Explore Taipei: Top Things to Do and See

National Theater and Concert Hall, Taipei

Welcome to Taipei, a vibrant city that will take your breath away with its colorful energy and constant movement! Nestled among hills, Taipei seamlessly blends modern splendor with deep-rooted traditions, making it an irresistible destination for exploration.

Let's embark on a journey through its most famous parts. Ximending, pulsating with pop culture, is filled with neon lights, shops, restaurants, and bars. Here, you can get lost in numerous shops or try delicious local street food. Speaking of food, Ximending offers a wealth of local specialties, with one of the most famous being Fuhong Beef Noodles. This local spot is famous for perfectly cooked noodles in aromatic broth, making it a must-visit for all beef noodle enthusiasts. For fans of Taiwanese cuisine, Dong Yi Pork Chop also offers juicy dishes that will delight your taste buds. Beef Noodle of the King is another essential stop, known for its exceptionally rich and tasty beef noodles served in various styles and flavors, offering you a true indulgence.

At the Rainbow Six intersection, you'll encounter a multitude of street performers, artists, and vendors creating a lively atmosphere perfect for great photos and good vibes.

For those seeking nightlife, Ximending offers diverse options. Sol Bistro is a favorite spot for evening relaxation and socializing. Notable mentions also include Geography Bar and Nonsense Bar as must-visit locations for after-work parties in the pedestrian zone.

Don't forget to visit Lungshan Temple, a historic temple symbolizing religious and cultural importance for the local population. With its beautiful architectural details and peaceful atmosphere, it's a place to unwind and enjoy a spiritual experience after the excitement of Ximending.

Simple Kaffa, Taipei City

Ningxia Road Night Market is one of Taiwan's crown jewels of night markets, offering its unique charm and a wealth of local flavors. Located along the picturesque Ningxia Road, this market is where tradition meets the present. As soon as you step in, you'll be enchanted by the multitude of smells and colors surrounding you. At every turn, you'll find diverse Taiwanese specialties, from aromatic noodle soups to crispy meat delicacies and sweet treats that will satisfy all your senses. But Ningxia Road Night Market offers much more than food—it's also a place to explore Taiwan's rich cultural heritage. Stalls offer various souvenirs, traditional handicrafts, and antiques, giving you the opportunity to take home a piece of local culture.

Raohe Street Night Market is a paradise for food lovers, shoppers, and those interested in local culture, offering an unforgettable experience for all. As you step onto Raohe Street, you'll immediately be surrounded by the aromas of diverse specialties prepared at street stalls. This is where different cuisines and flavors meet, from traditional Taiwanese dishes to a wide array of souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, and other items at affordable prices. Here, you can find authentic Taiwanese souvenirs and gifts for your loved ones, as well as exclusive pieces from local designers. Enjoy interacting with vendors, watching passersby, and soaking in the lively atmosphere while exploring this exciting part of Taipei. Although Raohe Street Market can be visited at any time of day, its true magic comes alive at night when the streets turn into lively hubs of activity and entertainment. This is the perfect street for an evening stroll, tasting local specialties, and enjoying the unique ambiance that only a night market can provide.

For those seeking creative inspiration, Taipei offers several oases in the form of creative parks. Huashan 1914 Creative Park, situated in renovated older buildings, hosts art exhibitions, concerts, and workshops. This place is a symbol of creativity and innovation and has become a hub for art, design, and performing arts in Taiwan. When you step into the territory of Huashan 1914 Creative Park, you'll immediately feel a pleasant atmosphere and creativity. Old military buildings have been refurbished into art galleries, exhibition spaces, workshops, and stages, creating a space where different forms of art and expression converge. The park hosts many cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, theatrical performances, film screenings, workshops, and festivals. Visitors have the opportunity to admire various artworks, meet local and international artists, and participate in creative activities that inspire them. In addition to artistic activities, Huashan 1914 Creative Park also offers a diverse range of cafes, restaurants, shops, and souvenir stores where visitors can leisurely enjoy delicious food and drinks and find unique souvenirs and gifts.

