is mandatory when renting a car in Taiwan so make sure to get an IDP in your home country before departure if you are planning on driving a rental car.

Book your rental car with Klook!

Taiwan itinerary tip: Taipei is extremely well serviced by public transport and its subway is easy to navigate. As such, a rental car isn’t necessary in the city. If you are starting your Taiwan itinerary in Taipei, we recommend only picking up a car after you’ve explored Taipei rather than reserving at the airport on arrival. We picked up our rental car on our last morning in Taipei and left the city immediately for Taichung.  

Sim Card & Internet

As with most countries, having mobile data during a trip is invaluable for navigation and research. There are lots of options on arrival at Taipei’s Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) – we reserved a Chunghwa Telecom 4g sim through Klook who offer a slightly discounted rate on the airport price – click here for prices!

Taiwan itinerary tip: the Chunghwa desk only opens at 8am so make sure your flight times will work if you reserve in advance.

  Click here to reserve a SIM card!

How long to spend in Taiwan

From the chaotic Taipei to the magnificent sunrises in Alishan, the peaceful Taroko Gorge and the colourful Taichung there’s a lot to squeeze into a Taiwan itinerary. We recommend budgeting around 14 nights to explore Taiwan at a leisurely pace. This will allow you enough time to visit all the major sights and explore each destination fully.  You might wish to cut some things out if you have less time.

Best Time To Visit Taiwan

Depending on your tolerance to high temperatures, you may want to plan your visit to coincide with the cooler months! During the summer, temperatures are consistently over 30° and typhoon season is in full force. Spring and Autumn are a great time to visit Taiwan and its mild winters also mean the winter months are a good option.

Taiwan itinerary tip:  We visited Taiwan at the end of September and we managed to experience a heatwave as well as some typhoons which luckily changed direction at the last minute! The temperatures in Taipei were stifling and we had to retreat to air-conditioned buildings until late in the afternoon.

Daily Taiwan Itinerary

We’ve outlined our day to day Taiwan itinerary as a starting point for planning your own Taiwan experience.

Days 1 to 4: Taipei

Taiwan’s capital city really surprised us with the wide variety of things to see and do. After arriving at Taipei’s Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport we recommend spending the next three or four nights in Taipei. This will allow you to explore the main sights and to enjoy everything that this fun and chaotic city has to offer. We took the train from Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) to Taipei Main Station – click here for tickets

Click here for MRT tickets to Taipei

An EasyCard makes travel around Taipei and Kaohsiung incredibly easy. The EasyCard is a travel card that you can pre-order in advance and pick up in Taoyuan International Airport. You can preload the card with credit and use it on the metro and buses in Taipei. You can also bundle it with a sim card option that you can pick up at the same time – check prices now!

Buy your EasyCard now

From toilet-themed restaurants to colourful temples, stunning nature and awesome day trips, there’s plenty to squeeze into 4 days in Taipei. Check out our round-up of the best things to do in Taipei for more detailed information and photos of each of the attractions. Also check out our detailed Taipei itinerary to help you plan your time in the city. If you are travelling with kids make sure to check out our guide to the best things to do in Taipei with kids .

Where to Stay in Taipei

There are many great accommodation options in Taipei.

• CityInn Hotel Plus Ximending Branch–  we stayed in the CityInn Ximending branch and highly recommend both the location and the hotel. Rooms are compact but fantastic value, service is excellent and the hotel is just a few moments walk from the MRT, a Taipei essential  –  check prices now!
• Taipei Garden Hotel – another great option located close to Longshan Temple and Ximending –  check prices now!
• Dandy Hotel, Daan Park – clean, comfortable and located across the street from Taipei’s biggest park, Daan Forest Park –  check prices now!            

Click here for the best Taipei hotel prices

Day 1: Taipei 101, Maokong Gondola and Shilin Night Market

Start the day with a trip to the observation deck of Taipei 101, Taipei’s most iconic building. The 101 story building resembles a giant bamboo stick and the 91st-floor outdoor observation deck offers amazing 360-degree views of the city.

We booked our tickets for Taipei 101 via Klook and highly recommend it. You can reserve your timeslot in advance and for the best price using the Klook app. It’s super simple and avoids waiting in extra lines when Taipei 101 gets busy.  Taiwan activities were mostly discounted when we booked in advance –  check prices now!

Click here to book your Taipei 101 ticket

From Taipei 101 make your way to the Taipei Zoo MRT Station where the scenic Maokong Gondola cable car departs. The 30minute glass-bottomed cable car stops at the colourful Zhinan Temple before continuing to the quaint mountaintop village of Maokong known for its tea plantations and tea shops.

Taiwan Itinerary tip:  We purchased combo tickets for the Maokong Gondola and an evening double decker sightseeing tour from Klook in advance and it was awesome value. The gondola is closed most Monday’s so make sure to plan your trip around the gondola’s opening hours – click here to purchase the gondola and night tour combo tickets!

Click here to purchase Gondola tickets

Finish the day with a visit to Shilin Night Market, Taipei’s largest night market with over 500 stalls. There are some incredible Bid Gourmand stalls serving dishes such as Hai You Pork Ribs and Bin Small Sausage in Large Sausage, where the sausage wrapped in sticky rice is a huge hit. There’s a lot more to Shilin than just food and you can do everything from playing arcade games to praying in the temple located in the centre of the market.

Day 2: Elephant Mountain, CKS Memorial Hall, Ximending and Raohe night market

Start the day with a short but steep sunrise hike up Elephant Mountain which rewards with some of the best views of Taipei. The trail is well maintained with plenty of rest stops and some awesome viewing platforms.

After admiring Taipei from Elephant Mountain it’s time to explore the history of Taiwan with a visit to the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. The CKS Memorial is an important Taiwanese landmark erected in honour of the first president of Taiwan.

A themed cafe is a Taipei staple and a trip to the Modern Toilet Restaurant in Ximending is as novelty as they come. The entire restaurant is toilet themed. Meals are served in toilets, drinks in bedpans and the seats are full-sized toilets! Having filled up on poo themed dishes take a stroll around Ximending, one of Taipei’s quirkiest neighbourhoods.

If you prefer a serious foodie treat, eat at the Fuhung Noodle Restaurant. The shop is located just north of Ximending and is home to some of the best noodles we’ve ever had.

Longshan Temple is next on the agenda. Longshan is Taiwan’s most famous and well-loved temple and is located in the historic neighbourhood of Wanhua.

If you still have some energy, the Raohe Night Market is a short MRT ride away and is perfect for an early evening walk through.

Taiwan itinerary tip: our favourite dish in Raohe was the Fuzhou Shizu Black Pepper Buns. They are not to be missed!

Day 3: A Taipei park, the world’s highest Starbucks and Beitou Hot Springs

Start the morning with a visit to one of Taipei’s parks. Our favourites are Daan Forest Park, Taipei’s largest park, the Huashan 1914 Creative Park, a repurposed art, design and cultural venue and 228 Peace Memorial Park, a poignant tribute to the thousands of Taiwanese who died in the February 28, 1947, massacre.

Visit the world’s highest Starbucks which is located on the 35th floor at Taipei 101 and offers spectacular views of Taipei. A visit to Starbucks at Taipei 101 requires a reservation and the coffee shop has a minimum spend for visitors.

Taiwan itinerary tip:  The Starbucks at Taipei 101 requires a telephone reservation. Ask you hotel desk to make the reservation as you will likely need to speak Mandarin.

Spend the afternoon at the Beitou Hot Springs which are just 30 minutes outside Taipei and accessible via the MRT. There is a wide range of options for bathing in the hot springs: there are less expensive public hot springs as well as private baths and upscale hotels and resorts. As well as bathing, the scenic Beitou Hot Spring Park is beautiful to explore together with the Hot Spring Museum and Library which are located within the park.

Day 4: Jiufen, Shifen and Yehliu Geopark

Taipei is surrounded by amazing natural beauty and a day trip outside the city is an essential addition to any Taipei itinerary. Shifen, Jiufen and the Yehliu Geopark are a great combination to discover a taste of Northern Taiwan.

The Yehliu Geopark contains a fascinating collection of unique geological formations in an otherworldly landscape created by sea erosion. It’s a beautiful coastal walk and a very popular stop outside Taipei.

The old street in the charming town of Jiufen is a tourist magnet with visitors indulging in local specialities such as glutinous rice cakes, peanut ice cream and fish balls in between souvenir shopping. The A-Mei Tea House is one of the most prominent landmarks in Jiufen and offers both great tea and great views!

Shifen is famous for both its old street and its scenic waterfall. The old streets of Shifen, located around the railway track, are where visitors congregate to release colourful lanterns bearing their wishes in life.

Taiwan itinerary tip : we visited Jiufen, Shiefen and Yeuhliu Geo Park using our rental car. If you prefer to use a tour, Klook offers a great shuttle bus options which ferries passengers between the key sights of Jiufen, Shifen and the Yehliu Geo Park on the North East coast of Taiwan –  click here to reserve shuttle bus tickets!

Click here to reserve shuttle bus tickets

Days 5 and 6: Taichung

After a few days of exploring Taipei, it’s time to head south to Taichung, Taiwan’s second-largest city. Taichung is busy and colourful and was a surprise hit in our Taiwan itinerary! There are lots of things to do Taichung and it is also the gateway for the immensely popular Sun Moon Lake, one of Taiwan’s most popular tourist attractions.

Where to Stay in Taichung

Taichung is a surprisingly large city and choosing where to stay can be tricky. We recommend:

• CityInn Hotel Plus – Taichung Station Branch – we loved the CityInn brand in Taiwan. Located in east Taichung beside Taichung’s main train station, the CityInn Hotel Plus is a great option. Rooms are clean and modern and the extra facilities like free common areas with coffee/refreshments and on-site laundry are invaluable –  click here to book now!
• La Vida Hotel – Regularly rated as one of the best hotels in Taichung, La Vida Hotel is a great option for those who want easy access to the Feng Chia Night Market. With European designed rooms the hotel is super comfortable and great for a stay in Taichung –    click here to book now!
• The Hung’s Mansion – where we chose to stay in Taichung and it’s a great option if you are driving like we were. With free parking, large comfortable rooms and great food, Hungs Mansion is also a short walk to the incredible Feng Chia Night Market – click here to book now!

Click here for the best Taichung hotel prices

How to get to Taichung

I t took us around 2 hours to drive between Taipei and Taichung .  I t takes one hour to travel by High-Speed Rail between Taipei and Taichung –  click here to buy rail tickets!

Click here to buy tickets to Taichung

Things to do in Taichung

Taichung deserves at least one full day to explore and, if we were to return, we’d allow two days! Start the morning at Rainbow Village , Taiwan’s most colourful neighbourhood before heading north of the city to the beautiful Zhongshe Flower Market. As well as a sea of flowers, props such as pianos, swings, and tractors make for great fun and great photo opportunities.

Taiwan itinerary tip:  tour buses arrive at Rainbow Village shortly after its 8am opening so we recommend arriving as close to 8am as possible. Zhongshe Flower Market tends to get busy in the afternoon when families congregate for barbeques.

Animation Alley is a great pit stop with its cartoon and Magna themed street art.

The 921 Earthquake Museum is a poignant place to visit: it is located on the site of a former junior high school and crosses the fault on which the earthquake occurred. The exterior remains as it did after the earthquake on Tuesday, 21 September 1999.

There are endless food and drink options in Taichung: our three favourites are Chung Shiu Tang, the touted home of Taiwan’s famous bubble tea, Miyahara for its Pineapple Cakes and I’m Talato, an ice cream shop with an ice cream floatie filled pool.

Round up the day with a trip to Feng Chia Night Market where the food is good and the clothing unique.

Day 7: Sun Moon Lake

How to get to Sun Moon Lake: Sun Moon Lake is a 1hour 15-minute drive from Taichung and is easily accessible by bus from both Taichung (approximately 2 hours) or Alishan (up to 3.5hours).

The cycle path surrounding the turquoise blue waters of Sun Moon Lake is one of the most popular ways to explore the Sun Moon Lake area. There’s also a scenic gondola cable car that offers beautiful views of the lake and connects it with the Formosa Aboriginal Cultural Village.

Our other favourite stops were the Ci-En Pagoda and the Wen-Wu Temple . The 8 story Ci-En Pagoda requires a short uphill hike and is renowned for its views over the lake while the Chinese style Wen-Wu is vibrant and loud and there are lovely views of the lake over the burnt orange rooftops.

Finish the day with some street food at Ita Thao before returning to Taichung for the night.

Taiwan itinerary tip: the drive between Taichung and Sun Moon Lake takes about 75 minutes so we preferred to base ourselves in Taichung. Sun Moon Lake accommodation tends to be more expensive given its tourist draw and we were happy to drive.

Where to stay in Sun Moon Lake

If you wish to stay in the Sun Moon Lake area, some good options are:

• Fleur de Chine Hotel Sun Moon Lake: expensive but excellent with beautiful views over the lake – check prices now!
• Mei Jen House: homestay with great rooms, a vegan breakfast and an awesome sunrise tour. A great small but budget-friendly option in Sun Moon Lake – check prices now!

Click here for the best Sun Moon Lake Hotel prices

Day 8: Alishan

A mix of wilderness and tea plantations characterize the mountainous Alishan National Scenic Area. The Alishan sunrises are legendary in Taiwan and our time in Alishan was a highlight of our trip. From chasing the ‘Yun Hai’, the coveted sea cloud sunrise, to the historic railway and the stunning hiking trails Alishan is an excellent addition to any Taiwan itinerary.