The National Palace Museum in Taipei is a breathtaking treasure trove, preserving some of the most valuable works of Chinese art and culture. Situated in a beautiful park overlooking the mountains, this museum is a must-visit for those eager to explore the richness of history and art. The museum houses over 700,000 precious items spanning different periods of Chinese dynasties, including antiquities, porcelain, paintings, calligraphy, jadeite, bronze, and many other artistic gems. Among the most famous works are the "Jadeite Cabbage" and "Meat-Shaped Stone," which have become symbols of Chinese art and culture. In addition to its impressive collection, the National Palace Museum offers educational exhibitions and interactive workshops, providing not only a journey through time but also a profound spiritual experience.

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in Taipei - a grand complex with its impressive white pavilions and monumental statue of Chiang Kai-shek - provides visitors with deep insights into Taiwan's political and cultural past. After exploring this iconic monument, strolling through the surrounding parks, especially by the impressive National Theater, offers a perfect opportunity to relax amidst greenery and beautiful gardens. For coffee enthusiasts, a visit to Simple Kaffa is recommended, where you can enjoy the best-prepared coffee in the city. If you prefer tea, don't miss the chance to try Ten Ren's Tea, a famous Taiwanese brand offering a wide selection of high-quality teas. From classic green and black teas to aromatic oolong and pu-erh varieties, this is where you can discover the richness of Taiwanese tea culture. After a refreshing drink, it's time for lunch at Yongkang Beef Noodles restaurant, known for its exceptional noodle dishes. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers authentic Taiwanese specialties. After the meal, Daan Park awaits you - an oasis of greenery and peace in the heart of the city. This beautiful park offers a wide range of green spaces and walking trails, providing an opportunity to relax and enjoy nature while admiring the residential part of the city with views of magnificent buildings and architectural gems that define the soul of this urban area.

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

The evening is reserved for Indulge Experimental Bistro - a renowned destination for nightlife enthusiasts, celebrated for its sophisticated atmosphere and rich selection of drinks. Located in the heart of the city, this bar offers a wide range of creative drinks and high-quality wines. With its elegant interior and relaxed atmosphere, Indulge Bar is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploration.

Taipei 101 Tower is not only a symbol of the city but also a masterpiece of breathtaking architecture. This impressive building, once the tallest in the world, dominates the city skyline and offers unforgettable views from its observation deck. As you ascend this engineering marvel, you'll feel excitement and awe at the endless city horizon. From Taipei 101 Observatory, you'll enjoy spectacular views of both the old and new parts of the city, the surrounding mountains, and the distant Pacific Ocean. This moment high above Taipei will definitely be one of the highlights of your journey. After visiting Taipei 101, you can head to the nearby Breeze shopping center, where you'll find a wide selection of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Here, you can enjoy shopping for the latest brands, explore local specialties in restaurants, or simply relax in the laid-back atmosphere of this modern center.

Walking along the modern avenue with famous global brand stores, experience the charms of a cosmopolitan environment, and then head to the W Taipei-YEN Bar or choose CÉ LA VI bar, where you can enjoy an elegant atmosphere, creative cocktails, and spectacular views of the city from above. If you prefer to indulge in a premium culinary experience, dinner at Morton's The Steakhouse will satisfy all your senses. This renowned restaurant offers outstanding steaks, seafood, and other delicacies, with top-notch service and a refined ambiance that will leave you breathless.

Taipei 101, formerly known as the Taipei World Financial Center

Elephant Mountain, also known as Xiangshan, is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in Taipei. This beautiful mountain peak not only offers extraordinary views of the city and surrounding landscapes but also hiking trails that lead to the summit. As you hike up Elephant Mountain, you'll feel the excitement and energy coming from the nature around you. Enjoy a pleasant walk through dense forests and greenery as you ascend towards the top. When you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Taipei and the surrounding mountains. This is the perfect place to relax, take photos, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Taipei is a city that offers not only an exciting urban scene but also an abundance of natural beauty and activities for outdoor enthusiasts. From mountain trails like Elephant Mountain to park walks, this city provides unforgettable experiences for everyone. The thrilling combination of modern architecture, rich culture, and wild landscapes makes Taipei a unique destination that will surely enchant and inspire you.