Where to Stay in Alishan

• Alishan House/Alishan Hotel – the best hotel in the Alishan National Scenic Area and where we spent our night in Alishan. Rooms are expensive but the location is outstanding. It is worth the extra for the upgrade from the dated standard room in the old building to a superior room in the new building. Guests are not allowed to drive into the Scenic Area but the hotel runs a regular shuttle bus between the car park and the hotel – check prices now!
• Wankou Hotel: 5 minutes walk from the train station, Wankou Hotel is a good less expensive option to Alishan House. Nice views, clean rooms and good value accommodation – check prices now!
• Cing Shan Hotel : basic option located close to the train station, rooms are compact – check prices now!

Click here for the best Alishan Hotel prices

How to get to Alishan

The High-Speed Railway takes less than 40 minutes between Taichung and Chiayi Station and, from Chiayi, the bus takes 2 hours. Direct buses from Sun Moon Lake take up to 3.5hours. The drive from Taichung took around 3 hours in total.

Things to do in Alishan

There are 5 Wonders of Alishan and, although luck and weather dependent, most visitors strive to see them all. The 5 Wonders of Alishan are:

• Alishan Forest Railway
• The forest trails
• The sea of clouds

Taiwan itinerary tip: With some planning it’s possible to see Alishan’s Wonders during a one-night stay. If you wish to explore more extensively or at a more leisurely pace then extend the stay to two nights.

Aim to arrive in Alishan in the afternoon and take advantage of some of the stunning hiking trails in the area. Our favourite hike was to the Sacred Tree, estimated to be 3,000 years old before it collapsed in 1997. It’s located at the Sacred Tree (Shenmu) Railway and the trails pass giant red cypress trees which are over 1,000 years old.

After exploring the Alishan trails make sure to catch a famous Alishan sunset – we watched it from the amazingly located observation deck at the Alishan House Hotel , one of the best sunset spots in the Alishan Scenic Area.

Click here to reserve the Alishan House Hotel

It’s an early start in order to catch the legendary Alishan sunrise. We arranged our shuttle bus to the train station through the Alishan House Hotel on arrival the previous afternoon. After a 4:30 am wake-up call, we boarded the train to Chusan and watched the sunrise from the viewing platform.

After checking out we stopped by the Alishan Post Office and posted a traditional Alishan wooded postcard before leaving for Kaohsiung.

Day 9: Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung is a large port city in Southern Taiwan. Although we used it as a stopover between Alishan and Kaohsiung, we soon discovered it is vibrant and charming in its own right.

Where to stay in Kaohsiung 

• Grand Hi La –  one of the best hotels in Kaohsiung. With a perfect location in the centre of the Sanduo shopping district, Hotel Cozzi has luxurious rooms and high-end furnishings which make for a truly amazing stay – check prices now!
• Hotel Cozzi  – this large luxury hotel is conveniently located above a shopping mall right in the centre of Kaohsiung and is a great option for exploring the city. There are lots of restaurants close to the hotel –  check prices now!
• Hotel Dua –  g reat transport connections via the adjacent MRT station the Hotel Dua is a great location for exploring the city  –  check prices now!

Click here for the best Kaohsiung Hotel prices

How to get to Kaohsiung

Take the bus from Alishan to Chiayi Station (journey time is around 2 hours 10 minutes) and, from there, take the train to Kaohsiung, a further 2 hours 10 minutes. Our drive time was around 3 hours in total.

Things to do in Kaohsiung

We only had a half day to explore Kaohsiung as we used the city as a stopover on our journey between Alishan and Kenting. The city deserves at least to days to see properly and if you are staying in the city, some of the best things to do in Kaohsiung are:

• Kaohsiung Night Markets: the Ruifeng Night Market is considered one of the best night food markets in Taiwan and its stalls serve up a mouth-watering array of local delicacies.
• Lotus Pond and the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas: visitors to Kaohsiung are encouraged run into the mouth of the dragon and out of the tiger’s jaws at the 7-story twin Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. The reward is a reversal in fortune and a turn from bad luck to good.
• Cycle Cijn Island: Cijn Island is a black sand beach on a narrow strip of island in the city. The island, accessible by ferry or bridge, is a popular day excursion in Kaohsiung.
• Dream Mall: Kaohsiung’s Dream Mall is the largest in Taiwan and East Asia and even boasts an amusement park with a Ferris Wheel on its rooftop!
• Pier 2: once an abandoned warehouse site, Pier 2 now houses a large scale open air public art display. The quirky sculptures and artworks are a real treat and the area is vibrant and lively and one of the best places to visit in Kaohsiung.

Day 10 and 11: Kenting

The seaside town of Kenting is located at the southern tip of Taiwan and is famous for its picturesque beaches and lush green national park.

Where to stay in Kenting

Accommodation in Kenting is a mix of resort-style beachside hotels and smaller, boutique-style options.

• Caesar Park Hotel – resort hotel with direct beach access and an abundance of kids activities including a kids recreation centre in the basement –  check prices now!
• Chateau Beach Resort – located by the beach, just 5 to 10 minutes from Kenting Main Street. The hotel has stunning ocean views and a nice pool area – check prices now!
• Amanda Kenting – we opted for the smaller Amanda Kenting Hotel. The Moroccan themed hotel has great rooms, a lovely indoor pool and free exotic costume rental for photos! – check prices now!

Click here for the best Kenting Hotel prices

How to get to Kenting:

take the Kenting Express Bus from Kaohsiung’s Zuoying HSR station to Kenting. The journey time varies between 2 and 3 hours. The drive time is less than 2 hours.

Things to do in Kenting

Kenting is the perfect spot for some rest and relaxation. While we didn’t follow a strict itinerary, our favourite activities included:

• a ride on the Kenting Hai World Semi Submarine with its glass-bottomed panoramic views of the Kenting coral reefs
• paddling in the tidepools and shallow swimming spots
• visiting Baisha White Sand Bay, a beautiful beach which featured in the movie The Life of Pi
• exploring Kenting National Park and its lighthouse
• standing at the southernmost point in Taiwan which is marked by an observation station
• indulging in the street food, clothes and carnival games at the Kenting Night Market
• Snorkeling in Wanlitong Beach

Day 12: Taitung

Taitung is a sprawling, coastal town and a popular stopover between Kenting and Taroko Gorge. It is home to the Beinan Cultural Park, one of the largest and most important cultural sites in Taiwan. Taitung also acts as a gateway to the volcanic islands of Green Island and Orchid Island.

Where to stay in Taitung

• Kindness Hotel – clean and comfortable option with good breakfast and evening night snacks in Taitung city –  check prices now!
• Papago International Resort – although one hour outside Taitung it is a great location for a stopover between Kenting and Taroko Gorge. Lovely outdoor pool, hot tub and hot springs with a children’s playground – check prices now!
• Inn by the Village – located close to the railway, rooms are modern and spacious and the breakfast decent – check prices now!

Click here for the best Taitung hotel prices

How to get to Taitung:

take the bus from Kenting to Fanglaio (journey time 1 hour). From there, take the train between Fanglaio and Taitung (90 minutes). The drive time is 2 hours 30 minutes.

Things to do in Taitung

If you have time to explore Taitung some of the best things to do are:

• Beinan Cultural Park: the largest and most important cultural site in Taiwan. It was excavated in the 1980s when thousands of slate coffins were unearthed together with jewellery, pottery and tools.
• Brown Road: home to the famous Mr Brown Taiwanese Coffee and surrounded by rice fields and mountains.
• Orchid Island and Green Island: volcanic islands off the coast of Taitung famous for snorkelling, hot springs, coastal scenery and strong Aboriginal culture.

Day 13 and 14: Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge is another stunning stop in Taiwan. Taroko means magnificent and splendid and the mesmerizing scenery makes it more than deserving of the name. The steep mountains are covered in thick forest and a deep gorge carved out by the Liwu River, winds through the forest floor.

Where to stay in Taroko Gorge

Visitors to Taroko Gorge can stay in the Taroko National Park, close to the entrance to the park or in nearby Hualien where the trains from Taipei arrive and depart. We recommend staying in the park for both the close to nature experience and the convenience for sightseeing.

• Silks Place Taroko: we treated ourselves to a gorge view room in the luxury Silks Place Taroko which is located in the heart of the Taroko National Park. The facilities are amazing: there’s a rooftop outdoor pool (where we enjoyed a movie screening in the evening) and hot tubs, an indoor pool and tennis courts – check prices now!
• Taroko Village Hotel: located less than 1km from Swallow Grotto, the Taroko Village Hotel is a less expensive option to Silks Place for guests wanting to stay inside the Taroko National Park – check prices now!
• Chateau de Chine Hotel Hualien: if you opt for Hualien the Chateau de Chine Hotel is a good choice with its colourful exterior and spacious themed rooms– check prices now!

Click here for the best Taroko Gorge Hotel prices

How to get to Taroko Gorge:

we drove from Taitung to the Taroko National Park (around 4 hours). Public transport services the nearby city of Hualien, a 4-hour bus journey from Taitung. If you are arriving from Alishan you can take the bus to Taroko Gorge. If you are arriving from Taipei, an express train serves Hualien.

How to get around Taroko Gorge: there are a few options for navigating Taroko National Park. We used our rental car to explore. Many guests use a taxi/private car or rent a motorbike. If you are based in Hualien, it’s easy to join a tour – reserve a Taroko Gorge tour here!

Things to do in Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge is all about nature and most visitors spend the day hopping between its best short trails, bridges and viewpoints!

Begin the day with a hike through the relatively easy 4km Baiyang Trail which rewards with a stunning water curtain as well as magnificent views of the gorge along the way. Start early to avoid the crowds, bring a flashlight to navigate the tunnels and beware of the monkeys! Due to loose rock visitors are only allowed to the entrance of the first Water Curtain.

The next stop is the ever-popular Swallow Grotto, one of the best places from which to view the gorge. It is a short and flat footpath in the middle of the park and the surrounding river walls are lined with swallow nests

The Taroko Eternal Spring Changchun Shrine is one of the most popular sites in the park. The stunning temple sits atop a natural spring and was built in honour of the many who lost their lives building the highway through Taroko National Park.

We also loved the Chingxi Suspension Bridge and the Cimu Bridge. On the way out of the park make sure to stop at the stunning Qinghui Cliffs where visitors have the opportunity to admire the three distinct color tones that make up the Pacific Ocean

Taiwan itinerary tip: some of the trails in Taroko Gorge are closed due to weather damage so make sure to check the official website for the latest trail availability. There is a Visitor’s Centre at the entrance to the park which also provides trail information.

Day 15: Depart Taipei

Day 15 is a day of leisure until it’s time for your flight from Taipei.

How to get to Taipei: take the bus from Taroko Gorge to Hualien or Xincheng Station and then hop on the train to Taipei. The drive took around 3 hours.

For more on Taiwan

• Check out our round up of the best things to do in Taipei!

16 thoughts on “The Ultimate Taiwan Itinerary (2023)”

My husband and I are planning a trip to Hong Kong & Taiwan in December. The plan was 7 days each; however, after reading your itinerary it is beginning to look like I’m going to have to wrangle more days in Taiwan. The experience looks amazing!! Also, I really like the layout of your page. It gives me what I’m looking for without having to hunt through the fluff. Thanks!!

Thanks Amy, so happy you liked the post. Taiwan is amazing, Hong Kong too!

Have an awesome trip!

My husband and I are also going to HK & Taiwan at the end of November into mid-December. We are spending 8 days each that’s because we have friends and relatives in HK so we planned 3-4 days meeting people. However, I think 8 days in Taiwan is still too short to explore and enjoy, every where we go is going to be a rush. We are skipping the east side of the island. If you have not finalize your trip, I would suggest to spend less time in HK since it’s a much smaller city, and allocate more days in Taiwan. Enjoy your trip!

How did you find travel with the little one, was it mostly pram friendly or did you use a carrier?

We used a mix of carrier and stroller. Sometimes on the subway it was easier to carry him than search for an elevator!

Overall, it was a really baby friendly trip! We cover our family travels on Show Them the Globe , there’s some Taiwan articles over there too!

Hi Elaine – great blog post! We are thinking of traveling to Taiwan, possibly next Dec and would like to hire a car for convenience, rather than use public transport. Are hotels with cheap/free parking easy to find outside Taipei? How about parking in general at tourist sites (esp. at Taroko Gorge)? Are tourist sites/viewpoints signposted at Taroko Gorge? Many thanks for any info you could supply!

Hi Elizabeth

Parking was included in places like Alishan (the public car park where the hotel shuttles pick up from), Taroko Gorge, Kenting. It was only included in a few hotels in Taichung but i guess that’s to be expected in a city. In Taroko Gorge, parking was easy to find at some viewpoints but there are only a few spaces at the smaller view points so you might have to wait. We did some of our sightseeing before breakfast and had the viewpoints almost to ourselves!

Have a great trip Elaine

Hi Elaine, Great blog. Thanks for sharing all this information on Taiwan. Can you please share something else? Did you book all your accomodation in advance or were you able to just drive into a place and find accom when you got there? I look forward to your reply as we are headed to Taiwan at the end of December this year. Thanks Janie

It was really busy when we were there in September. I’m sure you get accommodation as you go but, for the more popular places, I’d probably reserve in advance.

Great post. A question: what is the best season to tour Taiwan based on your research or experience? Many thanks. I probably will have more question as we go deeper into our planning. Many thanks.

Spring or Autumn. Winter is fine if you don’t mind low temperatures. Summer is hot and humid and avoid typhoon season. We got caught in the tail end of the season in late September but it was ok.

Did you every drive in the taipei city area? Is it easy to drive and to find parking?

Planning to rent car over there since we have elderly with us. Thank you

Hi Nabihah, yes we drove in and around Taipei City during our time in Taiwan. Driving was surprisingly easy and while parking was tricky if you plan it in advance there are parking spaces in most places. Have fun

We are thinking of going with our little one when she turns one in Sept/Oct (hopefully that is okay time,probably Oct though is better?). Since you have 3 little ones, do you have recommendations with traveling with a little one? She is currently 4 months old and we just booked our flight from Canada to Hong Kong. We plan to add Taiwan in there as well. It’s great to hear that your trip was baby friendly!

Oh one more question, is it better to fly with little ones during the day or night!?

I much prefer night flights so the kids can sleep through most of it. We just flew 10 hours from Dublin to LA and back over Christmas and the daytime flight was so hard trying to entertain our one year old! She just wants to be free to run around and explore! The night flight was so much easier as she slept for 90% of it. I’ve always been really lucky with night flights but you do run the risk that they won’t sleep at all – if you think there’s a good chance they won’t sleep I’d probably stick to a daytime flight.

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Home » Asia » Taiwan » Taipei

19 BEST Places to Visit in Taipei (2024 • MUST-SEE SIGHTS)

Taipei is the modern capital of Taiwan. The diverse city has a great infrastructure and it’s easy to explore the key places of interest in Taipei as well as travel to nearby cities and towns. From one of the tallest towers in the world and a globally renowned zoo to places of natural interest and terrific shopping, Taipei offers plenty for everyone.

Taipei doesn’t feature on many travellers’ radars, particularly people from outside of Asia, and is often overlooked in favour of other East Asian cities. It can be difficult to find information on what to see and do if you are planning a trip to Taipei, especially if you want to hit up more offbeat attractions and head off the beaten path.

With this ultimate list of the best places to visit in Taipei, you’ll be able to make sure to cover all the top attractions. No matter your age or travelling style you’ll find plenty of reasons to add Taipei to your travel wish list.

Warning: some of these best places to visit in Taipei are sure to surprise you!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Taipei:

These are the best places to visit in taipei, faq on the best places to visit in taipei, final thoughts on the best places to visit in taipei.

Datong is the perfect place to stay if you are travelling on a shoestring budget. It is located just north of Zhongzheng and remains very central to explore Taipei’s many destinations.

• Take a look at the humble features of the Confucius Temple
• On the contrary, marvel at Bao’an Temple, one of Taipei’s most ornate temples
• Try some local delicacies at the Ningxia Night Market

And now onto the fun stuff … here are the best places to visit in Taipei:

Ready for the breakdown of Taipei’s must-see places? Don’t miss these gems. These are the top things to see for crafting the ultimate Taipei itinerary!

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#1 – Taipei 101 – One of the most amazing places in Taipei

• Eco-friendly structure
• Among the world’s tallest towers
• Rich symbolism
• Sweeping views

Why it’s awesome: This is top of the Taipei places to visit list for good reason. Up there, you feel top of the world! Shaped like a traditional pagoda and standing at 508 meters (1,667 feet) tall, the soaring Taipei 101 was once the world’s tallest tower. It’s is still said to be the biggest green building in the world, both because of the coloured glass on its facades and due to its many environmentally friendly features.

Steeped in symbolism, the impressive tower has 101 floors. One hundred is usually viewed as perfection, so this gleaming modern tower goes one step beyond being perfect! There’s a large and luxurious shopping mall next to the tower and inside there are various offices, an observation level, displays, a conference centre, and a VIP Club.

What to do there: Ride in the super-fast elevators to reach the observation levels, with both indoor and outdoor viewing areas to enjoy. Feast your eyes on the sweeping city views and see interesting displays related to the tower’s construction, use, and symbolism. Spot various symbolic features around the tower and see many of the best places in Taipei from a completely different perspective.

#2 – Taipei Zoo – Awesome place to visit in Taipei with kids

• Beautiful landscaping
• Home to diverse creatures
• Educational exhibits

Why it’s awesome: The largest zoo in Asia and one of the biggest zoos in the world, the modern and well-kept Taipei Zoo is often said to be among the best zoos on the planet. Spread over a large area, the zoo is home to an abundance of interesting species from across the globe.

Admission costs are low and it’s a fantastic place to spend a fun-filled day with the kids. Indeed, it’s one of the best places in Taipei for a family outing. There are various places to eat and drink throughout the zoo and the terrain is stroller friendly. Lush gardens, wide, open spaces, and educational displays add to the appeal.

What to do there: Plan to spend at least half a day (if not a whole day) exploring the large zoo. Seeing the cute pandas is often a highlight for many visitors, though don’t be disappointed if they are resting in the air conditioning! The children’s theatre, insectarium, and nocturnal animal house are also often popular with younger visitors.

#3 – Shilin Night Market – A must-see in Taipei for foodies!

• Array of items
• Lively vibe
• Lots of street food
• Popular with locals and tourists

Why it’s awesome: Large and lively, Shilin Night Market draws many locals and tourists alike every day of the week. Stalls spread through a maze of streets, and you’ll find a great selection of local goods and international brands, usually at discount prices.

Some places have fixed prices and there are somewhere you can haggle so make sure you perfect your haggling skills . It’s especially worth asking for discounts if you’re buying in bulk. It’s not only a great place for shopping, though; Shilin Night Market is also one of the top spots in Taipei for delicious street food. It’s veritable foodie heaven!

What to do there: Stroll along the streets, letting your senses guide you as you sample a huge selection of local cuisine. Inhale the rich aromas, watch as vendors cook up dishes on the spot, and see an exciting array of delicacies set out to tempt the hungry.

Sink your teeth into things like fried buns, dim sum, stinky tofu, tempura, grilled meats, oyster omelet, and much, much more. Once you think it couldn’t get any better, pop into the underground Shilin Night Market Food Court for even more mouth-watering treats! It really is one of the best places to eat in Taipei.

Another famous night market in Taipei if you liked the Shilin Night Market is the Ningxia Night Market which is another great place to try some street food.

#4 – Longshan Temple – One of the most religious places to see in Taipei

• Long history
• Gorgeous architecture
• Spiritual ambience
• Ornate statues

Why it’s awesome: Built in the late 1730s by people from Fujian, Taipei’s Longshan Temple became a major spiritual and community centre for settlers from mainland China; it was built in honour of an ancient temple in their home province.

Still an active place of worship today, it is also one of the most significant religious landmarks in Taipei. The Longshan Temple features ornate and colourful details and the vibe is tranquil and serene. It’s a place to go in Taipei to have a breather from the city.

What to do there: Admire the striking building from the outside, feasting your eyes on the decorative pillars and roof, statues, and grand doorways. Step inside, where you’ll likely see people praying and making merit, inhale the sweet smells of incense, and see even more spiritual statues and artwork.

Wander through the grand halls and pause to take in the details of the various altars. There are shrines to various Chinese gods and goddesses as well as to the Lord Buddha. As far as cultural places in Taipei go, this is one of the best.

#5 – Danshui River Mangrove Nature Reserve – One of the most underrated places to see in Taipei

• Interesting wildlife
• Pretty views
• Free attraction

Why it’s awesome: A short train ride from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, Danshui River Mangrove Nature Reserve is an interesting and peaceful outdoor spot.

One of the coolest lesser-visited attractions in Taipei, there is no charge to explore the nature reserve. Also known as Tamsui River Mangrove Nature Reserve, the area protects the large Hongshulin mangrove swamp as well as all the creatures that call the salty swamp home.

What to do there: Step into the small but informative education centre to learn more about the swamp and its eco-diversity before wandering along the boardwalk. Peer into the mangroves to spot an array of flora and fauna. Some of the most unusual creatures to look out for are the curious mudskippers – fish that can walk on land.

You’re also likely to see crabs and many types of birds. The ambiance is calm and there are great views of city life in the distance.

#6 – Jiufen – A very cool place in Taipei to go for a day

• Great shopping
• Plenty of photo opportunities
• Stunning vistas
• Historical vibe

Why it’s awesome: Jiufen is an old gold mining town in the wider Taipei area. Built by the Japanese, it is perched on the craggy mountainside near the coast. Easy to reach by road and rail from the heart of the city, it’s one of the most picturesque places of interest in Taipei.

There’s an olde-worlde vibe and plenty to see and do. The covered shopping area is especially popular and the views are beautiful. The town has featured in a number of movies and TV shows and if you’re backpacking Taiwan , be sure to include Jiufen on your itinerary.

What to do there: Visit the ornate Chinese temple and soak up the sense of spirituality and stand at the nearby observation point to enjoy beautiful views out over the water. Explore the two main hillside pedestrian streets of Shuchi Street and Jishan Street, pausing to look in the assortment of shops filled with an array of goods.

Stop for refreshments in a charming tea house and refuel in one of the traditional restaurants.

Although no longer open to visitors, you can see the outside of the historic Taiyang Co. Ruifang mining Operation Office and the now-derelict Jiufen Shingpeng Theatre, which was one of the earliest theatres in Taiwan. Feeling active? Go hiking up Mount Jilong and enjoy the terrific vistas!

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#7 – National Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Taipei

• Magnificent building
• Interesting and educational displays
• Traditional guards
• Beautiful grounds

Why it’s awesome: Among the most famous places in Taiwan, the National Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall is a well-known city landmark and a popular tourist attraction. Located at one end of the large Liberty Square, the iconic blue and white building is an attractive sight.

Open since 1980, it was constructed to honour the memory of the late president. Inside there is a large bronze statue of Chiang Kai Shek, guarded by solemn-looking soldiers in ceremonial uniforms, as well as educational displays and a library.

What to do there: Climb the 89 steps that lead to the upper level of the memorial hall, noting that the number of steps represents the age at which the former leader died. See the large statue of the late leader and snap some pictures of the smartly dressed guards. Descend back to ground level to learn more about the leader and Taiwan’s history in the museum.

There are many interesting objects and artifacts and comprehensive information is provided in English as well as Chinese languages. It’s one of the best places to visit in Taipei to get more of a sense of the culture and history of Taiwan.

#8 – Fort San Domingo – One of Taipei’s coolest historical sites

• One of Taiwan’s oldest buildings
• Controlled by various powers throughout history
• Informative displays
• Pleasant gardens

Why it’s awesome: Located in Tamsui, the striking red-colored fortress of San Domingo stands on the site of an earlier wooden fort. The original fortress was built by the Spanish, while the present building was constructed in the 1640s by the Dutch. It was later expanded and fortified further by the Qing regime and served as the British consulate from 1868.

It was occupied by the Japanese during the Pacific War, then later passed back to British control. One of the oldest buildings in Taiwan, today it is a National Historic Site and among the most popular tourist attractions in Taipei’s district of Tamsui.

What to do there: Pay the reasonable admission fee and climb the shaded steps to reach the entrance to the historic fortress. See the flag flying proudly above before following the sightseeing route through the fortress’s diverse areas.

In addition to the red fort, the site also has the original gate that was constructed during the Qing era, leafy gardens, and the English-style former residence of the British Consul. You can learn more about Taiwan’s history and see varied displays, period furnishings, and artifacts.

#9 – Houtong – Quite the quirky place to visit in Taipei!

• Former mining town
• Home to many cats
• Unusual features

Why it’s awesome: A short train ride from the heart of Taipei brings you to Houtong, an old coal-mining town built by the Japanese that is now known for its many felines. The hillside town was abandoned when the mines dried up, leaving cats to roam free, multiply, and claim the space as their own.

Today, Houtong is a Taipei must-see for any animal lover, particularly those with a penchant for cats. Volunteers care for the animals and have created many cool and quirky cat-themed attractions. I dunno about you, but this is my personal best place to visit in Taipei!

What to do there: Get up close and personal with the friendly cats that call Houtong home. You can buy food to pamper the kitties, but don’t feed them human treats as it can make them sick.

See the feline-themed artworks that adorn many walls, spot the small houses built to afford shelter to the strays, and enjoy snacks and drinks in one of the quaint cafes. There are plenty of great photo opportunities and you can purchase a range of cat-themed memorabilia.

Cat town: top sight in Taipei!

#10 – Beitou – Great place to visit in Taipei for couples

• Unusual sights
• Diverse museums
• Places of natural interest in Taipei

Why it’s awesome: Although soaking in hot springs may not be the most obvious choice of things to do when experiencing hot and humid conditions, taking a dip is surprisingly relaxing and soothing. Beitou Hot Springs has a number of well-maintained and clean hot springs, with private changing areas and lockers.

Signs clearly state the temperature of each pool. It’s one of the best public hot springs around the city, though you will also find some private hot springs if you want a more exclusive experience. Beitou also boasts stunning geothermal features and several interesting attractions.

What to do there: Melt your problems away! If you’re looking for things to do in Taipei to take your mind off all those measly problems you left back home, this is the place to go!

Marvel at the milky blue steaming waters of Beitou Thermal Valley, also known as Hell Valley (closed on Mondays), set in beautiful natural surroundings. Discover more about the area at Beitou Hot Spring Museum, Ketagalan Culture Center, and Beitou Library. Stroll through the scenic Beitou Hot Spring Park and Plum Garden, visit the small and secluded Puji Temple, and soothe away any aches and pains in the hot springs.

#11 – Ximending – A great place in Taipei if you love to shop!

• Youthful vibe
• Energetic at night time
• Japanese influence

Why it’s awesome: Ximending is one of the best places to visit in Taipei if you’re looking for cool shopping with a trendy and youthful vibe. Lively by day and by night, it has a wealth of recreational and leisure options too. Made popular when there was a heavy Japanese presence in Taiwan , it has gone from strength to strength since the 1980s.

It’s easy to spot the Japanese influences still today, though there is also a strong local feeling too. Brimming with clothes shops and accessory stores, the area also has cool karaoke joints, cinemas, and eateries.

What to do there: Spend hours browsing in a large variety of stores in Ximending, trying not to get swept away in the exuberant crowds. It’s an especially great place to shop in Taipei for alternative styles and items generally associated with various sub-cultures. Try out new fashions and perhaps add some funky pieces to your wardrobe. Stop for a bite to eat in one of the local restaurants and, as night falls, sing your heart out in one of the KTVs.

#12 – Ghost Mask Museum – One of the more unique places to visit in Taipei

• Quirky attraction
• Cultural and spiritual insights
• Hand-made items
• Lesser-visited museum

Why it’s awesome: The Ghost Mask Museum started life as one man’s private collection of hand-made ghostly masks. Nestled down a quiet alley, visitors can peer at some 1,500 unusual masks, with some that are rather grotesque and others that border on the comedic. Seeing the creepy collection of masks is definitely among the most unusual things to do in Taipei!

What to do there: Gaze in curiosity at the large collection of masks created by sculptor Wu Jyh Chyang and appreciate the effort and passion that must have gone into painstakingly creating each item by hand. Some masks are embellished with various items, including animal hair, cigarette butts, and scraps of cloth.

The museum provides insights into local ghost beliefs and some seek to teach valuable life lessons and warn of punishments that await one in the afterlife if people fail to live a righteous life. This may not be the top must-see in Taipei for those with a deep-seated fear of their own mortality… but I think it’s awesome!

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#13 – Taipei Botanical Garden – One of the nicer places in Taipei to sightsee!

• Centre for botanical research
• Pleasant walking trails
• Various gardens
• Wide selection of plants

Why it’s awesome:   Switching gears from Taipei’s more morbid attractions, the Taipei Botanical Garden is home to some 1,500 species of plants… and super pretty! Established as a botanical garden by the Japanese in the early 1920s, there has been a garden at the same place for many decades. The pretty and peaceful garden is split between 17 different areas, with historical buildings, sparkling ponds, and well-maintained footpaths too.

What to do there: Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque botanical garden, admiring a wide range of plants and flowers from different parts of the world. There are species native to the island of Taiwan, as well as those from neighbouring nations and farther afield. Some species are rare and there’s good information provided about the various flora.

#14 – Taipei Fine Arts Museum – A great place to visit in Taipei if you are alone/traveling solo

• Lovely building
• Interesting art works
• Activities for kids
• Learning opportunities

Why it’s awesome: The Fine Arts Museum is a Taipei must-do for anyone interested in art. A great place for solo travellers to immerse themselves in visual creativity, the museum has been capturing people’s interest since 1983. It was Taiwan’s first art museum to focus on contemporary and modern art. Now located at Taipei Expo Park, it’s a cool place to go in Taipei to escape the heat and enjoy a few hours in air-conditioned comfort.

The building has interesting architectural elements and there are many thought-provoking and stimulating art pieces to enjoy. There are regularly changing temporary displays in addition to the permanent exhibits, and the museum often hosts a range of special events.

What to do there: Wander along the tube-like suspended corridors, soaking up the Chinese influences, peer out through the gigantic windows to see nearby landmarks and open spaces, and, of course, feast your eyes on an abundance of fascinating art. Pieces span from the start of the twentieth century to the present day and there are works by both local and international artists.

Aiming to take visitors through the history of art in Taiwan, the museum also houses a number of antiques alongside modern works. If you’re visiting Taipei with children, don’t miss popping into the Children’s Art Education Centre too because kids love museums of fine art!

If you want to visit some more sites in the area, the Taipei Confucius Temple is just a ten-minute walk away and is a really stunning Chinese temple that doesn’t take too long to see.

#15 – Yehliu Geopark – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Taipei

• Natural attraction
• Splendid views
• Brilliant photo opportunities
• Coastal setting

Why it’s awesome: Yehliu Geopark is a fascinating natural attraction to add to your bucket list when you travel to Taipei. Although fairly remote, it is easy to reach by bus, making it an ideal day trip from Taipei. There are many interesting geological formations, created by the mighty powers of Mother Nature over thousands of years. The unusual landscapes are photogenic and there are amazing views out over the ocean so make sure you bring your camera !

What to do there: Walk along the coast, soaking up the views and marvelling at the unusual rocky landscapes. The cape runs for around 1,700 metres (5,577 feet), and highlights include features named the Kissing Rock, Sea Candles, Ice Cream Rock, Elephant Rock, Fairy Shoe, and Ginger Rocks. Take plenty of pictures of the stunning Queen’s Head. You can also pay a visit to the nearby Yehliu Ocean World where you can observe an interesting selection of aquatic creatures.

#16 – Dahu Park – A cool place to see in Taipei with friends

• Enjoy being outdoors
• Lake and mountain vistas
• Varied activities
• Home to local wildlife

Why it’s awesome: Located in the Neihu District of Taipei, Dahu Park was established in 1979. One of the city’s prettiest parks, it is known for its large and scenic lake. The park sits in the shadow of Mt. Bailushi. There are various leisure options and it’s one of the best Taipei vacation ideas for families and groups of friends looking for somewhere to unwind in nature.

Combining natural and man-made features, there’s plenty to keep you occupied for several hours and it’s also one of the best places to stay in Taipei . If you visit Taipei on the weekend you’ll likely find the park teeming with local families, but if you go on a weekday you can enjoy a quieter ambiance.

What to do there: Cross the pretty Jindai Bridge that spans the large Egret Lake and enjoy the views of the lake and the surrounding nature.

Follow nature trails through the park and spot diverse flora and fauna, relax in the traditional Chinese-style pagoda next to the water’s edge, have a go at fishing, unwind in the heated swimming pool, and enjoy a little TLC in the sauna and steam room. If you’re feeling active, climb Mt. Bailushi for terrific views over the area.

#17 – Taipei City Mall – The Underground Mall in Taipei

• A great place to shop for boutique clothing and souveniers
• Easily connected to Taipei Main Station
• The oldest market in Taipei
• A cool place to pass the time

Why it’s awesome: Taipei City Mall is an underground mall between the Daan and Zhongzheng districts in Taipei City. It was the first underground market to open in Taipei City though it’s had its share of history. In the 90s, the government decided to knock down the original market and build a new one. It opened in the year 2000, eight years later, and provided shops for the 810 market stalls that originally stood there.

Now, the 825-meter long underground mall is composed of modern shops, filled with boutique brands and traditional stalls intertwined. It connects to Taipei Main Station and the metro, which is right underneath the mall. So it’s pretty easy to get to.

What to do there: shop until you drop! It’s a mall, so of course, it’s the place to be to buy clothing and souvenirs. You can find contemporary brands or something a little more traditional, or you can find a cafe or restaurant to relax in and enjoy some good food.

#18 – Yangmingshan National Park – The Most Beautiful National Park in Taipei

• One of the 9 National Parks in Taiwan
• A great place to enjoy nature and being outdoors
• Hiking and wildlife activities available
• A quiet place to escape the busy city center

Why it’s awesome: The Yangmingshan National Park is one of nine national parks in Taiwan and is conveniently located between Taipei and New Taipei City. 

Historically referred to as Caoshan (which means Green Mountain in English) the national park is a breath of fresh air away from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are some nice scenic spots in the park to enjoy a nice picnic or you can just enjoy being out in nature.

You’ll find hiking trails that take you through stunning gardens, over rolling landscapes and past the hot springs. If you are staying in Taipei City for more than a week I would definitely recommend taking the trip up here.

If you don’t have a lot of time and you want to see some nature, consider checking out the Elephant Mountain hike. The Elephant Mountain is located within the city close to the Xiangshan MRT Station.

What to do there: As it’s a national park, the best thing to do here is to unwind in nature and just stroll around the hills and gardens. 

If you’re visiting on a weekend, you can only get to the national park by bus. From Taipei Main Station, take the 260 bus or the Red 30/208 from Jiantan MRT Station. These buses will drop you off at Yangmingshan bus station where it’s just a 700 meter walk to the park entrance.

#19 – National Palace Museum – The Largest Collection of Chinese Artifacts in The World

• Largest collection of Chinese artefacts in the world
• In a gorgeous building that’s worthy of Instagram photos
• Located in the Shilin district, perfect for those who want street food after
• A nice, quiet indoor activity to do when it rains

Why it’s awesome: The National Palace Museum is known for its permanent collection of nearly 700,000 pieces of Chinese artwork, relics, and artifacts. This is the largest collection of its type in the world. 

Spanning 8,000 years of Chinese history, mostly from the Ming and Qing dynasty, but also dating as far back as the neolithic age. The collection of high-quality pieces was usually collected by Chinese emperors, and they are now on display for public viewing. 

Many of the artifacts used to be housed in the Forbidden City in Beijing, but during the Civil War in China, many items were moved to Taipei to protect them from getting destroyed in the conflict.

A total of 2,972 crates of artifacts were moved from the Forbidden City, which was only 22% of the original number of crates due to be sent here, but it is said that the pieces that made it to the National Palace Museum represented some of the very best of the collection.

What to do there: Walk around and enjoy the incredible artifacts, from pottery and ceramics, weapons, paintings, clothing, and tools. There’s so much to see here, it could easily take you a whole day. 

The exterior is also one of the most beautiful buildings in Taipei City. You should take your time to admire the outside as well as inside. It’s also located in the Shilin District, so if you go in the afternoon, you can head to the night market for some food after.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Taipei

What is a free place to visit in Taipei?

The Danshui River Mangrove Nature Reserve is free to visit and a beautiful area in Taipei.

How many days should I spend in Taipei?

Taipei is a city you can see in a long weekend. 2 or 3 days is enough to see all the main highlights, but you might want to hang around longer if you want to do the hikes too.

What is Taipei famous for?

Taipei is famous for being the capital of Taiwan and the birthplace to bubble tea.

Is Taipei an expensive place to visit?

Yes, Taipei is generally quite expensive. However, it is still cheaper than Japan.

So, Taiwan is awesome and so is the capital; Taipei is filled with beautiful places to see indulging in rich culture and vibrant history.

I’d even say that Taiwan is criminally unexplored when compared to its other East Asian neighbours.

There’s no shortage of secrets in the city if you’re aching to break away from Taipei’s tourist attractions. Even if you stick to visiting Taipei’s popular places, you’re still going to have an awesome time!

Taiwan is a fantastic little island and another gem of East Asia with its own unique history.

When you get there, make sure you soak it up. Go to some places, hit up Taipei’s best destinations, and, most of all, eat yourself into that mother of all food comas at one of the incredible night markets, because there are so many. Whether you go to the Shilin Night Markets, Raohe Night Markets or Ningxia Night Market, don’t be afraid to try some BBQ.

And, most of all, have a blast!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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I want to buy a large paper map of Taipei that has the street names written in pinyin. Do you know where I can buy this kind of map?

I’m curious but I’ve read that the Ghost Mask Museum now has been closed. Do you know anything about this?

We haven’t heard about this. We don’t have anybody on the ground to go and check so if you find anything, please do let us know!

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Taipei travel tips — 9 things you need to know before going to taipei.

Taipei is the capital of Taiwan, a city that is both nostalgic but no less modern and dynamic of one of Asia’s most developed economies. Taipei tourism is trending in recent years. You can come here to visit, shop, explore nature or enjoy delectable cuisine, most bustling and vibrant night markets. All very wonderful because Taipei has wonderful things that only this city has. Worthy of being one of the hottest destinations in Asia, Taipei always attracts tourists with its unparalleled specialties of scenery and cuisine. So, what you need to know before traveling to Taipei? Let’s check out our suggested 9 Taipei travel tips, Taipei travel advice, Taipei travel advisory that you should know before visiting Taipei, Taiwan!

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• Must eat food in Taipei — Top 23+ best street food in Taipei & best places to eat them

Taipei travel advice: Apply for Visa and Visa Free

Taiwan is opening its doors to visitors, especially for Vietnamese and Southeast Asian tourists. You should take advantage of this time to apply for a conditional Taiwanese Visa exemption easily and without any effort to make the trip lighter. However, you should also note that if your name is a similar name that was blacklisted, you must apply for a Taiwanese visa in the usual way. You also apply for an e-Visa here .

Using a 2 flat pin plug adaptor is that you can rest assured when traveling to Taiwan. In addition, many hostels also have a USB charger, which is very convenient if you need to charge your phone or backup battery, power bank.

Where to stay in Taipei?

Hostel is my top priority, during my trip I stayed at Pillow Hostel , it is located on the 9th floor of a building in the central district of Taipei. Choose to stay in a hostel have many advantages as follows:

• Cheap cost only $15/night
• Nice clean room, very clean toilet
• Central location near metro stations
• Including breakfast
• Safe because there are lockers for both shoes and personal lockers
• Computer and wifi
• Friendly space, serving 24/7

Read more: Backpackers hostel Taipei — Top 5 affordable dorm hostels Taipei that own convenient locations.

Metro in Taipei

In Taipei, there are 5 metro lines are Orange, Green, Blue, Red, Brown covering all areas of the city. These 5 train lines are named after the five basic elements: Metal, wood, water, fire, earth according to Eastern philosophy, so they are easy to remember. There are some special routes for tourism such as Beitou to Xinbeitou, you just need to connecting trains.

The train ticket system is quite similar to Thailand and Japan, you choose the train ticket price corresponding to the destination station, the machine will give a corresponding token for you to traveling, when you arrive, return the token to the machine. If you take the wrong train and lost money, you can just give the token to staff at that station and pay an additional fee.

The operating time of Taipei MRT is until 12pm, so you can traveling comfortably.

Convenience store

From 7 Eleven, to Family Mart or Hi Life, you can find everything you need here from food, drinks to essentials. More specifically, in Taipei convenience stores – quite similar to Japan – you can use printers and photocopiers, which is useful if you need to quickly print documents while traveling.

Opening hours of museums

• Museums in Taipei have different closing hours, so you need to Google in advance to avoid going to visit but waste of time because of closing.
• National Palace Museum is always open but some exhibition areas will be closed, please refer to its homepage https://www.npm.gov.tw/en/Article.aspx?sNo=03000063
• The National Taiwan Museum http://www2.ntm.gov.tw/ is closed every Monday.

Exploring nature around Taipei

Taipei not only has majestic reinforced concrete forests, but also has countless natural landscapes such as: Beitou hot spring, Yangmingshan National Park located between Taipei and New Taipei City, Xiangshan mountain (Elephant mountain), etc. for you to explore Taipei which is very interesting city.

Taipei travel tips: Free things in Taipei

There are 3 free things in Taipei that any visitor should know:

• Public toilets are always available at train stations, this will be the best rescue for you in “emergency situations”, LOL.
• Free public water tabs are also available at major train stations, which you can use when thirsty.
• Free umbrella. This is the cutest thing I’ve ever seen, you can take it and give it back for others to use.

Taipei travel advisory: Public bicycles

Just 5 TWD – less than $0.18 – you can use You Bike rental service within 30 minutes, very convenient if you are afraid to walk but still want to exercise. You Bike is everywhere in Taipei, you can pick up one at a point and drop off at the next point, it’s very easy.

To find a You Bike stop, you can see map on the homepage at https://taipei.youbike.com.tw/en/index.php , this is my favorite vehicle when traveling in the center of Taipei.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Taipei you can refer to

• Taoyuan Airport Private Transfers (TPE) for Taipei
• Sedan Taoyuan Airport Transfers (TPE) for Taipei
• [SALE] Taoyuan Airport MRT Ticket & Exclusive Shopping Coupon
• Luxury Taoyuan Airport Transfers (TPE) for Taipei
• Explore Taipei City
• Taipei Free Walking Tour Historic Route
• Taipei Double Decker Bus Tour
• Taipei Popular Sightseeing Private Car Charter : Jiufen, Pingxi, and North Coast (Chinese/English/Korean)
• Northeast Coast Scenic Day Tour
• Jiufen Shuttle Bus from Ximen
• Yehliu, Shifen, and Jiufen Day Tour with Korean and English Speaking Guides
• Taipei: Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen, Shifen, and Golden Waterfall Day Tour
• EasyCard (TPE Airport Pick Up)
• Klook Pass Taipei (For international travelers)
• Taipei 101 Observatory Ticket
• Maokong Gondola Ticket
• Yeliou, Jinguashih, Juifen and Shihfen Join Day Tour
• Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass
• Taipei: Beitou and Yangmingshan One-Day Tour
• [10% Off + 1 Extra Free Day] 4G SIM Card (TW Airport Pick Up) for Taiwan from Chunghwa Telecom
• 4G SIM Card (TPE Airport Pick Up) for Taiwan from Far EasTone Telecom
• 4G WiFi (TW Airport Pick Up) for Taiwan
• 4G Portable WiFi for Taiwan from Uroaming (Unlimited Data)
• 4G Portable WiFi for Taiwan from WiFiBB (Unlimited Data)
• 4G LTE WiFi (TW Airport Pick Up) for Japan
• [Sale – Taiwan Food Promo] Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) Discounted Ticket from Taipei
• Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) Consecutive Unlimited Pass (2 or 3 Days)
• Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) Discounted Ticket from Taoyuan
• THSR Exclusive Discount One Way Ticket from Taoyuan (Two Tickets for the Price of One)

Are you finding more top things to do in Taipei: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Taipei travel blog — The fullest Taipei city guide for a wonderful trip to Taipei for the first-timers.

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12 Taipei Travel Tips and Things To Know about Taipei!

Categories Asia , Taiwan

Taipei is a truly incredible and underrated capital city! Taipei is so easy to get around, there are so many things to do in Taipei and it’s a great base to see more of Taiwan from .

I went back to Taipei just 8 months after my first visit, I loved it that much! So in this Taipei travel blog, here are my Taipei travel tips to help you plan your trip to Taipei and Taiwan!

Taipei Travel Tips

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR TAIWAN

First up, have you got travel insurance for Taiwan yet? I am covered with World Nomad’s who I really recommend! They are designed by travellers, for travellers with excellent customer service and a range of cover options.

SIM CARD FOR TAIWAN

I found the wifi pretty good in Taiwan but I do think it’s best to have a local sim card so you have constant internet access.

The best way to get a sim card for Taiwan if your phone is unlocked is to buy this EasyCard & Sim Card package deal in advance . You’ll need an EasyCard to get around on transport in Taiwan anyway and at the same time you can get a Taiwan Sim Card with 4G and pick them up at Taoyuan Airport when you land.

If your phone is locked or you don’t want to go to the hassle of getting a sim card, I suggest getting a portable wifi device for Taiwan  which you can get delivered to your home free of charge 2-3 days before you leave for Taiwan!

1. Taipei is Easy to Visit!

I wasn’t sure what Taipei would be like to visit, would it be hard, complicated, confusing with no English spoken or shown?

However, if I had to sum up my 2 days in Taipei in one word it would be- Easy . Because it was. I got around the city easily, I got to all of the attractions easily, I found food easily, the communication with the locals was easy. It was just simple and easy and I really appreciated that. 

Taipei Travel Tip

They speak Mandarin in Taiwan. Of course, this is a hard language but I recommend learning a few phrases. I also saved some phases on my phone which I showed to people and this helped me with my food choices especially!

My Related Taiwan Posts:  16 Places to Visit in Taiwan!  / How Much I Spent in Taiwan! / 2 Week Taiwan Itinerary!

2. How Get Around Tapei!

I loved Taipei’s MRT (Metro) so much! Like I said above, I got around Taipei so well and this was because of the MRT.

I stayed in a hostel right next to an MRT station which was really handy and as well as being easy to navigate and cheap , it’s really efficient too with regular trains and it doesn’t take long to get from one side of the city to the other via metro.

The Taipei MRT is fully signposted with all the tourist attractions on so you know which exit to leave at, all stations have toilets in them (which are clean!) and there’s Wifi in Taipei in all the metro stations and on the trains!

Before your first MRT journey purchase a top-up EasyCard . It costs 100NTD which is non-refundable but it still makes the journeys cheaper than buying single tickets, plus it’s much less hassle. I spent 300NT$ on top-up credit in 2 full days plus 1 evening and 1 morning to get to the main train station.

Plus you can use the EasyCard all over Taiwan on all the public transport.

Be sure to get an Easy Card at the start of your trip in a metro station or pick an Easy Card & Sim Card package deal up in the airport via this service .

(100NT$ is £2.45 / $3.25 USD)

3. Visiting Taipei on a Budget!

I had no idea how expensive Taiwan would be, I just knew I wanted to go, however, I was pleasantly surprised by how much things cost in Taipei and that Taipei can be visited on a budget.

Like all Cities, it’s up to you how much you spend on food and attractions etc but a lot of the best Taipei attractions are free to enter and the night food markets in Taipei make eating really cheap too!

It’s not cheap cheap like Vietnam for example but it’s definitely not Japan prices, lets put it that way!

If you are on a budget in Taipei be sure to look into the supermarkets like 7/11 and Family Mart for food. They have so many decent lunch and snack options for a low price and they have seats inside and many locals seem to sit inside and eat.

Related Post: How Expensive is it to Visit Taiwan?

4. Taipei Hostels!

I stayed at Star Hostel East Taipei and it was such a good base! Most of the accommodation in Taipei it seems is in the West of the City but this Eastern Neighbourhood was really cool and so close to many MRT stations and Taipei 101.

The interior is gorgeous and very Taiwanese, plus I loved that we were given hostel slippers! I had a private double room which was very comfy and the dorms they offer look great too. 

With a Taiwanese Breakfast included and lovely staff, this is definitely one of the best hostels in Taipei and I really recommend it!

Accommodation in Taiwan can book up fast so it’s always good to book accommodation in advance, check out the Star Hostel East Taipei here !

AIRBNB IN TAIWAN

Taipei has some great Airbnb options like this which will make you feel like a local! To get $30.00 off your Airbnb stay (which is one nights free accommodation in Taipei!), open a new account using this promo code !

5. Eating at Taipei Night Markets!

Taiwan is famous for its night market and of course Taipei does not disappoint. Many of the night markets like Shilin night market and Raohe night market have been dubbed ‘tourist night markets in Taipei’ however locals still go to them and it’s a great way to experience Taiwanese culture, in fact the stands have limited English on them which shows that they are still a very local affair.

Food is a big part of the night markets but there are also stalls selling lots of different things and in Shilin night market especially there are lots of arcade games. Don’t stick to just Shilin and Raohe though, if you are an adventurous eater I’d recommend heading to some night markets that are not dubbed ‘tourist night markets in Taipei’ on the map so you get to experience even more of a local side of the city.

If you are vegetarian or vegan in Taiwan be prepared for a much more limited variety of foods! I ate but I ended up eating a lot of fried food.  Related Post: A Vegetarian Guide to Taiwan’s Night Markets.

Also do not expect the stall owners to speak English, some will but if their stands have no English on them it’s likely they won’t speak it. So either point, hand over your money and hope for the best, or keep moving on to another stall.

To help you plan your trip around Taiwan, have a look at all of my Taiwan Blog Posts here!

6. Easy 2-3 Day Taipei Itinerary!

I could have easily spent a 3rd and 4th day in Taipei however I managed to see a lot in just over 2 days and planned my 2 day Taipei itinerary well.

Many of Taipei’s best tourist attractions are close together, or at least not far on the MRT meaning you can easily plan a route around the city and section off the best things to do in Taipei this way to save time so you don’t have to go back and forth across the city.

Saying that I feel like the major tourist attraction is Taipei 101 (which I recommend visiting) and the rest are not hugely iconic places, or at least they weren’t for me. I like Cities like this as you don’t feel like you are constantly running from one iconic place to another just to tick it off, you can see which tourist sites in Taipei appeal to you and see them.

To help you see all of these things to do in Taipei and save money, I recommend the Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass which gives you access into 16 of the top Taipei attractions meaning you don’t have to worry about paying for entrance fee’s in each of them! You can buy the Taipei Fun Pass online here and pick it up at the Airport or Taipei Main Station when you arrive!

Here are 50 Unmissable Things to Do in Taipei !

Trains are the best way to get around Taiwan. You can’t book trains online via Taiwan’s train system but you can book them online using 12GO Asia, the top transport booking platform in Asia. Search for your trains here!

7. Mix of Cultures!

Like all good Asian Cities, Taipei has a lot of culture to it despite it being a modern City. There are temples all around the City and even after spending just 2 days and 3 nights in Taipei, had I left Taiwan I would have felt like I had an idea of what Taiwanese culture is about, or at least much more of an idea than I had before I arrived.

This makes Taipei a great City Break destination too if you are living in this part of Asia and are able to pop to Taipei quickly. If you’re ever left wondering ‘what to do in Taipei’, look for a local Temple to visit.

8. City & Country Life

Although Taipei is a sprawling City it’s really easy to get out of the City and into the Countryside. Even a walk up Elephant Mountain- one of the most popular things to do in Taipei, will take you into nature. From here there are many other Taipei hikes too.

You can also visit hot springs in Beitou just North of Taipei City, and head to Maokong via cable car which is a Tea growing area of the City offering views of the City and also lots of walks and hikes in nature.

If you go to Maokong I recommend giving yourself plenty of time as there are so many walking paths up there! Also use your EasyCard to pay as you get 20% off the normal price.

Elephant Mountain viewpoint gets busy with tourists during the day and hot too. It’s recommended that the best time to visit Elephant Mountain is early in the morning to avoid this. However, I’ve heard sunset is also the best time to see Elephant Mountain too because if it’s clear you’ll see the perfect sunset over the City.

9. Taipei Day Trips

Not only is there a lot to see in Taipei but it’s a great base to see more of Taiwan from! I moved around the Country in my one week in Taiwan but you could also spend up to one week in Taipei and do lots of day trips as Taiwan’s train system is very efficient and quick, and Taiwan is a pretty small island.

Popular day trips from Taipei are Jiufen, Beitou Hot Springs, Yangmingshan National Park, Tamsui and many more which are all slightly closer to the City, but day trips to Taichung are also popular and do-able as the train takes just 1 hour.

If you are able to, do a day trip from Taipei during the week rather than on a week day as locals love to leave Taipei on the weekend and these places will be less busy on during the week!

10. Tapei is Safe for Solo Female Travellers

I had no doubts that Taiwan and Taipei would not be safe for solo female travel but I can confirm it is anyway. I felt totally totally safe in Taipei . All the locals seemed very friendly keeping themselves to themselves.

I also felt as a foreigner and tourist in Taipei that I didn’t stick out, I felt like I blended in despite not blending physically. Maybe because Taipei does have a bit of a digital nomad and expat scene or that everyone is used to tourists, either way, I felt very comfortable in Taipei.

I only had interactions with a few locals aside from people in shops and restaurants but they were all very nice and I’d encourage you to try to get in a conversation. 

Related Post: Solo Travel Guide to Taipei, Taiwan.

11. Tapei is Clean, Organised & Orderly

Taipei, or at least from what I saw of it, is a very clean and organised city which I appreciated. One way I found it very orderly straight away, probably because I came from South East Asia, is that everyone waits at the traffic lights, no one darts across the road! Everyone queues orderly at the MRT too and in general it was a very rush and hassle-free City, another reason I found it so easy!

I don’t know if there are law’s against Jay Walking in Taipei but it’s probably best to wait at the lights like the locals just incase!

12. Living in Taipei

Finally, I tend to love Cities that I feel I could live in and even after just 3 nights in Taipei I got this feeling because of all of the above points. I’m sure to live there might not be as easy as visiting but it seems like Taipei does have a good digital nomad scene so you never know if you’ll find me there in the future as a expat in Taipei!

I hope this Taipei Blog convinces you that a trip to Taipei is a must and that it must be included in your Taiwan itinerary and gives you some helpful travel tips for when you go!

To SEE Taipei, have a look at my YouTube Video here !

• More of my Taiwan Posts:
• A 1 Week Taiwan Itinerary
• A 2 Week Taiwan Itinerary
• 16 Amazing Places to Visit in Taiwan!
• 1-3 Day Itinerary for Taichung & Things to Do.
• 2-3 Day Itinerary for Kaohsiung | Travel Guide.
• All My Taiwan Blog Posts

I was hosted by Star Hostel East Taipei in return for content however I fully recommend the hostel. 

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2024 taipei taiwan travel guide blog with diy itinerary, things to do, tourist spots, tips and budget for first-timers.

Traveling to Taiwan for the first time this 2024? Let this Comprehensive Taipei Taiwan Travel Guide Blog 2024 with Sample DIY Taiwan Itinerary (pdf), list of top things to do in Taipei, and breakdown of expenses help you plan your trip. Best of all, Filipinos can enter Taiwan Visa-Free! Read on this post to learn more!

Updated 2024 first-timer's travel guide blog to taipei, taiwan, if you're looking for a trip to taiwan package from the philippines , this is not a packaged tour. but i could help you plan your trip diy (do-it-yourself) style. now, let’s get started., quick facts about taipei taiwan.

• Currency - New Taiwan Dollar (NTD / NT$)
• Language - Mandarin Chinese. Learn a few Mandarin words and phrases before traveling to Taiwan.
• Weather - 4 Seasons (Winter/Spring/Summer/Fall)
• Electricity - 110 Volts at 60 Hertz (uses Type A socket with 2 flat pins and type B socket with 2 flat pins and an extra prong for grounding)
• Time Zone: - UTC+08:00

Visa Requirements to enter Taiwan

Requirements for visa-free entry to visit taiwan for filipinos.

• An ordinary/regular passport with remaining validity of at least six months from the date of entry (Diplomatic & official passport holders are not eligible for visa-free treatment);
• A return ticket or a ticket for the traveller's next destination and a visa for that destination if it is required;
• No criminal record in Taiwan;
• A proof of accommodation (hotel) booking or host/sponsor's contact information /or arrangements of tour, travel, visit, events and meeting etc.

Taiwan Quarantine Rules

• For all foreign travelers arriving in Taiwan, you must undergo a 3-day quarantine in a designated quarantine hotel and a 4-day self-initiated epidemic prevention following the end of quarantine.
• By October 13, 2022, Taiwan government eyes to end COVID-19 quarantine.
• Taiwan COVID-19 Quarantine Rules are continuously changing. Restrictions implemented for arriving travelers can change quickly. Please check regularly the updated quarantine rules in the destinations you're travelling to and transiting through before you travel.

Cheap Flights to Taipei Taiwan

How to Get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei City?

Taoyuan airport mrt, private car transfer, taiwan weather, when is the best time to visit taiwan, how many days to spend in taiwan, taiwan time zone, useful mandarin words and phrases.

• Hello - Nĭ hăo (sounds like Nee how)
• Thank You - Xièxiè (sounds like Shieh-shieh)
• Good morning - Zǎo (sounds like Zhow)
• Goodnight - Wǎn'ān (sound like One-un)
• I don't understand - Tīng bù dǒng (sound like teeng boo dong)
• How much? - Duō shǎo qián (sounds like dwo shaow chyen?)
• Excuse Me / Pardon / Sorry - Bù hǎo yìsi (sounds like boo haow eeh si)
• Where is…? - Zài nǎli (sounds like dzaiy nah lee)
• I want to go to… - Wǒ yào qù… (sounds like wo yaow chyoo)
• Restroom - Cèsuǒ (sounds like Tse soo-oh)

Where to Exchange Taiwan Currency?

Pocket Wifi Rental and Data SIM in Taipei

Pocket wifi rental in taiwan, taiwan data sim card.

How to Get around Taipei?

Taipei transport fun pass, taipei unlimited fun pass.

• Taipei 101 Observatory

National Palace Museum

• Main Building of Chiang Kai-Shek Shilin Residence
• Miramar Entertainment Park Ferris Wheel
• Taipei Children’s Amusement Park
• Tamsui Historical Museum
• Tamsui to Fisherman’s Wharf roundtrip ticket

Gold Museum

• Yeliu Geopark

Juming Museum

• Sky Lantern Police Station Electric Sky Lantern ticket
• National Museum of Marine Science & Technology

5-DAY JOINT TRAIN PASS (THSR+TR)

Maokong gondola.

Where to Stay in Taipei?

SLEEPBOX HOSTEL XIMEN

• Mixed Dormitory - PHP 926.00 per person
• Female Dormitory for 8 - PHP 927.00 per person
• Standard Double Room, 1 Double Bed - PHP 1,806.00 for 2 persons

ANGELS' HOSTEL - TAIPEI XIMEN

• Shared Male Dormitory - PHP 512.00 per person
• Shared Female Dormitory - PHP 512.00 per person
• Shared Dormitory, Mixed Dorm (1 Double Bed) - PHP 1,617.00 for 2 persons

GRAND HYATT TAIPEI

INN CUBE XIMEN

• Room Selected By Hotel, Shared Bathroom - PHP 1,001.00 for 1 person
• Room, Shared Bathroom (Bunk Bed) - PHP 1,717.00 for 2 persons
• Double Room, Shared Bathroom - PHP 1,860.00 for 2 persons

SHILIN HOME TAIPEI

• Double Room - PHP 2,957.00 for 2 persons
• Twin Room - PHP 2,957.00 for 2 persons
• Triple Room - PHP 3,827.00 for 3 persons
• Quadruple Room - PHP 4,697.00 for 4 persons

CITY INN HOTEL PLUS XIMEN

• Standard Room - PHP 3,858.00 for 2 persons
• Elite Double - PHP 4,328.00 for 2 persons
• Twin Room - PHP 5,034.00 for 2 persons
• Deluxe Room - PHP 5,034.00 for 2 persons
• Triple Room - PHP 6,672.00 for 3 persons
• Family Room - PHP 7,562.00 for 4 persons

ART INN HOSTEL XIMEN TAIPEI

• Twin Room - PHP 1,500.00 for 2 persons
• Standard Quadruple Room - PHP 4,000.00 for 4 persons
• Family Room - PHP 5,387.00 for 6 persons

TOP-RATED HOTELS IN TAIPEI

Here are the popular and highly-regarded hotels in taipei, taiwan with excellent ratings from previous guests. you can save as much as 50% discount on published room rates when you book in advance., other hotels & hostels in taipei, here are the other popular and top-rated hotels in taipei, taiwan. book now to save as much as 50% off on your hotel bookings.

• Hotel Papa Whale - See rates and room availability
• San Want Hotel - See rates and room availability
• New Riverside Suites - See rates and room availability
• Hotel Midtown Richardson - See rates and room availability
• Sato Castle Motel - See rates and room availability
• Westgate Hotel - See rates and room availability
• Amba Taipei Ximending - See rates and room availability
• CitizenM Taipei North Gate - See rates and room availability
• Fortune Hiya Taipei - See rates and room availability
• Just Sleep Hotel Ximending - See rates and room availability

THINGS TO DO IN TAIPEI + TOURIST SPOTS & ATTRACTIONS

Taipei 101 and Observatory

Travel tip:.

Elephant Mountain

Martyrs' Shrine

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

• Memorial Hall - 09:00 AM - 06:00 PM, daily
• Memorial Parl - 05:00 AM - 12:00 MN, daily

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall

Hop on hop off bus ticket prices:.

• 4 Hour Pass - PHP 454.00
• 1 Day Pass - PHP 1,059.00

Longshan Temple

Bopiliao Historical Block

Shilin Night Market

Miramar Entertainment Park

Dadaocheng District

Chiang Kai-Shek Shilin Residence

Ximending Shopping District

And just outside Taipei...

Side trips and day tours from taipei.

Shifen Waterfalls

Pingxi Old Street

Jiufen Old Village

Nanya Rock Formations

Ying Yang Sea

Yehliu Geopark

Top Best Things to do in Taipei, Taiwan

Visit the taipei 101 observatory.

• Taipei 101 is one of Taiwan's most popular tourist attractions and most photographed landmarks. This is one of the reasons why I've been wanting to visit Taiwan is to see and climb the famed Taipei 101 . Read more here.

Climb Elephant Mountain and Enjoy the Best View of Taipei

• If you're wondering where to get the best view of the city and of Taipei 101 , I highly suggest that you climb the Elephant Mountain . It requires a hike to the stairs to get to the viewpoint where you will be greeted with an amazing view of Taipei City and the towering Taipei 101 dominating the city's skyline. The best time to visit is during the late afternoon to catch the sunset. Read more here.

Eat, Shop, and Wander at the Best Night Markets in Taipei

• Food trip and shopping are two of the best ways to enjoy a visit to Taiwan. Forget about bars and night clubs. The night markets are the best places to visit at night when in Taiwan! The night market is a Taiwanese cultural tradition that you should experience when visiting Taiwan. Eat, shop, stroll, and immerse yourself with the night market culture as you share the experience with the Taipei locals and tourists visiting Taiwan. Read more here.

Taipei City Double Decker Sightseeing Bus Tour

• This tour is a Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour to some of the major tourist spots and attractions in Taipei. Composed of 23 bus stops and 2 routes, it gives you the convenience of taking the bus that goes to the different interesting sites in Taipei. With this tour, you can choose to hop off at any stop for sightseeing, and hop back on when the next bus on the schedule arrives. Read more here.
• Jiufen Village and Northeast Coast Tour in New Taipei City, Taiwan
• This northeast coast tour in New Taipei City will bring you to some scenic spots in Taiwan, such as the Bitou Cape, Nanya Rock Formations, and Ying Yang Sea. The highlight of this tour is the visit to Jiufen Village which is an old mining town that is now a popular tourist destination near Taipei City. Located in the mountain area of Ruifang District in New Taipei City, Taiwan, Jiufen Village is a quaint village with rich history and culture to tell. Read more here.

Shifen Waterfalls, Pingxi Old Street, and Keelung Miaokou Market

• This tour will bring you to Shifen Waterfalls which is located within a beautiful forested mountainside in Pingxi District, New Taipei City. It is popular tourist destination that is about 20 meters high and 40 meters wide, making it the broadest waterfall in Taiwan. Also not to be missed is the Pingxi Old Street which is located near a train station that is rich in culture and history to tell. You could end your tour with a visit to Keelung Miaokou Street where you could explore the different shops and food stalls in the area. Read more here.

Pineapple Cake Making Workshop in Taipei

• Don’t miss this workshop that will let you to experience the handmade process of pineapple shortcake making when visiting Taiwan. Located in Shilin District , The Kuo Yuan Ye Museum of Cake and Pastry is a pastry culture and making museum in Taipei, Taiwan. Read more here.

The Shu's Pottery DIY Workshop

• Learning pottery making for the very first time is such an awesome and memorable experience. There's no better way to learn it than from the guidance of experts and from a place rich in history. This is recommended for your group of friends, family, and even kids. Read more here.

Soap Making Workshop at TeaSoap since 1957

• This activity will surely bring out the creativity in you. It's an ideal activity and new things to do in Taiwan that the family, group of friends, and kids of all ages will surely love and enjoy. Read more here.

Blue Dye Making Workshop at The Can

• This traditional Taiwanese cloth dyeing technique can still be found in Sanxia District in New Taipei City. Because of the abundance of the dye plant called "Da Jing" in the area, Sanxia became the center of the cloth dyeing industry of Northern Taiwan during the late Qing dynasty. To keep the tradition alive, locals have set up dyeing workshops along the old streets of Sanxia to let other people learn and appreciate the art of Blue Dye . Read more here.

Best Food and Must-eats in Taipei

Din Tai Fung

Meat boss hot pot in taipei, buffet options.

• Eatogether in Taiwan
• Chao Guo Shabu in Banqiao Station
• Cafe83 at Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall Station
• Mantanghung Spicy Hot Pot at Taipei City Hall Station
• Jing He Jia at Fuzhong Station

Other Tours and Experiences in Taiwan

A Day at Sun Moon Lake

Yangmingshan National Park & Hot Springs Tour

Taiwan's Northern Coast

Fo Guang Shan and Cheng Ching Lake

Wuling Farm Day Tour from Taipei

Sightseeing Carpool Between Taipei and Hualien (via Jiufen)

Gaomei Wetland & Rainbow Military Community

Leofoo Village Theme Park

Thousand Island Lake & Pinglin Tea Plantation

Taroko Gorge, Swallow Grotto, & Seven Star Lake Day Tour

Qingshui Cliff Sea Kayaking in Hualien

Alishan National Forest Recreation Area

Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen and Shifen Shuttle Bus from Ximen

Sample 5 days and 4 nights taipei diy itinerary.

• Arrival in Taiwan
• Check-in at the Hotel
• City tour via Hop on Hop off sightseeing bus tour
• Dinner and Taipei at Night Tour
• Back at the hotel/hostel
• Morning walk in Taipei, go to Bopiliao Historical Block
• Jiufen Village and Northeast Coast Tour
• Jingmei Night Market Tour and Dinner
• Half day Explore Taipei City Tour
• Visit Taipei 101 Observatory
• Climb Elephant Mountain
• Dinner at Tonghua Night Market
• Join the FREE Taipei Walking Tour Historic Route
• Explore Bopiliao Historical Block
• Shop for pasalubong
• Walk around Ximending Shopping District
• Dinner at Shilin Night Market
• Prepare for departure
• Check out of the hotel
• Flight back to Manila

Taipei Trip Budget and Expenses

List of basic expenses.

• Accommodation: PHP 1,000 - 5,000 per night
• Food: PHP 500 - 800 per day
• Transportation: PHP 300 - 400 per day
• Taipei 101 Observatory Ticket - PHP 859 per person
• Half-day Explore Taipei City Tour - PHP 1,704 per person (includes entrance ticket to the National Palace Museum)
• Taipei at Night Tour - PHP 2,324 per person (includes dinner at Din Tai Fung )
• Jingmei Night Market Tour - PHP 842 per person (includes tasting 12 local snacks)
• Taipei Sightseeing Hop on Hop off Bus Tour
• 4 Hour Pass - PHP 454.00 per person
• 1 Day Pass - PHP 1,059.00 per person
• Jiufen Village and Northeast Coast Tour: PHP 2,014 per person
• 4G Pocket WiFi Rental: PHP 133 per day
• Airport Transfers: PHP 1,390 per way good for 4 persons

Sample Expenses for 14,000 PHP Budget

• Train to Taipei - 272.00
• Hostel (1st night) - 512.00
• One day Bus Tour via Klook - 1,059
• Food Expenses - 300.00
• Dinner and Taipei at Night Tour via Klook - 2,324
• TOTAL - 4,467
• Hostel (2nd night) - 512.00
• Jiufen Tour - 2,014.00
• Jingmei Night Market Tour via Klook - 842.00
• Transportation - 60.00
• TOTAL - 3,728
• Hostel (3rd night) - 512.00
• Explore Taipei via Klook - 1,704
• Taipei 101 Observatory Ticket via Klook - 859.00
• Elephant Mountain - Free
• Transportation - 100.00
• Food Expenses - 500.00
• TOTAL - 3,675.00
• Hostel - 512.00
• TOTAL - 1,112.00
• Train to Taoyuan Airport - 272.00
• TOTAL - 772.00

GRAND TOTAL = 14,086.00 per person

• Round trip airfare Manila-Taipei-Manila
• NAIA terminal fee and travel tax
• Budget for pasalubong and tips
• Food expense for snacks

You can download a PDF copy of this Taiwan DIY Itinerary Travel Guide, HERE .

Sample 3 Days 2 Nights (3D2N) Itinerary for 8,000 Pesos

Day 1 - gold museum, jiufen and miramar entertainment park.

• 06:00 - Arrival in Taipei. Take the Airport Express to Taipei Main Station
• 07:30 - Leave bags at the hotel/hostel
• 08:00 - Have Breakfast at JSP Ximen
• 08:10 - Eat breakfast at JSP Ximen
• 08:40 - Walk to Ximen Bus Stop Station
• 09:00 - Take the city bus number 965 to Gold Museum
• 10:10 - Gold Museum Tour
• 11:50 - Lunch
• 12:30 - Gather and head to Jiufen by taking bus 965
• 13:00 - Explore Jiufen Old Street
• 14:30 - Gather and take bus 965 to Taipei
• 15:30 - Arrive at Taipei's Beimen MRT Station
• 15:45 - Take the MRT Green line and alight at Nanjing Fuxing
• 16:00 - Transfer the MRT brown line and take the train to Jiannan Rd. Station
• 16:30 - Go to Miramar Entertainment Park, ride the Ferris Wheel
• 18:30 - Dinner
• 20:00 - Head back to Ximen by taking the MRT Brown Line from Jiannan Rd. Station to Nanjing Fuxing
• 20:30 - Transfer to MRT Green Line to Ximen Station
• 21:00 - Back at the hotel/hostel

Day 2 - National Palace Museum, Shilin Residence, Dadaocheng, and Taipei 101

• 07:00 - Breakfast
• 08:00 - Take the MRT to Shilin Station and transfer to the Bus Red 30 (R30) which will take you directly to the National Palace Museum.
• 09:10 - Arrive at National Palace Museum, explore
• 10:50 - Gather at the exit and take the bus Bus Red 30 (R30) and head to Main Building of Chiang Kai-Shek Shilin Residence
• 11:10 - Tour of Main Building of Chiang Kai-Shek Shilin Residence
• 13:00 - Lunch
• 14:00 - Take the MRT to Daqiaotou Station. Take exit 1 and walk towards Dadaocheng district
• 15:00 - Arrive at Dadaocheng district
• 15:45 - Explore the district of Dadaocheng
• 18:00 - Dinner
• 19:00 - Walk back to Daqiaotou Station
• 19:30 - Take MRT from Daqiaotou Station to Dongmen Station and transfer to red line to Taipei101/World Trade Center Station.
• 20:00 - Arrive at Taipei 101 and visit Shou Xing Fang for souvenir shopping
• 20:30 - Go up to Taipei 101 Observatory
• 22:00 - Take the MRT back to Ximen Station
• 22:30 - Back at hotel/hostel

Day 3 - Yehliu Geopark and Juming Museum

• 06:00 - Leave bags at the hotel/hostel
• 06:30 - Breakfast
• 07:00 - Take the MRT from Ximen to Taipei Main Station then transfer the MRT Red Line to Tamsui Station
• 08:30 - Arrive at Tamsui Station. Take the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle service 862 to Yehliu Geopark
• 10:00 - Arrive at Yehliu Geopark, explore
• 12:00 - Lunch
• 13:00 - Depart for Juming Museum by taking Bus 862
• 13:30 - Tour Juming Museum
• 15:30 - Gather at the entrance of Juming Museum
• 15:45 - Take the Bus 862 back to Tamsui Station
• 17:00 - Arrive at Tamsui Station. Take the MRT Red Line to Taipei Main Station then transfer to Ximen Station via the Blue Line.
• 17:40 - Arrive at Ximen Station/Taipei Main Station and Go to the hotel to pick-up bags
• 18:00 - Take the Airport Express Train to Taoyuan Airport
• 19:00 - Arrive at Taoyuan Airport. Check-in for your flight.
• You will be staying in a hostel for 1,000 pesos per night.
• Your food expenses is 800 pesos per day.
• You'll be taking the Airport Express Train from and to the Airport for 544 pesos round trip.
• You will be using a 3-day Unlimited Taipei Fun Pass worth 3,243 pesos. You can buy Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass here .

Breakdown of Expenses:

• 3 days Unlimited Taipei Fun Pass - PHP 3,243
• Hostel for 2 nights - PHP 2,000
• Food for 3 days - PHP 2,400
• Round trip Airport Express Train - PHP 544

TOTAL - PHP 8,187 per person

Taiwan travel blogs.

• Sample Taiwan Itineraries for 3, 4, 5 Days Tour
• 10 Free Things to Do in Taipei + Tourist and Attractions
• Taipei Taiwan Night Markets: Est, Shot and Explore!
• 3 Awesome Ways to Explore and Discover Taipei, Taiwan
• Taipei 101 & Elephant Mountain (Best Views of Taipei + Travel Tips)
• Top Best Budget Hotels and Hostels in Taipei, Taiwan
• The Perfect 3-Day Itinerary for Taipei using the Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass
• Sample 2 Days Nantou, Taiwan Itinerary using the Nantou Fun Pass

I hope this COMPREHENSIVE TAIPEI TAIWAN TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG for First-timers help you in planning a memorable Taiwan Adventure! Enjoy and have fun in Taiwan!

Follow my adventures on youtube @pinoyadventurista, 10 comments :.

Hi my husband is working in taiwan for almost 4 years and i will visit him this may 2018...in this case do i still need to show in the immigration a hotel accommodation or is it enough to show to them the address where my husband is staying as my proof of accommodation?

Great to know this TAIWAN VISA-FREE ACCESS for Filipinos is extended until July 31, 2019! I'm planning a trip soon, this Taipei Budget Travel Guide with sample DIY Itinerary is very helpful. This First-Timer's Travel Guide to Taipei, Taiwan is such a big help especially for first-timer like me.

Indeed, there are so many THINGS TO DO IN TAIPEI. I used this as my travel guide. Get to Know the City on a Hop On Hop Off Tour. Get a Killer View of Taipei from the Taipei 101 Observatory. Eat Your Way Through Shilin and Raohe Night Markets. Get Artsy at a Museum or Creative Park. Go on a Free Walking Tour. Feel Tiny at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. Planning a trip to Taiwan sometime soon? This is a comprehensive DIY itinerary travel guide that covers attractions and activities every first timer’s should not miss.

yong iti's mo is "for your eyes only" we cant even print it. enable mo naman yan para ma print ng readers and followers

yong iti portion mo is "for your eyes only" we cant even print it. enable mo naman yan para ma print ng readers and followers, i mean not the whole post

Hi. Me and my brother are planning to travel to Taiwan next month. It will my first time while second trip for my brother because he's already been to SG last year. Question, cos i'll be really on a tight budget for this trip like everything will be budgeted. Im just afraid that i'll be checked regarding my financial capability. Well, im actually employed for two years already but i dont have that "show money" thing. Is it okay? Thank you so much.

Hi, paano po kapag sa apartment ng bf/gf ka magtitigil for the rest of your vacation? Okay lang po bang sabihin na you'll be staying at your boyfriend's or girlfriend's place?

I love how detailed you are when explaining everything! Thank you for this! Excited to visit Taiwan again!

Thank you for this guide! Super detailed and helpful! God bless 🙏

thank you for this is very helpful. can i ask if how much money needed for my bank to not get offloaded if i want to travel i taiwan.

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

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Taipei to Tainan: A 5-Day Cultural and Scenic Adventure

April 19, 2024 · 3 min read

Embark on a 5-day journey from the bustling streets of Taipei to the historic charm of Tainan. Begin your adventure at the Taipei Palace Museum, where three hours will immerse you in a world of art and history. Next, ascend to the heights of modern Taiwan with a visit to TAIPEI 101 and its breathtaking observation deck. Conclude your first day with a reflective hour at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. Day two introduces you to the literary oasis of Beitou Public Library, followed by a dip into the past at the Beitou Hot Spring Museum. Reconnect with nature at Yangmingshan National Park, a perfect prelude to the urban wildlife encounters at Taipei Zoo on day three. The same day, glide above the city on the Maokong Gondola and savor the vibrant atmosphere of Shilin Night Market. Transition to Tainan on day four, starting with the Confucius Temple's serene grounds, the historic Fort Provintia, and the lively Garden Night Market. Your final day is a stroll through time on Anping Old Street, a visit to the storied Anping Old Fort, and a surreal experience at the Anping Tree House. Each attraction has been carefully selected to ensure a rich tapestry of experiences, from cultural enlightenment to scenic indulgence, making your 5-day trip an unforgettable blend of Taiwan's finest offerings.

• Day 1: Unveiling Taipei's Treasures

Taipei Palace Museum

Begin your Taipei adventure with a cultural deep dive at the Taipei Palace Museum, a treasure trove of ancient Chinese art. Nestled in the heart of Shilin District, this museum offers a three-hour journey through time with its extensive collection of over 700,000 pieces, including rare artifacts and imperial antiques. The serene surroundings and the architectural grandeur add to the immersive experience, making it a must-visit for history buffs and art lovers alike.

Attraction Info

• No. 221, Sec 2, Zhi Shan Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111
• Suggested tour duration: 3-4 hour
• Open on Tue-Sun,9:00am-5:00pm;Closed on Mon，Library: Open every Tuesday to Saturday 09:00-17:00, closed on Sundays, Mondays and holidays. Zhang Daqian Memorial Hall: Opens at 10:30 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, closed on April 2 each year and holidays. Zhishan Garden: 08:00-17:00 from Tuesday to Sunday, closed every Monday. Zhide Garden: Free and open all year round.

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Next, ascend to new heights at TAIPEI 101, an architectural marvel that once held the title of the world's tallest building. Spend two hours exploring its modern design, high-speed elevators, and the awe-inspiring observation deck. Located in the bustling Xinyi District, TAIPEI 101 is not just a symbol of modern Taiwan but also a hub of luxury shopping and gourmet dining, offering panoramic views of the cityscape that are as breathtaking as the building itself.

• No. 7, Section 5, Xinyi Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110
• Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
• Open from 10:00am-9:00pm，Above is the operating hours for the observation deck 89F. The shopping center is open from Sunday to Thursday,11:00-21:30, and on Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00-22:00.

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Conclude your day with a reflective hour at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a poignant monument dedicated to the former President of the Republic of China. Situated in the Zhongzheng District, this iconic landmark is surrounded by a peaceful park and features majestic architecture. The changing of the guards ceremony is a solemn spectacle, and the hall's historical significance provides a deeper understanding of Taiwan's past.

• No. 21, Zhongshan South Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour
• Open from 9:00am-6:00pm

Where to Stay Tonight

Saual keh hotel, check inn express taipei yongkang.

• Day 2: Cultural Soak and Nature's Embrace in Taipei

Beitou Public Library, Taipei

Begin your second day in Taipei with an intellectual retreat at the Beitou Public Library. Nestled in the heart of Beitou District, this eco-friendly building is a serene sanctuary for book lovers. With its wooden structure and large windows inviting natural light, the library offers a peaceful environment to enjoy a good read or simply admire its architectural beauty. Just an hour here will recharge your mind before you delve into the thermal wonders of Beitou.

• No. 251, Guangming Rd, Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan 112
• Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
• Open on Mon, Sun,9:00am-5:00pm;Open on Tue-Sat,8:30am-9:00pm

Beitou Hot Spring Museum

A short stroll from the library leads you to the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, where history and relaxation intertwine. Housed in a beautifully restored Japanese colonial-era building, the museum tells the fascinating story of Beitou's hot springs through engaging exhibits. Spend an hour exploring the historical baths and learning about the geothermal features that have attracted visitors for over a century.

• No. 2, Zhongshan Rd, Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan 112
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open on Tue-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm

Yangmingshan National Park

Cap off your day with a visit to the breathtaking Yangmingshan National Park. A verdant expanse of rolling hills, hot springs, and diverse flora, Yangmingshan is the perfect escape from the city's hustle. Allocate a couple of hours to immerse yourself in the park's natural beauty, whether it's a leisurely hike, a dip in a hot spring, or simply enjoying the panoramic views of Taipei below.

• 1-20 Zhuzihu Road, Yangming Mountain, Taipei
• Open 24 hours

Greenpeak Holiday Villa

Yang ming shan tien lai resort & spa.

• Day 3: Wildlife Wonders and Night Market Adventures in Taipei

Begin your third day in Taipei with a visit to the enchanting Taipei Zoo, nestled at No. 30, Sec.2, Xinguang Rd., Wenshan Dist. As the first stop of the day, spend a delightful 2 hours exploring the largest zoo in Asia. Home to a myriad of exotic animals and lush greenery, the zoo offers an immersive experience into the animal kingdom. From the adorable pandas to the majestic African wildlife exhibits, the Taipei Zoo is a haven for animal lovers and families seeking a fun-filled educational journey.

• No. 30, Sec.2, Xinguang Rd., Wenshan Dist., Taipei City 116016
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open from 9:00am-5:00pm

Maokong Gondola

After marveling at the animal world, take a short trip to the nearby Maokong Gondola. Located at No. 8, Section 2, Xinguang Road, this scenic cable car ride promises breathtaking views of Taipei's natural landscape. Glide over the lush tea plantations and rolling hills for an hour, as you ascend to the quaint village of Maokong. It's the perfect midday escape to appreciate the serene beauty of Taipei from above, and an ideal precursor to the vibrant evening that awaits.

• No. 8, Section 2, Xinguang Road, Wenshan District, Taipei, Taiwan
• Open on Tue-Fri,9:00am-9:00pm;Closed on Mon;Open on Sat-Sun,9:00am-10:00pm

Shilin Night Market

Cap off the day with an unforgettable experience at Shilin Night Market, the characteristic neighborhood that comes alive after dark. Situated at No. 101 Jihe Road, Shilin District, immerse yourself for 2 hours in the bustling lanes teeming with mouth-watering street food, trendy fashion, and unique souvenirs. As one of Taipei's most famous night markets, Shilin offers a sensory feast that encapsulates the spirited heart of the city's night culture. It's the perfect spot to savor local delicacies, shop for quirky finds, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

• No. 101 Jihe Road, Shilin District, Taipei City
• Open from 4:00pm-0:00am

Shihlin Dream House homestay

• Day 4: Time-Traveling in Tainan - Temples, Forts, and Night Markets

Confucius Temple

Begin your fourth day in Tainan with a serene morning at the Confucius Temple, a sanctuary of tranquility and a testament to the city's reverence for the ancient philosopher. Located at No. 2, Nanmen Road, this temple offers a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling cityscape. As you wander through its halls, take in the traditional architecture and the aura of wisdom that permeates the air, setting a reflective tone for the day ahead.

• No. 2, Nanmen Road, West Central District, Tainan City
• Open from 8:30am-5:30pm

Fort Provintia

Next, step into the pages of history at Fort Provintia, a mere stone's throw from the Confucius Temple. This historic site at 13th Floor, No. 6, Section 2, Yonghua Road, stands as a proud reminder of Tainan's colonial past. Explore the remnants of this Dutch stronghold and marvel at the fusion of European and Asian influences in its design. The fort's storied walls and archaic cannons are a photographer's delight and a historian's treasure.

• 13th Floor, No. 6, Section 2, Yonghua Road, Anping District, Tainan City
• Open from 8:30am-9:30pm

Garden Night Market

Conclude your day with an exhilarating evening at the Garden Night Market, the vibrant heartbeat of Tainan's nocturnal scene. Located at No. 533, Section 3, Hai'an Road, this characteristic neighborhood buzzes with energy as locals and travelers alike indulge in a feast for the senses. Sample delectable street food, hunt for unique souvenirs, and soak up the lively atmosphere that makes this market a beloved destination. With two hours to explore, you'll fully immerse yourself in the authentic Taiwanese night market experience.

• No. 533, Section 3, Hai'an Road, North District, Tainan City
• Open on Thu, Sat-Sun,5:00pm-0:00am;Closed on Mon-Wed, Fri

Jia Hsin Garden House

Jack castle.

• Day 5: Time-Traveling Through Tainan's Anping Treasures

Anping Old Street

Kicking off the final day of our Taipei Tainan adventure, Anping Old Street awaits with its charming alleys and historical ambiance. As you stroll down Yanping Street, you'll be transported back in time, surrounded by traditional Taiwanese architecture and the buzz of local life. This street is a treasure trove of Taiwanese snacks, artisanal crafts, and a palpable sense of history that makes for an immersive cultural experience. Dedicate an hour to meander through this characteristic neighborhood, and let the stories etched in its every corner unfold.

• Yanping Street, Anping District, Tainan City, Taiwan 708

Anping Old Fort

Just a stone's throw from the bustling Anping Old Street, the Anping Old Fort stands as a sentinel of history. This castle, with its robust walls and storied past, offers a glimpse into Taiwan's colonial era. Spend an hour exploring the fort's grounds, where every cannon and rampart has a tale to tell. The panoramic views from the top are a photographer's delight, providing sweeping vistas of the surrounding district and a chance to reflect on the layers of history that have shaped Tainan.

• No. 82 Guosheng Road, Anping District, Tainan City

Anping Tree House

Concluding our day—and our itinerary—is the enigmatic Anping Tree House. Once a warehouse, nature has reclaimed this historic site, entwining its structure with the roots and branches of banyan trees. The result is a fascinating fusion of man-made and natural worlds. Allocate an hour to wander through this living museum, where the walls whisper of the past and the trees stand as living sculptures. This unique attraction is not just a highlight of Anping, but a symbol of Tainan's enduring spirit.

• Gubao St, Anping District, Tainan City, Taiwan 708

Castle B&B

Anping bailuwan house.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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$8 billion US military aid package to Taiwan will ‘boost confidence’ in region: president-elect

The Associated Press

April 23, 2024, 5:45 AM

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TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — A $8 billion defense package approved by the U.S. House of Representatives over the weekend will “strengthen the deterrence against authoritarianism in the West Pacific ally chain,” Taiwan’s President-elect Lai Ching-te said Tuesday, in a reference to key rival China.

The funding will also “help ensure peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and also boost confidence in the region” Lai, currently Taiwan’s vice president, told visiting Michigan Representatives Lisa McClain, a Republican, and Democrat Dan Kildee at a meeting at the Presidential Office Building in the capital Taipei.

In the face of “authoritarian expansionism,” Taiwan is “determined to safeguard democracy and also safeguard our homeland,” Lai said.

Also known as William Lai, U.S.-educated former medical researcher is despised by Beijing for his opposition to political unification with the mainland. In recent elections, the pro-unification Nationalists won a narrow majority in the legislature, but their influence on foreign policy and other national issues remains limited.

The Senate will vote Tuesday on $95 billion in war aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan.

The package covers a wide range of parts and services aimed at maintaining and and upgrading Taiwan’s military hardware. Separately, Taiwan has signed billions in contracts with the U.S. for latest-generation F-16V fighter jets, M1 Abrams main battle tanks and the HIMARS rocket system, which the U.S. has also supplied to Ukraine.

Taiwan has also been expanding its own defense industry, building submarines and trainer jets. Next month it plans to commission its third and fourth domestically designed and built stealth corvettes to counter the Chinese navy. as part of a strategy of asymmetrical warfare in which a smaller force counters its larger opponent by using cutting edge or nonconventional tactics and weaponry.

Lai, of the pro-independence ruling Democratic Progressive Party, won the January election handily and takes over next month from President Tsai Ing-wen, whom Beijing has sought to isolate for the past eight years.

China is determined to annex the island, which it considers its own territory, by force if necessary and has been advertising that threat with daily incursions into waters and air space around Taiwan by navy ships and warplanes. It has also sought to pick away Taiwan’s few remaining formal diplomatic partners .

While Washington and Taipei have no formal diplomatic ties in deference to Beijing, McClain emphasized the need for the entire world to observe the strength of the relationship.

“Peace is our goal. But to do that, we have to have relationships and we value your relationship. Not only militarily, but economically,” she said.

Kildee said the timing of the visit was especially significant given the recent passage of the funding bill to “provide very important support to insure security in this region.”

“It’s important for the people of Taiwan, it’s important for the people in the United States, it’s important for the entire world,” Kildee said.

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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A millennial Lyft driver who used the gig to explore all 50 states explains his strategies for maximizing earnings and tips

• Kreskin J. Torres, a Lyft driver, has traveled across all 50 states, documenting his dining experiences.
• Torres is working on a book, an app called Rideshare Foodies, and is organizing a national potluck.
• He said gig driving is just temporary and has helped him achieve his larger goals.

Kreskin J. Torres, 35, has eaten his way through all 50 states — including Alaska and Hawaii. His ticket to doing so? Driving for Uber and Lyft .

The Army veteran and Baltimore native has documented his dining on his blog Rideshare Foodie . After seven years, he's learned the most profitable times of day to drive, the best locations to find riders in each city and the optimal strategies for maximizing tips .

"You just got to work smarter, not harder," Torres said. "From my experience, I've been in every state, so I know how every city works now."

At the same time, he's been able to pursue his foodie passions. Torres is now working on a book called "Taste of the States," his recommendations app called Rideshare Foodies, and planning a series of events to honor dishes from various states and their history.

While driving for ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft can be a flexible way to earn money for people like Torres who have more than one hustle, it can also be a recipe for burnout. Among the dozens of drivers Business Insider has spoken with over the past few months, many are already dreaming of what's next — starting a business or finding new modes of employment .

And that's Torres' main career advice for those considering it. After all, he's not planning to do the job forever, as he hopes to transition away, though it helped him jump-start new paths for his future.

"Do not make this the end all be all," Torres said, noting how Uber and Lyft have threatened to pull out of Minneapolis. "When it started, it was advertised as a gig, a side hustle."

Traveling the country as a gig driver

As a veteran, he said this job has been relatively stress-free and helpful for not feeling lonely, a similar sentiment he's heard from veterans with PTSD.

"I enjoy meeting and connecting with different people and getting to see different places," Torres said.

He decided to spend his next few years on the road using driving to fund his adventures and to meet locals who could point him to the best restaurants and experiences.

"The great thing is you get to learn about different cities and how everything operates," Torres said.

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He moved to San Antonio , though he works mainly around the more-profitable Austin area, and has explored the South and Southeast.

While he doesn't make much money from his blog, he said driving has allowed him to try everything from Navajo tacos in Arizona to biscuits in chocolate gravy in Arkansas to huckleberry swirls in Montana. Driving has led him to some of his favorite restaurants like I693 Red Zone Grill in Jackson, Mississippi; Strawberry's BBQ in Holcomb, Missouri; and Rice & Roll by Xing Xing in Wichita.

Learning the most profitable places and times to drive

Torres noticed he would get more profitable rides driving around suburbs, airports, and sports stadiums, locations coveted by drivers as they get more tips and sometimes elevated fares.

He learned New Year's will always be profitable , though rides slow down around February before picking up in mid-March. It's led him to be more methodical about the types of rides to take, as well as planning when to save more of his earnings and when to splurge a little on food and travel.

"After seven years, I'm a lot more experienced. It depends on the time of the season, so I usually can do a lot more business in college towns," Torres said. "I would visit a city, see what they're known for, a little history behind it."

Torres was making enough to comfortably travel the country, though he's always been careful since he said passengers are sometimes confused by his out-of-state license plate. He also faced a permanent deactivation from Uber last year over a dispute over the color of his car.

He doesn't have a wife or kids, nor does he have an apartment, as he mainly lives out of his car to save money. He acknowledges that growing competition on the road and lower earnings could put a greater dent in savings for people with families or permanent residences.

Torres has transitioned to driving full-time for Lyft , and he typically is online for 12 hours a day but only actively drives five to six hours in between waiting around airports.

He said he's increasingly put himself in his passengers' shoes to determine the best places and times to drive — he likely won't put in the effort to drive during rain, and he's more likely to do later trips around concert venues or bars.

To continue supporting his travels, he said he sometimes does airport rides at 3 or 4 a.m., as well as rides between 6:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. during the morning rush. He also said being online around noon is fruitful for corporate workers, while 3 p.m. is right when schools let out. He usually tries not to drive around evening rush hours but sometimes resumes later at night.

He also devotes more time to driving between Wednesday and Sunday, when rides are more frequent, whether for "whiskey Wednesdays" or Friday afternoon happy hours. This is also when he can best network with passengers and hear their stories, as he said he occasionally gets to drive famous people.

Torres said drivers should consider this a short-term opportunity while working toward long-term goals. As he eases off the app, he has his eyes set on more international travel in the coming months. He's also investing more time in his food app, a local recommendation tool that functions like a Facebook group in which people ask questions about, for example, the best bartender in the area or where to go for particular dishes. It has launched on Android and set to be released on Apple by the summer.

"The most positivity that you can get out of it, do whatever you can and get the most out of it," Torres said. "The next few months will probably be my last time doing this because I'm focusing on other things, so I always had a plan for the things I was going to do."

Are you a ride-hailing driver who's struggling to pay bills or has had recent success? Have you recently pivoted to a new career from driving? Reach out to  [email protected] .

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